Ethnoknowledge associated with white mulberry trees (Rubus spp.) occurring in the Mixed Ombrophilous Forest, Santa Catarina, Brazil

Abstract

Greenberries (Rubus spp.) are native fruit species from “Ombrofila Mista” a predominant ecosystem in the Atlantic Forest in southern Brazil. The aim of this study was to systematize the ethnoknowledge associated with greenberries. The questions addressed the following aspects: history and potential use of greenberries, socioeconomic aspects of the farmers, common name of the plant, management of plants, forms of consumption, time of fruiting and fruit flavor. The study showed that farmers are the maintainers of greenberries. The most common use was in the form of fresh fruits and teas of leaves, flowers and roots. The majority (32) of farmers used the greenberries plants as medicinal. Among the respondents, thirty-four said they learned about the use of medicinal plants with parents, including greenberries. All informants had free access to plants on their properties or land in neighboring. Six respondents not used / ignored the form of medicinal use of the specie. The most frequent therapeutic uses of greenberries were: diabetes (27), cholesterol (19) and blood high-pressure (9). The most mentioned plant part for medicinal use was the leave, with only a quote for the use of flowers and roots. The mode of administration was given through the form of tea infusion. The consumption of in natura fruits was eventually made. Although the species is neglected by urban consumers, the greenberries can be an alternative income for small farmers. It is a rich source nutraceutical and farmers do Planalto Sul Catarinense are able to cultivate it for fruit production, ornamental and / or medicinal plant.