week 1 | unearthperu

Herbology 101

Eva, Local Herbologist, Age: 66 Eva's interest in herbology and natural medicines began when she was just a little girl, she became her father's prodige. She was born in the Cusco region of Peru and moved out when she was 11 years old. She now resides in the small town of Urubamba with her children and grandchildren are just a few steps away. She collects local herbs from the town but also has her own garden where she grows a number of plants that she uses for natural remedies and cooking.	Yahuar Chonca This very quaint plant is native to the town of Urubamba and can be found growing nearly anywhere. The leaves of this plant can be used to reduce inflammation, bruising, and back pain. This is a typical remedy used after car or motorcycle accidents. Here in Urubamba, pedestrians do not have the right of way.	Hampirusa The name of this plant is in Quechua, however I'm sure it's spelled incredibly wrong (much like many of the other plant names). Quechua is a language spoken by many indigenous groups of people in South America. The rose petals of this plant is the most useful part. When soaked in lukewarm water, the water may be used to rinse one's eyes out to help with eye conditions and also vision. It can relieve eye redness and veiny eyes. It should be used consecutively for about 15-30 days.
Muña Scientific name: Minthostachys Mollis. Muña is a very popular herb used throughout all of Peru. However, it can only be found in the higher altitudes of the Andes. It is often used as a tea to treat stomach aches, gastritis, cold/flu symptoms, cold sores, and digestive issues. Super plant to the rescue!!	Hawalcuyla The flowers are actually the most useful part of this plant, but we could not find any that were in bloom. This is due to the current climate in Urubamba, there are not commonly known seasons here. Instead, they have 3 times of the year when it is either rainy, dry, or cold. During this month of July and surrounding months, it is the cold season so there is relatively less foliage. The juice of the flower of this cactus is commonly used to help with any heart conditions.	Coca leaves Dried coca leaves is a commonly used herb for many purposes. The most common way of consuming the necessary active ingredient is by chewing the dried leaves. It is used to suppress hunger, thirst, pain, and fatigue. Frequently used to help with altitude sickness in the high Andes. Other than medicinally, these leaves can be used for offerings to Pachamama (the earth), much like in this photo.
Maicha This rosemary-looking plant can only be found on the higher hills of the Andes. They have a very distinctive red stem and hardy lime green leaves. This plant is extremely useful for open wounds when paired with the liquid from an additional local plant by the name of Margho.	Quinoa A grain that is also used in the United States, among other countries. We found 3 large stocks of Quinoa alongside a road in the rural community of Urubamba. I've seen the use of Quinoa in Peruvian cuisine more than in any other country I've been to. At the local market you can find at least three different types of quinoa!	Muliaca When this plant is crushed, the liquid can be used to help heal deep wounds, cold sores, fever blisters, and canker sores. It can also be ingested by chewing the leaves. This way of consuming can help relieve stomach ulcers.