The use of plant species as food and therapy source has shown significant growth in recent years, particularly in the Brazilian territory that is endowed with rich biodiversity. The regulation of these product categories, however, involves a wide range of legislation, which creates difficulties in regulatory understanding. This study aimed to differentiate some of the classes of food and medicines based on plant species and expose the laws pertaining to each case. We conducted a literature review and documentary based on the current Brazilian regulatory collection and the most important data were compiled in tabular form. This work allowed us to visualize a part of the legal universe for products of plant origin, which is essential for the adequate framing of these species in the legislation, as well their regular and safe trade, marketing and use. This is necessary because of the major regulations and requirements for food and medication categories and the emerging appreciation of plant species on the Brazilian public health system.
food; medicinal plants; herbal medicines; legislation; record
