Amazonian

Ethnobotanical
 Library of Congress Cataloging-in-PublicationData

Duke, James A., 1929-

Amazonian ethnobotanical dictionarytby James Alan Duke and
Rodolfo Vasquez Martinez
p. cm.
Includes bibliographical references and index.
ISBN 0-8493-3664-3
1. Ethnobotany-Peru-Dictionaries. 2. Ethnobotany-Amazon River
Valley-Dictionaries. 3. Botany, Economic-Peru-Dictionaries.
4. Botany, Economic-Amazon River Valley-Dictionaries.
5. Medicinal plants-Peru-Dictionaries. 6. Medicinal plants-
Amazon River Valley-Dictionaries.
GN564.P4D85 1994
581.6'1'0985434~20 94-390

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International Standard Book Number 0-8493-3664-3
Library of Congress Card Number 94-390
5 6 7 8 9 0
 DEDICATION

To the memory of Alwyn Gentry (January 6, 1945 - August 3, 1993), we gratefully

dedicate this Amazonian Ethnobotanical Dictionary (Peru). Al tried so hard to teach so
much to Jim Duke, his senior by 16 years, and did teach a great deal to Rodolfo Vasquez,
his junior by 15 years. A1 was killed in an airplane crash near Guayaquil, Ecuador on
August 3, 1993. Jim was in Costa Rica at the time, mentioning A1 as one of the greats, to
an ecotour in the cloudforest at Monte Verde. Judy ducellier, Duke's right hand woman,
was retyping the final draft of this book, and got the heart-breaking news in Beltsville an
hour or two before Duke, in Costa Rica. Rodolfo was at the Missouri Botanical Garden,
working on the Flora of Peru, and proof-reading this final draft, when Al's plane went
down, taking with it, two of the greatest storehouses of rainforest knowledge, A1 Gentry
and Ted Parker. We suspect that A1 probably spotted two species new to Ecuador and one
new to science in his last tree-topping minutes. Duke had worked in many of the same
forests in Colombia (Choco), Ecuador (Rio Palenque), Panama (Darien) and more recently
in Peru (Explorama). Duke enjoyed teaching Al's daughter, Diane, in March of 1993. That
was the last time Duke worked with A1 on his plot at Explorama Lodge, Peru, home to 300
woody specieslhectare (and 600 individuals) 4 inches or more in diameter. As always, A1
was such an indefatigable powerhouse that he wore Duke out in the morning, trying to clip
specimens from the unknown new forest saplings in his Explorama Plots. That's when A1
autographed for Duke a copy of his Field Guide to the Families and Genera of Woody
Plants of Northwest South America (1993).

Our book has been enhanced by the taxonomic foundation provided by the arduous and
intensive perseverance of the late Dr. Gentry. He would not rest until he named an
unknown forest giant. It was Al, world authority of the Bignoniaceae, who pointed out how
overcollecting was endangering two medicinal Bignoniaceae around Iquitos, the
"clavohuasca" and "tahuari". We respectfully but sadly dedicate this small volume to a
fallen forest giant, A1 Gentry, friend of the forest and teacher to many of us, trying to save
the forest that survives him. The Amazonian Center for Environmental Education and
Research (ACEER) will dedicate their 250,000-acre forest to his memory. The forest that
kept him going like a robot swallowed him up. But his spirit lives on, and will help in the
difficult efforts to save the forest of today for the children of tomorrow. Few of us can
view any attractive bignoniaceousvine without recalling the ethereal spirit of A1 Gentry and
the forests he represented. Long live the forest and the spirit of Al Gentry.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Alphabetical Listing of Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Index of Common Names . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 182
Medicinal Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
Major References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
 PARADISE LOST
(Could be sung to the tune of John Prine's Paradise)
Jim Duke

I praise you John Prine, and 1 hope you don't mind,

If I mimic your song, to help the forest along.
Even while I am singing, the axeman is swinging,
Choppin' down all that green, to plant corn, rice and bean

8 Daddy won't you take me to the Primary Forest

By the Amazon River where Paradise lies?
I'm sorry my son, but the forest is gone!
I'll show you some slides, that'll have to suffice!

If you'll not name me, there's something I'll mention

And so folks won't blame me, I'll quote Peter Jenson.
There may be stronger reasons, but I can't think of any,
We're losing the forest "because we're too many"!

? Momma won't you take me to the Primary Forest

On the Amazon River where Paradise lies?
I'm sorry my daughter, but I don't think I oughta'
We've waited too long, now the forest is gone!

Oh axeman unkind, you are blowing my mind!

Camu-camu and brazilnut, they can help fill your gut.
But year after year, once the forest is clear,
You'll have less and less food, and you'll run out of wood.

Never thought ecotours, could be one of the cures;

Taking "green" bucks from gringoes, getting mud on their toes.
If the ecotours thrive, Indian cultures survive,
And the children will strive, to keep tradition alive.

No place I'd rather go, than to cruise on the Napo;

Hoping some of my pleas, k i d a ' help save the trees.
I'd rather you'd find me, sunnin' with the tree huggers
Than back in DC, all arunnin' from muggers!

It's quite element'ry, our praise for A1 Gentry,

Whose conserving career really helped at ACEER. Axeman,
The best botany brain, went down with Al's plane, Leave that tree alone!
And although he is gone, we must still carry on The life you save
May be your own.
Jaborandi, papain, curare, and quinine, (Wise old owl, 1993)
The forest's the best, for your medicine chest.
Aware of these goods, you still chop down the woods.
You'd best spare that tree, cause it might help spare thee.
 INTRODUCTION

This book was conceived and delivered in the Amazonian rainforest, and is about the
rainforest, for its inhabitants and devotees, near and far. In addition to helping the curious
visitor identify some of the amazing Amazonian phytodiversity, this book may help
rainforest inhabitants who cannot afford modem medicine identify plants that their
ancestors used for forest maladies. All royalties will revert to ACEER' for rainforest
conservation.

In 1991, as an ethnobotanical instructor, I participated in my first ecotour. At Explorama

Lodge, 3 hours downstream by fast boat from Iquitos, Peru, I taught forest product
workshops, ably assisted by Don Segundo Inuma. At the workshop, several interested
people got a close look at many of the plants upon which Amazonians depend so heavily,
first in the thatched classroom, then out in the field. (During one workshop, one participant
was even nipped by a tapir, which also threatened the instructor.) Explorama Lodge is an
amazingly comfortable facility nestled in a 250,000-acre rainforest preserve, in an area
with 300 woody species per hectare. Good forest guides know the Amazonian names and
uses of many plants. Generally, they are pleased to share this information with interested
visitors. They don't often know the universal Latin scientific names of the plants.

Ah, serendipity! Sra. Maria Wright had sent me a Xerox copy of Rodolfo Vasquez
Martinez' Spanish draft, Plantas Utiles de la Amazonia Peruana. I had it copied and bound
to take to Amazonian Peru, without having even studied it. When Segundo started talking
about a plant, I had merely to look up the local name in the index. That led me to the
scientific name (key to most published ethnobotanical and phytochemical data). In later
travels in Peru, I had the privilege of learning also from Antonio Montero and Lucio Pano.
Their Peruvian folklore naturally matched that of Rodolfo and Segundo, confirming the
value of the lore presented herein.

How well I remember my first amval in Panama 30 years ago, after studying the two-
dimensional flora of Panama in the herbarium at Missouri Botanical Garden. I was ready
to get back on the plane when I saw the flora in three dimensions for the first time. Like
many temperate-zone taxonomists, I was overwhelmed by my first real look at the tropical
flora. There too, I had a good guide, Afroamerican Narciso Bristan, who was well
experienced in the forest. He knew the local names of many plants of Magic Mountain
(Cerro Pirre) in Darien, Panama. By the trunk characteristics, blaze, color, !atex, aroma,
etc., he could even name many of the forest giants. Readily he identified as "cuipo" the
dominant species. It was a long time before I could equate that common name with the
scientific name, Cavanillesia platanifolia. Then there was my Choco Indian confidant,
Loro, who taught me Indian ethnobotanicals by their Choco names, "almiraj6", "boroj6",
"cangrej6", "mamej6", etc. In an eight-year period, including an aggregate of three years'
residence in Panama, by sending herbarium specimens to specialists all over the world, I

'ACEER = Amazon Center for Environmental Education and Research. A tax-exempt organization, ACEER
goals are to (1) construct and equip a field station to serve as a natural laboratory for integrating education and
research; (2) provide environmental and economic benefit to neighboring inhabitants of the reserve; (3) complete
the canopy walkway for observation and research; (4) provide a financial basis for the creation of scholarship
grants and research stipends; (5) expand the protected reserve area to 400,000 ha (1,000,000 acres); and (6)
demonstratethe potential for ecologically responsible tourism as an effective conservation strategy. T o attain these
goals, the ACEER foundation was created by Explorama Tours, International Expeditions, and concerned
individuals. All royalties revert to the rainforest, vin ACEER.
constructed my Isthmian Ethnobotanical Dictionary, equating the local names of Panama
plants with their scientific names, and some of the ethnobotanical lore recorded about these
species. I was pleased to see that Vasquez consulted my Isthmian dictionary in writing his
dictionary. Whether in forests of Panama or Peru, newcomers will find these dictionaries
useful when they have reliable guides. Children of the forest guides are not necessarily
learning the tools of the trade. All the more reason to record as much ethnobotanical
wisdom as we can, while we can! The shamans, and their knowledge, and their medicinal
species are disappearing. There is hope. Occasionally, I see the children appreciating the
admiration their parents are receiving from the ecotourists. Perhaps they realize that by
learning and carrying on the traditions, they can earn more money than by planting corn
or joining the youth in the ghettoes of the asphalt jungles.

Expanding its horizons, following the counsel of Dr. Henry Shands and Dr. Allen Stoner,
the USDA encouraged Mr. Eric Rosenquist and me to undertake programs devised to help
conserve tropical biodiversity. The USDA sees the link between the health of the remote
rain forests and the health of the planet. Rain forests and adjacent clearings in Latin
America still house wild relatives of some of North America's most important crops,
imported long ago from Latin America. After my visit to Explorama Lodge, I convinced
the USDA to sponsor Rodolfo Vasquez's book and its translation into English. So on my
second trip to Explorama, I went with an English translation of Rodolfo's dictionary. A1
Gentry mqde dozens of corrections as we motored down the Amazon. Rodolfo met me and
we began assembling illustrations of the species most important to the Amerindians.

After the Amerindians discovered America, perhaps 12, maybe 50, millennia before
Columbus, all their clothing, food, medicine and shelter - those essential things we call
"minor" forest products today - were derived from the forests. Those millennia gave the
Indians time to discover and learn empirically the virtues and vices of the thousands of
edible and medicinal species in the neotropical forests.

Quinine is one of the more amazing stories in Latin America's pharmacopoeia. The quinine
tree, with its dozens of alkaloids, was here before the Indian, long before Columbus, and
smallpox and malaria. The history of the continent might have been different had quinine
cured smallpox. Instead smallpox decimated the Indians, killing millions, before malaria
arrived, perhaps from Africa. The malaria organism was all but controlled by early efforts
with quinine. Gradually the malaria organism developed a tolerance for quinine, and we
switched to chloroquine and other synthetics and semisynthetics. Gradually the plasmodium
developed a tolerance for these as well. WHO-sponsored studies on "qing hao" (Artemisia
annua) and its derivatives, provided the answer, albeit temporary, to chloroquine-resistant
malaria. I predicted that, if natural artemisinin or its semisynthetic derivatives proved out
for chloroquine-resistant malaria, ten or twenty years later, the malaria organism would
evolve resistance to the "qing hao" compounds. We would then be faced with artemisinin-
resistant malaria, and go back to Mother Nature's "Farmacy", the forest, again, hat in
hand, seeking a drug for artemisinin-resistant malaria. (I'm told that artemisinin-resistant
malaria has already evolved.) This semicircular fable should impress upon us the
importance of the forest and biodiversity. If we lose half our species, we cut our odds for
finding the new drug in half. Worse! The species most likely to be lost are those least
likely to have been studied. New strains of many of our older diseases, measles,
tuberculosis, etc., keep cropping up, requiring new medicines. We didn't even know AIDS
twenty-five years ago. Each HIV virus is said to be unlike its parent, each generation
evolving. Amazonian Alexa contains castanospermine, Abrus contains glycyrrhizin,
Capsicum contains caffeic acid, Momordica contains momordicin, Phytolacca contains
phytolaccin, and Ricinus contains ricin, to name a few compounds occurring in native or
introduced Amazonian species that may possibly help in treating AIDS. Among the
thousands of species that have not been analyzed are thousands of unknown chemicals,
many evolved to protect the plants from pathogens. The& chemicals may help us in our
constant struggle with our constantly evolving pathogens. The lower the phytodiversity, the
lower our chances of finding new remedies for the newly evolving scourges of mankind.
Preservation of biodiversity is self preservation.

NOTES ON AMAZONIAN CRAFTS

(Jim Duke, Celia Larsen, Jan Propst and Rodolfo Vasquez)

Thanks to interactions between the Explorama Guides, the Yagua Indians, and Pamela
Bucur de Argvalo, Jim Duke, Francis Gatz, and Peter Jenson, larger ecotours to
Explorama Lodge are now greeted by a Sunday afternoon Yagua craft fair. One impressive
thing about the craft fair is the importance of the palms to the Yagua. Palms are extremely
important among Amerindian cultures throughout tropical America.

At the craft fair, visitors see homes thatched and floored with paltris, drink beverages made
from fruits of "aguaje" and "ungurahui" palms (the latter loaded with monounsaturated
fatty acids like olive oil), eat delicious palm hearts from "chonta" palms, drink liquid
endosperm of the coconut or ivory palm, eat the "flan" of the immature ivory palm seed,
avoid eating the nutritious "suri" (beetle larvae) nurtured in fallen "aguaje" palms, see
carvings made from ivory palms, blowguns reamed with palm, darts fashioned from palm
leaf-stalks, see skirts (worn by males and females) fashioned from "aguaje" palm fibers,
see hammocks being woven from the "chambira" palm, and fine hats and baskets made
from the Panama Hat Palm (not a true palm). Palms provide beverage, clothing, fiber,
fishbait, food, handicrafts, housing, meat, medicine, rattan, water, weaponry and wine to
the Yagua Indians.

HOUSE CONSTRUCTION

From Costa Rica to Bolivia, most of the raised Indian houses have hard resilient floors
made of stilt palm called "pona". Heavier and preferred, if locally procured, is the
"huacrapona", Iriartea deltoidea, the stilt palm with a "belly" up the trunk, hence the
alternative name "barrigon". Natives tell us that it takes more than two men to carry this
heavier species' trunk any distance. So, when building off site, the natives prefer the
lighter of the two, the "cashapona", Socrateu exorrhizu, which generally lacks the pot
belly.

With either, the hard outer wood of the trunk, above the stilts, is partially but not
completely slatted, to make lengths of hardwood flooring, so familiar to those of' us who
have enjoyed overnighting at Napo. This flooring is a combination floorlsprings; whenever
anybody makes a midnight visit to the john, everybody rebounds gently with each midnight
footstep.

Not only did Rodolfo Vasquez provide the first definitive draft of this book, he provided
most of the illustrations. How well I remember one January night when a small group sat
around the Napo Lodge, singing "Paradise Lost" (see frontispiece). That January night at
the Napo Lodge, guides Aristides Arevalo, Squntlo Inuma and Lucio Pano were sitting
around with botarlists Jim Duke and Rodolfo Vasquzz. They were acconlpanying a small
 Fig. 1. PLANTS USED IN RURAL HOUSING IN AMAZONIAN PERU
(ExplorNapo Camp on Rio Napo)
Art by Rodolfo Vasquez
Loosley Translated by Jim Duke

House Patt Plant Used English Name Spanish Name

1 CUMBA Leaves of Phytelephas microcatpa Ivory Palm Yarina

2 CRISNEIA Leaves of Lepidocatyum tessmannii Thatch Palm Irapay
3 RIPA DE LA CRISNHA Stem of Socrafea exohiza Stilt Palm Pona
4 SOGA PARA CRISNEIAS Bark of Trema micranrha Bay Cedar Atadijo
5 CAIBRO Wood of Crown palanostigma False Balsa Topilla
6 TUERALES Wood of Croton palanostigma Wive's Pole Seiiora Vara
7 SOBRWIGA Wood of Croton palanostigma Purma Tree Purma Caspi
8 ISHPANA Wood of Croronpalanostigma False Balsa Topilla
9 VIGAS DEL PIS0 Wood of Crown palanostigma Wive's Pole Seiiora Vara
10 CUMBRERA Y SOBRE-CUMBA Wood of Croton palanostigma Purma Tree P u m Caspi
11 VIGUILLAS Wood of Croton palanostigma False Balsa Topilla
12 RESISTENCIA Wood of Croton palanostigma Wive's Pole Sefiora Vara
13 SOBRE-VIGUILLA Wood of Croton palanostigma Purma Tree Purma Capsi
14 SOLERAS Wood of Croton palanostigma False Balsa Topilla
15 VIGAS Wood of Crown palanostigma Wive's Pole Seiiora Vara
16 AMARRAJES Stems of Heternpsis sp . b i d Tamshi
17 BARANDA Wood of Oxandra xylopioides Belt Tree Cinta Caspi
18 PIS0 Slats of Iriartea stem Belly Palm Huacra Pona
19 ENRRIPADO Slats of Iriartea stem Belly Palm Huacra Pona
20 HORCONES DE PIS0 Poles of Minquarria guianensis Column Tree Huacapri
21 HORCONES DE LA CASA Poles of Minquariia guianensis Column Tree Huacapri

Note: Different builders in different places may use different species. These species were noted at
ExplorNapo Camp, January 1993.
herbal ecotour group, the "clavohuasqueros", to study useful plants of the Amazon,
including the "clavohuasca", Tynnanthus panurensis, a reportedly non-gender-specific
aphrodisiac. While we can't guarantee that the vine is aphrodisiac, we are sure it contains
eugenol, a compound widely used as a dental antiseptic analgesic. Steeped in local
"aguardiente" (distilled sugar-cane rum), the "clavohuasca", or its solvent, did make the
"clavohuasqueros" a bit more talkative. We soon got up a pool to guess how many
different plants were used in the construction of the Napo house. Most of the guides came
up with numbers below 12, but one guess put the estimate at 20 different species of plants
used in the construction of that attractive rustic edifice. If you have been there, you may
have noticed that the whole house is constructed of native materials, without a single nail.
It's literally tied together with bark ("atadijo" or Trema micrantha) or vines ("huambe" or
Philodendron).

We still don't have the exact count, but its probably closer to 20 than to 10. A few months
after that episode, Vasquez prepared a diagrammatic representation of the house, shown
here as Figure 1. The diagram alone shows more than ten species of plants, omitting the
cutgrass (Scleria) so often hung in the eaves to discourage bats and the balsa, Ochroma
pyramidak, from which the plaques at Napo are carved.

Whether at Explorama, Napo or ACEER, or on the boats between the camps, you have
been kept dry by the favorite thatch palm, called "irapay", Lepidocaryum tessmannii,
leaves of which are woven around a slat of Socratea to make the sheaves that are the
favorite roofing material of that part of Peru. As far as we know, the "irapay" is the only
stemmed palm in Loreto that consistently has four blades arising at the tip of the leaf stalk
as depicted in the diagram (Fig. 2). Eaves of the roof are covered not with "irapay", but
with the leaves of the ivory palm they call "yarina", Phytelephas microcarpa. So the roofs
and floors of many rural Amazonian houses are derived from palms.
Socratea Iriartea

Palm Illustrations by Rodolfo Vasquez

"pona" r i b

"irapay" thatch

Sketch by J a n P r o p s t

Fig. 2. PALMS
 THE AYAHUASCA CEREMONY

In an herbal ecotour in January and five times again following a music therapy ecotour
(under Dr. Joe Moreno) to the ACEER camp, Celia Larsen, Rodolfo Vasquez and/or Jim
Duke observed as "ayahuasquero" Don Antonio Montero simulated an "ayahuasca"
ceremony. He apparently performs medicinal, social andlor spiritual ceremonies on the
Napo on special Friday nights. At the ACEER camp, he had his earthen pot on the fire by
2:00 PM. Stems of the "ayahuasca" were pounded and added to the heating water, which
would normally be boiled for hours. Antonio had several other essential constituents in his
brew. Two big leaves (or 4 small leaves) of "to&", probably Brugmansia aurea; a few
leaves of "sacha ajo", probably Mansoa alliacea; a few leaves of "chiricsanango", probably
Brunfelsia grandiJlora.A vital acoutrement was the "yagk", Psychotria sp., which like the
"ayahuasca" and "ipecac", has emetic properties. Antonio suggested it was added to make
the bitter beverage a bit sweeter. All of these, except the "ayahuasca", are rather common
at ACEER, as wild plants or cultivars. But the "ayahuasca", like "clavohuasca",
"chuchuhuasi", and "uiia-de-gato" are disappearing near civilization.

Chances are good that the Psychotria, like Psychotria viridis, contains
N,N,dimethyltryptamine, which is not active when ingested, unless taken with monoamine-
oxidase-inhibitors like the harmaline, harmine, and tetrahydroharmine in "ayahuasca". Add
scopoletin from Brunfelsia and atropine and scopolamine from Brugmansia and you have
a pot-pourri of hallucinogenic (but dangerous) synergy. As Antonio warns, there are bad
"ayahuasqueros" in Iquitos who have sent some gringo initiates home "basket cases". Other
evil "ayahuasqueros" drug their initiates with Brugmansia or Datura and take their money
while they are under the influence. We're not sure how to tell genuine from phoney
"ayahuasqueros". Antonio takes up to four small calabash cups (while none of his
associates/patients take more than three) of this witches brew, usually starting late at night.
First one becomes nauseated, then inebriated, in an hour or so, and all passes within a few
hours. During the "highs", Antonio sees beautiful and colorful visions, of long lost or
deceased friends, of friends who have moved to large cities in the US, strange animals and
spirits of the trees, etc. Most impresive of all his visions, and a real show stopper for
ACEER classes, are Antonio's sweeping gestures, as he discusses the thousand-color
rainbow that wraps around the "ayahuasquero" like a cosmic whirlpool. As he described
it so vividly, Duke lost track of his translation duties, caught up in the vortex.

Under the influence, Antonio divines the cause and cure for his associates' illnesses. Then
he may chant or whistle as he purifies them with the rhythmic "shacapa" fan, and as he
blows organic tobacco smoke onto selected body points of the patient. (Tobacco smoke is
elsewhere blown in the ear to treat earache.) He may use any of several medicinal herbs
at this point, or prescribe them for later use, depending on the diagnosis and prognosis of
the patient.

Antonio, who stated he was 48 years old in 1993, was initiated into ayahuasca at about age
12, by a serious "ayahuasquero", like himself, who selects his apprentice. He considers
himself at once, an "ayahuasquero", a black magician (in league with Lucifer), a healer,
an herbalist and a shaman. First experiences with "ayahuasca" can be terrible, for Indians
and gringos alike, and they may run into the forest, shouting, terrified by their visions.
Antonio's first experience, too, was very frightening and he wanted to back out. But he
was chosen. He and his mentors and mentees believed they were destined to be
"ayahuasqueros", further believing it difficult to change their destiny (and with Antonio,
his league with Lucifer). Like many healers though, he, too, likes to use alien
pharmaceuticals for himself and his family, when available. He does not plan for any of
his children to become "ayahuasqueros*. He picks up a little spending money with his
Friday night "ayahuasca" sessions, much like a musician going to town to pick up a few
bucks on the weekend. To him, "ayahuasca" is not a drug of abuse, but a source of
divination, inspiration, power, telepathy and visions. To the uninitiated it can sometimes
be a very dangerous, even life-threating, "bad trip". A few cases have been mental one-
way trips. Beware!

Fig. 3. "Ayahuasca" (Banisteriopsis caapi)

Source: E.W. Smith, Courtesy R.E. Schultes
 THE BLOWGUN ( "Pucuna")

Blowguns are fashioned from the "Pucuna caspi" which means "blowgun tree", Iryanthera
rricornis, a member of the nutmeg family. Amazonian members of the nutmeg family have
a pagoda-like branching habit wherein many branches emerge at right angles to the trunk,
like a few scattered spokes from the center of a wheel. One long straight branch is selected
and cut off to the desired length, halved, and the center reamed out with a reamer made
from the hard outer bark of the "pona" palm (Zriartea or Socratea). With the "pona" palm
they "sand" the bore. Then the two halves of the blowgun are glued with a resin or tar-like
"brea" (probably Protium) and tied tightly with coils of the "huambe", aerial roots of a
Philodendron, which may also be further affixed with "brea". The spool-like mouthpiece
is fashioned from "insira", Maclura tinctoria, a relative of our mulberry tree.

Darts are usually made from slivers of the petioles of palm leaf stalks, most often the
"inayuga", Maximiliana venatorum. At one end of the sliver they affix a wad of kapok or
"huimba", Ceiba samauma. They dip the other end in one of their curare mixtures, of
arrow or dart poisons. The business end of the dart is often sharpened between piranha
teeth. Curare recipes vary from individual to individual and tribe to tribe. Rather constant
ingredients include members of the moonseed family, Menispermaceae, a group of lianas
often endowed with powerful muscle relaxants, including one that is the source of the
myorelaxant tubocurarine used in modern medicine, especially in open heart surgery.
Probably the most common moonseed ingredient is the "ampi huasca", Chondrodendron
tomentosum. Skins cf poison-dart frogs, common on the forest floor, are often utilized in
the mixture. Ants are sometimes added around Iquitos.

Enrique, the Yagua gentleman who has demonstrated his incredible accuracy with the
blowgun, capable of hitting a monkey at 30 meters, usually has a kapok bag fashioned
from the "chambira" palm, Astrocaryum chambira. To this, he usually has affixed a
monkey call, fashioned from a hollow monkey or bird bone.

Fig. 4. BLOWGUN CONSTRUCTION

(Illustrationsby Jan Propst)
DARTS MADB PROM PALM,
SHARPBNEDBBIIVBPH .PIRANIIA' MI

: t'.
')

,,.
?'.
----
CARVE ovr MIDDLe

COTTON PROM "KN'CK' lRE8

'R- WHlSna OR CAU. MADB

",OM BON.
 FORMAT AND CAVEATS

Our dictionary is alphabetized by scientific name (in italics), followed by the author. Then
comes the family name, followed by local names in quotation marks and occasionally an
English name, in bold face. Finally we provide succinct comments on use. Interspersed
with the utilitarian notes are three-letter abbreviations, indicating our major sources.
POISON and TOXIC have been capitalized as a warning. We do not endorse self-diagnosis
and self-medication. If an author said a plant was purgative we used histher words citing
our source. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of our sources, but we have tried to cite
them faithfully. The reader is advised to view this as folklore, which may or may not prove
out.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I am indebted to Margarita Darlington for a first translation of the dictionary, which I

amplified and reworded. I augmented the draft by incorporating Amazonian data from such
books as Schultes and Raffaufs Healing Forest and constructing a folk medical index.
Robert A. DeFilipps read through the manuscript thoroughly. Most of all, I'm indebted to
Rodolfo Vasquez for his pioneering work in Spanish and to Judy ducellier who converted
my chicken scratch into the camera-ready copy for this book. We thank Janis Alcorn,
Michael Balick, Stephen Beckstrom-Stemberg, Bryan Boom, Rose Broome, William
Burger, Robert Bye, Tom Carlson, Jim Castner, Howard Clark, Paul Donahue, Elaine
Elizabetsky, Memory Elvin-Lewis, Hardy Eshbaugh, Ingrid Fordham, Al Gentry, Gary
Hartshorn, Steven King, Joseph Kirkbride, Celia Larsen, Walter Lewis, Barrie Maguire,
Dennis McKema, Willem Meijer, Dick Mills, Buzz Peavey, Mark Plotkin, Jan Propst,
Robert Raffauf, Peter Raven, Jim Reveal, Richard Ryel, R. E. Schultes, E. E. Smith, H.
M. Smith, Calvin Sperling, Steve Timme, Joe Tosi, David Williams, Tom Wolfe, and
Teresa Wood for their encouragement, help, and/or contributions.

