Traditional knowledge about medicinal plants in science teaching and environmental education

Abstract

The study investigates the importance of traditional knowledge about medicinal plants and its integration into the school curriculum in elementary school. The objective is to investigate and document the importance of this knowledge, its therapeutic application and the relevance of integrating it into the educational and community context, valuing cultural heritage and offering sustainable therapeutic alternatives. Using a qualitative and participatory approach, the research included observations and a semi-structured interview with José Hermínio Inácio, a self-taught connoisseur of medicinal plants in the rural community of Santo Antônio, São Gonçalo do Rio Preto - MG. The content analysis revealed Hermínio's deep knowledge of medicinal plants, including their therapeutic benefits and concern about young people's lack of interest in preserving this knowledge. The results indicate that integrating this knowledge into the school curriculum not only enriches education, but also promotes environmental awareness and sustainable health. The research suggests the need for educational programs that combine traditional knowledge and modern science, and recommends carrying out long-term studies and expanding research to different geographic and sociocultural contexts.