PLANTAS MEDICINAIS E FITOTERÁPICOS COMO ESTRATÉGIAS PARA O EMAGRECIMENTO

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.641132523054

• Palavras-chave: Fitoterapia; Plantas medicinais; Emagrecimento; Uso racional.

• Keywords: Phytotherapy; Medicinal plants; Weight loss; Rational use.

• Abstract: Obesity has become one of the main public health challenges of today, with significant impacts on the population's quality of life. In the search for less aggressive alternatives to synthetic drugs, the use of medicinal plants and herbal medicines for weight loss has gained prominence, often being seen as natural and safe options. However, indiscriminate use can generate adverse effects, requiring professional guidance. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the use of medicinal plants and herbal medicines as therapeutic strategies for weight loss, highlighting their effects, risks and the importance of rational use. For this, an integrative literature review was carried out. Articles published in English and Portuguese in the Google Scholar, Scientific Direct and PubMed databases, between January 2021 and December 2024, were selected. The following descriptors were used: “Medicinal plants”, “Phytotherapics”, “Phytotherapy”, “Weight loss”, “Weight reduction”. The results demonstrate that several plant species have distinct therapeutic mechanisms for controlling body weight. Camellia sinensis and Hibiscus sabdariffa, for example, reduce serum lipids and suppress appetite; Caralluma fimbriata and Garcinia cambogia help control hunger and inhibit lipogenesis; Equisetum arvense has a thermogenic effect. Other plants, such as Senna alexandrina and Rhamnus purshiana, have a laxative effect and should be used with caution. The variety of administration forms (infusions, capsules and decoctions) also demonstrates the therapeutic versatility of these plants. It is concluded that, despite the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants in the weight loss process, their use should be guided by health professionals to ensure efficacy and safety. In addition, rational use is essential to avoid health risks and achieve sustainable results.