In the Spanish version, Vasquez cited the specialists and herbaria involved with
identifications of his specimens, and provided his introduction to the Spanish version, along
with all his references. The reader is referred to that version for Vasquez's
acknowledgments of the taxonomists, ethnobotanists, botanists and scientists of other
disciplines whose works laid the foundation for this Amazonian Dictionary. In adding to
Rodolfo's compilation, I eliminated some of Rodolfo's citations, e.g., all herbarium
collections and some references. These details can be found in the Spanish version, a copy
of which will be deposited at USDA's National Agricultural Library. I used three-letter
abbreviations, like RVM, to indicate the sources of information. Important sources include
ALG (various papers and personal communications of the late Dean of Amazonian
"Diversitologists" and Botanists, A1 Gentry), AYA (Ayala), BDS (Branch and daSilva, Rio
Ragajos, Brazil, 1983), CAA (Cayon & Aristizabal, 1980), CRC (my own CRC
Handbooks), DAD (Duke and ducellier, 1993), DAT (Denevan and Tracy, 1987), DAW
(Duke and Wain, 1981), F A 0 (Food and Agriculture Organization, 1986), FBL (F. Bruce
Lamb), FEO (V. de Feo. Fitoterapia 63:417-440), FNF (Father Nature's Farmacy), FOR
(Forero), GAB (Garcia-Bamga), GAV (Gentry and Vasquez), GMJ (Grenand, Moretti and
Jacquemin), HAC (Hitchcock and Chase), IIC (Leon, 1987), JAD (my own books and
personal observations), JBH (J. B. Harbome's Phytochemical Dictionary, 1993), JFM
(Julia Morton), JLH (Jonathan Hartwell's Plants Used Against Cancer), HHB (Hager's
Handbook), LAE (Lewis and Elvin-Lewis), LAW (Little and Wadsworth), MAC
(Macbride's Flora of Peru), MAR (Mors & Rizzini), MJB (Michael Balick's various palm
papers and books), MJP (Mark J. Plotkin, 1993), MVA (MM. Vilmorin-Andrieux), NIC
(Nicole Maxwell), PEA (Perez-Arbelaez), PKD (Peggy Kessler Duke), POV (Poveda),
RAF (Ramon Ferreyra, 1970), RAR (R. A. Rutter, 1990), RBI (Florula de las Reserva
Biologicas de Iquitos), RVM (Rodolfo Vasquez Martinez), SAR (Schultes and Raffauf),
SOU (Soukup, 1970), TRA (Tramil), VAG (Vasquez and Gentry), VAM (Valdizan and
Maldonado, 1922), VDF (V. de Feo, 1991), and WOI (Wealth of India).

In the January class of 1993 was my daughter Celia Larsen, savoring the Amazon for the
first time, and like me, enamored of what she saw. Her biggest contribution was to force
me to recognize the gender issue, and add the feminine stanza to "Paradise Lost", and the
9 sign to flag those herbs more important to women. After all, she said, most of the
ecotour groups have more women than men, a ratio not yet reflected among the mostly
male guides and instructors. More importantly, most of the ethnobotanical writings on
female health issues were by foreign men, interpreting native men in turn interpreting
native women. Clearly, as the Lewises indicate, the gender issue has not received the
attention it deserves.

This book would have been impossible without all the scientists and Amerindians who
preceeded us and their contribution to our efforts to save the forest through rational and
sustained utilization and conservation of the forest species. With sincere but inadequate
gratitude, the book is specifically dedicated to Antonio, Loro, Lucio, Narciso, Rodolfo,
and Segundo, and their ancestors who augmented our empirical knowledge of forest foods
and medicines. And foremost to A1 Gentry, who lost his life, trying to tie it all together
taxonomically.

JIM DUKE

Al Gentry and Tabebuia

 VASQUEZ'S PROLOGUE
(To Plantas Utiles de la Amazonia Peruana)

Hoping to help satisfy the thirst for knowledge welling up in all scientists, I set out several
years ago to catalogue for posterity the Useful Plants of Amazonian Peru. I wanted to
consolidate under one cover the scattered information about ethnobotany of the area. I
hoped to provide information about local uses and colloquial names of wild and cultivated
plants. To city dwellers, the forest is remote and vague, perhaps something to be feared.
With this book, I hope to show that the Amazonian forest, properly utilized, can be the
friend of (wo)mankind, by no means its enemy. By enumerating all the diverse uses to
which the forest is put, I hope to enhance chances for conservation of this irreplaceable
resource, which has provided native Americans with sustenance for some 12,000 years.

In this initial effort, I hopellly covered most uses of the more important species. Much
remains to be done. We treat here only some 20% of the flora of the area. In compiling
this document, I hope to show that Peruvians are interested in studying Peruvian plants and
their ethnobotany, and to encourage collaboration among the many concerned agencies, not
only to study, but to save, for the future of Peru and the World at large, this magnificent
Amazonian forest.

Sincerest gratitude is expressed to Dr. A1 Gentry, Curator at Missouri Botanical Garden,

to Dr. F. Ayala, Director of the Herbarium Amazonense, and to Mr. Nestor Jaramillo for
their counsel, help, and guidance and for their contributions to Amazonian ethnobotany.
Special gratitude is due the rural people and the native Americans of the Amazon region,
as well as the herbalists at the Iquitos market, all of whom were invaluable sources of
information.

RODOLFO VASQUEZ MARTINEZ

as loosely translated by Jim Duke
February 1992
 Abarema laeta (Poepp.) L.Rico. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Used for malaria around
Iquitos (RVM).

0 Abelmoschus moschatus Medik. Malvaceae. "Almizclillo", "Musk". Cultivated

ornamental at Yanomono. Seeds used to make necklaces for children suffering bronchitis
and cough. Source of musk for the perfume industry, also used to scent cosmetics. Seeds
used as tonic and antispasmodic (SOU). "Crwles" and "Waytipis" use the plant to protect
against poisonous snakebite. The stimulating and antispasmodic attributes of the seeds are
well known. Seeds also used as antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory. The
"Palikur" use a decoction of leaves and green capsules in baths to ease childbirth GRE.
Boiling leaves 15 minutes yields an emmenagogue tea (SAR). Leaf decoction alleviates
menstrual cramps and metrorrhagia (SAR). Crushed seed with chicken fat are given for
bronchitis (SAR). Leaves boiled with crushed cashew leaves taken for diarrhea (SAR).
(Fig. 5)

9 Abuta grandifolia (Mart.) Sandwith. Menispermaceae. "Abuta", "Motelo

sanango", "Trompetero sacha". The decoction of the stems and roots mixed with wild bee
honey is used to treat sterile women. Root decoction used for post-menstrual hemorrhages,
the alcoholic maceration, for rheumatism. Macerated leaves, bark and roots, mixed with
rum, are used by the "Crwles" as aphrodisiac. "Waytipi" use the decoction of the bark and
stem as a dental analgesic. Root decoction used as a cardiotonic and antianemic (SOU).
Antimalarial (DAW). "Sionas" use leaf decoction for fever. Ecuadorian "Ketchwas" use
the leaf decoction for conjunctivitis and snakebite SAR. Ecuadorians use the root tea for
difficult delivery and for nervous or weak children with colic SAR. Contains palmatine and
other berberine derivatives (GMJ). (Fig. 6)

Abuta imene (Mart.) Eichl. Menispermaceae. "Trompetero sacha". Natives use it

as fish POISON (SOU). Amazonian Brazilians regard the root as diuretic, emetic, resolvent
(for bruises), tonic and toxic (SAR).

9 Abuta rufescens Aubl. Menispermaceae. "Abuta". Used to make "curarb".

Considered antimalarial, emmenagogue, tonic. Good for kidney stones, sterility, vaginitis,
and weak vision (RAR).This plant contains alkaloids which relax the muscular system.
Contains imenine, homoschatoline, imerubrine, imeluteine, rufescine and norrufescine
(AYA, RVM).

Abuta sandwithiana Krukoff & Barneby. Menispermaceae. "Trompetero sacha".

"Wayapi" use the decoction of the bark and stem as a dental analgesic. Root contains
protoberberine derivatives well known for their analgesic properties (GMJ).

Abuta solimosensis Krukoff & Barneby. Menispermaceae. "Abuta macho". Bark

decoction used for anemia, alcoholic maceration for rheumatism (RVM).

Acalypha macrostachya Jacq. Euphorbiaceae. "Cimora leon" , "Lion's tail".

Chopped leaves used, externally, as a decongestant (FEO).

Aciotisfragilis (Rich.) Cogn. Melastomataceae. "K&uiN. "Boras" use the leaves

to bathe children with high fever (DAT).
 Aciotis purpurascens (Aubl.) Triana. Melastomataceae. "Kiiwahe". Fruit edible
(RAR). Used by "Boras" to reduce fever (DAT).

Acroceras zizanioides (HBK) Dandy. Poaceae. "Grama", "Gramagrass". Forage.

Acrocomia erioacantha Barb. Rodr. Arecaceae. "Gru-gru". Cultivated ornamental.

Adenaria jloribunda HKB. Lythraceae. "Gurima-cy", "Pega perro", "Puca

varilla", "Rumo caspi". Kept in the fields to provide shade for pigs. The small branches
are commonly used as mosquito repellent, i.e. as "tambinas" (implements to repel
mosquitoes) (RVM). Pucallpa natives use the shoot tincture topically for rheumatism.

9 Adiantum capillus-veneris L. Adiantaceae. "Culantrillo", "Cebolla de venus" ,

"Shopumbillo", "Maidenhairfern".Cultivated ornamental. Fronds diaphoretic, emollient,
pectoral; to treat certain urinary disorders. Once used to treat cough. Now used as
mosquito repellent. Emmenagogue, expectorant, and emollient when made into infusion or
syrup; also used as aperitive and diuretic. A 10% ininsion mixed with honey is
expectorant, for rheumatism, and colds, heartburn, and sour stomach (RVM). Considered
diuretic, pectoral, sudorific (FEO); decoction used for alopecia, gallstones, icteria (FEO).
(Fig. 7)

Adiantum humile Kunze. Adiantaceae. "Culantrillo". Used by the "Boras" for

snakebite (DAT).

Adiantum spp. Adiantaceae. "Culantrillo". Ornamental.

Adiantum tomentosum Kl. Adiantaceae. "Culantrillo". Ornamental. Used

ceremonially at community balls because aromatic when dry. Cooked shoots used as an
emetic; also used to treat stomachaches. Rubbed on the body to alleviate redbug bites.
Crushed leaves sniffed to alleviate respiratory infections; hot infusions used to cure
bronchitis (RVM).

Aechmea spp. Bromeliaceae. "Sacha piiia", "Bromilia", "Wild pineapple".

Occasionally planted as ornamentals.

Agave arnericana L. Agavaceae. "Maguey", "Mexico", "Century plant". Leaf

decoction, considered decongestant, depurative, and vulnerary, used for jaundice and
syphilis (FEO).

Aiphanes caryotijiolia (Kunth.) Wendl. Areaceaea. "Quindio". Cultivated. Fruit

edible (RVM). Extremely rich in vitamin A, 16,000 IU/100 g fresh weight basis = 44 mg
beta-carotene/100 g (MJB). Seed contains 37% fat, of which 63 % is lauric acid.

Q Alchornea castaneijiolia (Willd.) Juss. Euphorbiaceae. "Iporoni", ""Iporuro",

"Ipururo", "Ipurosa", "Macochihua". Alcoholic bark maceration used to treat rheumatism,
arthritis, colds, and muscle pains after a long fishing day. The "Candochi-Shapra" and the
"Shipibos" used the bark and roots to treat rheumatism. Iquitos herbalists recommend it
for rheumatism (RVM). Pucallpa citizens take the leaf decoction orally for cough and
rheumatism (VDF). "Tikunas" take one tablespoon bark decoction before meals for
diarrhea (SAR). Around Piura, the leaves are used to increase fertility of females where
 3cm

Fig. 6 . Abuta grand$olia (GAV)

Pig. 9. Allium cepa ( P K D )

Fig. 8 . Allaman& cathartics (GAV)
the male is relatively impotent (FEO). Rutter stresses that it is aphrodisiac and geriatric for
males (RAR). Sometimes found in the famous "Rompe Calwn" aphrodisiac.

Alchornea discolor Endl. Euphorbiaceae. "Palometahuayo". Fishermen like to fish

in the shade of this tree (RVM).

Alchornea triplinervia (Spreng.) Muell. Arg. Euphorbiaceae. " Zancudo caspi " ,
"Mojarra caspi". Wood used for temporary c~nstruction,possibly for paper pulp (RVM).
"Witotos" use the leaves for diarrhea (SAR).

9 Alibertia edulis (L.Rich.) A.Rich. ex DC. Rubiaceae. "Huitillo". Fruit edible.

"Cuna" put the bark in cold water to make a lactagogue beverage. "Kayap6" cultivate it
for use in food and hunting (RVM). Herniated Brazilians steep the lower part of their
bodies in the leaf decoction (BDS).

Allamanda cathartics L. Apocynaceae. "Campanillade Oro", "Canaria", "Golden

bell". Cultivated. As an ornamental. The latex is toxic and caustic. "Way?ipi" use the bark
to reduce fever by preparing a "solar tea", and rubbing it over a patient's body. "Palikur"
use leaves for anxiety, washing their heads with the decoction (RVM). Cathartic, emetic
and POISON (DAW). Leaves contain ursolic-acid (HHB). (Fig. 8)

Allium cepa L. Liliaceae. "Cebolla", "Onion".Surely an acquired remedy, the

Rio Tapajos natives eat raw onions to lower cholesterol (BDS). (Fig. 9)

Allium sativum L. Liliaceae. "Ajo", "Garlic".Chopped cloves applied to mange

(FEO). Brazilians make a tea of the cloves for cold (grippe). (Fig. 10)

9 Alliumj?stulosumL. Liliaceae. "Cebolla peruana", "Peruvianonions".Cultivated

herb, used to poultice first degree burns. Mothers-to-be drink the liquid of the cooked
crushed pulp to hasten childbirth. For upset stomach they wrap the pulp in banana leaves,
warm over hot coals, and apply on the patient's stomach as hot as comfortable (RVM).
Used elsewhere for cancer (uterine), dysentery, fever and headache DAW.

Aloe Vera L. Liliaceae. "Savila", "Aloe".Juice applied topically to inflammation

and toothache. Leaf decoction used as an antidote to poisoning and as a purgative (FEO).
Brazilians use the jelly for burns and sores (BDS) and to prevent alopecia. (Fig. 11)

Alpinia nutans Rosc. Zingiberaceae. "Alpinia". Cultivated ornamental. Brazilians

use the flower tea as a sedative (BDS).

Alseis peruviana Standl. Rubiaceae. "Misho quiro", "Mucla de Gato", "Pino

regional", "Cattooth". Wood for lumber.

Alternanthera halimifolia (Lam) Standl. Amaranthaceae. " Ojo de pollo",

"Chicken's eye", "Picurillo" , "Sanguinaria". Well known for diabetes (RVM). In the
Sierra, the chopped plant is used for muscular sprains (FEO).

? Amaranthus spinosus L. Amaranthaceae. "Ataco", "SpinyPigweed".Whole plant

used as a laxative and antieczemic. Decoction used in washes to reduce high fever, and in
poultices to treat swollen sores (RVM). The decoction of the shoots is considered
Fig. 13. AmpeloziTyphus amazonicus (GAV)
antirheumatic, antiseptic (urinary, throat, pharynx), and emmenagogue; the root infusion
is considered astringent (FEO).

Ambelania occidentalis Zarucchi Apocynaceae. "Cuchara caspi". Edible fruit

(RVM). "Witotos" coat their extremities with latex of closely related Mucoa duchi to
protect against gnats. "Karijonas" use Mucoa for fever (SAR). (Fig. 12)

? Ambrosia peruviana Willd. Asteraceae. "Altamisa" , "Marco", "Marquito",

"Peruvian ragweed". Used with other plants in baths for magic or religious rituals
(RVM). Considered astringent, antirheumatic, and tonic (DAW). Shoot decoction,
considered antirheumatic, antispasmodic, digestive, tonic, and vermifuge, is used for
dysmenorrhea (FEO). Juice of the plant used by the "Incas" to preserve corpses. In popular
medicine, the juice is used for rheumatism and late menstrual periods. Root decoction used
for neuralgia and hysteria. Floral infusion used as vermifuge (SOU).

Amburana cearensis (Fr. Allen) A.C.Smith. Fabaceae. "Ishpingo". Hard light

wood for furniture and decorative plaques (RVM). Folk remedy for respiratory ails
(DAW). Containing coumarin, seeds are used to make perfumes and soaps (SOU).

Ampelozizyphus arnazonicus Ducke. Rhamnaceae. "Saracuramira". "Boras" use

it for insect bites (DAT). Roots used as a depurative; leaves are caustic; new shoots mixed
with water produce a foamy beverage which tastes like beer (RVM). Root extract shows
antimalarial activity (RVM). (Fig. 13)

Arnphitecna latifolia (Mill.) Gentry. Bignoniaceae. "Peche sheti". Around

Pucallpa, bark used as topical antiinflammatory in rheumatism (VDF).

Anacardium giganteum Hancock ex Engler. Anacardiaceae. "Sacha cashu", "Wild

cashew".Wood for lumber, with possibilities for plywood. The peduncles are edible fresh
or in beverages (RVM).

9 Anacardium occidentale L. Anacardiaceae. "Cacho", " Cashu", "Maraiibn",

"Cashew".Cultivated. Roasted seeds are edible, but oil from the fruit (cardol) is a strong
vesicant. The swollen peduncles of the fruit are edible fresh, in drinks or ices. Juice from
green fruits used to treat hemoptysis. The leaf infusion is used to treat diarrhea. Oil used
for warts; good for teeth. Wine obtained from fruit is a good antidysenteric. Seeds used
as worm medicine to kill bot-fly larvae (MJP). A gum like gum-arabic is extracted from
sap; fruit juice used as a permanent marker for clothing (SOU). Bark decoction used to
treat diarrhea (RVM). Important products are: the cashew nuts, and the cashew nut shell
liquid, also called cardol. Containing phenol it is an important raw material for the plastic
and resin industry (RVM). From the tender shoots they make expectorants (RVM). Fruit
juice used for warts. The "Wayiipi" use the bark as a remedy for infants (GMJ). "Tikunas"
use the "apple" juice for flu. (Fruit juice contains three antitumor compounds JAFC
41:1012. 1993.) Bark decoction, taken each month during the menses, is said to be
contraceptive (SAR). Brazilians use it as a douche for vaginal secretions (BDS), or as an
astringent to stop bleeding after tooth extraction. (Fig. 14)

Anadenanthera peregrina (L.) Benth. Fabaceae. "Cohoba", "Yopo". Brazilians

wash cuts and bruises with the bark decoction (BDS). Hallucinogenic snuff; used as
antidiarrheal, antivenereal, hemostatic, and stimulant (RAR). Brazilians believe that
 Fig. 17. h u e r i a brasiliensis (GAV)

Fig. 18. Andropogon bicornis (GAV)

Fig. 16. h n u s C O ~ O S U S(CRC)

burning the bark with dried cow feces will keep insects, snakes, and other beasts away
(BDS). Contains N,N,dimethyltryptamine. (Fig. 15)

9 Ananas comosus L. Bromeliaceae. "Piiia", "Piiia negra", "Huacamayo piiia",

"Gebero piiia", "Garrafbn piiia", "Lagarto piiia", "Jambo pifia", "Pineapple".Cultivated.
Edible fruit. A refreshing drink is made from the pericarp decoction, which is also added
to "chicha" to improve its taste. Preserves made with the fruit. The juice is astringent and
anthelmintic. In the Philippines the fiber yields a very fine white thread (SOU). "Tikunas"
grate the green hits in water and take in the first or second month of pregancy as
abortifacient. Amazonian Brazilians take the fruit for dyspeptic flatulence (SAR). In Piura,
practicing food "farmacy", the fruit is ingested for blenorrhagia, kidney stones,
rheumatism, and worms (FEO). (Fig. 16)

Anaueria brasiliensis Kosterm. Lauraceae. "Ailushi moena". For lumber; boats,

canoes. While still young, the poles are used for beams. Also used as a hiding tree for
hunting rodents. The roasted seeds are edible (RVM). (Fig. 17)

Anaxagorea brachycalpa R.E.Fr. Annonaceae. "Espintana". Wood used for

beams; bark tincture antirheumatic (RVM).

Anaxagorea brevipes Benth. Annonaceae. "Carahuasca", "Espintana". In the

construction of fences and rustic balconies. The bark is used as a primitive rope.

Andropogon bicornis L. Poaceae. "Cola de caballo", "Rabo de zorro" , "Horse's

tail". Dry flowers used to stuff toys. "Bora" use it to plug their nose and ears (DAT).
Valuable for forage and paper production; also used in making mats and brooms. Roots
used as diuretic and sudorific. Brazilians use the rhizomes as tourniquets around snakebites
(RVM). Used for beriberi and hepatitis (RAR). (Fig. 18)

Aniba perutilis Hemsley. Lauraceae. "Moena negra". Wood for lumber.

Aniba puchuri-minor (Mart.) Mez. Lauraceae. "Moena amarilla". Wood for

lumber and for building canoes. Carminative, digestive, laxative, tonic, for dysentery,
leukorrhea (RAR).

Aniba roseodora Ducke. Lauraceae. "Palo de rosa", "Rosewood".Wood used for

lumber and extraction of linalool, valued in perfumery. Also contains terpinwl.

Annona cherimolia Mill. Annonaceae. "Chirimolia", "Custard apple". Fruit

edible. Chopped leaves applied to the nape of the neck for headache; leaf decoction drunk
for dysentery; crushed seeds used to kill parasites (FEO). (Fig. 19)

Annona exellens R.E.Fr. Annonaceae. "Anona". Edible fruit.

Annona hypoglauca Mart. Annonaceae. "Guaniibana sacha", "Wild soursop".

Edible fruit.

Annona montana Macf. Annonaceae. "Anona", "Guaniibana", "Mountain

soursop". Edible fruit. Rio Tapajos Brazilians make solar tea of the leaves with those of
bitter orange to make bath water for flu (BDS). (Fig. 20)
 Fig. 21. Annona muncata (IIC)

Fig. 20. Annona montana (GAV)

Fig. 22. Annona squamosa (IIC)

 Annona rnuricata L. Annonaceae. "Guaniibana", "Chirimoya", "Chirimoya
brasilera", "Soursop".Cultivated. Fruit edible fresh or in ice creams. Leaf decoction used
for catarrh in Piura; crushed seed to kill parasites (FEO). Colonists From Risaralda use the
plant for rachitic children. Bark, roots and leaves are used in teas for diabetes; also used
as a sedative and antispasmodic (RVM). "Crhles" use the decoction of the leaves and bark
as a sedative, yet heart tonic. They use A. rnontana the same way (GMJ). Tapajos natives
use the leaf tea for the liver (BDS). Elsewhere used for chills, colds, diarrhea, dysentery,
dyspepsia, fever, flu, gallbladder attacks, hypertension, insomnia, kidneys, nervousness,
palpitations, pediculosis, ringworm, sores and internal ulcers (DAW). (Fig. 21)

Annona s q m o s a L. Annonaceae. "Anona", "Sweetsop".Cultivated. Fruit edible

(RVM). Elsewhere used for abortion, bruises, carbuncles, chancre, cold, diarrhea,
dyspepsia, fever, puerperium, rheumatism, spasm, syphilis, tumors, ulcers and venereal
disease; considered astringent, insecticide, pectoral, pediculicide, purgative, soporific, tonic
and vermifuge (DAW). Brazilians use the leaves in cough syrup (BDS). Like so many
Annonaceae with seeds used to control insects and lice, this contains pesticidal acetogenins
(JAD). (Fig. 22)

Anornospermurn chloranthurn Diels ssp. confururn Krukoff & Bameby.

Menispermaceae. "Abuta Sacha". "Wayiipi" consider this a dangerous POISON (GMJ).

Anornospermurn reticulaturn (Mart.) Eichl. Menispermaceae. "Tikuna" boil the

flowers in soapy water to make a shampoo. They once used the bark in making arrow
POISON (S AR).

Anthodiscus klugii Standl. Caryocaraceae. "Tamara". Bark maceration used

internally for gastritis; mashed fruits applied to wounds (VDF).

Anthodiscus peruanus Baillon. Caryocaraceae. "Tahuari". Wood for lumber,

dormers and heavy construction. Widely used as a fish POISON (SAR).

Anthodiscus pilosus Ducke. Caryocaraceae. "Tahuari amarillo", "bot6n caspi" .

Wood for lumber, dormers and heavy construction (RVM). "Maku" rub fresh fruit rind
on sprains. "Tanimuka" consider the leaves insecticidal or insectifugal (SAR). In Piura, the
fruit decoction is drunk for rheumatism and tumors (FEO). (Fig. 23)

Anthurium crassinervium (Jacq.) Schott. Araceae. "Rona setha rao". Powdered

root used for bugbites and inflammation around Pucallpa (VDF).

Anthuriurn fosteri Croat sp. nov. ined. Araceae. "Jerg6n quiro". The "Boras" bum
the leaves to obtain salt (DAT).

Anthurium pentaphyllurn G . Don. Araceae. "Nea niti raow. Leaf decoction for
arthritic rheumatism around Pucallpa (VDF).

Aparisthrniurn cordaturn (Juss.) Baill. Euphorbiaceae. "Yana vara" "Ukshaquiro".

Wood occasionly used for temporary construction or firewood.

Apeiba aspera Aubl. ssp. rnernbranacea (Spruce) Meijer & Setser. Tiliaceae.
"Llausaquiro", "Maquizapa iiaccha". Bark used as rope, fruits in handicrafts.
 Fig. 23. Anthodiscus pilosus (

Fig. 26. Artocarpus altilis (LAW)

Fig. 25. Arachis hypogaea (DAD)

 Apeiba tibourbou Aubl. Tiliaceae. "Maquizapa iiaccha blanco" , "Monkey comb".
The bark is used as rope. Bark decoction used as vermifuge (SOU). Considered
antirheumatic and antispasmodic (DAW). Febrifuge (RAR).

Apodanthera smilacifolia Cogn. Cucurbitaceae. "Shanin Rao". Topical

anitinflammatory around Pucallpa (VDF).

Apuleia leiocarpa (Vog.) MacBr. Fabaceae. "Ana caspi" , "Guacamayo" (RAR).

Wood used in heavy contruction, dormers, jam posts on bridges, boat construction, canoes,
keel plates, mills. (Fig. 24)

Arachis hypogaea L. Fabaceae. "Mad", Peanuts".Cultivated. Nourishing seeds

used as food. (Fig. 25)

Aristolochia spp. Aristolochiaceae. "Pisi rao". Decoctions or macerations of the

leaves used for gastritis and toothache. Considered TOXIC around Pucallpa (VDF).

