THE USE OF MEDICINAL PLANTS IN BAHIA BLANCA, ARGENTINA

A survey on the use of medicinal plants has been made in 16 Sanitary Units in Bahía Blanca, Argentina. The results obtained from 889 people surveyed indicate that approximately 150 species are used in this region; only a small number are the most frequently used: chamomile, “boldo”, linden tree, “cedrón”, mint, aloe, rue, “paico”, oregano, “carqueja”, rosemary, balsam, “poleo”, horehound, etc. Most people use them to cure rather than to prevent illnesses. Approximately 60% have been using them for more than ten years and most buy them. A small number can identify the plants in the field but more people know their properties. Only 3% recognize having had problems because of incorrect use of medicinal herbs.