Cimbleris-Alkmim A, Martins UCM, Mendonça SAM, Ramalho-de-Oliveira D. Pharmaceutical care as a theoretical-methodological framework for evaluating phytopharmacotherapy: “We must embrace this!”. Interface (Botucatu). 2026; 30: e250543 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590/interface.250543
Abstract
Phytotherapy is a practice of widespread and growing global use. However, healthcare professionals still do not feel qualified to work in this segment. This article aims to reflect on key issues in the use of the theoretical-methodological framework of Pharmaceutical Care to optimize phytopharmacotherapy. Based on the critical perspective of Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed, 13 collaborative interviews were conducted with pharmacists and pharmacy students. The data were subjected to thematic analysis and organized into the following categories: Social need and professional responsibility; Training for generalist professional practice; Therapeutic repertoire and professional autonomy; Medication experience; Therapeutic relationship and shared decision-making; and Adaptations of clinical reasoning in phytotherapy. The conclusion is that phytotherapy needs to be more fully included in professional practice, teaching, and research on Pharmaceutical Care.
Keywords
Pharmaceutical care; Phytotherapy; Qualitative research; Medicinal plants; Pharmacy
Access in: https://doi.org/10.1590/interface.250543