? Arrabidaea brachypoda (DC.) Bur. Bignoniaceae. "Balsa huasca". "Karaja" give

the macerated roots orally to expectant mothers (RVM).

Arrabidaea candicans (Ric.) DC. Bignoniaceae. "Osen rao". Macerated leaves

used in febrifugal baths around Pucallpa (VDF).

Arrabidaea chica (HBK) Verlot. Bignoniaceae. "Puca panga". Fresh leaves used
in decoction alone or mixed with the fruits of Renealmia alpinia to dye fibers of
Astrocaryum chambira or to make tattoos. This dye is also used to treat skin infections and
herpes (RAR). Leaves also used as antiinflammatory. "Chami" from Risaralda extract the
red tint to dye baskets (RVM). "Tikuna" use leaf infusion for conjunctivitis (SAR). Achual
"Jivaros" chew the leaves with clay to blacken the teeth (SAR). Tapajos residents use leaf
tea for anemia, blood disorders, inflammation.

Arthrostylidium sp. Poaceae. "Carricillo". The split stems are used in basketry.

Artocarpus altilis (Park.) Fosb. Moraceae. "Pandisho", "Pan del Brbol".

Cultivated. Green fruit eaten cooked or roasted. Latex used to treat hernias and extract
worms from the skin (RVM). "Crbles" use leaf decoction to treat high blood pressure
(GMJ). Anodyne, effective against hypertension, used for boils, bums, diabetes, gout,
oliguria, rheumatism, sores and tumors (DAW). Mature seeds of seed-bearing varieties are
eaten roasted, though they may cause indigestion and flatulence. Used in production of the
regional drink called "mazato". "Wayiipi" use the latex as antirheumatic (GMJ). (Fig. 26)

Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. Moraceae. "Jaca", "Jackhit". Cultivated.

Weighing up to 15 kilos, h i t s are used to feed pigs. Some local people eat them also,
because of the very sweet pulp. Considered astringent, demulcent, laxative, refrigerant, and
tonic; used for alcoholism, carbuncles, caries, leprosy, puerperium, smallpox, sores,
stomach problems, toothaches and tumors (DAW). (Fig. 27)

Asclepias curarsavica L. Asclepiadaceae. "Benzenyuco", "Flor de Sedan, "Flor

de muerto" , "Pucasisa", "Bloodflower", "Tropical milkweed". Generally considered
POISONOUS (SOU). In Colombia the latex is used to extract decayed teeth (RVM).
Inflorecences are hemostatic, and used to treat diarrhea. The dry roots are ground and used
as emetic; the latex is anthelmintic and used for toothache. It is very toxic and may cause
paralisis. Brazilians poultice the crushed leaves onto wounds. Latex is used for rat
POISON. The "Cuna" use the roots to treat diarrhea (RVM). Around Pucallpa, they bathe
in the leaf decoction for persistent fever (VDF). "Palikur" make drops for eye infections
out of the shoot decoction (GMJ). "Siona-Secoya" use the latex as a vermifuge. "Tikuna"
use it for toothache (SAR). (Fig. 28)

Aspidospenna excelsum Benth. Apocynaceae. "Canalete", "Remo caspi", "Paddle

tree". In house construction as beams, decks, and columns. Antiseptic (SAR).

Aspidospenna marcgravianum Woods. Apocynaceae. "Naranjo", "Quillobord6nW.

Wood for lumber, dormers (RVM). Antiseptic (SAR).

Aspidospenna nitidum Benth. Apocynaceae. "Pinsha caspi", "Quillobordon",

"Remo caspi". Wood used in house construction (RVM). Latex used in leprosy (SAR).
Used for malaria in Brazil (DAW), for fever and lung ailments (RAR).

Aspidospenna schultesi Woods. Apocynaceae. "Quillobord6n". Wood for lumber,

dormers (RVM). "Makuna" paint the latex between the toes, perhaps as a fungicide.
Around Rio Piraparana, roots are crushed with mud and smeared on the house as a termite
repellent (SAR). Vaupes Indians use the plants for fever (SAR).

Asplenium cuneatum Lem. Aspleniaceae. "Shapumba". Sometimes planted as an

ornamental.

Asplenium serratum L. Aspleniaceae. "Lengua de vaca" , "Bird's nest fern",

"Cow's tongue". Rhizome decoction for liver diseases (SOU).

Asplundia spp. Cyclanthaceae. "Puspo tamshi". Many species are used as ropes,
and in basketry.

Astrocaryum chambira Burret. Arecaceae. "Chambira", "Fiberpalm". The fruits

have edible seeds. The shells from the dried seeds are used to make baskets to carry
cotton. From the leaf buds they extract fibers used in the manufacturing of hammocks,
handbags, and other handicrafts where they need thread and ropes (RVM). (Fig. 29)

Astrocaryum huicungo Dummer ex Burr. Arecaceae. "Huicungo". Fruits edible;

source of fiber and construction materials.

Astrocaryum jauari Mart. Arecaceae. "Huiririma". The seed is edible; from the
leaf buds they extract fiber.

Astrocaryum macrocalyx Mart. Arecaceae. "Huicungo". Fruit edible; the leaves

are used sometimes to build temporary roofs after the thorns have been removed.

Astrocaryum murumuru Mart. Arecaceae. "Huicungo", "Huiririmi " . Seeds yield

edible oil. Aphrodisiac (RAR).Fruit with 3 times more betacarotene than carrot (MJB)
(oil contains 3 13,000 IU). Oil composed of 48.9 % lauric-, 21.6 % myristic-, 13.2 % oleic-,
6.4 % palmitic-, 4.4 % capric-, 2.5% linoleic-, 1.7 % stearic-, and 1.3 % caprylic-acids
(MJB). (Fig. 30)
 Fig. 2'7. Artocarpur he~erophyllus(LAW)

Fig. 28. Asclepias curassavica (GAV)

Fig. 30. Astrocaryum mummum (GAV)

 Attalea tesmannii Burret. Arecaceae. "Chonta", "Conta". The fruit has edible
seeds (RVM).

Averrhoa bilimbi L. Oxalidaceae. "Lim6n chino", "Chinese lemon". Cultivated

as a fruit tree.

Averrhoa carambola (Sw.) Beauv. Oxalidaceae. "Carambola", "Star Fruit".

Cultivated fruit tree.

Anonopus compressus (Sw.) Beauv. Poaceae. "Cola de Caballo", "Gram",

"Zacate amargo", "Nudillo". Lawn for sport fields and yards; for forage. Used for
whooping cough (RAR).(Fig. 31)

Axonopus scoparius (Flugge) Hitchc. Poaceae. "Maicillo", "Imicayo". Forage.

Fig. 31. Axonopus compressus (HAC)

28 AMAZONIAN
ETHNOBOTANICAL
DICTIONARY

-B-

Bactris acanthocarpoides Barb.-Rodr. Arecaceae. "fiejam.Fruits edible.

Bactris actinoneura Drude. Arecaceae. "fiejilla". Fruits edible.

Bactris amoena Burret. Arecaceae. "fiejilla". Fruits edible.

Bactris brongniartii Mart. Arecaceae. "fiejilla". Fruits edible, leaves used for
thatch (RAR) .

Bactris concinna Mart. Arecaceae. "fiejilla" .Fruits edible. Wood used for carving

Bactris gmipaes HBK. Arecaceae. " "Pejibaye", "Pijuayo","Chontaduro", "Peach

palm". Cultivated. Fruit and seeds edible. From cooked fruit is prepared the regional drink
called "mazato"; oil is also extracted. First shoots are edible fresh or in salads, as
substitute for palm hearts (SOU). (Fig. 32)

Bactris simplicifrons Mart. Arecaceae. "CSlwarahiiba". Fruits edible, used by the

"Bora" as soporific (DAT).

Bambusa multiplex Raeush. Poaceae. "Marona". Cultivated. As an ornamental.

Bambusa superba (Huber) McClure. Poaceae. "Marona", " Chingana". The canes
are used to build fences, to make flutes; the internode of the stalk is used to store small
things.

Banara guianensis Aubl. Flacourtiaceae. "Raya caspi", "Sacha rifari". The

"Crkles" use the decoction of five leaves in 113rd liter water, drinking a cup a day in
order to keep a healthy liver (GRE).

Banisteriopsis caapi (Spruce ex Griseb.) Morton. Malpighiaceae. "Ayahuasca",

"Soul vine", "Spirit vine", "Yag6". In some cases semicultivatedby witches, shamans and
ayahuasqueros. Stems used by native fanners and city folk as a purge. The "ayahuasca"
is an hallucinogenic drink, much used in the old days in rituals. Now it is used for
medicinal purposes and divination. It is said not only to cure all kinds of sickness, but to
help in diagnosis, divination, and telepathy. It is also laxative and emetic. To prepare the
"purge" it is recommended that the stem collector (the brujo) abstain from sex for at least
a week before cutting the stems, and in the day of the gathering he should go without
eating. This should be done either Tuesdays or Fridays in the morning. They have to cut
and grind the stems and boil them until the liquid becomes dark; then pass through a sieve;
once cool, it is ready to be taken. They generally use one species, sometimes mixed with
other species of Banisteriopsis, as B. longialata, and occasionally with other plants, such
as: Psychotria viridis, P. carthaginensis, Nicotiana tabacum, Brugmansia suaveolens,
Malouetia tamarquina, etc. Tabernaemontana sp., Brunfelsia, sp., Datura suaveolens,
Zochromafuchsioides, Juanulloa, cactus, ferns, etc. Contains alkaloids such as harmaline,
tetrahydroharmine, hannol, harminic-acid methyl-ester, harminic acid, acetyl-norharmine,
N-norharmine, N-oxyharmine, harmalinic acid, ketotetrahydronorharmine (RVM). (Refer
back to Fig. 3 in Introduction.)
 Banisteriopsis elegans (Triana & Planch.) Sandwith. Malpighiaceae. "Yag6".
"Bora" treat oral sores in children with the leaves (DAT).

Banisteriopsis longialata (Ndz.) B. Gates. Malpighiaceae. "Ayahuasca", "Yag6".

Sometimes used to prepare "ayahuasca". Contains high quantities of tryptamine derivatives:
DMT, MMT, 5-Meo DMT, bufotenine, and traces of beta-carboline (RVM).

Banisteriopsis muricata Cav. Malpighiaceae. "Ayahuasca sacha", "Sarcelo". Used

by natives of Tocache to treat dogs (RVM).

Batesiafloribunda Spruce ex Benth. Fabaceae. "Huayruro colorado". The wood

is mainly used for carving and decorative plaques. The seeds are used in necklaces and
other handicrafts (RVM).

Batocarpus amazonicus (Ducke) Fosberg. Moraceae. "Tulpay", "Mashonaste",

"Najahe". Wood for inferior lumber. It is used to build keel plates on boats and canoes.
Fruit edible.

Batocarpus costaricensis Standl. Moraceae. "Sacha tulpay". To make keel plates

for boats and canoes.

Bauhinia glabra Jacq. Fabaceae. "Motelo huasca". Stem infusion used by the
Huallaga to treat pulmonary diseases (RVM).

Bauhinia guianensis Aubl. Fabaceae. "Escalera de mono", "Monkey ladder".

Used as an ornamental and for handicrafts (RVM). Amazonian "Tukuna" use stem for
kidney diseases (SAR). "Taiwanos" consider the seed diuretic (SAR). The root is boiled
with "sarabatuco" to treat ameba in Amazonian Brazil (BDS). Considered ichthyotoxic
(RAR).(Fig. 33)
Bauhinia tarapotensis Benth. in Mart. Leguminosae. "Pata de vaca", "Cow hoof".
Semi-cultivated as an ornamental.

Begonia palmata DC. Begoniaceae. "Begonia". Cultivated ornamental.

Begonia semiovata Liebm. Begoniaceae. "Pava chaqui". The stem is chewed to

quench the "hangover" thirst. "Waunana" grind the stems, cook them and drink the tea for
intestinal worms (RVM).

Begonia sempefirens Link. & Otto. Begoniaceae. "Begonia". Cultivated

ornamental.

Begonia spruceana A. DC. Begoniaceae. "Begonia". Leaf decoction used

internally for gastritis around Pucallpa (VDF).

0 Bellucia grossularioides (L.) Trian. Melastomataceae. "Nispero". Antiseptic

fungicide, the inner bark steeped in rum and used for massage in case of excess vaginal
excretions (BDS). Eat fruit for worms (BDS).
Fig., 33. Bauhinia guianensis (GAV)
 Bellucia pentamera Naud. Melastomataceae. "Sacha nispero". Fruits edible.
Rasped stem used to dye gourds (SAR). "Andokes" use fresh fruits as anthelmintics (SAR).
(Fig. 34)

Bertholletia excelsa HBK. Lecythidaceae. "Castaiia". Cultivated near Iquitos.

Good wood for lumber, used in construction. The seeds are edible. Oil extracted from the
seeds to manufacture soaps (RVM). Considered insect repellent (DAW). An average
brazilnut contains more than the US RDA for selenium, overdoses of which can cause hair
loss, garlic breath and other problems. Selenium is an important antioxidant (JAD).
Amazonian Brazilians use the bark in liver ailments (SAR). Fruit husk tea used for
stomachache (BDS). (Fig. 35)

Besleria aggregata (Poepp.) Hanst. Gesneriaceae. "Puca sisa". Ornamental.

9 Bidens pilosa L. Asteraceae. "Amor seco" "Cadillo", "Chilca", "Isha sheta rao",
"Pacunga", "Pirco", "Dried love". Chewing or gargling may help angina and sores in the
mouth; infusions used as emmenagogue, antidysenteric, and to alleviate chills. Decoction
mixed with lemon juice for angina, sore throat, water retention, hepatitis, dropsy.
Sometimes mixed with aguardiente and milk (SOU). In Piura, the root decoction is used
for alcoholic hepatitis and worms (FEO). Around Pucallpa, the leaf is balled up and
applied to toothache. Leaves also used for headache VDF. In Brazil it is used as a diuretic
and to treat jaundice. In the Philippines, flowers, mixed with cooked rice, are fermented
to make an alcoholic beverage. In Tonga the infusion of the flowers is used to treat upset
stomach in food poisoning. The "Exumas" grind sun-dried leaves and mix them with olive
oil to make poultices for sores and lacerations. "Cuna" mix the crushed leaves with water
to treat headaches (RVM). Used for aftosa, angina, diabetes, dysentery, dysmenorrhea,
edema, hepatitis, jaundice, laryngitis, worms (RAR).

9 Bixa orellana L. Bixaceae. "Achote", "Achiote amarillo". Cultivated. Natives

mainly use it for food coloring and to decorate their bodies. There are experimental plots
for the extraction of bixin. In Piura, the shoot decoction is considered antidysenteric,
antiseptic, antivenereal, aphrodisiac, astringent, and febrifugal (FEO). The foliage is used
to treat skin problems and hepatitis; also used as aphrodisiac, antidysenteric, and
antipyretic. Considered good for the digestive system, and for treatment of liver disease.
Very effective as a gargle for tonsilitis (RVM). "Chinatecas" poultice leaves on cuts to
avoid scars (RVM). Pwple from Cojedes use the flower infusion as purge and to avoid
phlegm in newborn babies. "Kayapo" massage stomachs of women in labor with the leaves.
"Waunana" use to dye demijohns and baskets. Bark yields a gum similar to gum arabic.
Fiber used as cordage. "Kayapo" use to tint to the body (RVM). Dye said to be an antidote
for HCN (SAR). Seeds believed to be expectorant, the roots, digestive (SAR), antitussive
(BDS). Around Explorama, fresh leaf stalks, devoid of blades, are inserted into a glass of
water; the mucilage that forms is applied in conjunctivitis. (Fig. 36)

Blepharodon nitidum (Vell.) Macb. Asclepiadaceae. "Miitsiijkeu". Used by the

"Boras" to tie the beams of their houses (DAT).

Bocconia pearcei Hutchinson. Papaveraceae. "Yanali". Latex used as escharotic,

shoots to treat "aire" (FEO).

Boerhavia caribaea Jacq. Nyctaginaceae. "Pega-Pega", "Pega josa" . Root

decoction antispasmodic, choleretic (FEO).
 BoerhaviapaniculataRich. Nyctaginaceae. "Solidonion.Diuretic, antibilious, used
for the gall bladder and liver. Brazilians, e.g., use the root tea for hepatitis (BDS, RAR).

0 Bonafousia langituba Mgf. Apocynaceae. "Coca sanango", "Nane repote", Ruro

de paloma", Sanango macho". Latex used for toothache, bark as contraceptive around
Pucallpa (VDF).

Bonafousia sananho (R. & P.) Mgf. Apocynaceae. "Lagarto micunan",

"Sanango". Powdered root taken for rheumatism around Pucallpa, avoiding salt and grease
(VDF).

Bonafousia tetrastachya Mgf. Apocynaceae. "Capeshinin,"Coca sanango", "Osha

rao". Powdered root taken for rheumatism around Pucallpa (VDF).

Bonafousia undulata (Vahl) A.DC. Apocynaceae. "Sanango". "Palikur" use as an

analgesic for headaches (GMJ).

Bothriospora corymbosa (Benth.) Hook. Rubiaceae. "Afasi caspi", "yacu quinilla".

The wood is used for construction of rural houses. Indians consider the wood POISONOUS
(SOU). Said to contain antiparasitic cephaeline and emetine, the leaves are ingested to
expunge intestinal parasites (SAR).

Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd. Nyctaginaceae. "Papelillo". Cultivated.

Ornamental, used to treat scrofula and pneumonia (SOU).

Brachiaria mutica (Forssk.) Stapf. Poaceae. "Grama", "Nudillo". Forage.

Brachiaria purpurascens (Rad) Henr. Poaceae. "Grama". Forage.

Brosimum acutifoliumssp. obovatum (Ducke). C.C.Berg. Moraceae. "Tamamuri",

"Congonan (FEO). Trunk and bark used as antirheumatic. Used by the "Palikur" and
"Way5pi" as a hallucinogen and in ritual initiations. Bark used in baths to reduce fever.
Also used by the "Wayiipiwto protect against witchcraft (GMJ). Tincture used in Piura for
headache and rheumatism (FEO). Depurative, tonic, vermifuge, to stimulate the appetite,
for rheumatism and syphilis (RAR).

Brosimum alicastrum Sw. ssp. bolivariense (Pittier) C.C.Berg. Moraceae.

"Machinga". Heavy wood used for dormers, beams, and parquets. Tree used by the
"Campas" as a blind for hunting tapir and peccary. (Fig. 37)

Brosimum aubktii P.&E. Moraceae. "Tamamuri", "Machinga", "Snakewood".

Fruits edible. Wood excellent (RAR).

Brosimum guianense (Aubl.) Huber. Moraceae. "Huayra caspi", "Misho chaqui",

"Palo brujo". The wood is used in construction, and the latex to treat abscesses.

Brosimum lactescens (S.Moore) C.C.Berg. Moraceae. "Machinga", "Tamamuri".

Wood used for beams, posts, for keel plates on boats. Fruit edible.

Brosimum parinarioides Ducke ssp. amplicona (Ducke) C.C.Berg. Moraceae.

"Chimicua", "Machinga". The wood is used for keel plates on boats, it is also used for
beams, posts, and forked poles. The latex is used to mix with latex of higher quality in
order to increase the volume. The latex is used as cicatrizant, as a pectoral, as well as tonic
to treat weakness; in poultice it is used for bruises (RVM).

Brosimumpotabile Ducke. Moraceae. "Machinga*. For lumber. Latex a medicinal

tonic (RVM).

.
Brosimum rubescens Taubert. Moraceae. "Palisangre" Wood used for handicrafts,
forked poles, posts, dormers, and to make decorative plaques. "Yaguas* use the wood to
carve a mythological representation called "mayantu". Heartwood mixed with aguardiente
to fortify the body after child birth. In Peru wood used to build the gigantic cross in 1985,
to honor the visit of the pope Juan Pablo I1 (RVM).

Brosimum utile (HBK) Pittier ssp. longifolium (Ducke) C.C. Berg. Moraceae.
"Machinga", "Chingonga". The wood is used to make plaques, in lumbers, in rustic
carpentry and indoor building. The latex is used to adulterate better quality latices. Wood
also used for pulp and plaques. Some Colombian natives drink the latex with sugar water
as a tonic (RVM, SAR). Bark used for asthma and other lung ailments (SAR). Brazilians
drink a w e latex for fever (BDS).

Q Brownea ariza Benth. Fabaceae. "Rosa del monte" (Wild rose), "Palo cruz".
Loreto's finest wood is used to make canes, rulers, parquets, and small objects. Considered
hemostatic (RVM). "Siona" use flowers in emetic hemostat teas for excessive menstruation
(SAR). i

Brownea disepala Little. Fabaceae. "Trueno shimbillo". Used in making tool

handles.

Brugmansia aurea Lagerhein. Solanaceae. " T d " , "Maricahua", "Floripondio",

"Angels trumpet". Cultivated. Ornamental used as an hallucinogen, for telepathy and
divinations. Some people smoke the leaves and the flowers in small quantities, as a
substitute for marijuana. Brujos make a purge for dogs to make them good hunting dogs
(EXP). Leaf decoction externally used for dermatitis and orchitis; chopped leaves
antispasmodic, decongestant (FEO). The main alkaloid in Brugmansia is scopolamine, also
found are: norscopolamine, atropine, meteloidine, noratropine, 3alpha,6beta-
ditigloyloxytropane-7beta-01,tropine, 3alpha-tigloyloxytropaneRVM. (Fig. 38)

Brugmansia insignia (Barb.-Rodr.) Lockwood ex R.E.Schultes. Solanaceae. "Toa-

t d " , "To&", "Maricahua" Cultivated. Rio Pastaza natives tie the leaves (transdermal
"scope" JAD) or simply apply the juice onto aches and pains (SAR). Loreto natives use
the leaf infusion as a calmant and sedative (SAR).

Brugmansia suaveolens (H.&B. ex Willd.) Berchtold & Presl. Solanaceae. "Td",

"Floripondio", "Maricahua". Cultivated. Similar applicationsas B. aurea (RVM). "Kofains"
believe the white flowered forms are more toxic than the pink-flowered forms (SAR). (Fig.
39)

Brugmansia versicolor Lagerhein. Solanaceae. "To&","Floripondio". Cultivated.

Similar applications as B. aurea. Used as an ornamental like Brugmansia x candida and
Brugmansia x insignis.
 Brunfelsia chiricaspi Plowman. Solanaceae. "Chiricaspi", " Chiric mango". Used
as an additive in the preparation of hallucinogenicbeverages (RVM). The hallucination has
serious side effects, among them: chills, cold sweats, heavy tongue, itchiness, nausea,
stomachache, temporary insanity, tingling, and vomiting (SAR). Used by the Indians for
fever (SAR).

Brunfelsia grandzjTora D.Don ssp. schultesii Plowman. Solanaceae. "Chiric

mango", "Chuchuwasha", "Moca pari". Sometimes cultivated as an ornamental or
medicinal plant. Curanderos add it to ayahuasca or to prepare special initiations. Also used
for bad luck. Around Pucallpa, the leaf decoction is used internally for arthritis and
rheumatism (VDF). Root infusion with aguardiente for rheumatism and venereal diseases.
"Boras" take the root decoction for chills (RVM). Amazonians take the plant, regarded as
diaphoretic and diuretic, for fever, rheumatism, snakebite, syphilis and yellow fever
(SAR). The main phytochemical is scopoletin, which induces psychopharmacologiceffects.
Also: tartaric acid, lactic acid, quinic acid, etc. (RVM).

Brunfelia miro Monach. Solanaceae. "Chiric sanango". Sometimes planted as

ornamental. The alcoholic root maceration used as an antirheumatic.

Buchenavia cf fanshawei Exell & Maquire. Combretaceae. "Yacushapana". The

hard and heavy wood is used for dormers, jam posts for bridges; sometimes it is used for
keel plates on boats.

Buchenavia viridijlora Ducke. Combretaceae. "Lagartillo de altura" . Wood is used

for forked poles, posts, beams, parquets, decorative plaques, and also in handicrafts
(RVM).

Bunchosia armeniaca (Cav) DC. Malpighiaceae. "Ciruelo", "Indano". Cultivated.

Ornamental with edible fruit.

Bursera graveolens (HBK.) Trel. Burseraceae. " Carana", "Palo santo " . Twigs
chewed for toothache; boiled as depurative, febrifuge, and sedative. Resin massaged in for
headache and rheumatism (FEO). Used in amulets against shamanism (RAR).

Byrsonima chrysophylh HBK. Malpighiaceae. "Indano". Brazilians use the bark

in cough syrups (BDS).

Byrsonima coriacea (Sw) DC. var. spicata (Cav.) Ndz. Malpighiaceae. "Indano
colorado". The astringent bark is used for dysentery. Fruit edible.
 Cabralea canjerana (Vel.) Mart. Meliaceae. "Cedro macho". Wood excellent for
carpentry, used like Cedrela odorata. Bark is used to reduce fever. The decoction of some
meliaceous fruits is used as insecticide, hazardous for domestic animals (SOU). (Fig. 40)

Caesalpiniaferrea Mart. Fabaceae. "Cedro", "Ironwood".Brazilians drink water

containing grated fruits for bruises (BDS, RAR).

Q Caesalpiniapulcherrima (L.) Sw. Fabaceae. "Angel sisa", "Prideof Barbados".

Cultivated ornamental. Leaves cathartic, bark used as febrifuge and abortive. Flowers used
in purges and antipyretics. Leaves used to intoxicate fish (SOU).

9 Caesalpiniaspinosa (Mol.) Kuntze. Fabaceae. "Talla", "Tara". Leaf infusion used

for stomatitis, branches for abortion, fever, constipation (FEO).

9 Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp. Fabaceae. "Puspo poroto", "Pigeonpea". Cultivated.

The seeds are edible. The flowers and foliage are used to stabilize the menstrual period,
and for dysentery. Used elsewhere as a diuretic, astringent, antidysenteric, detersive,
febrifuge, laxative, and vulnerary (RAR, RVM). "Crhles" recommend the leaf tea for
lung infections. The seed infusion is diuretic (GMJ). Brazilians take the seed tea for blood
ailments and inflammation (BDS), the leaf tea for cough. (Fig. 41)

Caladium bicolor (Ait.) Vent. Araceae. "Corazbn de J d s " , "Jesus's heart ",
"Oreja de perro", "Dog's ear". Cultivated ornamental. "Wayiipi", superstitious about this
plant, use it for love potions and amulets (GMf). Febrifuge (RAR).

Caladium picturatum (Lind.) Koch & Bouche. Araceae. "Coraz6n sangriento",

"Bleedingheart".Cultivated ornamental.

Calathea allouia (Aubl). Lindl. Marantaceae. "Dale dale", "Sweet cornroot".

Cultivated. The tuberous roots are used as a starchy food. "Choc6" and "Cuna" wrap
vegetables and meat in the leaves. Tonic; used against scrofula (RAR). (Fig. 42)

Calathea gigar Gagn. Marantaceae. "Wira bijao del bajo". Leaves are used by
fishermen to line baskets, helping keep fish fresh. Leaves used as thatch (RVM).

Calathea inocephala (Kuntze) H.Kennedy & D.Nichols. Marantaceae. "Wira

bijao". Leaves used to wrap food.

Calathea insignis Peters. Marantaceae. "Bijao chancaquero". Mainly used to wrap

brown sugar (RVM).

