The use of medicinal cacti by locals at the semi-arid in Bahia State, Brazil

Abstract

The survey of species of cacti utilized for medicinal purposes by locals was carried out in five municipalities of the semi-arid region of Bahia (Valente, Queimadas, Santaluz, Sao Domingos and Canudos). The methodology included 40 semi-informal interviews with 32 people, who related their knowledge relating the use of cacti as medicine. The interviews were registered in tape, and transcribed verbatim. The individuals sampled were found through opportunistic meetings, which permitted an increase by a 'snow ball' progression, and the sample was considered sufficient based on the effect of progressive inclusion. The specimens were collected, herborized and deposited as vouchers at the HUEFS herbarium. Six species were listed as having medicinal importance, with indications of 21 different uses. The nopal, or 'palma-de-gado' (Opuntia ficus-indica) is one of the examples of multiple therapeutic use: interviews listed diverse complaints including fevers, vaginal inflammation, flu, stomach ache, dryness, rheumatism and urinary infection. The cladode and the root were the plant parts more often cited for preparation of medicines, which include a variety of types, from infusions to baths. The ethnomedical use of cacti by the studied community is considered as an important therapeutic alternative, as the locals grow, and keep the cacti in their backyards for several purposes, including the preparation of medicines. Considering that there are few studies related to the popular medicine of cacti in Brazil, it is necessary to develop in-depth research about their properties based on this inside, non-scientific information, because the data collected during this work has proven to be recurrent, thus demonstrating a strong connection between man and cacti.