MEDICINAL PLANTS OF THE JOVÍ COMMUNITY, COLOMBIAN PACIFIC
Resumo
The Joví community, Colombian Pacific, is located in a geographically isolated region accessible only by boat. Considering its location in a global hotspot, its inhabitants are surrounded by high biodiversity, which favors its dependence on phytotherapeutic resources for health care. The present study aimed to identify the medicinal plant species of the region, their indications, forms of use and preparation, and to analyze if there is difference in medicinal plant knowledge between men and women. Data collection was made based on interviews (26 local experts), participant observation, and calculation of the relative importance of species. The data revealed the medicinal use of 79 species (37 families) to treat diseases related to 19 body systems. The family Lamiaceae showed the highest number of cited species, followed by Malvaceae and Asteraceae. There was no significant difference in knowledge about medicinal plants between men and women. Knowledge about medicinal plant resources in the Joví community is especially relevant to treat milder diseases. The signs and symptoms of COVID-19 are already recognized by the community, which uses the species Gliricidia sepium to treat the disease.