Brasília – The Ministry of Health is expanding the use of phytotherapy within the Unified Health System (SUS), promoting the cultivation and prescription of medicinal plants as part of primary care. However, persistent regional and social inequalities continue to hinder the universalization of these therapies across the country, according to Folha de S.Paulo.

One of the main models cited is the “Farmácia da Natureza” project in Jardinópolis (SP), which cultivates about 400 plant species and produces more than 150 formulations. Local data show that the use of Passiflora edulis tinctures has reduced prescriptions for certain anxiolytics by up to 36%.

Despite increased federal investment, access to phytotherapy remains highly uneven. More than half of the municipalities offering the service are concentrated in the South and Southeast regions, while limited infrastructure, lack of trained professionals, and low adherence among physicians continue to restrict implementation in other areas.

The expansion of phytotherapy reflects the government’s broader strategy to integrate traditional knowledge and low-cost alternatives into the SUS, though experts warn that inequality in adoption could undermine the goal of equitable access to complementary therapies.

Source: Folha de S.Paulo