Calathea lutea (Aubl.) G.F.W.Meyer. Marantaceae. "Bijao", "Cauassu".

Sometimes semicultivated. Leaves are mainly used as wrapping, to cook tamales, etc. The
"Chinatocas" of Oaxaca, use the leaves to wrap tamales, and also to make tortillas. Cooked
roots are used by the "Cuna" to control nausea and diarrhea. Resinous wax extracted with
solvents similar to wax from Calathea gigar Gagn. (Fig. 43)

Calathea microcephala (P.E.) Koern. Marantaceae. "Motelilla enana".

Ornamental.
 Calathea roseo-picta (Lindl.) Reg. Marantaceae. "Motelilla". Ornamental,
medicinal for the "Boras" (DAT).

Calatola costaricensis Standley. Icacinaceae. "Pi6", "Nashum". " Achuales" along

the Rio Huasaga chew the tender leaves to coat their teeth and protect against cavities. The
blackish color will disappear ca 15 days after use. This old custom is vanishing because
natives are embarrased when caucasians call them "huanganas". "Achueles" from Pastaza
and "Mayna" from Comentes also use the blackish coat to protect their teeth (RVM). The
"Candoshi-shapra" also chew the leaves to protect their teeth. (Fig. 44)

Calliandra angustifolia Spruce. Fabaceae. "Bobinsana", "Bubinsana". "Quinilla

blanca". Cultivated ornamental (RVM). Around Pucallpa, bark decoction taken internally
for dyspnea and rheumatism (VDF).

Callichlamys latifolia (Rich.) Schumann. Bignoniaceae. "Manapeui". "Way%pin

consider this the best medicine for leishmaniasis. Grated stem bark poulticed onto the sores
or made into a decoction applied to the sores (GMJ). (Fig. 45)

Calophyllum brmilienre Cam. Clusiaceae. "Alfaro", "Lagarto caspi". Fruit edible

(RAR). Excellent wood for naval construction; keel plates for boats, canoes. Used to make
plaques and for lumber. Part of this wood is exported to the USA and Europe. In Central
America the slow-burning, long-lasting wood has a great value as a fuel. Elsewhere used
for dormers, and on the railroads. "Karaji" drink the bark infusion for diarrhea, and build
canoes with the wood (RVM). The bark, mixed with Coutarea hexandra Schumann, is used
by the "Palikur" in infusions for diabetes and worms (GMJ). Considered antiherpetic,
antirheumatic (RAR). Wood contains the antiinflammatories dehydrocycloguanan and
jacareubin (JBH). (Fig. 46)

Calopogonium caeruleum Hemsl. Fabaceae. "Kudzu". Cultivated as forage and

green manure.

Calycophyllum acreanum Rubiaceae. "Capirona". For firewood and charcoal.

Calycophyllum obovatum (Ducke) Ducke. Rubiaceae. "Capirona". For firewood

and charcoal. (Fig. 47)

0 Calycophyllum spruceanum (Benth.) Hook. Rubiaceae. "Capirona". The wood,

used for contruction, is a favorite for firewood and charcoal. Natives boil 1 kg of bark in
10 liters of water to obtain 4 liters of medicine from which they drink 150 ml 3 times a day
for 3 consecutive months for diabetes (RVM). Peruvians use the bark against "sarna
negra", an arachnid that lives under the skin. Powdered bark is applied to mycoses (SAR).
Considered contraceptive, emollient, vulnerary. (Fig. 48)

Campomanesialineatifolia R.& P. Myrtaceae. "Palillo". Cultivated. Fruits edible.

Natives soak the wood chips in water to make a beverage to treat hemoptysis (SOU). Good
timber. Antiemetic, hemostatic, for skin infections (RAR). (Fig. 49)

Campsiandra angustifolia Spruce ex Benth. Fabaceae. "Huacapurana". Seed edible

cooked. Wood burned in rubber processing. Bark infusion mixed with aguardiente. Used
as an antirheumatic and antidiarrheic (RVM). Used for malaria (RAR). (Fig. 50)
Fig. 50. Campsiandra angustifolia (GAV)

Fig. 52. Canna edulis (IIC)

 Campsiandra comosa Benth. Fabaceae. "Huacapurana". Bark tincture in
aguardiente taken for malaria around Iquitos (SAR). "Witoto" use powdered bark as a
vulnerary to treat wounds (SAR). Fruits steeped in vinegar and salt are used for oral
infections in Amazonian Brazil (SAR).

Canavalia ensifomis (L.) DC. Fabaceae. "Nescaf6". Cultivated. The toasted

ground seed are used as a substitute for coffee (RVM). Considered anodyne, digestive,
mitogenic, POISON, yet tonic (DAW). (Fig. 51)

Canna edulis Ker. Cannaceae. "Achira", "Canna lily". Cultivated. Ornamental

with edible corms (RVM). Considered diuretic and emollient PAW). (Fig. 52)

Canna indica L. Cannaceae. "Achira". Cultivated ornamental. The rhizome

contains starch, used in soups for children and the sickly. Root decoction diuretic. In
Brazil, leaves are used to clean ulcers, and sterns to treat rheumatism. The roots, with mild
aroma, are used for fever and dropsy. A decoction of the roots and leaves is used to treat
gonorrhea and as a diuretic. "Cuna" cook 4 pieces of stem; after the infusion has cooled,
they drink a cup and bathe in the remaining water to regain energy RVM.

Cannapaniculata R.&P. Cannaceae. "Achira cimarrona". Cultivated ornamental.

Rhizome eaten by humans and pigs (RVM).

Cannabis sativa L. Moraceae. "Marihuana". Cultivated. Narcotic, hallucinogen

(RVM), often a drug of abuse. Useful in glaucoma, multiple sclerosis and the nausea of
chemotherapy (JAD). (Fig. 53)

Caperonia cmtaneifolia (L.) St. Hil. Euphorbiaceae. "Yacu ishanga". Leaves

poulticed onto swellings and tumors (SOU).

Caperonia palustris (L.) St. Hil. Euphorbiaceae. "Yacu ishanga". Same as

previous species.

Capirona decorticans Spruce. Rubiaceae. "Capirona de altura". For firewood and

house construction (RVM). Used for acarosis, psoriasis (RAR).

Capparis sola Macbr. Capparidaceae. "Intuto caspi". An important ingredient in

"Java" "curar6" (SOU).

Capsicum annuum L. Solanaceae. "Pimiento", "Pucunucho", "Sweet pepper".

Cultivated. Natives believe that to become a good blowgun shooter, one must chew and eat
slowly a half dozen fruit before breakfast for 8 days. Studies report that this species is
hallucinogenic, but they don't use it for this purpose. Curanderos use it in a maceration
mixed with aguardiente to give as a purge for dogs to make them good hunting dogs. This
species and C. frutescens are present in this maceration and also Nicotiana tabacum,
Brunfelia grandijlora ssp. schultesii and Brugmansia spp. (RVM). "Jivaro" apply the fruit
directly to toothache (SAR). In Piura, the fruit infusion is considered antipyretic, tonic, and
vasoregulatory; the decoction used as a gargle for sore throat or pharyngitis; the tincture
is applied to bugbites, mange, hemorrhoids, and rheumatism (FEO). (Fig. 54)

Capsicum conicum Mey . Solanaceae. "Carolito",* "Coralito"*. Cultivated.

Considered one of the strongest chillies.
 Fig. 54. Capsicum annuum (MVA)

Fig. 53. Cannabis sativa (CRC)

Fig. 55. Capsicum frutescens (MVA)

Fig. 56. Carapa guianensis (GAV)

 Capsicum frutescens L. Solanaceae. "Pimiento", "Charapilla", "Hot pepper".
Cultivated. Spice, believed to be hallucinogenic. "Crbles" use for throat diseases of pigs.
"Wayiipi" use it in making "curark" (GMJ). Rio Apaporisa natives take the fruits for
flatulence, and use small quantities of powdered fruit when breathing is difficult. Used also
for scorpion stings, toothache, hemorrhoids, fever, flu, rheumatism (RAR).The active hot
ingredient, capsaicin, is used to reduce the pain of cluster headaches, diabetic neuropathy
and herpes zoster (JAD). (Fig. 55)

Caraipa densifolia ssp. densifolia Mart. Clusiaceae. "Brea caspi". Wood used in
house construction, beams, poles, columns, decks, etc. Leaves reportedly aphrodisiac; stem
latex used for herpes, dermatitis, eczema, itch, and impetigo. The product "6leo de
tamakour&", extracted from this plant, is used in various skin diseases, rheumatism,
corneous ulcers, and pediculosis (RVM).

Caraipa grandifolia ssp. grandifolia. Clusiaceae. "Aceite caspi". Wood used in

house construction; beams, decks, and columns. The alcoholic infusion is used to treat
local parasitosis, dermatitis, itches, fungus, and pruritus (RVM). Amazonian Brazilians
apply the sap to herpes, itch and mange (SAR).

Caraipa jaramilloi Vasquez. Clusiaceae. "Aceite caspi". Wood used in house

construction.

Caraipa tereticaulis Tul. Clusiaceae. "Brea caspi", "Aceite caspi blanco". Wood
used for construction.

Caraipa utilis Vasquez. Clusiaceae. "Aceite caspi negro". Wood used in house
construction; decks, beams, posts. This is the main wood used in house construction
around Iquitos.

Caraipa valioi Paula. Clusiaceae. "Aceite caspi". Wood used in house

construction.

Carapa guianensis Aubl. Meliaceae. "Andiroba", "Requia", "Brazilian

mahogany". An excellent wood for carpentry, comparable with the wood from Cedrela
odorata and Swietenia macrophylla. The bitter bark infusion is believed febrifuge and
vermifuge (SAR), also a tonic. Perhaps useful in herpes (RAR). Infusion used to wash
dermatoses and sores (SAR). Seeds yield an oil, with the consistency of lard, used to coat
wood to protect it from insects (SOU). Brazilians sell seed oil as antiinflammatory and
antiarthritic (RVM). Also used in the soap industry. Fruit oil ingested for cough in Brazil
(BDS). The "Wayiipi", the "Palikur", and the "Crbles" use it to remove ticks from their
heads, also for Schongastia guianensis, which gets in the skin. Native Americans trust the
oil as an emollient and antiinflammatory for skin rash (GMJ). (Fig. 56)

Carica microcarpa Jacq. Caricaceae. "Papailla". Fruit edible RVM.

Q Carica papaya L. Caricaceae. "Papaya", "Pawpaw". Cultivated. Green fruit

eaten cooked; ripe, eaten fresh or in juices. A dozen seed are swallowed as a vermifuge.
For constipation, eat half a papaya. Rutter mentions use of papaya for acarosis, enteritis,
and tachycardia (RAR). "Choc6" mix the latex with honey as vermifuge. Leaf infusion
cardiotonic. "Cuna" use cooked roots for indigestion. Tikuna eat grated immature fruit with
2-6 aspirin, inducing abortion in about two days (SAR). In Piura, the leaf tea is considered
 43

g. 57. Cbriniana decandra (GAV)

Fig. 58. Cbrludovica palnrata (GAV)

ryocar glabrum (GAV)

Fig. 60. Caryodaphnopsis fosteri (GAV)

digestive and hypotensive; chopped fruits are used as antiseptic (FEO). Brazilians make
flower tea for heart and liver (BDS). Knowing that meat tenderizer (based on papaya's
papain) had been used for sea nettle stings, JAD applied papaya juice to the rash Don
Segundo induced by flagellating the wrist with stinging nettle. JAD had a reaction.
Chymopapain has been used to dissolve herniated disks, but 1 in 4,000 people exposed to
this treatment die of anaphylactic shock. Recent news has suggested that too much papaya
might induce prostate cancer (JAD).

Cariniana decandra Ducke. Lecythidaceae. "Cachimbo", "Papelillo caspi",

"Tahuari". Good wood for lumber; parquets, and construction in general. Bark
commercialized in Iquitos as substitute for "Tahuari", Tabebuia spp., used to treat many
sickness and diseases, even cancer. Bark used as room divider in rustic houses. (Fig. 57)

Cariniana multijlora Ducke. Lecythidaceae. "Papelillo caspi". The wood is used

for parquets.

Carludovicapalmata R.&P. Cyclanthaceae. "Bombonaje", "Panama hat palm*.

Petioles used in making darts for the blowguns. Buds yield a fiber used to make Panama
hats, fans, baskets, curtains, cartons for cigarettes. "Choc6" occasionally eat the buds
which taste like asparagus. Cooked roots are used to treat sore bruises. Among the "Bora"
and "Witoto", the stump of one species is burned, and the ashes used to coat hallucinogenic
pellets made from Virola bark (SAR). Used for stingray stings (RAR). (Fig. 58)

Carpotroche longifolia Poepp. & Endl. Flacourtiaceae. "Champa huayo",

"Cacahuillo". Seed aril is edible.

9 Caryocar glabrum (Aubl.) Pers. ssp. glabrum. Caryocaraceae. "Almendro

colorado". Wood for lumber; dormers, bridges. Thorny fruit with edible nut. Mesocarp
of green fruit crushed and mixed with water as a fish POISON. Mesocarp and endocarp
contain saponin. "Kubws" and "Tukanos" ingest seed for dysmenorrhea (SAR). Some
"Sionas" bind the inner bark around the arm to improve their hunting aim, only to find
that, after about a half hour, blisters form which leave a scar (SAR). (Fig. 59)

Caryocar microcarpurn Ducke. Caryocaraceae. "Almendro blanco", "Almendro

colorado" . Seed edible. Bark used for mycoses and filaria, sometimes mixed with
Elephantopus scaber and Lagenaria siceraria (GMJ).

Caryodaphnopsisfosteri Van der Werff. Lauraceae. "Achuni moena". Wood for

lumber, used for carpentry, construction in general, and canoes. (Fig. 60)

Caryodaphnopsis inaequalis (A.C.Smith) Van der Werff & Richter. Lauraceae.

"Moena". For cleaned lumber.

Caryodendron orinocense Karst. Euphorbiaceae. "Inchi", "Meto huayo". Raw seed

are mildly laxative. Seeds, edible cooked or roasted, are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids
(up to 72% linoleic), making them useful in preventing atherosclerosis. Crude oil laxative,
used for skin and lung disease. (Fig. 61)

Casearia fasciculata ( R A P . ) Sleum. Flacourtiaceae. "Tamarillo". Fruit edible

(VAG).
 Casearia pitumba Sleumer. Flacourtiaceae. "P&ojlihen. The leaves mixed with
water are used as soothing baths, and to color the hair (DAT).

Casearia praecox Griseb. Flacourtiaceae. "Nea bero". Leaf wads applied to

toothache (VDF).

Casearia sylvestris SW. Flacourtiaceae. "Ucho caspi". Brazil's "Karajii" drink the
bark maceration for diarrhea (RVM).

Cassia alata L. Fabaceae. "Retama", "Ringworm senna".Cultivated. Decoction

used to treat herpes ("ihui"), and infected wounds. The strong decoction is used to kill
chiggers (SOU). Colombian Amazonians use the flower decoction as a purge. Juice from
macerated flowers used to treat pellagra sores (RVM). "WayEpi" use the leaf decoction for
worms and skin diseases (GMJ).

Cassia bacillaris L. Fabaceae. "Mataro chico". Flower infusion used to wash the
swollen muscles caused by trauma. Green fruit crushed and poulticed onto infected
wounds. Tip of the fruit cut and squeezed onto small wounds (RVM).

Cassia bicapsularis L. Fabaceae. "Alcapaquilla", "Alcaparillo". Cubans use the

leaves as a purge, that may causes stomachache. Branches are used in making baskets
(SOU).

Cassia latifolia (G.F.W.Meyer) Irwin & Barneby. Fabaceae. "Mataro huasca".

Same as C. bacillaris.

Cassia loretensis Killip & Macbr. Fabaceae. "Mataro grande". Same uses as C.
bacillaris.

Cassia macrophylla Kunth. Fabaceae. "Mataro grande". Same as C. bacillaris.

"Kofin" use for earache and headache (SAR).

Cassia occidentalis L. Fabaceae. "Achupa poroto" , "Hedionda", "Retama",

"Ayaporoto", "Coffee senna". Roots are diuretic; root decoction a refreshing drink for
fever (SOU). Seeds made into a coffee-like beverage for asthmatics; flower infusion for
bronchitis considered abortive, anithepatitic, purgative (RAR).

Cassia quinquangulata (Rich.) Barneby. Fabaceae. "Mataro chico". Same as the

C. bacillaris. Crushed leaves steeped in cold water to make a refreshing bath (MJP). Roots
contain quinquangulin and rubrofusarin, which may have activity against leukemia, in vitro
(JBH).

Cassia reticulata Willd. Fabaceae. "Retama". Sometimes planted as an

ornamental. Flower infusion used for liver diseases, acid indigestion, upset stomach and
kidney inflammation. Leaves and flowers contain antibiotics such as rhein (cassic acid),
which is antibacterial against gram-positive and acid-resistant bacteria. The antibiotics
reduce swellings of hepatic and renal sickness. Also used to treat venereal and skin diseases
(LAE, RVM). Leaves used in baths for gastritis and ulcers (VDF). Used around
Explorama for ringworm (JAD). "Boras" burn the leaves to repel sandfly Lutzomyia sp.
"Manta blanca", vector of leishrnaniasis. Used as a purge by the "Choc6". The Piria
"Cuna" in the town of Piria (Panama) use it for stomachaches. Infusion of leaves and
Fig. 61. Caryodendron orinocense (GAV)
flowers used by the "Waunana" for stomachaches (RVM). "Witotos" use the roots in a
febrifugal tea (SAR). "Tukanos" use leaves as insect repellents in clothes and hammocks
(SAR). "Achuanos" value for fungal infections (SAR). Sometimes used for cardiac edema
(NIC).

Cassia ruiziana (Vog.) Irwin & Barneby. Fabaceae. "Mataro". Similar to C.

bacillaris. "Kofhs" use bark branches for earache and headache (SAR).

Cassia tora L. Fabaceae. "Aya poroto", "Dormidera", "Sicklepod". Mashed

leaves applied to itch (BDS). The antitick folklore is exaggerated, "Mash up leaves,
remove juice.. . Give it to any animal and the ticks will jump off. " (BDS).

Castilla ulei Warb. Moraceae. "Caucho". Fruit edible (VAG). Latex yields a gum
used in the plastic industries. Vaupes Indians apply the latex to wounds, as a protective
coating (SAR). (Fig. 62)

Casuarinaequisetifolia L. Casuarinaceae. " Casuarina". Cultivatedornamental tree.

Catharanthus roseus L. Apocynaceae. "Isabelita". Cultivated. Valued in flower

gardens, it contains TOXIC compounds. The roots and leaves are used as vermifuges and
hemostatics (RVM). Widely used as a dangerous folk remedy for diabetes. Famous as an
antileukemic, with vinblastine and vincristine, now used more than 30 years in treating
leukemias and other types of cancer (JAD).

Catoblastusdrudei Cook & Doyle. Arecaceae. "Ponilla", "Ta6taco". "Boras" use

stems to smoke fish and to trap them using fish poisons (RVM).

Cattleya spp. Orchidaceae. "Orquidia". Orchids of this genus and Laelia are the
most valued ornamental orchids, followed by others such as: Odontoglossum, Miltonia,
Qmbidium, Oncidium, Epidendrum, and Maxillaria; other genera from the Old World as
Vanda, Phaleonopsis, and Dendrobium, are rarely cultivated.

Cavanillesiaurnbellata. Bombacaceae. "Lupunabruja", "Pucalupuna", "Pretino",

" k b o l del tambor". Seeds edible. Seed oil used for medicine and cooking (SOU). Some
natives believe witches use it to do harm, spreading clothing of a victim around the tree.

Cecropia distachya Huber. Cecropiaceae. "Cetico". For paper pulp.

Cecropiaficifolia Warb. Cecropiaceae. "Cetico". For paper pulp.

Cecropia membranacea Trecul. Cecropiaceae. "Cetico". "Shiari". Bark is used

in building boats and canoes; the internodes are used in handicrafts, and to make blowguns
(RVM).

Cecropia sciadophylla Mart. Cecropiaceae. "Cetico", "Punnacetico". Stems used

in rafts to transport heavy wood; also used for paper pulp, and matchsticks. Roots provide
drinking water. "Boras" use ashes from burned leaves to flavor coca and/or make it strong.
From pounded bark is made canvas for painting regional scenes (RVM). "Tirio" drip the
sap from crushed plants into sore eyes. Also used for bleeding gums and heart problems
(MJP).
 Cedrela angustifolia Sesse & M q . ex A.DC. Meliaceae. "Cedro blanco", "White
cedar", "Cedro", "Cedar". Wood for lumber, decorative plaques.

Cedrela flssilis Vell. Meliaceae. "Cedro blanw", "White cedar". Wood for
lumber, decorative plaques (RVM). Used as abortifacient and urinary astringent (RAR).

Cedrela odorata L. Meliaceae. "Cedro rojo", "Cedro", "Spanish Cedar".One

of the finest woods used in the Amazon; also used to make ornamental plaques. The
astringent bark infusion is used for diarrhea and urinary problems (RVM). Leaves and bark
steeped in bath water for body aches and colds (BDS). Also used for gangrene and orchitis
(RAR).(Fig. 63)
Cedrelinga cataneifomis (Ducke) Ducke. Fabaceae. "Tornillo", "Huayra caspi" ,
"Cedro masha". Wood for lumber; used in carpentry, construction in general. Grows on
poorer soils than Cedrela, not requiring much care (ALG). (Fig. 64)

Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn. Bombacaceae. "Ceiba", "Kapok", "Lupuna",

"Lupuna blanca". Wood mainly used for plywood exports. Because it grows along the
rivers with easy access, it has been overexploited to the point that it is disappearing. In the
old days, trees served as guideposts for river navigators. "Wayfipi" associate this tree with
jungle spirits. Bark decoction used in baths for fever (GMJ). Branch decoction diuretic and
emetic (FEO). The cotton is used with blowguns (JAD).

Ceiba s m u m a (Mart.) K.Schum. Bombacaceae. "Ceiba", "Huimba", "Kapok".

Used to make buoys to transport heavy wood, and also to make rafts. Cotton used by
natives on darts (RVM).

Celosia argentea var. cristata (L.) Kuntze. Amaranthaceae. "Gallo cresta",

"Cock's comb". Cultivated ornamental.
Celtis iguanea (Jacq.) Sarg. Ulrnaceae. "Meloncito blanco", "Palo Blanco",
"Hackberry".Fruit edible; also ground and cooked for dysentery (SOU). "Wayfipi" use
it in making "curard" (GMJ).

Centropogon cornutus (L.) Druce. Campanulaceae. "Gallo-cresta-rango". Leaves

and fruits boiled and eaten (RAF).

Cephaelis ipecacuanha (Brot.) A.Rich. Rubiaceae. "Ipecac" Colombians chew the

root as an insect repellent and amebicide. Crude extracts still find their way into millions
or prescriptions a year in the US. Found in many US medicine chests to cause vomiting
in children who have swallowed poison. Poison control centers should be consulted,
though, as vomitting is counterindicatedwith some poisons. Emetine has elsewhere proved
out against ameba, bilharzia, cancer, and guinea worms (JAD).

Ceratopterispterioides (Hook.) Hieron. Parkeriaceae. "Lechuga de agua" , "Water

lettuce". Used as an ornamental, planted in ponds.

Cespedesia spathulata (R.&P.) Planch. Ochnaceae. "Afasi caspi " , "Caballo

shupa". "Witotos" and "Boras" use leaves to line baskets, and plug roof leaks. The bare
trunk used in construction; bark used to make different objects for ritual purposes. They
Fig. 67. Chewpodium ambrosioides (CRC)
Fig. 69. Chondrodendron tomentosum (GAV)
make a big pot for the cahuana (a gelatinous starch drink) and a funnel used to filter
vegetal salts (RVM). (Fig. 65)

Cestrum auriculatum L'Herit. Solanaceae. "Hierba santa". Leaf decoction applied

externally for headache and hemorrhoids, the infusion taken internally for fever and
rhuematism (FEO).

Cestrum hediondinum Dun. Solanaceae. "Hierba santa", "Holy weed", "Hierba

de la Virgen", "Virgin's weed". Cultivated. Sometimes as an ornamental, and also used
in magic-rituals for cures and protection against bad luck. Mainly used in baths, but also
rubbed on affected areas. For dandruff, colds, gastralgia, sarampion (RAR).

Cestrum megalophyllum Dun. Solanaceae. "Mitiraey", "Nibi saya", "Yanagara

negra". Around Pucallpa, used for headache and toothache (VDF).

Chelyocatpus ulei Dammer. Arecaceae. "Sacha bombanaje", "Ushpa aguaje".

Leaves used for roofing and umbrellas (RVM). (Fig. 66)

Q Chenopodium ambrosioides L. Amaranthaceae. "Cashua", "Paico", "Wormseed".

Cultivated. Used as an anthelmintic, mainly for Ascaris and Oxyurus (effective ingredient
ascaridole). Plant infusions used for stomachache, cholera and tumors. Around Pucallpa,
the maceration is applied topically for arthritis (VDF). "Crwles" use it as a vermifuge for
children, cold medicine for adults. "Waylipinuse decoction for upset stomach; internal
hemorrages caused by falls. Tonic used to treat fever, flu, laryngitis, infant dermatosis.
"Tikunas" consider the leaf decoction purgative and vermifuge (SAR). Root and leaf
decoction, taken each month during menstruation, believed contraceptive (SAR). A cupful
is believed to induce labor (SAR). In Piura, the leaf decoction is believed carminative,
decongestant, depurative, insecticidal, and vermifuge; used for cramps, gout, hemorrhoids,
and hysteria (FEO). With the resurgence of tuberculosis, try beating the leaf juice with the
yolk of an egg. "Good for the lungs in general and cures tuberculosis" (BDS). (Fig. 67)

ChimarrhisglabrifloraDucke. Rubiaceae. "Pablomanchana" ,"Pamparemocaspi",

"Yerno prueba". Wood is used for rural construction, firewood, and living fences (RVM).

Chimarrhis williamsii Standl. Rubiaceae. "Pablo manchana", "Yerno prueba",

"Palo perro". Like the preceding.

Chlorocardium venenosum (Koster. & Pink) Rohw., Richt. & v.d.Werff.

Lauraceae. "Moena". Timber used in boats. Used in some curarc! recipes, contains
rodiasine and dimethylrodiasine (RVM). (Fig. 68)

Chondrodendrontomentosum R.&P. Menispermaceae. "Ampihuasca", "Curark".

Some natives, crush and cook the roots and stems, adding other plants and venomous
animals, mixing until it becomes a light syrup; they call this decoction "ampi", or "curarc!",
which they use on the tip of their arrows and darts. The active ingredient in "curar6" is D-
tubocurarine, actually used in medicine. Brazilians consider the root diuretic,
emmenagogue, and febrifuge (SAR), using it internally for madness and dropsy, externally
for bruises. Used for edema, fever, kidney stones, and orchitis (RAR). (Fig. 69)

Chorisia insignis HBK. Bombacaceae. "Lupuna". Wood used for plywood.

 Chrysophyllum argenteum Jacq. ssp. ferrugineum (Ruiz & Pavon) Penn.
Sapotaceae. "Masaranduvilla". Fruits edible.

Chrysophyllum bombycinum Penn. Sapotaceae. "Balatillo", "Caimitillo-hoja

grande". Fruits edible.

