Abstract

ACOSTA DE LA LUZ, Lérida Lázara. Growing medicinal plants in containers. Rev Cubana Plant Med [online]. 2014, vol.19, n.1, pp. 4-13. ISSN 1028-4796.

Introduction: growing medicinal species in containers is a beneficial practice permitting the profitable utilization of small household areas, such as balconies, roofs and terraces, which will look better if a touch of gardening is added. Objectives: in view of the growing demand for medicinal plants, a workshop was conducted in the municipality of Old Havana (Havana Pharmacy Museum) to be attended by gardeners and housewives from the community, to discuss the advantages of this form of plant cultivation. Methods: the topics dealt with included general knowledge about the cultivation of various species based on their characteristics and demand, the use of a variety of containers depending on the area available, the substratum to be used, the best use of light, watering and fertilization requirements, and the problems that may arise and how to solve them. Results: analysis of some selected plants showed that this activity may facilitate lifestyle change by providing easy access to a variety of species serving many different purposes, not only medicinal, but also as spices to be used either fresh or dry to flavor food, and for ornamental purposes.her freces which could be erent purposes, not. Conclusions: household economy may be improved with the consumption of spices, vegetables, medicinal plants and other crops grown in small containers. These contribute to the preservation of health by constituting a home pharmacy providing phytomedicines for the treatment of common diseases.

Keywords : medicinal plants; home pharmacy; spices; vegetables; cultivation in small containers.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )