PUBLIC HEALTH IN INDIGENOUS POPULATIONS: INTEGRATIVE APPROACHES TO RESCUE TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The health of indigenous populations in Brazil is impacted by historical and structural inequalities, including language and cultural barriers, difficulties in geographic access, and the absence of specific public policies that respect their traditional knowledge. The biomedical model predominantly in the health system disregards the holistic approach of these communities, resulting in the marginalization of their ancestral practices and making it difficult to adhere to conventional treatments. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of integrative approaches on the promotion of indigenous health and the valorization of their traditional knowledge. METHODOLOGY: This work consists of an integrative literature review, which used the PICO strategy to formulate the central question: "How can integrative approaches help in the rescue and valorization of traditional knowledge in the public health of indigenous communities?" The research was carried out in renowned databases, such as the Virtual Health Library (VHL), SciELO, PubMed and Lilacs. Articles published between 2018 and 2025, which were available in full and free of charge, in Portuguese, English, or Spanish, as well as official documents and ordinances, were considered. Duplicate articles and those that did not meet the pre-established criteria were excluded. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: A survey revealed that, although there are policies external to indigenous health, their implementation still faces significant challenges, such as the lack of trained professionals to work in indigenous communities and the resistance to the integration of traditional knowledge in health services. Studies show that the marginalization of ancestral practices undermines adherence to treatment and increases the vulnerability of these people to diseases, including COVID-19. The valorization of shamans, pieces and the use of herbal medicines have proven to be a viable alternative for the construction of hybrid models of care. International experiences, such as in Canada and the United States, demonstrate that indigenous autonomy in health management can contribute to more effective and culturally attractive care. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: The marginalization of traditional indigenous knowledge and the difficulties in accessing health services reinforce the need for more inclusive public policies adapted to the specificities of these populations. The strengthening of integrative approaches, combined with the training of professionals and the recognition of traditional practices, can contribute to a more humanized and efficient care. It is recommended that studies on the implementation of hybrid care strategies be expanded, ensuring greater equity and respect for cultural diversity in the health system.