Chrysophyllum caimito L. Sapotaceae. " Caimito". Cultivated. Fruits edible.

"Crhles" prepare a hypoglycemic decoction (GMJ). "Tikunas" spread the latex on infected
gums; others use for abscesses and sores (RAR); "Yukunas" use it for fungal crotch
infections (SAR). (Fig. 70)

Chrysophyllum nanaosense Penn. Sapotaceae. "Quinilla". Fruit edible (VAG).

Chrysophyllum peruvianum Pennington. Sapotaceae. "Caimitillo". Wood for

construction. Edible fruit.

Chrysophyllum prieurii A.DC. Sapotaceae. "Quinilla colorada". Parquets, posts,

forked poles, and handicrafts.

Chrysophyllum sanguinolentum (Pierre) Baehni. Sapotaceae. "Balata Sapotina".

For house construction; from the latex they extract gum "balata". Latex used in coating
wounds (SAR).

Chrysophyllum ulei Krause. Sapotaceae. "Sacha caimito". For house construction.

Chrysophyllum venezuelanense (Pierre) Pennington. Sapotaceae. "Caimitillo",

"Magaranduva". For house construction. Edible fruit.

Cinnamomum maynense (Nees) Koster. Lauraceae. "Moena". Wood for timber.

Cissampelos andromorphe DC. Menispermaceae. "Reshno toscan". Around

Pucallpa, leaf macerations used to wash the head for fever and headache (VDF).

CissampelospareiraL. Menispermaceae. "Imchich masha", "Barbasco". "Palikur"

use the leaf poultice as an analgesic (GMJ). Seeds used for snakebite; diuretic, expectorant,
febrifuge, piscicide, POISON, for venereal disease (RAR). Contains tetrandrine, which is
analgesic, antiinflammatory, and febrifuge.

Cissus erosa L. Vitaceae. "Navama". Leaf decoction used in washes for arthritis
(VDF).

Cissus sicyoides L. Vitaceae. "Ampato huasca", "Paja de culebra" , "Sapo huasca",

"Yedra", "Toad vine". Leaf decoction used around Pucallpa for rheumatic pains (VEF).
Leaves used as hypotensive. One of the four species most used as a pain reliever, and for
sickness similar to epilepsy; pharmacologically, by inducing convulsions, it was found that
the aqueous extract, after removing the fat, is most effective (RVM). Nicole Maxwell
describes poulticing crushed leaves on a sprained ankle (NIC). On the Papajos, the leaf tea
is boiled for anemia (BDS). For flu and hemorrhoids (RAR).
 Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsumara and Nakai. Cucurbitaceae. "Sandia". Fruit
edible. Seeds parched and eaten or used to make coffee. Seeds a good source of
phenylalanine, an antisickling agent (DAD).

9 Citrus aurantiifolia (Christm.) Swingle. Rutaceae. "Naranja agria", "Lie".

Cultivated. Juice mixed with crushed Neurolaena and Petiveria for measles. Root decoction
taken a cup-a-day during the menses, said to act as a contraceptive. (Recently, Explorama
guides said the juice of one lime, taken by both partners just before intercourse, will
prevent conception.) Juice taken by the "Tikuna" with one aspirin for fever, with three
aspirin for abortifacient (SAR). Peels used as antidandruff, antispasmodic, decongestant,
and sedative. Tonic flowers used for cramps and enteritis (FEO). Various citrus species
are high in limonene, ascorbic acid, and beta-carotene, all noted to prevent cancer (JAD).

Citrus limon (L.) Bum. Rutaceae. "Lim6nW,"Lemon", "Lim6n aicido", "Acid

lemon". Cultivated. Fruit edible. Leaf infusion digestive.

Citrus medica L. Rutaceae. "Lim6n cidra". Cultivated. Fruit edible.

Citrus paradisi Macfadyn. Rutaceae. "Toronja", "Grapefruit", "Pomelo".

Cultivated. Fruit edible.

Citrus peruvianus R.&P. Rutaceae. "Lim6n sutil". Cultivated. Fruit edible.

Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck. Rutaceae. "Naranja", "Orange", "Naranja dulce" .

Cultivated. Fruit edible.

Clarisia bijlora R A P . Moraceae. "Capinuri de altura". Wood used for dormers.

Clarisia racemosa R.&P. Moraceae. "Mashonaste", "Tulpay","Guariuba". Wood

for lumber; dormers, jam posts for bridges, and occasionally as keel plates for boats. The
"Campas" use it as a blind when hunting (RVM). (Fig. 71)

Clavijajekkii Szyszl. Thwphrastaceae. "Lucma sacha". Planted as an ornamental.

Cleome spinosa L. Capparidaceae. "Tuaruubia". Plant used to treat stomach

problems (RVM). Elsewhere regarded as a fish POISON and insect and tick repellent, and
used for earache (DAW).

Clerodendron thompsonae Balf. Verbenaceae. "Brinco de dama", "Coraz6n

sangriento". Cultivated ornamental (RVM). Febrifuge, tonic (RAR).

Clibadium asperum (Aubl.) DC. Asteraceae. "Huaco", "Barbasco". "Secoyas"

mixed crushed leaves with crushed fruits of Bactris as POISONOUS fishbait (SAR).

Clibadium surinamense L. Asteraceae. "Waca", "Barbasco". Cultivated. Crushed

leaves mixed with water are thrown in ponds to stupefy fish; not TOXIC for humans and
domestic animals, it makes fish d i q , enabling fishermen to catch them (RVM).

Clibadium sylvestre (Aubl.) Baillon. Asteraceae. "Wacamasha". Cultivated.

"Kubeos" and "Tikunas" use as piscicide (SAR).
Q Clidemiahirta (L.) D.Don. Melastomataceae. "Mullaca", "Mullacamorada". Fruit
edible. Used by "CrBoles" as a cicatrizant. Leaf decoction used for dysentery and cramps.
Leaf maceration used as antiseptic for vaginal hemorrhages. "Palikur" take one spoonful
decoction a day for menstrual hemorrhages (GMJ).

Clitoria arborea Hoff. ex Benth. var. arborea. Fabaceae. "Maria buena",

"Butterflypea". Semicultivated ornamental plant.

Clusia rosea Jacq. Clusiaceae. "Matapalo", "Cam6", "Renaquilla", "Starfruit".

Bark decoction used for injuries and rheumatism. Leaves once used as message paper, due
to paper scarcity (RVM).

Coccoloba barbeyana Lind. Polygonaceae. "Vino huayo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Coccoloba marginata Benth. Polygonaceae. "Vino huayo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Cochlospemum orinocense (HBK) Steud. Cochlospermaceae. "Sacha punga",

"Shamburin.Wood used in handicraft. Bark provides fiber to make rope. Sometimes used
as an ornamental. "Tikunas" use bark tea for fever (SAR). Used for bruises, and as a
cicatrizant (RAR).

9 Cocos nucifea L. Arecaceae. "Coco", "Coconut". Cultivated. Edible seeds.

Leaves used for floral arrangements, and to decorate carriages during festivals. "Tikunas"
use the leaf sheath to prevent miscarriage. Antiasthmatic, antigonorrheic, antiuteritic,
diuretic, lactagogue (RAR). Mice fed on coconut milk had fewer mammary tumors than
controls (SAR).

Codonanthe crassifolia (Focke) Morton. Gesneriaceae. "Shanen bana". Around

Pucallpa, leaf decoction used internally or in washes for headache (VDF).

Codonanthe uleana Fritson. Gesneriaceae. "Picsho". The leaf infusion in water

or aguardiente is used to treat swellings. "Tikunas" poultice the leaves on indolent sores
and wounds (SAR). Venezuela's "Waika" value the root for wounds (SAR).

9 Coffea arabica L. Rubiaceae. "Cafe?", "Coffee", "Cafeto". Cultivated in small

areas, mostly used locally. Brazilians mash leaves and beans to make a medicinal coffee
to speed up labor (BDS). Used as antitussive in flu and lung ailments (RAR).

Cok lacryma-jobi L. var. mayuen (Romanet) Stapf. Poaceae. "Ugrima de Job",

"Job's tear", "Ugrima de la virgen", "Virgin's tear", ""Trigo", "Wheat", "Mullo
huayo". Cultivated. The first and second harvest is used to obtain all-purpose flour. After
hardening, used for handicraft, e.g. in necklaces, curtains, bracelets, etc. In popular
medicine, used for swellings, immunology, and as diuretic and antipyretic, taken orally,
but studies indicate the activity may be nullified in the digestive tract (RVM). "Ketchwa"
apply a cud of chewed leaves to toothache (SAR). (Fig. 72)

Coleus blumei Benth. Lamiaceae. "Entrada a1 baile", "Simorilla". Cultivated

ornamental. Chopped leaves applied to inflammation (FEO). Closely related "Cimora oso"
rubbed onto rheumatism.
 Fig. 71. Clarisia racemosa (GAV)

n
Fig. 70. Chrysophyllum caimito (IIC)

Fig. 73. Colocasia escuknta (IIC)

Fig. 74. Copaifem reticulata (GAV)

 Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott. Araceae. "Pituca", "Papa china". Cultivated.
Roots eaten as a substitute for cassava and potato. The leaves are rinsed in boiling water
and eaten as a vegetable. (Fig. 73)

Commelina erecta L. Commelinaceae. "Laucetillablanca". Cultivated ornamental.

Copaifeapaupera (Herzog) Dwyer. Fabaceae. "Copaiba".Wood used for lumber;

parquets, construction, and to make decorative plaques. Oil used as liniment.

Copagera reticulata Ducke. Fabaceae. "Copaiba", "Copal". On Rio Solimoes,

resin used as a cicatrizant, for gonorrhea, psoriasis, and sores (SAR); in Piura used for
catarrh, syphilis, and urinary incontinence (FEO). Plotkin (1993) notes that the resin
(copal) is used to coat tubules exposed by the dentist drill. Once employed in the US as
disinfectant, diuretic, laxative, and stimulant, as well as in cosmetics and soaps (MJP).
(Fig. 74)

Corchorus silicosus L. Tiliaceae. "Nobe rao". Leaves used as antiinflammatory

around Pucallpa (VDF).

Cordia alliodora (R.&P.) Cham. Boraginaceae. "Aiiallo caspi", "Laurel", "Ajos

quiro", "Clammy cherry". The sawn wood is used for interior decorations.

Cordia bifurcata R. & P. Boraginaceae. "Mulla quillo". Around Pucallpa, used

topically as antiecchymotic antiinflammatory (VDF).

Cordia nodosa Lam. Boraginaceae. "Aiiallo caspi". Edible fruit. Leaves poulticed
on snakebite. "Wayiipi" use bark decoction for lung ailments and chest colds (GMJ).
Vaupes natives use leaf paste to kill bot flies (SAR).

Cordyline terminalis (L.) Kunth. Liliaceae. "Barbusho", "Good-luckplant", "Ti

palm". Cultivated ornamental.

Coriandrum sativum L. Apiaceae. "Culantro del pais", "Coriander".Cultivated

herb. Chopped leaves inhaled for nosebleed, applied to the forehead for soroche (FEO).

Costus arnazonicus (Loes.) McBr. ssp. krukovii Maas. Costaceae. "Iwajyu". The
stalk provides drinking water (DAT).

0 Costus arabicus L. Costaceae. "Caiiagre", "Bitter cane". Almost all Costus and
Dimerocostus are used to reduce internal fever, cough, bronchitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis,
and tonsilitis; also used in gargles for mouth sores. "Crhles" use decoction of stems or
bulbs for leucorrhea. Stem infusion also used for blennorrhea. Stem juice mixed with
honey for cough, colds, and whooping cough (GMJ).

Costus cylindricus Jacq. Costaceae. "Bocon taco", "Caiia agria". Used for
inflammations, e.g. gastritis and vaginitis, around Pucallpa VDF.

Costus erythrocoryne K.Schum. Costaceae. "Caiiagre". Used like Costus arabicus.

(Fig. 75)
 Costus guanaiensis Rusby var. guanaiensis. Costaceae. "Caiia agria" "Caiiagre" .
Used to reduce internal fever, cough, bronchitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, stomatitis and
tonsilitis; "Cuna" use the leaf decoction for stomachache (RVM). Maxwell chewed the cane
when she had a cough (NIC).

Costus lasius Loes. Costaceae. "Caiiagre". Leaves considered hemostatic by the

"Wayi5piU,especially for arrow wounds (GMJ).

Costus longibracteolatus Maas. Costaceae. "Iwajyu". "Boras" use for cough and
fever (DAT).

0 Costus scaber R.& P. Costaceae. "Caiiagre". Natives use for liver diseases
(SOU). "Cuna" use the root decoction for stomachaches and snakebite. The "Waunana"
drink the juice from the decoction of the leaves and flowers to get rid of intestinal worms.
"WaySipi" use the flower decoction in douches for vaginal infections. "Crwles" use it like
C. arabicus (GMJ). (Fig. 76)

Couepia chrysocalyx (Poepp. & Endl.) Benth. ex Hook. Chrysobalanaceae.

"Parinari", "Supay ocote". Fruit edible. Wood used for construction.

Couepia dolichopoda Prance. Chrysobalanaceae. "Parinari", "Hamaca huayo".

Edible Fruits.

Couepia obovata Ducke. Chrysobalanaceae. "Parinari". Wood for construction and

charcoal. Ashes used in pottery making (SAR).

Couepia paraensis (Mart. & Zucc.) Benth. ssp. glaucescens (Spr. ex Hook.)
Prance. Chrysobalanaceae. "Parinari". For dormers and posts.

Couepia parillo A.DC. Chrysobalanaceae. "Parinari". For beams and decks.

Couepia subcordata Benth. ex Hook. Chrysobalanaceae. "Parinari", "Supay

ocote". Cultivated ornamental. Fruits edible.

Couma macrocarpa Barb. Apocynaceae. "Aso" "Capirona", "Fransoca", "Leche

caspi", "Leche huayo", "Milk tree". Fruit edible. As "balata" and "leche caspi", thousands
were "milked" to extract latex used in making gum. Latex potable, used for diarrhea
caused by ameba; also used for skin irritations and asthma (RVM). Vaupes Indians
occasionally treat the newborn umbilicus with latex. Amazonian Colombians take latex as
purgative (SAR). "Witoto" sometimes use leaves as a coca substitute (SAR). Pucallpa
natives use powdered bark as antiseptic, resolvent and wlnerary (VDF). There are
possibilities for this tree as an ornamental (RVM). (Fig. 77)

Couratari macrosperma A.C. Smith. Lecythidaceae. "Papelillo", "Machimango

cachimbo". Lumber for heavy construction, fiber used to make rope (RAR).

Couratari oligantha A.C. Smith. Lecythidaceae. "Machimango blanco", "Zorro

caspi". For house construction; the fiber from the bark is used occasionally.
 Couroupita guianensis Aubl. var. surinamensis (Mart.) Eyma. Lecythidaceae.
"Ayahuma". For lumber, wood used for interior decorations, and rustic furniture. Fruit
used to feed chickens. Fruit juice used to exorcise witchcraft. Natives along the Rio Tigre
use leaf buds to relieve toothaches, by filling the cavities with the tip of the bud (RVM).
"Pir6 use to treat serious dennatoses, bacterial, fungoid or viral (NIC). Considered
contraceptive; used for acarosis, dysmenorrhea, gastralgia, rheumatism (RAR).

Couroupitasubsessilis Pilger. Lecythidaceae. "Ayahuma". The clean wood is used

for interior decorations. (Fig. 78)

Crataeva tapia L. Capparidaceae. "Tamara blanca", "Cahuara micuna", "Tapia".

Ripe fruits edible, here used as fishbait (RVM). Pucallpa natives apply the bark topically
for toothache and arthritis (VDF). "Witotos" use the leaf tea as a stomachic (SAR).
Amazonian Brazilians apply the sap to rheumatic pain (SAR) and use the plant as a tonic.

.
Crepidospermum prancei Daily. Burseraceae. "Copal blanco" Arilb edible
(VAG).

Crescentia amazonica Ducke. Bignoniaceae. "Huingo sacha", "Wild calabash".

Ripe fruits used to make maracas and other handicrafts.

9 Crescentia cujete L. Bignoniaceae. "Calabash", "Huingo", "Tutumo", "Pate".

Cultivated ornamental used in making containers. Green fruits juice used for bronchial
asthma. Shells of ripe fruits used as containers, and to carve Amazon scenes, sold as
regional handicraft; also used in making maracas. Wood used to make ribs for the building
of barges, and also to make drums. The branches are known as "huingo-ram", used to
whip children when they misbehave. "Chami" eat the fruit, when green, they use it for
diarrhea. "Crhles" use leaf decoction to stimulate bile secretions, and as a purgative. Juice
of the young fruit used for diarrhea, and other intestinal problems. Decoction of the ripe
fruit is used in the preparation of an abortive tea (GMJ). Leaves chewed for toothache
(SAR). Plant also used for alopecia, douches, hernia, and sprains (RAR). (Fig. 79)

Crotalaria retusa L. Fabaceae. "Frejol del tunchi " , "Witches bean". "Crwles use
leaf and flower decoction to prepare a cold remedy. "Way?ipiWeat the fresh seeds as an
analgesic when bitten by scorpions (GMJ).

Croton cajucara Benth. in Hook. Euphorbiaceae. Bark tea used in Amazonia for
diabetes, diarrhea, and inflamed liver. Methanol extracts reduce growth of Pectinophora
gossypiella. Antigrowth activity of the new norditerpene, cisdehydrocrotonin, proved
similar to that of trans-dehydrocrotoninagainst P. gossypiella and Heiothis virescens. With
rat hepatocytes, the methanol extract showed hepatotoxicity rather than hepatoprotective
activity. Thus it might be counterindicated in hepatitis. (PC30{8):2545-2546. 1991)

Q Croton lechleri Muel1.-Arg. Euphorbiaceae. "Sangre de dragon, "Sangre de

grado", "Dragon's blood". The latex is used to heal wounds, and for vaginal baths before
childbirth. It is also recommended for intestinal and stomach ulcers (RVM). It yields the
hemostatic sap that accelerates wound healing (NIC). For leucorrhea, fractures, and piles
(RAR). (Fig. 80)

Croton palanostigma Klotzsch. Euphorbiaceae. "Pashna huachana", "Seiiora

Vara", "Sangre de drago", "Shambo quiro", "Topilla", "False balsa". Wood used for
Fig. 82. Cucurbita maxima (MVA)

Fig. 83. Curarea toxicofera (GAV)

house construction, beams, and decks (RVM). Country folk around Manaus apply the sap
as an anodyne to boils and sores (SAR). Chopped leaves used as decongestant in snakebite
(FEO). Latex contains taspine, an antiviral antiinflammatory (FNF).

Croton trinitatis Millsp. Euphorbiaceae. "Sacha pichana", " Sinchi pichana".

"Borasn use to remove phlegm from their throats (DAT). "Tikunas" rub leaves onto
bleeding gums (SAR). Leticia natives take a shot of leaf tea every hour for flu (SAR).

Cucumis anguria L. Cucurbitaceae. "Mashishe", "Gherkin".Cultivated. Edible

fruits.

Cucumis melo L. Cucurbitaceae. "Melon","Cantaloupe".Fruit edible.

Cucumis sativus L. Cucurbitaceae. "Pepino", "Cucumber".Cultivated for edible

fruits. Mainly used as an antiinflammatory, applying slices of fruit on swollen areas; also
around the eyes. (Fig. 81)

Cucurbita maxima Duch. Cucurbitaceae. " Zapallo", "Calabaw" , "Pumpkin".

Cultivated. Edible fruit. Elsewhere the seeds are recommended for prostate troubles (JAD).
(Fig. 82)

Cucurbita pep0 L. Cucurbitaceae. "Zapallo", "zapayo", "Squash". Cultivated for

edible fruit. Brazilians believe the latex from the fruit husk will remove scars (BDS).

Curarea tecunarum Barneby & Krukoff. Menispermaceae. "Sacha ampihuasca",

"Wildcurar6". Sometimes used in preparation of "curark". Used as a male contraceptive.
Tests in rats show a decrease in testosterone levels (RVM). Ecuadorean "Waoranis" use
it for dermatoses and fungal infections.

Curarea toxicofera (Wedell) Barneby & Krukoff. Menispermaceae. "Sacha

ampihuasca". Used in making "curart?"; contains curine, curarine, isochondodendrine, and
toxicopherine (AYA). "Waunana" use the leaves for casting spells on pwple (RVM).
"Tikunas" treat itch and wounds with the bark infusion (SAR). (Fig. 83)

Curcuma longa L. Zingiberaceae. "Guisador", "Azafran", "Palillo", "Turmeric".

Cultivated. Rhizome frequently used as spice. Used for hepatitis. Rhiwmes are crushed
fresh and mixed with water. This juice is taken one spoon for children and 1 to 2 for
adults, once a day for 10 to 15 consecutive days for hepatitis. Some pwple bathe in this
extract. "Cr&lesn use it to treat injuries. Crushed rhizome, mixed with the leaves of
Siparuna guianensis and of Justicia pectoralis, salt and rum, is poulticed on bruises on
their backs. (Decoction of the three plants, taken 3 times a day, adding to this 3 drops of
arnica tincture, and some sugar) (GMJ). The root contains at least 3 antiinflammatory
compounds, cucurmin, feruloyl, 4-hydroxy-cinnamoyl methane, and bis-14-hydroxy-
cinnamoyl methane, dose dependent up to 30 mgtkg (Indian J. Mod. Res. 75574. 1982).
(Fig. 84)

Cyathea sp. Cyatheaceae. "Shapunga", "Helecho arborescente". Trunk used as a

substrate for epiphytic orchids. Exudates are used for healing small cuts.

Cybistax quinquefolia (Vall.) MacBr. Bignoniaceae. "Achichua achihua". Diuretic

branch decoction used for syphilis in Piura (FEO).
 Cycas circinalis L. Cycadaceae. "Palma brashica", "Pelo ponte" . Cultivated
ornamental.

Cyclanthera pedata (L.) Schrad. Cucurbitaceae. "Caigua". Cultivated. Fruit

edible. It has various medicinal usages. The tea of the seeds is well known for controlling
high blood pressure (RVM). De F w suggests that the decoction of the epicarps is also
antidiabetic (FEO). (Fig. 85)

Cyclanthus bipartitus Poit. Cyclanthaceae. "Calzbn panga". "Boras" use burned

leaves mixed with other plants to produce salt. They also use the leaves to wrap fish
(DAT). The "Cuna" use the cooked roots to treat severe stomachaches (RVM). Rio Pastaza
natives grate the inner stem for snakebite (SAR). Peruvian "Boras" and Ecuadorian
"Ketchwas" use the juice for ant stings (SAR). Vermifuge (SAR).

Cyclopeltis semicordata (Sw.) J.Sm. Aspleniaceae. "Shapumba". "Cuna" use

cooked fronds and buds for liver disease and stomachache (RVM).

0 Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf. Poaceae. "Yerba Luisa", "Maria Luisa",

"Lemongrass".Cultivated. Leaves yield "citronela" essence used in making carbonated
drinks. Used as a digestive for acid indigestion and upset stomach. Natives from Risaralda
use the leaves and roots for intestinal irritations, and the juice extracted from the roots to
stabilize menstrual irregularities. Leaves are used by "Crhles", "Wayzpi", and "Palikur"
to reduce fever (GMJ). "Sionas" use the tea for stomachache, "Tikunas" for fever, flu and
headache (SAR). In Piura, the decoction considered contraceptive (FEO).

Cynometra spruceana Benth. Fabaceae. "Anicar-huaillo" , "pate-vaca".Wood used

for house construction and dormers. (Fig. 86)

Cyperus articulatus L. Cyperaceae. "Piripiri de vibora". Cultivated. For snakebite,

they chew the pulp, swallow the juice and poultice the cud onto the bite after it has bled.
It is also considered abortive. Native Americans poke crushed stems in their nose to
alleviate snoring (GMJ). "Secoyas" mixed ground rhizome with water for fever, flu and
fright (SAR). In Piura, the chopped shoots are considered hemostatic and vulnerary (FEO).

Cyperus d ~ m u sVahl. Cyperaceae. "Piripiri". The inflorescence stalk is

sometimes used as a paintbrush. The whole plant is used by the "Wayiipi". The roots
mixed with other plants are used in baths to reduce fever (GMJ). Tapojos natives used the
root for headache (BDS).

9 Cyperus luzulae L. Cyperaceae. "Piripiri". "Chami" mash the plant in cold water,
and take for diarrhea and stomachaches (RVM). "Tikunas" used crushed fruits to induce
labor (SAR).

0 Cyperus prolixus H.B.K. Cyperaceae. "Piripiri". Cultivated by the Achuar of

Loreto. Males tell you that the rhizomes are scraped and, sometimes mixed with water,
used as an oxytocic to speed up parturition. Females say that the topi (actually fungal
celrotia) were used.

Cyperus sp. Cyperaceae. "Tobi uaste". Rhizome poulticed onto rheumatic pain
(VDF).
 Cyphomandra hartwegii Dunal. Solanaceae. "Asna panga", "Gallinazo panga",
"Tree tomato". Fruits edible. "Wayiipi" use the decoction for baby baths to protect the
infant against progressive weakness, caused by baby having direct contact with father right
after birth (the father had killed a wild animal, violating a taboo) (GMJ).

Cyphomandra obliqua Dunal. Solanaceae. " Cupa sacha", "Poshno rao" Around.
Pucallpa, used as an ecchymotic resolvent. Also used in febrifugal baths (VDF).

Fig. 86. Cynometra spmceana (GAV)

 /
Fig. 88. Desmoncus leptospadin (GAV)

Fig. 91. Diclimnom ressmannii (GAV)

 Dacryodes peruviana (Loes.) Lam. Burseraceae. "Copal". The latex is mixed with
other "copals" to caulk boats.

Dalbergia rnonetaria L. f. Fabaceae. " Cushqui-huasca". The "Palikur" use

macerated bark to treat diarrhea (GMJ). Tonic, used in lung ailments (RAR).

Datura arborea L. Solanaceae. "ToB". Nicole Maxwell mentions permanent brain

damage in one gringo habitue of this "giant jimsonweed" (NIC).

0 Datura strarnoniurn L. Solanaceae. "Chamico", "Jimsonweed".Chopped leaves

are applied to dermatitis, the decoction used as an antiseptic in vaginitis (FEO). (Fig. 87)

Daucus carota L. Apiaceae. "Zanahoria", "Carrot".Cultivated. More temperate

than tropical, the carrot is a major source of the cancer-preventive beta-carotene (JAD).

Davilla kunthii St. Hil. Dilleniaceae. "Paujil chaqui". Stems contain potable water.
They cut a one-meter section of the stem and stand it vertically, the water then flowing.

Dendropanax tessrnannii (Harms) Harms. Araliaceae. "Cheriz". The natives from

the Putumayo chew the fresh leaves in order to make their teeth strong, and protect them
from cavities (RVM).

9 Desrnodiurn adscendens (Sw.) DC. Fabaceae. "Amor seco", "Beggar-lice",

"Margarita". The plant infusion is given to people who suffer from nervousness. It is also
is used in baths to treat vaginal infections. Because they believe this plant has magic
powers, it is given to the lover who has lost interest in his mate, to make him/her come
back. It is also used as a contraceptive (RVM). Rio Pastaza natives wash the breast of dry
mothers with the leaf tea (SAR).

Desrnodiurn axillare (Sw) Kuntze. Fabaceae. "Amor seco", "Pega pega". Similar
to D. adscendens.

