THE USE OF ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS IN REPORTED SNAKEBITE ACCIDENTS IN TRADITIONAL COMMUNITIES OF THE STATE OF AMAPÁ

The study addresses accidents involving venomous snakes, which represent a serious public health issue and were included in 2017 on the list of neglected diseases. The objective was to gather information on the use of medicinal plant extracts and animal-derived substances in the treatment of snakebite accidents, especially in traditional communities with limited access to antivenom therapy. In these regions, alternative therapeutic practices based on empirical knowledge and cultural beliefs are widely used. The research showed that traditional knowledge continues to play an essential role due to the difficulty of accessing healthcare services. It also highlighted the need to invest in education and health within these communities, promoting guidance on first aid procedures and strengthening public policies that expand healthcare networks, encourage research on locally used medicinal plants, and ensure greater availability of antivenom in remote areas.