Quechua
Medicine
Rica-Rica: an Altiplanic
Medicinal Herb
The Rica-Rica is characterized by its aromatic
and strong essence and its medicinal properties. Its
scientific name is "phil deserticola Alcantholippia"
and belongs to the Verbenace family. It is a perennial
plant of about 50 cms high that grows associate to
tolilla and bailahuén. Its violet flowers appear
in October and is consumed like tea. It is an astringent
and is used for dysentery and diarrhoea.
In Socaire it is used for the discomfort produced
by the meals and against the cough in Toconce. In
some others places is called "cori".
Brígida Huanca, producer of Quechua medicinal
herbs, lives in Ollagüe and collect herbs on
Amincha and Puquios, in Pampas and small farms.
According to Ms Brigida, the Rica-Rica is used
for problems of the heart, kidneys and circulation
of the blood.
Preparation:
Infusion (Herbal tea) : For adult use a teaspoon
For young 7-14 years: 1/2 teaspoon
F for children 1-6 years: 1/4 teaspoon.
Add hot water and let rest.
Optional: Mix with Chacacoma for a good digestion
Precaution: once per day and one time per week.
Source:
Prescription: Brígida Huanca, that collect
traditional Quechua herbs. Ollagüe.
Traditional Atacameño Medicine. Parra, Ahumada
and Necul. 1997.
<<
Health
Tradicional Atacameña. 1998. Domingo Gómez.
Juan Ahumada Charcas. Eduardo Necul Tello. Financiado
por Fondart 1997.