Desrnodiurn cajanifoliurn (HBK) Kuntze. Fabaceae. "Amor seco". Used in cases

of shock (RVM).

Desrnoncus leptospadix Mart. Arecaceae. "Vara cacha", "Rattanpalm". The split

stems are used in making baskets, mats, and other handicrafts. Used like rattan, around
Iquitos (RVM). (Fig. 88)

Desrnoncus cf. rnacroacanthos Mart. Arecaceae. "Vara casha". Used in basketry.

Desrnoncus prunifer Poepp. Arecaceae. "Vara casha". Used in basketry. Fruit

edible (RAR).

Desrnoncus vacivus Baily. Arecaceae. "Vara casha". Similar to D. leptospadix.

Fig. 95. Doliocalpus dentatus (GAV)
 Dialium guianensis (Aubl.) Sandw. Fabaceae. "Palo sangre". For lumber; in the
manufacturing of decorative plaques, dormers, posts. The powder (aril) around the seeds
is edible (RVM). (Fig. 89)

Dichorisandra hexandra (Aubl). Steudel. Commelinaceae. "Pishco huichi". Juice

used as a laxative. "WaySpi" use the decoction in good luck baths for hunting Crax alector
(GMJ).

.
Diclidanthera penduliflora Polygalaceae. "Coto huayo" Edible fruit. (Fig. 90)

Diclinanona calycina (Diels) Fries. Annonaceae. "Espintana". Wood used for

beams and decks.

Diclinanona tessmannii Diels. Annonaceae. "Tortuga blanca", "White tortoise".

Wood used for construction, beams, decks, columns. Fruit edible. (Fig. 91)

Dictyoloma peruvianum Planch. Rutaceae. "Barbasco negro" , "Huamanzamana".

The crushed leaves are used to catch fish in still waters (RVM).

Dieffenbachia spp. Araceae. "Patiquina", "Planta china". Cultivated as

ornamentals. Juice from fresh crushed leaves used to extract parasites.

Digitaria insularis (L.) Mez. ex Ekman., Poaceae. "Torurco". As forage.

Dilkea acuminata Mart. Passifloraceae. "Granadilla caspi". Fruit edible.

Digitaria sanguinalis (L.) Scop. Poaceae. "Gramilla", "Pata de gallina", "Pasto

de cuaresma". Common fgrage weed (RAF).

Dilkea wallisii Mart. Passifloraceae. "Granadilla caspi". Fruit edible.

Dimerocostusstrobilaceus 0.Kuntz.e. ssp. gutierraii (0.Kuntz.e) Maas. Costaceae.

"Caiia agria". See Costus arabicus.

Dioclea ucayalina Harms. Fabaceae "Tikunas" rub leaves on forehead for

headache (SAR).

Diodia sp. Rubiaceae. "Ai pana" Leaves used in head baths for gastritis around
Pucallpa (VDF).

Dioscorea alata L. Dioscoreaceae. "Chami papan, "Ramen, "Yam". Cultivated.

Edible tubers of the genus Dioscorea may contain diosgenins, starter materials for steroids.
Wild species may contain larger quantities of diosgenin. The nutritious species usually have
less (RVM). Elsewhere a folk remedy for fever, gonorrhea, leprosy, piles and tumors
(DAW). (Fig. 92)

Dioscorea bulbifera L. Dioscoreaceae. "Rati papa", "huayra papa", "Airpotato".

Cultivated. The tubers are edible. The crushed raw pulp is poulticed onto boils (RVM).
Tubers considered alexeteric, antidotal, antiinflammatory, diuretic (RVM), hemostatic,
even POISONOUS, and used for cancer, dysentery, fever, goiter, hernia, piles, sores,
syphilis and tumors (DAW). (Fig. 93)
 Dioscorea decorticans Presl. Dioscoreaceae. "Macaquiiio".Cultivatedornamental,
occasionally escaping.

Dioscorea trzpda L. Dioscoreaceae. "Sacha papa", "Sacha papa morada", "Wild

potato".Cultivated tubers are edible. Raw tubers are poulticed on dermal inflammations
(RVM).

Diospyros sp. Ebenaceae. "Caimitillo". Fruit edible fresh. "Cuna" drink the root
decoction to treat stomachaches (RVM).

Diplotropis martiusii Benth. Fabaceae. "Chonta quiro". Wood for posts, forked
poles, keel plates for boats, and dormers (RVM). "Kubws" use powdered leaves with yuca
flour for hematochezia (SAR). Leaf ash mixed with coca leaves (SAR).

Diplotropispulpurea (Rich.) Amshf. Fabaceae. "Chonta quiro". Wood for posts,

forked poles, dormers, jam posts for bridges, keel plates for boats, and parquets (RVM).
Piscicide (SAR).

Dipteryx micrantha (Harms) Ducke. Fabaceae. "Charapilla", "Shihuahuaco".

Wood for posts, forked poles, jam posts for bridges, dormers, decorative plaques. Well-
formed trunks used by "Boras" for making drums. The seeds are edible when cooked.
Fruits used in waist ornaments that rattle as you dance (RVM).

Dipteryx odorata Aubl. Fabaceae. "Charapilla del murci6lago", "Shihuahuaco".

The wood is used for bridges, dormers, posts, etc. (RVM). Seeds soaked in rum are used
by the "Cr&lesw for snakebite, shampoos, contusions and rheumatism. The "Wayzpi" use
the bark decoction as antipyretic baths, and the "Palikur" use it as fortifying baths for
infants and small children (GMJ). Brazilians make a cough pill by balling up the crushed
seed (BDS). Elsewhere used as anticoagulant, antidyspeptic, antitussive, cardiotonic,
diaphoretic, febrifuge, fumigant, narcotic, stimulant and stomachic DAW. The coumarin
explains its anticoagulant activity (JAD). (Fig. 94)

Doliocalpus dentatw St.Hi1. Dilleniaceae. "Puca huasca", "Watervine".

Drinkable water. "Kubeos" believe the water helps the after effects of malaria (SAR). (Fig.
95)

Doliocatpus macrocatpus Mart. ex Eichl. Dilleniaceae. "Puca huasca",

"Watervine".Drinkable water.

Doliocalpus major J.F.Gme1. ssp. major. Dilleniaceae. "Puca huasca",

"Watervine".Drinkable water.

Dracaena fragrans (L.) Ker-Gawl. Liliaceae. "Corn plant", "Flor de

cementerio", "Cemeteryflower". Cultivated ornamental, especially in cemeteries.

Dracontium loretense Krause. Araceae. "Hierba del jergon" , "Jerg6n sacha",

"Fer-de-lance".Tuber believed to help snakebites perhaps on account of the snakeskin like
mottling of the petiole. Some people whip their feet and legs with the branches to repel
snakes. The corms are used to control and steady the hands. The roots are reported to be
edible (DAT).
 loretense

-
7
Fig. 97. Duguetia odorata (GAV)
 Drymonia pendula (Poepp) Wiehl. Gesneriaceae. "Delia". Ornamental.

Duckesia cf. verrucosa (Ducke) Cuatr. Humiriaceae. "Loro shungo", "manchari

caspi". Wood for forked poles, jam posts for bridges, and dormers.

Duguetia hadrantha (Diels) Fries. Annonaceae. "Tortuga caspi" .Wood for beams,
decks, and columns.

Duguetia latifolia R.E.Fries. Annonaceae. "Tortuga caspi". Wood for decks and
columns (RVM).

Duguetia macrophylla R.E.Fries. Annonaceae. "Tortuga caspi" , "Jhlmyba" . Fruit

edible (VAG). Bark provides a balm used for sore muscles, pains and aches (RVM).

Duguetia odorata Macbr. Annonaceae. "Tortuga caspi". Wood for beams, decks,
wood strips and sheets. (Fig. 97)

Duguetia quitarensis Benth. Annonaceae. "Tortuga caspi". Wood for beams and
decks (RVM).

Duguetia spirina Mart. Annonaceae. "Tortuga caspi". Wood for beams and decks
(RVM). "Tikunas" use the tea of leaves and bark to wash leg ulcers (SAR).

Duguetia stenantha R.E.Fries. Annonaceae. "Tortuga caspi". Wood for beams and
decks. Clean wood is used for interior decorations. Fruit edible (RVM).

Duguetia tessmannii R.E. Fries. Annonaceae. "Tortuga caspi". Wood for beams
and decks (RVM).

Duroia hirsuta (Poepp. & Engl.) Schum. Rubiaceae. "Huitillo del supay". These
shrubs, associated with ants, grow in small homogeneous stands called "Supay chacra"
(Devil's fields). Other plant species with ant symbioses: Cecropia spp., Cordia nodosa,
Toccoca spp., and Triplaris spp. The soil around Duroia is usually free of weeds, possibly
because of the ants. Gentry and Blaney (pers. comm.) think it may be due to secretions or
micro-organisms associated with the ants that prevent the growing of weeds and other
plants. The forked stakes are occasionally used in construction. Rural people, superstitious
about the "Supay chacra", avoid walking nearby. Some rural Colombians chew the fruits
to prevent dental caries (RVM). "Waoranis" rub the ant pheromones inside their cheeks
for oral aphthae (SAR). Putumayo natives bind a bark strip on the arm, both staining and
scarring the area (SAR). (Fig. 98)

Duroia paraensis Ducke. Rubiaceae. "Pampa remo caspi". Wood for beams and
decks (RVM).

Duroia saccifea (Mart.) Schum. Rubiaceae. "Hormiga caspi" . Fruit edible cooked
(VAG).
 Ecclinusa lanceolata (M.&E.) Pierre. Sapotaceae. "Balata". Fruit edible. Wood
for rural construction; latex for gum industry (RVM).

Ecclinusa guianensis Eyma. Sapotaceae. "Balatilla". Fruit edible (VAG).

Ecclinusa ramiflora Mart. Sapotaceae. "Balatilla". Fruit edible (VAG).

Echinochloa polystachya (HBK) Hitchc. Poaceae. "Gramalote capo". Forage for

water buffalos.

Echinodorus tunicatus Small. Alismataceae. "Amanso". Cultivated in ponds as an

ornamental.

Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk. Asteraceae. "Huanguilla", "Naparo cimarron", "Shobi

isa sheta", "Naparo cimarron". Around Pucallpa, leaf maceration used for headache
(VDF). In Brazil the plant is used as an antiasthmatic and as a depurative. "Crhles" rub
the leaf decoction on children for skin blemishes. It is also used for albuminuria (GMJ).
Folk remedy elsewhere for catarrh, copremia, cough, dyspepsia, elephantiasis,
enterorrhagia, headache, hemorrhage, hepatitis, jaundice, lumbago, marasmus, pertussis,
splenitis, toothache, and vertigo. Also considered estrogenic and insecticidal (DAW). Being
seriously studied as a remedy for snakebite (JAD). The active ingredient wedelolactone is
antiinflammatory and inhibits hemorrhage and the liberation of creatinine kinase induced
by snake venom (Mem. Inst. Oswaldo Cruz 86 {Suppl.I1):203-5).

Eichhornia azurea Kunth. Pontederiaceae. "Putu-putu", "Water hyacinth".

Semicultivated. Cultivated in ponds as an ornamental.

Eichhornia crassipes Solms. Pontederiaceae. "Putu-putu", "Water hyacinth".

Semicultivated. Cultivated in ponds as an ornamental.

Elaeis guineensis Jacq. Arecaceae. "Palma aceitera", "palma africana", "African

oilpalm". Cultivated in industrial plantations. Source of palmoil for cooking and its
byproducts; also used as an ornamental. Excellent source of beta-carotene and tocotrienol
(Vitamin A and Vitamin E).

Elaeis oleifera (HBK.) Cortes. Arecaceae. "Puma yarina", "peloponte",

"Americanoilpalm".Fruit edible when cooked. Leaves used to roof houses. Managed
properly, this could be better than African oilpalm for oil extraction (RVM).

Elephantopus scaber L. Asteraceae. "Lengua de vaca", "Cow's tongue".

Considered astringent, emollient, febrifuge, and sudorific; used for elephantiasis, itch,
sores (BDS, RAR).

Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. Poaceae. "Gram", "Pasto estrada", "Pata de

gallina", "Goosegrass".As forage. Grains edible. Before it blooms, it is used in infusions
to treat colds and flu. The root infusion is used for diarrhea; leaf decoction for dysentery,
swellings and oliguria. In Zaire, used for chickenpox and colds. Leaf infusion rubbed on
skin for measles (RVM). Trinidad natives use the leaf decoction for cystitis and
pneumonia. Seed used for dysentery, diarrhea, and contusions (RVM). "Cuna" rub the
decoction onto rheumatic areas. "Crhles" use it as a refreshing herbal tea and antidiarrheic
(GMJ). (Fig. 99)

0 Eleutherine bulbosa (Miller) Urb. Iridaceae. "Jasin huaste" , "Pachahuasten",

"Yahuar piri piri". Cultivated. Bulb commonly used for diarrhea (RVM) and worms
(SAR). Around Pucallpa, used as ecchymotic (VDF). Dominicans use it for dysmenorrhea
and menopause (DAW). Around Iquitos the bulb decoction is used for stomachaches and
diarrhea caused by bacteria or Entamoeba hystolitica (RVM). "Crhles" use the bulb in
poultices to treat epilepsy and twitches. The crushed bulb mixed with a "cockroach"
Periplaneta americana, roasted with a little bit of oil, and applied hot, is believed to help
infected wounds caused by rusty nails. The bulb, macerated with red wine is used as an
abortive (GMJ).

Eleutherine plicata Herb. Iridaceae. "Picuru inchi". Peruvians regard the seed as
antidiarrhetic, antidysenteric, hemostat, vulnerary (RAR); bulb grated into tea for
stomachache or dysentery (BDS).

Endlicheria anomala Nees ex Meissn. Lauraceae. "Yacu Moena". Wood for

beams, decks (RVM).

Endlicheriafonnosa A.C. Smith. Lauraceae. "Moena", "Pampa moena". As saw

wood.

Endlicheria sericea Nees. Lauraceae. "Moena". As saw wood.

Entada polyphylla Benth. Fabaceae "Pashaco". Bark yields a yellow resin used for
dyeing leather black (MAC).

Enterolobium barnebianum Mesquita & Da Silva. Fabaceae. "Pashaco oreja de

negro", "Plantilla pashaco". Wood for lumber; parquets, and construction in general. (Fig.
100)

Epiphyllumphyllanthus (L.) Haw. var. phyllanthus. Cactaceae. "Lagarto shupa".

Semicultivated as an ornamental. Considered cardiactive (DAW).

Episcia hirsuta (Benth.) Hanst. Gesneriaceae. "Llama plata". Cultivated

ornamental.

Episcia reptans Mart. Gesneriaceae. "Llama plata". As an ornamental.

Eragrostis pilosa (L.) Beauv. Poaceae. "Gram". As forage.

Erisma bicolor Ducke var. macrophyllum (Ducke) Stafleu. Vochysiaceae. "Quillo

sisa", "Maubaw.As saw wood for general construction.

Erisma calcaratum (Link) Warm. Vochysiaceae. "Cacahuillo", "Quillo sisa". The

wood is used for keel plates on canoes. Macerated seed oil used as liniment for aches and
pains. Oil used in making soaps (DAW). Brazilians use for tumors (DAW).

Eryngium foetidum L. Apiaceae. "Siuca culantro", "Sacha culantro" , "Suico",

"Wild coriander". Cultivated. Used mainly as spice. Leaf infusion used for stomachaches.
Around Pucallpa, culantro with meat broth, is taken for bronchitis and fever (VDF).
"Chamis" braise the dried fruits and have the children inhale smoke to treat diarrhea.
Green fruits are crushed and mixed with food to treat insomnia (RVM). "Crhles" drink
the decoction for colds and flu; they rub crushed leaves over the body to reduce high
temperature. Leaf decoction used by "Crhles" as an antipyretic (GMJ). Elsewhere used
for arthritis, colds, colic, cough, diabetes, diarrhea, fever, fits, flu, herbicide,
hypertension, malaria, nausea, pneumonia, rheumatism, and tumors (DAW, RAR).
Antimalarial, antispasmodic, carminative, and pectoral activities reported (DAW).

Erythrina arnazonica Krukoff. Fabaceae. "Amasisa", "Huayruro amasisa",

"Amazonian coraltree". Sometimes planted as an ornamental tree. Seeds used in
handicrafts, e.g., necklaces, curtains, purses, etc. (RVM).

Erythrina furca Lour. Fabaceae. "Amasisa", "Gallito", "Swamp immortelle".

Semicultivated. Soil conservation species, adding nitrogen to the soil, used as ornamental
and living fence. Bark decoction used to wash infected wounds to treat fungal dermatoses.
Effective in a skin infection called "arco". Crhles" use the root decoction as a sudorific
to reduce fever caused by colds and malaria. Flowers in decoction regarded as antitussive.
"Palikur" use bark of trunk and roots mixed with the bark of Parkia pendula to purify
waters. Trunk bark put in hot water and poulticed onto migraine headaches (GMJ).
Hartwell mentions its use for cancer (DAW). (Fig. 101)

Erythrina glauca Willd. Fabaceae. "Amasisa", "Assacu" "Assasu-rana". T i a s

bathe aches and wounds with the reddish liquid. A half-cup of decoction is suggested for
malaria (SAR). Brazilians, considering the plant narcotic and purgative, use it for hepatosis
and rheumatism (SAR).

Erythrina peruviana Krukoff. Fabaceae. "Huayruro", "amasisa". Seeds used in

handicrafts, necklaces, purses, etc. (RVM).

Erythroxylum coca var. coca. Erythroxylaceae. "Coca". Leaves chewed for "aire";
ecocted for parturition and respiratory ails, poulticed for headache, rheumatism (FEO).
Coca leaf is described by Plotkin as "one of the world's most effective medicinal plants,
particularly valuable for the treatment of stomachache and altitude sickness" (MJP). In a
study of 15 nutrients, coca leaves were compared with the average of 50 Latin American
foods. Per 100 g, coca was higher in: calories 305 in coca, vs. 279 units of the average
on the 50 foods; proteins 18.9 g vs. 11.4 g; carbohydrates 46.2 g vs 37.1 g; fiber 14.4 g vs
3.2 g; calcium 1,540 mg vs. 99 mg; phosphate 911 mg vs 279 mg; iron 45.8 mg vs 3.6 mg;
vitamin A 11,000 IU vs 135 IU, and riboflavin 1.91 mg vs 0.16 mg (RVM). Phytochemicals
occuring in the four narcotic varieties of coca are detailed in Duke (1992b). Cocaine yields
(in dried leaves) 0.63 96 in Erythroxylum coca var. coca; some other authors report 0.96 %
cocaine from the coca coming from Chinchao, (Huanuco), 0.25% for E. coca var. ipadu;
0.77 96 for E. novogranatense var. novogranatense; 0.72 % for E. novogranatense var.
t r u x i l h e ; a sample collected by Plowman (#5600) in Trujillo contained 1.02% cocaine
(RVM).

Erythroxylum coca var. ipadu Plowman. Erythroxylaceae. "Ipadd". Cultivated,

especially by the Amazonian ethnic groups of Peru, Brazil and Colombia. Cultivated by
the "Boras" along the Rio Yaguasyacu; the "chacchado" or "chaw" is enjoyed during
parties, work or spare time. To prepare leaves for chewing, they roast them slowly in a
clay pot; they fill their mouths with these leaves, occasionally adding ashes from Cecropia
leaves and other plants to give a strong and better flavor. Chewing gives the sensation
ofincreased energy and strength, leaving behind fatigue and hunger; also leads to euphoria
and good disposition. Leaf infusion taken for gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea and
indigestion. Coca is common in the religious and social life of Amazonian Peru (RVM).
It is used in diarrhea and to help the mother get rid of unwanted blood after childbirth
(RVM). (Fig. 102)

Erythroxylum spp. Erythroxylaceae. "Sacha hayo", "Wildcoca". Used as a coca

substitute by Indians.

Eschweilera spp. A.DC. Lecythidaceae. "Machimango blanco", "Machimango

negro". Wood for contruction poles, beams, decks; bark fiber for temporary rope (RVM).

Eschweilera gigantea (R. Knuth) Macbr. Lecythidaceae. "Machimangoblanco hoja

grande". Wooden part of fruit used for ashtrays, or to store small things.

Eucharis castelnaeana (Bail].) MacBr. Amaryllidaceae. "Delia", "Lilea",

"Amazon Lily". Cultivated ornamental (RVM). Bulb or whole plant boiled to make an
emetic tea (SAR). (Fig. 103)

Eucharis grandiflora Planch. & Linden. Amaryllidaceae. "Barba de chivo".

Cultivated ornamental.

Eugenia inundata DC. Myrtaceae. "Juanache", "Mishquina". Fruit edible fresh

or in beverages.

Eugenia patrisi M.Vhl. Myrtaceae. "Sacha guayaba". Fruit edible (VAG).

Eugenia stipitataMcVaugh. Myrtaceae. "Araza","Guayaba brasilera". Cultivated

fruits are used in refreshments. (Fig. 104)

Eugenia unijlora L. Myrtaceae. "Ceresa", "Pitanga". Fruit edible (VAG).

Euphorbia cotinijolia L. Euphorbiaceae. "Yuquilla", "Red spurge". Cultivated.

Used as an ornamental plant because of the colorful foliage. Used for curar6. Emetic,
purgative (RAR). The latex is caustic, ichthyotoxic, and insecticide. "Crhles" use the leaf
maceration to kill leaf cutter ants (Solenopsis spp. and Atta spp.) (GMJ).
Folklorically, used for condylomata, sores and wounds (DAW).

Euphorbia hirta L. Euphorbiaceae. "Golondrina", "Yerba colorada". Latex used

in massage for arthritis and rheumatism (VDF).

Euphorbia huanchahana (Kl.&Gke.)Boiss. Euphorbiaceae. "Huanchangana".Root

decoction, a drastic purge and urinary antiseptic, is used to reform alcoholics and treat
jaundice (FEO, RAR).

Euphorbiapulcherrima Willd. Euphorbiaceae. "Poinseta", "Poinsettia". Cultivated

ornamental, folklorically used as bactericide, depilatory, emetic, lactagogue, and for
dermatoses, erysipelas, toothache and warts (DAW).
 Euphorbia tirucalli L. Euphorbiaceae. "Planta navidefia", "Milkbush". Cultivated
ornamental. Elswehere, recommended as a source of energy hydrocarbons (JAD).
Elsewhere used for abscesses, asthma, cancer, colic, cough, earache, gastralgia, neuralgia,
rheumatism, toothache and warts (DAW).

Euterpe oleracea Mart. Arecaceae. "Asahi", "Palmito". Cultivated. Used mainly

as an ornamental. An ideal palm that could be highly profitable in the development of the
palm heart industry. A single seed can grow a plant providing 25 shoots growing
individually (RVM). In Brazil, where known as "Acain, the root tea is drunk as a blood
medicine for jaundice (BDS); seeds roasted and made into coffee-like beverage drunk for
fever. (Fig. 105)

Euterpe precatoria Mart. Arecaceae. "Chonta", "Huasahi", "Palmito", "Heart

palm". The buds are edible fresh, in salads or in preserves; fruit used for refreshments.
Trunks, cut into strips, are used in interior decoration. Fiber for making fabrics. The
whole plant is used in ceremonial wreaths during some Amazonian fiestas. The palm-heart
industry, concentrated in one factory in Iquitos, could disappear shortly, due to poor
management. Used for dysmenorrhea (RAR). (Fig. 106)

Euterpe sp. Arecaceae. "Huasahi del varillal". The buds are edible.

Duke coined the word suriculture in 1992 for the cultivation of what Peruvians call "suri",
grubs or larvae of the palm beetle (Rhynchophoruspalmarum). He suggested that using the
95%+ of palm-heart palm (that is wasted) to produce edible protein (entomophagous
delicacy) could give a "green" seal of approval to the palm heart industry. Some
entrepreneurs say that the palm-heart industry is sustainable for centuries. Many botanists
disagree. Clearly, more than 95% of the palm is wasted when a palm heart is harvested,
renewably in certain species of Bactris, destructively in the Euterpe we have enjoyed
around Iquitos.

Many interesting questions need answers. Could we sustainably harvest both palm
hearts and protein? Could the waste palm be piled up on the soil, or in pits, and used for
larval production? Can the larvae be cultivated in untumed piles or pits? What are the
temperature tolerances of the larvae? Would beetles lay eggs on decaying palm debris.
Would they lay in the waste of any palm? (How about the famous hat palm, not a true
palm? Ivory Palm? Thatch Palm? Stilt Palm?). Does urinating on the palm really attract
the Rhynchophorus. How long will the larvae stay alive for shipment in palm mulch? How
long will smoked sun remain wholesome unrefrigerated under ambient tropical conditions?
Would suri be legal imports into the US? Would an environmental impact statement be
necessary and worthwhile? Do the larvae contain squalene or any of the "healing"
zoochemicals alleged for shark cartilage?

The Yanomamo Indians fell trees deliberately to provide fodder for the larvae.
When they cut the tree, they eat the palm heart. One large palm can yield up to 50 pounds
palm heart. A palm trunk can yield three or four pounds of grubs. There are descriptions
of excellent palm "butter" made by melting and clarifying the fat of the larvae. Smoked
larva in the Food Composition Table for Use in Africa (#1099) is reported to contain
20.4% water, 62.3% protein, 4.6% fat, 6.5% carbohydrate, 2.2% fiber; 6.2% ash and,
per 100 g, 513 mg Ca, 471 mg P., 6.9 mg Fe, 0 mg beta-carotene, 0.1 mg thiamin, 0.12
mg riboflavin, 4.2 mg niacin and 0 mg ascorbic acid. Dried larva (#1097) is reported at,
per 100 g edible portion, 430 calories, 7.8-10.1 % water, 51.1-54.9% protein, 13.8-17.5%
fat, 16.9 % carbohydrate, 1.4-7.4 % fiber, 3.8-8.4 % ash, 124-270 mg Ca, 142-854 mg P,
2-3 mg Fe, 50 yg beta-carotene (?), 0.09-0.35 mg thiamin, 0.18-2.87 mg riboflavin; 3.8-
11.2 mg niacin and 0 mg ascorbic acid.

Our summary of the literature suggests that 100 g of larvae could supply twice the
RDA for thiamin, 1.5 times the RDA for zinc, 1.3 times the RDA for riboflavin, about
70% of copper and iron requirements, 40% of niacin, 30% of phosphorus, ca 20% of
protein and calcium, but less than 10% of daily requirements of magnesium. Insect fatty
acids, in general, are highly unsaturated.

We need more precise analytical data, not only on palm beetle larvae, but also on
palm hearts, and other palm products. We could surely devise a nutritionally complete
package based solely 'on renewable palm products, a TV-dinner or Palm Sunday Brunch,
if we include the "suri". We think that the MUFA's, tocotrienols and beta-carotene make
palm oils more attractive as health-food items than the North American press would have
us believe. Oil palm is the best reported source of tocotrienols which some scientists regard
as better than tocopherol in Vitamin E antioxidant activity. Duke has proposed an ACEER
Amazonian Antioxidant salad dressing embracing wholesome Amazonian palm oils (best
sources of tocotrienols and MUFA's and good source of beta-carotene), brazilnut (best
source of selenium) camu-camu (best source of vitamin C), chile (best source of
capsaicin), and puree of beans (good source of genistein). Try renewable palm hearts,
drenched in antioxidant salad dressing, with a few smoked suri, hopefully contributing to
 Faramea anisocalyx Poepp. & Endl. Rubiaceae. "Sanango". Leticia natives use
the bark decoction as an emetic in food poisoning (SAR).

