El Valor de las Plantas Medicinales en la Salud Comunitaria una Mirada Ancestral y Científica

The use of medicinal plants has historically accompanied numerous communities as an accessible and practical way to address common health concerns. In some regions of Latin America, particularly in rural areas where access to medical services is limited, this knowledge continues to serve as an effective and, in some cases, indispensable alternative. As such, it forms part of cultural identity and community-based care practices. This article analyzes the importance of medicinal plants in community health through a review of scientific literature and the existing regulatory framework. It seeks to understand how ancestral knowledge correlates with scientific evidence, as well as to identify the main challenges that arise in its application. Among these challenges are the regulation of use, dosage standardization, user safety, and the environmental sustainability of the species employed. Several studies in the field of pharmacognosy have confirmed the therapeutic properties of multiple plant species. However, scientific validation does not eliminate the need for responsible and supervised use. Questions remain regarding appropriate dosage, potential interactions with conventional medicines, and the conservation of natural resources. In this regard, integrating traditional medicine into primary health care models may represent an opportunity to strengthen community health, provided that professional guidance, clear regulation, and health education strategies are in place to ensure safe and sustainable use.