Faramea capillipes Stand. Rubiaceae. "Quinquincaca", "Yacu sanango". The root

decoction is used for antipyretic baths. The alcoholic maceration of the flowers is used to
treat colds; maceration on the forehead for migraine headaches (RVM).

Faramea maynensis Spruce. Rubiaceae. "Caballo sanango". Similar to previous

species. Fruit yield a blue tint used for handicrafts (RVM).

Q Faramea occidentalis (L.) A.Rich. Rubiaceae. "Caballo sanango". "Cuna" use the
root decoction to stop menstrual hemorrhages, by taking two cups a day; one in the
morning, and one at night (RVM).

Fevillea albiflora Cogn. Cucurbitaceae. "Jiman rao". Dried powdered leaves

andlor resin used as a resolvent antiecchymotic around Pucallpa (VDF).

Fevillea cordifoliaL. Cucurbitaceae. "Cabalonga", "Habilla". The ripe dried seeds

(from this and other species of Fevillea) are used in making necklaces and "shacapas"
which they use around the waist and knees during native dances. The infusion of mashed
seed is a strong cattle purge (SOU). Venezuelans use the plant as antidote to Hippomane,
for constipation, leprosy and snakebite (DAW). Haitians use for dermatoses, dropsy,
erysipelas, hepatitis, jaundice, and rheumatism (DAW). "Campa" use the seeds as
substitute for candles. This plant has more useful oil per fruit than any other Dicotyledon
(RVM). The seed oil is applied to the face before Bka (SAR). "Kof6nNmake necklaces
from the seed, polishing them with the seed oil (SAR). (Fig. 107)

Ficus americana Aubl. complex. form. guianensis. Moraceae. "Renaco",

"Matapalo", "Stranglerfig". "Palikur" poultice latex on stomachaches (GMJ). Fruit edible
(VAG).

Q Ficus carica L. Moraceae. "Higuera", "Higo", "Fig".Cultivated; fruit edible.

Leaves are used to improve the aroma and taste of corn "chicha", by cooking the leaves
with the meal. Fruit decoction used as cough suppressant; latex used on warts. Women take
two cups a day of this decoction a few days before they go into labor to make delivery
easier (RVM). Latex is used in setting bones, the dried inflorescence for dandruff,
diarrhea, and hernia (FEO). Considered mnemonic, purgative, stimulant, toxic (RAR).

Ficus citrifolia P. Mill. Moraceae. "Renaco". Panama "Cuna" apply latex to

infected wounds, elsewhere used as a vermifuge (JAD).

Ficus elastica Roxb. Moraceae. "Cauchillo", "Indian rubber tree". Cultivated

ornamental, potential rubber source.

Ficus insipida Willd. var. insipida Moraceae. "OjB", "Doctor ojB". Locals take
latex as vermifuge, drinking one cup fresh mixed with orange juice, or with sugar cane
juice. Those who take this purge must avoid greasy and salty foods for a week; they can
not receive direct sun, and must avoid being seen by strangers to the family. Those not
following this diet become "overo" (with white skin pigmentation) (RVM). Pucallpa
residents rub the latex onto rheumatic inflammations (VDF). "Cuna" mix some latex with
a liter of water, and drink some of this mixture every other day to get rid of intestinal
parasites. In Piura, the leaf decoction is used for anemia and tertian fever. Contains
phyllosanthine, beta-amyrin or lupeol; lavandulol, phyllanthol, and eloxanthine (AYA).
(Fig. 108)

Ficus maxima Miller. Moraceae. "Sacha ojBM,"Sacha oj6 del cauchero". Bark
pounded to make cloth. "Campas" use the tree as a blind when hunting game animals
(RVM). "Wayiipi" use the latex as an antirrheumatic (GMJ).

Ficus paraensis Miq. Moraceae. "Renaco". "Way5pi" for diarrhea; "Palikur", for
infected wounds (GMJ). "Makunas" and "Puinaves" use the latex for worms (SAR).

Ficus radula Willd. Moraceae. "Yanchama caspi". "Witoto" mix the latex with
mud for stomachache (SAR). Mixed with yuca flour, it is packed into painful caries and
wounds (SAR). Used to make bark cloth (RAR).

Ficus trigona L. Moraceae. "Renaco". Used by the "Wayiipi" as an antidiarrheic

(GMJ).

Ficus yoponensis Desv. Moraceae. "Oj6 de hoja menuda*, "OjB macho". The
bark, removed carefully after pounding, is dried and used as a canvas to paint amazonian
scenes, sold as crafts. Latex ingested, as F. insipida, for diarrhea and worms (SAR).

Fittonia verschaffeltii E. C o p . Acanthaceae. "Motelillo". Cultivated ornamental

(RVM). Ecuadorian "Ketchwa" use the leaf infusion for toothache (SAR).

Floscopa robusta (Schub.) Clarke, var. sprucei Clarke. Commelinaceae.

"Pifiarafio". Ornamental.

Fourcroya andina Trec. Amaryllidaceae. "Penca". Cultivated ornamental.

Fig. 107. Fevillea cordifolia (GAV)

Fig. 108. Ficus insipida (GAV)

 Gallesia integrifolia (Spreng.) Harms. Phytolaccaceae. "Palo de ajo", "Palo de
cebolla". Timber (RAR).Bark infusion used for external baths to protect against bad luck
and witchcraft (RVM).

Garcinia acuminata (R.&P.) Planch.& Triana. Clusiaceae. "Charichuelo". Wood

used for house construction, beams, decks, and columns.

Garcinia benthamiana Planch. & Triana. Clusiaceae. "Charichuelo". Fruit edible.

Wood used for house construction.

Garcinia macrophylla Mart. Clusiaceae. "Charichuelo hoja grande". Cultivated

as fruit tree; wood used for house construction.

Garcinia madruno (Kunth.) Hamel. Clusiaceae. "Charichuelo". Fruit edible. In

Panama, used for cholera, ulcers, and yellow fever (JAD).

Garteranthus corallinus (Frist) Will. Gesneriaceae. "Puca cabaciiia". As an

ornamental plant.

9 Genipa americana L. Rubiaceae. "Huito", "Huitol", "Jagua", "Genipap".Fresh

fruit eaten for bronchitis; also used to make spiritous drinks. Cooking with brown sugar
and aguardiente makes a nice dessert. Green fruit used to dye clothes, also used to paint
and decorate their faces. Wood used in carpentry. Some people affirm that the fruit
decoction is abortifacient. Don Antonio Montero claims that the strained fruit juice is good
for cancer of the uterus. "Achuales" from Pastaza use the green pericarp to extract decayed
teeth. "Achuales" and peasants near Iquitos cook the fruit and seeds; this decoction is use
on baths for female genital inflammations. It also reduces swelling of the respiratory
mucous membranes. "Kayapo" eat the fruit and use it to decorate their bodies. "Crwles"
prepare a cathartic and antidiarrheic decoction; the same decoction is used in poultice to
treat ulcers (GMJ). Haitians use for anemia, aphrodisia, blenorrhagia, diarrhea, gonorrhea,
hepatoses, and tumors (DAW). Brazilians express the fruit juice, let stand overnight, and
drink a small cup each day for 2 or 3 days for jaundice (BDC). Contains: genipin,
mannitol, tannin, methyl-ethers, caterine, hydantoin, and tannic acid (RVM). (Fig. 109)

Genipa spruceana Steyer. Rubiaceae. "Yacuruna huito". Used by the "Crwles"

like G. americana, but inferior (GMJ).

Gentianella alborogea (Gilg.) Fabr. Gentianaceae. "Chavin", "Harcapura",

"Hercampuri". Shoot decoction considered cholagogue, diuretic; used for jaundice and
weight loss (FEO).

Geogenanthus rhizanthus (Ule) Bruckn. Commelinaceae. "Mishquipanguilla".

Occasionally planted as an ornamental (RVM). "Kofin" rub the hot water infusion of G.
ciliatus on swollen knees (SAR). "Secoya" use cold water infusion for parasites in children.
Rio Pastaza Indians pat the leaf on the buttocks of those perturbed by excessive flatulence
(SAW.
 8

Fig. 109. Genipa americana (GAV)

Fig. 112. Gossypium barbadense (GAV)

 Geonomajuruana Dammer. Arecaceae. "Palmicha". Leaves used for roofing; used
by "Boras" to extract vegetal salts (DAT).

Geonoma spp. Mart. Arecaceae. "Palmicha". Semicultivated ornamental. (Fig.

110)

.
Geophila repens (L.) I . M. Johnston. Rubiaceae. "Poroto huangunillo" "Palikur"
use the fruit to treat dermatosis; very effective as an antimycosic (RVM). "Ketchwa" also
use it for fungal infection (SAR). In Fiji, it is even used for leprosy (DAW).

Geophila sp. Rubiaceae. "Maima pash". Powdered leaves applied locally as

antiinflammatory (VDF).

Gloeospermum sphaerocalpum Tr. & PI. Violaceae. "Tamarillo". Edible fruit.

Leaf maceration used by "Waunana" as a ceremonial hallucinogen (RVM).

Glycine mar (L.) Merr. Fabaceae. "Soya", "Soybean". Cultivated. Contemplated

as an alternative crop for coca, at least in Bolivia, the soybean has gotten good press
recently as a cancer preventive. Among the compounds found in soy, isoflavones, like
genistein and daidzein; Bowman-Birk inhibitors, phytic-acid, saponins and phytosterols
have been suggested as potentially contributing to this cancer-preventive activity (JAD).

Gmelina arborea Roxb ex J.E.Sm. Verbenaceae. "Melina". Cultivated. Asian

native, introduced and cultivated in Latin America as a paper pulp and ornamental. There
are three varieties: C. arborea var. canescens; var. dentata, and var. glaucescens (RVM).

Gnetum leyboldi Tul. Gnetaceae. "Bala huayo", "Hambre huayo", "Paujil ruro".
Seeds edible roasted.

Gnetum nodiJorum Brong. Gnetaceae. "Bala huayo", "Hambre huayo", "Paujil

ruro". Seeds edible roasted (RVM). "Puinave" use the gummy bark decoction hot to reduce
swellings caused by damaged muscle or tendon (SAR). Surinam "Tirio" use decoction to
wash headache (SAR). "Wayana" use water from the vine for debility and inappetence
(SAR). (Fig. 111)

Gomphrena globosa L. Amaranthaceae. "Siempre viva", "Manto de Cristo",

"Globe amaranth". Cultivated ornamental (RVM). elsewhere, considered depurative and
used for cough, diabetes, heart problems, hypertension, nosebleed and oliguria (DAW).
Febrifugal, herbicide (RAR).

Gordonia planchonii H. Keng. Theaceae. "Aripay". Timber used for general

construction.

Q Gossypium arboreum L. Malvaceae. "Algod6n", "Cotton", "Algodonero", "Tree

cotton". Cultivated in small amounts. Seeds lactagogue (SAR). Root bark for amenorrhea
and dysmenorrhea in Amazonian Brazil (SAR). Uses of cotton are many, here and in
industrialized society.

9 Gossypium barbadense L. Malvaceae. "Algod6n", "Cotton", "Algodonero".

Cultivated in small amounts. Ashes from dried buds used for diaper rash, and infected
wounds. Leaf decoction used as oxytocic. Flower decoction used for hepatitis (RVM).
Flower buds are used by the "Waygpi" for earache. Leaves used for parasites, to eliminate
filaria (GMJ). (Fig. 112)

Gossypium herbaceum L. Malvaceae. "Algod6nN, "Cotton", "Algodonero".

Cultivated in small amounts. Amazonian Brazilians consider the root diuretic (SAR).

0 Gossypium hirsutum L. Malvaceae. "Algodon blanco", "Cotton". In Brazil,

bathing with the leaf tea or drinking the flower tea is considered useful for uterine
problems (BDS). Brazilians also place mashed cottonseed into aching caries (BDS). (Fig.
113)

Goupia glabra Aubl. Celastraceae. "Muena rifarillo". Very goodquality wood has
multiple uses, including rural construction, beams,and decks. Juices from macerated leaves
used for eye disorders (RVM). "Crhles" use bark decoction as an oral analgesic (GMJ).
"Andokes" use leaf decoction for cataracts and to dye the skin and hair (SAR).

0 Grim newberthii Macbr. Lecythidaceae. "Sacha mangua", "Anchovy pear".

Ornamental (RVM); fruits roasted and eaten (SAR). "Siona" grate the fruit into water as
a purgative (SAR). Rio Chico natives of Ecuador use the cambium as an emetic in
delivery, inappetence and malaria (SAR). Seed used in enema for dysentery (SAR). (Fig.
114)

Griasperuviana Miers. Lecythidaceae. "Sacha mangua", "Mancoa". Edible fruit.

Guadua weberbaueri Pilger. Poaceae. "Marona". Cultivated ornamental. Trunks

used for house construction; with the internodes they make musical instruments and
containers (RVM).

Guarea cinnarnonea A. Juss. Meliaceae. "Requia". The saw wood is used for
general construction.

Guarea gomma Pulle. Meliaceae. "Requia". Timber used for decks and columns
(RVM). Bark decoction used by "Palikur" as an emetic, and for liver diseases (GMJ).

Guarea grandifolia D.C. Meliaceae. "Bola requia". Wood used for columns.
"Waygpi" believe that adding a drop of toxic sap from the trunk increases the alcoholic
level of their cassava chicha (GMJ).

0 Guarea guidonia (L.) Sleumer. Meliaceae. "Requia", "Latapi" . Wood used for
beams, etc. Early authors believed this plant very TOXIC and dangerous. Women of San
Martin use the decoction in enemas to increase fertility (RVM). Hispaniolans use the plant
for enterorrhagia (DAW).

Guarea kunthiana A. Juss. Meliaceae. "Requia", "Paujil ruro". The wood is used
for beams and decks and sometimes sawwood.

Guarea pubescens (Rich) A.Juss. ssp. pubescens. Meliaceae. "Requia". Wood

used for columns and decks. Used by the "Way5pin to POISON their arrows (GMJ).

Guarea purusana C.DC. Meliaceae. "Latapi", "Requia". The sawwood is good

for furniture.
 Guatteria citriodora Ducke. Annonaceae. "Espintana". Wood used for
construction; beams, decks, and columns. It is occasionally cleaned for interior
decorations.

Guatteria decurrem R.E.Fries. Annonaceae. "Carahuasca". Sawwood used for

construction, beams, decks, and columns.

Guatteria dielsiana R.E.Fries. Annonaceae. "Carahuasca". The wood is used for

decks and columns.

Guatteria elata R.E.Fries. Annonaceae. "Carahuasca". The wood is used for

beams, for decks and columns. Bark decoction taken once a day for epilepsy and gout
(?gob coral) (ACEER).

Guatteria exellens R.E. Fries. Annonaceae. "Carahuasca". For columns.

Guatteria hyposericea Diels. Annonaceae. "Carahuasca". The sawwood is used

for construction.

Guatteria megalophylla Diels. Annonaceae. "Carahuasca", "Boa". The sawwood

is used for construction (RVM). "Kofhs", believing the species TOXIC, once used it in
curare5 (SAR).

9 Guatteria modesta Diels. Annonaceae. "Carahuasca" Peruvians use in a

contraceptive, boiling bark for a minute, then cooling, drinking one cup in the AM, one
in the PM, during menstruation (SAR).

Guatteria multivenia Diels. Annonaceae. "Carahuasca-millua". The wood is used

for house construction and decks.

Guatteria pteropus Benth. Annonaceae. "Zorro caspi". Wood for house

construction, beams, and decks; not subject to attack by xylophagous insects (RVM).

Guatteria tomentosa Rusby. Annonaceae. "Espintana". Wood used for house

construction, beams, and decks; occasionally hewn to use in interior decorations.

Guatteria sp. Annonaceae. "Anonilla", "Carahuasca". Sawwood used for

construction, beams, and decks.

Guatteria sp. Annonaceae. "Carahuasca". Sawwood used for construction, beams,

and decks. Fruit provides a garnet tint used in handicrafts.

Guazuma crinita Mart. Sterculiaceae. "Bolaina blanca", "Bolaina". Sawwood used

for house construction and interior decorations; also for lollypop sticks, paper pulp. Bark
used to make different kind of ropes.

Guazuma ulmifoliaLam. Sterculiaceae. "Bolaina", "Atadijo", "West Indian elm".

Wood and bark for construction and ropes. Ripe fruits have a strong honey scent. Some
people even chew the fruit to extract the sweet juice, spitting out the remainder. The
macerated fruit mixed with aguardiente is used to scent the "siricaipe" or "mapacho". In
Jamaica the bark is used to feed silkworms. Leaf decoction used for baldness, the bark
decoction for dysentery (SOU). Elsewhere regarded as astringent, depurative, diaphoretic,
emollient, pectoral, refrigerant, stomachic, styptic, and sudorific; used for alopecia,
asthma, bronchitis, dermatosis, diarrhea, dysentery, elephantiasis, fever, hepatitis, leprosy,
malaria, nephritis, pulmonosis, and syphilis (DAW, RAR).

0 Gurania spinulosa (Poepp. & Endl.) Cogn. Cucurbitaceae. "Zapalliton. "Palikur"

cut the stems in small pieces and use the decoction as a remedy to "clean the bile" (GMJ).
Ecuadorians use the root tea for dysmenorrhea and apply leaf decoction to cuts and wounds
(SAR). Trinidadians take for constipation (DAW).

Gustavia angusta L. Lecythidaceae. "Sacha chop6". Semicultivated ornamental;

fruit edible. Wood useful. Plant considered emetic, piscicidal, purgative; for the liver.

Gustavia hexapeta2a (Aubl.) Sm. Lecythidaceae. "Chop6 cimarron". Wood used

for house construction, beams, decks, and columns.

Gustavia longifolia Poepp. & Endl. ex Berg. Lecythidaceae. "ChopBn, "Sacha

chop6". Fruit is edible (RVM). "Sionas" once used the bark in curarb, considering the seed
purgative (SAR).

Gustavia maicana Knth. Lecythidaceae. "ChopB". Cultivated ornamental. Fruit

edible.

Gynerium sagittatum (Aubl.) Beauv. Poaceae. "Caiia brava", "Caiia isana",

"Giant cane". Used in house construction; fresh stems, used as fences for gardens, often
become living fences. When the floriferous buds ripen, they are used to make arrows and
darts for fishing. They are also used for handicrafts. Natives use them as pendents. Tender
leaf decoction used for asthma, before or at onset of an attack. Rhizome decoction diuretic
(SOU). Elsewhere used for albpecia and corns (DAW). (Fig. 115)

Fig. 1 15. Gyneriurn sagittalurn (GAV) '''3

I'
 Hamelia patens Jacq. Rubiaceae. "Benzen yuca", "Usia-ey " , "Yoshin coshqui
rao", "Yuto banco". Used as an antiflammatory and antipyretic in Peru (VDF). Leaf
decoction used for skin diseases and rheumatism. Fruit edible (RAR). The fruit syrup is
used for scurvy and dysentery; also used in making a fermented drink. The plant is
believed POISONOUS (SOU). "Choc6" drink the leaf infusion for fever and diarrhea with
blood. The roots are used as purge PAW). The "Waunana" drink the juice from
macerated leaves and flowers for cholera. "Ingano" value leaf tea as vermifuge (SAR).
Elsewhere used for cancer, constipation, dermatoses, diarrhea, dysentery, erysipelas, fever,
headache, jaundice, malaria and sores (DAW). Also used for syphilis. Used in Venezuela
to avoid sunstroke (RVM). Around Piura, the depurative leaves are used for dysentery,
rheumatism, and scurvy (FEO). Warm leaves are used as an analgesic in pharyngitis.
Contains rosmarinic acid, narirutin, and 5,7,2',5'-tetrahydroxyflavanone-7-rutinoside (PC
29(7):2358,1990). Chaudhuri and Thakur reported 500 ppm ephedrine (PM 57: 199. 1991).

Haploclathra cordata Vasquez. Clusiaceae. "Boa caspi", "Balatillo". Good quality

wood used for house construction.

HaploclathrapaniculataMart. Clusiaceae. "Boa caspi", "Palisangrillom.The wood

is used for house construction; beams, decks and columns, and occasionally for posts.

Hedychium coronarium Koenig. Zingiberaceae. "Lirio", "Butterfly lily",

"Garlandflower", "Gingerlily". Cultivated ornamental. Roots macerated in boiling water
are used by the "Chami" as a soothing bath to relieve pains and aches (RVM). "Kubeo"
take root decoction for arm and chest pains (SAR). "Tukano" take leaf tea for abdominal
pain (SAR). Elsewhere, regarded as carminative, excitant, gargle, stomachic and tonic;
used for halitosis, rheumatism, rhinitis, swellings, and tumors (DAW).

Hedyosmum huascari Macbr. Chloranthaceae. "Supininin. Resin used in

rheumatism massage (FEO).

Heisteria iquitensis Sleumer. Olaceaceae. "Yutubanco". Wood used for house

construction.

Heisteria pallida Engl. Olacaceae. "Chuchohasi" , " Chuchuhuasha". Timber

species. Stem infusion vulnerary, applied for inguinal hernia. Ingested as antirheumatic,
aphrodisiac, tonic (FEO). For fever, hepatitis (RAR).

9 Helianthus annuus L. Asteraceae. "Girasol", "Sunflower".Cultivatedomamental

(RVM); elsewhere used to extract oil, and for aftosa, anodyne, aphrodisia, bronchitis,
cancer, carbuncles, catarrh, colds, cough, diarrhea, dysentery, dysuria, epistaxis, fever,
flu, fractures, inflammation, laryngitis, malaria, menorrhagia, pleuritis, rheumatism,
snakebite, splenitis, whitlows and wounds (DAW). (Fig. 116)

Heliconia chartacea Lane ex Bar. Musaceae. "Situlli". Leaves are generally used
for wrapping, occasionally for roofing. All Heliconias could be used as ornamentals
(RVM).

.
Heliconia episcopalis Velloz. Musaceae. " Situlli" As preivous species.
 Heliconia hirsuta L.f. Musaceae. "Millua situlli". Leaves for wrapping and
roofing (RVM). "Tatuyos" eat and make a fermented beverage with the root (SAR).

Heliconia rostrata R.&P. Musaceae. "Situlli". As the previous species.

Heliconia spp. Loes. Musaceae. "Sutilli". Ornamental; leaves for roofing and
wrapping.

Helicostylis elegans (MacBr.) C.C.Berg. Moraceae. "Misho chaqui". Seed edible

cooked (VAG).

Helicostylis scabra (Macbr.) C.C.Berg. Moraceae. "Misho chaqui". Fruit edible

(RVM). "Makuna" use latex for intestinal parasites, though believing the plant POISON
(SAR). "Puiiaves" paint the latex onto fungal infections (SAR).

Helicostylis tomentosa (Poepp. & Endl.) Rusby. Moraceae. "Misho chaqui". Seed
edible roasted or cooked. Inner bark used as an hallucinogen; in experimental rats, the
effects are similar to symptoms produced by Cannabis (SAR).

Heliotropium curmsavicum L. Boraginaceae. "Alacran", "Seaside heliotrope".

Leaf decoction applied externally as antiseptic vulnerary, internally for rheumatism.
Powdered branches used for hemorrhoids (FEO). For eczema, gonorrhea, kidneystones
(RAW.
9 Heliotropium indicurn L. Boraginaceae. "Alacransillo", "Ihuin rao" , "Ucullucui
sacha". Around Pucallapa, used for scorpion stings and rheumatism (VDF). Elsewhere
regarded as abortifacient (and ironically antiabortive), anodyne, astringent, diuretic,
emmenagogue, emollient, pectoral, stomachic, and vulnerary; used for aftosa, asthma,
boils, bugbites, calculus, cough, dennatoses, eczema, erysipelas, fever, furuncle,
hyperuricemia, inflammation, itch, kidney stones, laziness, leprosy, myalgia, nephritis,
ophthalmia, pharyngitis, rheumatism, scabies, sores, tumors, and warts (DAW). Folk
remedy for cancer that contains an antitumor compound, indicine-N-oxide (JAD).

Helosis cayennensis (Sw.) Spruce. Balanophoraceae. "Mai toco". Juices used as

an antiecchymotic and antiinflammatory around Pucallpa (VDF).

Helosis cf guyannensis L.C.Rich. Balanophoraceae. "Aguajillo". Common around

Explorama, believed to be a good hemostat (JAD, SAR). Amazonians value the decoction
for diarrhea and dysentery (SAR).

Hemarthria altissima (Poir.) Stapf & Hubb. Poaceae. "Gram playa". Forage
(RVM).

Herrania nitida (Poepp.) R.E.Schultes. Sterculiaceae. "Cacahuillo". Fruits edible

(RVM). "Karijona" use roasted seed for stomachache (SAR).

Heteropsisjenmannii Oliv. Araceae. "Tamshi", "Tamshi delgado". The strong and

flexible roots are used for different kinds of bindings, but mainly to tie together the wooden
structures in the local houses. Also used in making baskets, purses, and other handicrafts
(RVM). (Fig. 117)
 Fig. 116. Helianthus annuus ( P K D )

Fig. 1 17. Heteropsis jenmannii (GAV)

Fig. 118. Hevea brasiliensis (GAV)

 Heteropsis oblongifolia Kunth. Araceae. "Tamshi". The roots are used for
handicrafts, and to bind the columns of rustic houses (RVM).

Heteropsis spruceana Schott. var. spruceana. Araceae. "Tamshi". As the previous

species. A similar species is used in Brazil's Tapajos region in teas for asthma.

Heteropsis sp. Araceae. "Tamshi", "Tamshi canastero". Mainly used in basketry.

Hevea brmiliensis (Willd. ex A. Juss.) Muel1.-Arg. Euphorbiaceae. "Shiringa",

"Jebe d6bil fino", "Sernambi", "Rubber".Latex for rubber production. Cooked seeds are
edible. The rubber provided by Hevea species cannot be matched by synthetic rubber for
some applications; high quality tires require 40% natural rubber on radial tires, to 95 % in
space vehicles (RVM). According to Plotkin, Amazonian Indians not only ate the seeds but
the "dipped their feet in the latex and dried them over the fire, thus creating the first
custom-made sneakers" (MJP). (Fig. 118)

Hevea guianensis Aubl. Euphorbiaceae. "Shiringa", "Shiringa amarilla", "Jebe

entre fino". Latex for rubber (RVM). Some Indians drink the latex to make them strong
(SAR). "Waorani" use to treat infections following bites of the warble fly (SAR). Cooked
seed edible (VAG).

Hevea pauciflora (Spruce ex Benth.). Muell.-Arg. var. coriacea Ducke.

Euphorbiaceae. "Shiringa", "Shiringa maposa". Latex harvested, mainly to bulk with the
more desirable latices of other species. Cooked seed edible (VAG).

P Hibiscus mutabilis L. Malvaceae. "Flor variable", "Cotton rose". Cultivated

ornamental (RVM). Elsewhere, considered alexiteric, anodyne, demulcent, emollient,
expectorant, and pectoral; used for abscesses, bums, cancer, cough, dysuria, fever,
fistulae, inflammation, menorrhagia, snakebite, sores, swellings, and tumors (DAW).

9 Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. Malvaceae. "Rosa china", "Chineserose", "Cucarda".

Cultivated ornamental. The main "Crble" remedy for pulmonary diseases. The flowers,
with leaves of Lantana camara, Justiciapectoralis, Ocimum micranthum, stems and leaves
from Macfadenya ungis-cati, plus some fat, sugar, and a spoonful of rum, makes an
antitussive tea for flu (GMJ). Flower extracts said to have antifertility effects (SAR).

Hibiscus sabdarira L. Malvaceae. "Rosella", Roselle". Brazilians poultice the

leaves, mashed in salt and alcohol, onto wounds, especially streptococcus-infected wounds
(erysipelas), which they call "isipla" on the Rio Tapajos (BDS). (They also apply the red-
spotted tree frog to such wounds.) (Fig. 119)

Hibiscus schizopetalus (Masters) Hook. f. Malvaceae. "Campanilla", "Coral

hibiscus", "Japaneselantern".Cultivated ornamental (RVM). Elsewhere used for colds,
coughs and eye ailments (DAW).

Hieronima alchornoides F.Allen. Euphorbiaceae. "Palo de sangre", "Piiiaquiro

colorado". Wood for lumber, use for construction in general, and for parquets (RVM).
Seed oil vermifuge (SAR).

Hieronima sp. Euphorbiaceae. "Mojarra caspi". Wood for lumber, used for
construction of interiors.
 Himatanthus lancifolia (Muel1.-Arg) Woods. Apocynaceae. "Socoban. Bark
decoction used for fever near Pucallpa (VDF).

Himatanthus sucuuba (Spruce) Woods. Apocynaceae. "Bellaco caspi". Latex

poulticed onto hernias and lumbar pains; also used to treat tumors; bark for gastric ulcers
(RVM). "Tikuna" apply fresh latex to wounds (SAR). "Karijona" apply powdered bark to
recalcitrant sores (SAR). "Waorani" rub the latex over larvae of botfly infections (SAR).
Brazilians use bark tea for asthma, coughs, tuberculosis; latex for worms (BDS), fever,
rheumatism (RAR).(Fig. 120)

Homolepis aturensis (HBK) Chase. Poaceae. "Torurco", "Colch6n quihua".

Forage grass common in pastures (RAF).

Huberodendron swietenioides (Gleason) Ducke. Bombacaceae. "Aguano masha".

Wood for lumber, interior decorations, veneer.

Humiria balsamifera (Aubl.) St. Hill. Humiriaceae. " Chamisa", "Parinarillo" ,

"Quinilla negra" , "Loro shungo". The wood is used for heavy construction; dormers, jam
posts for bridges, posts, forked poles (most used (after "balatillo") in house construction
around J. Herrera zone, along the Rio Pucallpa) (RVM). Cultivated by the "Karaja" for
its edible fruit. Bark infusion used for amebic dysentery (RVM). "Palikur" soak cotton in
bark decoction for toothache; decoction also used for erysilepas (GMJ). Fruits eaten by
Indians (SAR). "Barasanan apply powdered bark to cuts and wounds (SAR). Expectorant,
used for gonorrhea and worms (RAR). Contains the antiinflammatory bergenin (JBH).
(Fig. 121)

Humiriartrum cuspidatum (Benth.) Cuatr. Humiriaceae. "Manchariblanco" .Wood

for construction of rural houses; decks, and columns.

Humirimtrum excelsum (Ducke) Cuatr. Humiriaceae. "Ucho mullaca",

"Manchari". The wood is used in heavy contruction, jam posts for bridges, dormers, etc.

Hura crepitans L. Euphorbiaceae. "Catahua", "Catahua blanca", "Catahua

amarilla". Wood is used for interior decorations, plywood veneers, small boats, and shafts
for floating houses. Latex caustic, sometimes used for fish POISON, even to POISON
anacondas (AYA) and insects (DAW). In order to cut the tree, it is necessary to peel the
bark ahead of time. It is said that in the old days, they used to dry the small reservoirs by
pouring some liters of latex in the water. Some natives use the seeds as a laxative. The
"Palikur", and "WayHpi" use latex as POISON (GMJ). (Fig. 122)

Hydrocotyle ranunculoides L.f. Apiaceae. "Oreja sacha". Sometimes used as an

ornamental in ponds.

Hydrocotyle urnbellulata L. Apiaceae. "Matteclu". Leaf decoction cholagogue,

depurative, for fever and headache, externally applied as ocular decongestant (FEO).

Hymenachne amplexicaulis (Rudge) Nees. Poaceae. "Gramalote negro". Forage

(for small "antelopes").

Hymenachne donacifolia (Raddi) Chase. Poaceae. "Gramalote". Forage.

Fig. 123. Hymenuea oblongifolia (GAV)
 Hymenaea courbaril L. Fabaceae. "Algarrobo", "Azucar huayo". Brazilians drink
the sap for cough (BDS). Reportedly useful for cystitis, hepatitis, prostatitis, and
tuberculosis (RAR). Bark tea used for athlete's foot or foot fungus (BDS). "Karaja", like
"Crtbles" take macerated bark for diarrhea (RVM, MJP). Resin in old stumps used for
tinder (MJP).

Hymenaea oblongifoliaHuber. Fabaceae. "Anicar huayo". Woodused for lumber,

general construction, decorative plaques. Bark decoction or tincture used for rheumatism,
arthritis, and diarrhea. Powdery fruit pulp edible, made into beverages (RVM). "Yukuna"
paint the resin on fungal infections (SAR). Resin used as incense, and in varnishes. Fruit
resin used as purgative. The bark decoction is recommended as a vermifuge (RVM). (Fig.
123)

Hymenaea palustris (Ducke) Lee & Langenh. Fabaceae. "Amahuaca", "Anicar

huayo". Somewhat as the previous species. Resin used for torches. For headache (RAR).

Hymenaea reticulata Ducke. Fabaceae. "Anicar huayo". Similar uses as H.

oblongifolia

Hymenolobium sp. Fabaceae. "Mari mari". The wood is used for forked poles,
posts, jam posts for bridges, parquets and handicrafts.

Hyparrhenia rufa (Nees) Stapf. Poaceae. "Pasto yaragua". Forage grass.

Hyptis brevipes Poit. Lamiaceae. " T i p " . Used for gastritis and inflammation
around Pucallpa (VDF).

Hyptis capitata Jacq. Coll. Lamiaceae. "Cadi110 cabezon". Used in Ecuador for
fungal infections (in Taiwan for asthma, colds, fever), the aerial parts contain the
antioxidant rosmarinic acid, oleanolic-acid, and ursolic acid, stigmasterol, 10-epi-olguine,
and 2,3-di(3',4'-methylenedioxybenzy1)-2-butenlide, a lignan, and apigenin-4',7'-
dimethyl-ether. No alkaloids. Crude extracts showed little fungicidal or insecticidal activity.
(PC 30(8):2753-6. 1991).

9 Hyptis mutabilis (Rich) Brig. Lamiaceae. "Albaca cimarrona", "Barin rao",

"Matapasto", "Ovena micuna" , "Soro sacha". Infusion considered soporific and antipyretic
(VDF). Also used to avoid bad luck, mixed with Petiveria alliacea. "Crhles" use this as
a vermifuge for infants (GMJ). Argentinans use as abortive (EAP).

Hptis recurvata Poit. Lamiaceae. "Albaquilla". The leaves are used in baths by
the "Boras" to reduce fever (DAT).
 Ichnanthus pallens (Sw.) Munro ex Benth. Poaceae. "Nudillo". Forage grass.

Ichthyothere terminalis (Spreng.) Malme. Asteraceae. "Dictamo real", Galicosa",

"Jarilla". Juice or solar tea of leaves used to wash sores (BDS).

0 Ilex guayusa Loes. Aquifoliaceae. "Guayusa". Cultivated. In Piura the leaf

decoction, considered antipyretic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, and cholagogue, is used to treat
venereal diseases and female sterility (FEO). Leaf infusion used by the "Achuales" as an
emetic. Women get up early in the morning and prepare the infusion in the biggest pot
available; then everyone, including the children, drinks as much as they can, and minutes
later they all start vomiting. They do this to clean body and spirit; bad things they have
consumed the day before are eliminated, to start a new day with clean body and renewed
spirit (RVM). Amazonian Ecuadorians drink guayusa to settle nerves and to prevent the
ayahuasca hangover. Also believed useful in aphrodisia, dysmenorrhea, fever, hepatosis,
malaria, pregnancy, stomach problems, syphilis, and perhaps other venereal diseases
(SAR). (Fig. 124)

0 Impatiens b a l m i n a L. Balsaminaceae. "Trujillo", "Trujillo amarillo".

Ornamental. Said to be POISONOUS for pigs (RVM). Elsewhere, considered antidotal,
astringent, cathartic, cyanogenetic, diuretic, emetic, fungicidal, laxative, refrigerant,
resolvent, stomachic and vulnerary; used for cancer, caries, dysmenorrhea, dysphagia,
headache, inflammation, labor, lumbago, neuralgia, POISON, polyps, snakebite, sores,
stasis and wounds (DAW, RAR).

Imperata tenuis Hack. Poaceae. "Grama dulce", "Colch6n quihua". For forage.
When young, this plant is used to stuff mattresses. Rhizome infusion is diuretic (RVM).

Indigofera sufiuticosa Mill. Fabaceae. "Aiiil " , "Indigo". Root decoction used to
clean infected wounds. Seeds used by the "Aztecas" to treat urinal problems and ulcers;
leaves poulticed on forehead for fever. Plant used for syphilis. Also said to be antipyretic,
vulnerary, purgative, antispasmodic, diuretic, for upset stomach; favorite local remedy for
epilepsy (PCS). In Ambo cream of indigo mixed with vinegar for scorpion bites (SOU).

Inga alba (Sw.) Willd. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruits edible. Good firewood.

Inga altissima Ducke. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Wood for rural construction.

Inga aria Benth. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible; wood for firewood.

Inga bourgonii (A.) DC. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga brachyrachis Harms. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Wood for rural construction.

Inga ciliata C.Prest. Fabaceae. "Pairajo de altura". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga cinnamomea Sp. ex Benth. Fabaceae. "Vaca paleta". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga coruscans H.&B. ex Will. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

 93

Inga dumosa Benth. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". As I. alba.

lnga edulis Mart. Fabaceae. "Guaba", "Ice cream bean". Cultivated fruit tree,
the white pulp around the seeds eaten. (Fig. 125)

Inga feullei DC. Fabaceae. "Pacay". Cultivated fruit tree.

.
Inga gracilifolia Ducke. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo" Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga heterophylla Willd. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga ingoides (Rich) Willd. Fabaceae. "Guabilla". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga killipiana F.Mcbr. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga klugii Sty. F.Mcbr. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga lullensis Spr. ex Benth. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga laterijlora Miq. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible. (VAG).

Inga leiocalycina Benth. Fabaceae. "Rosario shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga lineata Benth. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

lnga longipes Benth. Fabaceae. "Rosca pacae". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga lopadenia Harms. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga macrophylla H.B. W. Fabaceae. "Pacae", "Pacay". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga marginata Willd. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga rnathewsiana P.&E. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga minutula (S.) T.E. Fabaceae. "Guabilla". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga multijuga Benth. Fabaceae. "Tabla shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga myriantha P.&E. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga nobilis Willd. Fabaceae. "Yacu shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga obidensis Ducke. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga oerstediana Benth. Fabaceae. "Guabilla". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga pekdenia Harm. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Wood for rural construction.

Inga pilosula (Rich) Mcbr. Fabaceae. "Purma shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).
 Inga plumifera Spr. ex Benth. Fabaceae. "Coto shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga poeppigiana Benth. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga pruriens Poepp. Fabaceae. "Huapo shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga punctata Willd. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

lnga quaternata Poepp. Fabaceae. "Pairajo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga ruiziana G.Don. Fabaceae. "Rufindi". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga salmanniana Benth. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga santaremnensis Ducke. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga semialata Martius. Fabaceae. "Poroto shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga spectabilis (Vh) Willd. Fabaceae. "Pacae colombiano". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga splendens Wills. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga stenocarpa Benth. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga strigillosa Spr. ex Benth. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga thibaudiana DC. Fabaceae. "Rufinde", "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

lnga tocacheana D .Simp. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga tomentosa Benth. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga tessmannii Harms. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga umbellifea (M.Vh1) Std. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo H.menudaW.Fruit edible

(VAG).

Inga villosissima Benth. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Inga virescens Benth. Fabaceae. "Shimbillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam. Convolvulaceae. "Camote", "Sweet potato".

Cultivated. The tubers are edible. Various cultivars can be distinguished by: color of
tubers, flowers, or buds, and shape of leaves (RVM). Elsewhere considered alterative,
aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericide, demulcent, fungicide, and laxative; used for asthma,
bugbites, burns, catarrh, ciguatera, diarrhea, fever, kidneys, nausea, scorpion stings,
splenitis, stomach problems, and tumors (DAW).

Ipomoea carnea Jacq. spp.fistulosa (Roem. & Schult.) Austin. Convolvulaceae.

" "Algodonbravo", Campanilla morada", "Camote caspi". Cultivatedornamental. Purgative
(RAN.
 Fig. 124. llex guayusa (SAR)

Fig. 127. Iryanthera paraensis (SAR)

Fig. 126. Zriartea deltoidea (GAV)

 Ipomoea quamoclit L. Convolvulaceae. "Enredadera". Cultivated ornamental
(RVM). Elsewhere, considered anodyne, cyanogenic, detergent, purgative and sternutatory,
used for carbuncles, catarrh, piles, snakebites and sores (DAW).

Iriartea deltoidea R.& P. Arecaceae. "Huacrapona", "Bamg6nN, "Camona",

"Cosho", "Stilt palm". The shaft, much heavier than that of Socratea, is slatted in strips
for the construction of floors of rural houses; for parquets, and for gutters in the sugar
mills; also used as an improvised canoe (RVM). Used in some types of "Rompe Calzon",
a popular aphrodisiac. (Fig. 126 and Fig. 2-Introduction)

Iriartella setigera (Mart.) H. Wendl. Arecaceae. "Ponilla". Stems used in

construction as dividers, also to build movable platforms, etc. From the stems they make
blowguns (MJB).

Irlbachia alatus (Aubl.) Maas. Gentianaceae. "Amaraguna", "Campanita del

camp", "Tabaco bravo", "Uiia de tigre". "Kubeos" take tea of the roots and leaves for
stomachache caused by tainted food (SAR). "Witotos" use with Senna for fungal infections,
sometimes adding pulverized root to coca ash. Pulverized leaves and flowers placed in
clothes and bedding to discourage insects (SAR). "Chami" chew and swallow the leaves
as a pain killer. Leaf decoction with lemon used for fever and colics (RVM). The "Palikur"
prepare a bile remedy from the salty decoction, known for its bitterness (GMJ).

Iryanthera elliptica Ducke. Myristicaceae. "Cumala colorada". Aril consumed

cooked (VAG).

Iryanthera grandis Ducke. Myristicaceae. "Cumala colorada". Wood for interiors

(RVM).

Iryanthera juruensis Warb. Myristicaceae. "Cumala colorada". Wood for

construction of interiors (RVM). "Puinave" and "Waorani" rub the inner bark and/or resin
onto fungal infections (SAR). Aril eaten cooked (VAG).

Iryanthera laevis Markgraf. Myristicaceae. "Cumala colorada". Wood for interior

construction.

Iryanthera hncifolia Ducke. Myristicaceae. "Cumala colorada". Wood for timber;

arils edible.

Iryanthera paraemis Huber. Myristicaceae. "Cumala colorada". The fruit has

edible arils (RVM). "Waorani" rub the inner bark and/or resin onto fungal infections and
mites (SAR). (Fig. 127)

Iryanthera tessmannii Markgraf. Myristicaceae. "Cumala colorada". Wood for

interior construction (RVM). Bark used for diarrhea around Iquitos (SAR).

Iryanthera tricornis Ducke. Myristicaceae. " Cumala colorada", "Pucuna caspi",

"Cumala capironam.Wood for lumber. Good for firewood. From the branches they make
blowguns as with other Iryanthera (RVM).

Iryanthera ulei Warb. Myristicaceae. "Cumala colorada". Fruit edible (RVM).

Resin applied to roof of mouth for "patco" (=thrush according to some people, not thrush;
more like a sticky sore throat according to others) (SAR). "Secoya" used bark as aromatic
arm bands (SAR). "Taiwano" mix bark ash with clay in pottery making (SAR).

Ischnosiphon arouna (Aubl.) Koern. Marantaceae. "Bijao". Stems used in making

baskets and handicrafts, leaves used to wrap food.

Ischnosiphon obliquus (Rudge) Koern. Marantaceae. "Bijao", "Bombonaje sacha".

Stems used by the "Boras" to press cassava; also used in making baskets and handicrafts,
especially flower vases and in flower arrangements; leaves used to wrap food (RVM).

Ischnosiphon puberulus var. verruculosus (Macbr.) Anderss. Marantaceae.

"Huasca bijao". Stems used in making rustic baskets (RVM).

9 Isertia hypoleuca Benth. Rubiaceae. "Azar quiro". Some ranchers let it grow in
the pastures to provide shade for cattle (RVM). Around Iquitos, leaf tea, with papaya
leaves, used for dysmenorrhea (SAR). "Tikuna" use the bark for malaria. "Taiwano" drink
hot diaphoretic leaf tea for fever (SAR). Hartwell mentions its use for tumors (JLH).
Leaves contain alpha-amyrin, sitosterol and taraxasterol (SAR). (Fig. 128)

Zsotoma longiflora (L.) T . Vimm. Campanulaceae. "Flor de sapo", "Frog's

flower". Cultivated ornamental. Considered POISONOUS for domestic animals (RVM).
Mexicans use for asthma, bronchitis, epilepsy, rheumatism and venereal ailments, Chinese
for cancer and snakebite (DAW).

0 Lxora chinensis Lam. Rubiaceae. "Bouquet de novia", Bride's bouquet".

Cultivated ornamental. Chinese use for bruises, extravasation, pregnancy and stomachache
(DAY.

Q Lxora coccinea L. Rubiaceae. "Bouquet de novia", "Jungle flame". Cultivated

ornamental (RVM). Elswehere considered anodyne, antiseptic, apertif, astringent, sedative
and stomachic; used for bronchitis, catarrh, diarrhea, dysentery, dysmenorrhea, fever,
gonorrhea, headache, hemoptysis, hiccups, leucorrhea, and sores (DAW).

Lxoraflnlanysoniana Wall. Rubiaceae. "Bouquet de novia". As an ornamental.

11 Fig. 128. Isetia hypoleuca (SAR)

 Jacaranda acutifolia Humb. & Bonpl. Bignoniaceae. "Arabisco", "Yaravisco".
Leaf decoction, diuretic and vulnerary, used as urogenital antiseptic (FEO). Used for
dermatosis, gangrene, sores (RAR).

Jacaranda copaia Aubl. ssp. spectabilis A. Gentry. Bignoniaceae. "Asphingo",

"Chichicara caspi" , "Huamanzamana", "Ishtapi", "Jacaranda", "Mami rao" , "Meneco",
"Paravisco", "Soliman". Wood for light construction; to make furniture, pulp for paper,
beams and decks (RVM). Pucallpa natives use the leaf decoction for bronchitis, fever,
rheumatism (VDF). "Andoke" use crushed leaves as a cicatrizant on wounds (SAR). Rio
Vaupes natives use shredded bark in teas for colds and pneumonia, the sap for skin
infections (SAR). Elsewhere considered cathartic and emetic PAW). Brazilians believe
burning the leaves and bark will keep illness and mosquitoes away. Also used for sores,
syphylis, and toothache (dental abscesses) (RAR). "Crhles" and "Maroons" use it for
leishmaniasis (MJP). (Fig. 129)

Jacaranda macrocarpa Bur. & K. Schum. Bignoniaceae. "Solimb del monte",

"Huamanzamana del varillal". Wood used for rural construction.

Jacaratia digitata (Poepp. & Endl.) Solms-Laubach. Caricaceae. "Papaya caspi ",
"Papaya del venado", "Shamburi", "Tree papaya". Latex used as cicatrizant and
vermifuge. Fruits edible cooked. Some farmers prune the plants for Coleoptera to lay eggs,
so they can harvest the larvae. "Campas" use the tree as a blind, when they hunt large
animals (RVM). (Fig. 130)

Jacqueshuberia loretensis Cowan. Fabaceae. "Pashaquillacolorada". Planted close

to houses as an ornamental. (Fig. 131)

Jatropha curcas L. Euphorbiaceae. "Pifi6nR, "Pifi6n blanco", "Physic nut".

Cultivated ornamental, with multiple uses among rural people. Leaf decoction piscicidal;
roasted leaves poulticed on swollen infections; 1-4 raw seeds are used as a laxative, 5-10
seeds mixed with food for constipation. Some people warn that they are too POISONOUS
for internal consumption (TRA). Keeping leaves in rooms is said to be healthy. Leaf
decoction used to protect the color of stained wood (SOU). "Palikur" use the latex as a
dental analgesic (GMJ). "Tikuna" use crushed leaves in febrifugal baths (SAR). Crushed
leaves with those of Petiveria used to bathe aching heads (SAR). Juice from the petioles
applied in pediatric gingivitis (SAR). Chopped leaves applied externally in rheumatism;
latex used for earache (FEO). Brazilians take the leaf juice, mix sulfur in, and apply to
streptococcus-infectedwounds (erysipelas) (BDS). Seeds yield an excellent industrial oil.
(Fig. 132)

Jatropha gossypifolia L. Euphorbiaceae. "Piii6n negro", "Black physic nut".

Cultivated. Latex used as a cicatrizant for infected wounds and erysipelas (BDS). Seeds
contain oil and have purgative and emetic properties. The leaf decoction is used for
venereal diseases as blood purifier, and as an emetic for stomachache. The roots are used
as antidote to Hippomane mancinella and Guarea guara. The latex is used for hemorrhoids
and bums. The leaves are poulticed onto swellings (PEA, SOU). Leaf tea used in baths for
flu in Brazil (BDS). Mashed leaves poulticed onto headache (RAR). "Crhles" use seed oil
and leaf decoction as a purge; "Palikur" and "Wayiipi" use against witchcraft (GMJ).
Another example of a reputedly POISONOUS folk cancer remedy containing compounds
with antitumor activity, e.g. jatrophone (CRC).

Jatropha macrantha M. Arg. Euphorbiaceae. "Huanarpo macho". Tincture of

young male branches taken as aphrodisiac (FEO).

Jessenia bataua (Mart.) Burret ssp. bataua. Arecaceae. "Hungurahui",

"Ungurahui". Fruit edible fresh or in the beverage "hungurahuina", popsicles, and
lollypops. Leaves used to roof houses and to make baskets. Stem used for rural
construction; cut stems provide the "suris" (or coleopterous larvae), valued as food by the
Amamnians. Fruit oil used as hair tonic, liniment, and laxative (RVM). "Ashuar" use the
aerial roots for hepatitis (NIC). Mesocarp fruit may contain >50 % oil, physically and
chemically similar to olive oil. The main component fatty acids are oleic 77.7 %, palmitic
13.2 %, stearic 3.246, and linoleic 2.7 % (RVM). The protein comes closer to animal protein
than does soy (MJB). Blowgun darts are made from the petiole, arrowheads and bows from
the trunk. "Boras" use leaves for baskets, roofs, room dividers, and chicken coops.
"Guahibo" from Colombia and Venezuela use the oil for tuberculosis, asthma, cough, and
other respiratory problems (RVM). "Waorani" use the adventitious roots for diarrhea,
gastrosis, headache, and worms (SAR). (Fig. 133)

Juanulloa ochracea Cuatr. Solanaceae. "Azul", "Cuya cuya", "Pishco isma

colorado". Mixed with other plants by "ayahuasqueros" (RVM). "Karijona" use the dried
leaves of the epiphyte for earache and magic (SAR). "Siona" use to treat wounds (SAR).

Justicia brandegeana Wasshausen & L.B. Smith. Acanthaceae. "Camaroncillo".

Cultivated ornamental.

Justicia pectoralis Jacq. Acanthaceae. "Lluichu lancetilla", "Pinipisan "Yoman

rao". "Boras" use it for antipyretic baths (DAT). Putumayo natives probably add this to
the bark of Virola;the natives from Orinoco (Venezuela), and from Rio Negro (Brazil) use
the leaves of var. stenophylla as an additive to powdered Virola for inhaling. (contains N,
N-dimethyltryptamine, betaine, coumarin, umbelliferone) (SAR). "Crhles" apply leaf
maceration externally to hematomas; leaf infusion bechic and pectoral. "Wayiipi" use
decoction for stomachache (GMJ). Pucallpa natives use the decoction for fever, gastritis
and inflammation (VDF). Amazonian Colombians value the decoction for pneumonia
(SAR). Leaf and stem vapors inhaled for fever, headache, and pain (RAR). Listed as
aromatic, aphrodisiac, narcotic (RAR). (Fig. 134)
 Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers. Crassulaceae. "Hoja de aire", "Air plant",
"Paichecara". Cultivated ornamental and medicinal plant. Crushed leaves mixed with
aguardiente for fever and headache. Crushed stems and leaves are soaked in water and left
outside overnight; the next morning they drink this water for heartburn and internal fever.
This same mix, with wet starch, is used for urinal tract inflammation (urethritis). A few
drops of the extracted juice from the fresh leaves mixed with maternal milk is used for
earache. "Crhles" use the lightly roasted leaves for mycosis and inflammations. The
infusion of the fresh or dried plant is well known as an antipyretic. "Palikur" mix leaf juice
with oil from coconut or Carapa to rub on head for migraines (GMJ). Leaves contain
malic, citric, and isocitric acid, as well as rutin and quercetin. The leaf extract is active
against bacteria (gram positive), because of bryophylline. Mashed and macerated leaves are
poulticed onto headaches; the juice with a pinch of salt is used for bronchitis, and to
cicatrize ulcers or sores, and to clear eye irritations (RVM). "Siona" apply heated leaves
to boils (SAR). Rio Pastaza natives used leaf tea for broken bones and internal bruises
(SAR). Peruvians drink the decoction for intestinal upsets (SAR). (Fig. 135)

Fig. 135. Kalanchoe pinnata (GAV)

 Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet. Fabaceae. "Zarandeja", "Lablab bean". Seeds
edible cooked (VAG).

Lacistema aggregatum (Berg) Rusby Flacourtiaceae. "Trompo huayo". Wood for

house construction; for malaria, rheumatism (RAR).

Lacmellea arborescens ( M .A.) Monachino. var. peruviana (V.Hev. & M . Arg.)

Monachino. Apocynaceae. "Chicle huayo", "Chicle".Fruit edible (RVM).

Lacmellea floribunda (Poepp.) Benth. Apocynaceae. "Chicle huayo" , "Chicle".

Fruit edible (RVM).

Lacmellea lactescens (Kuhlmann) Markgraf. Apocynaceae. "Chicle huayo". Fruit

edible (RVM). When lacking coca, "Bora" and "Witoto" mix the toasted powdered leaves
with Cecropia ashes as a substitute (SAR). (Fig. 136)

Lactuca sativa L. Asteraceae. "Lechuga", "Lettuce". Cultivated. As garden

vegetable.

Lacunaria sp. Quiinaceae. "Sacha guayaba". Fruit edible (VAG).

Ladenbergia magnifolia (R.&P.) Kl. Rubiaceae. "Cascarilla", "Cascarilla verde".

Bark infusion taken for malaria.

Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standley. Cucurbitaceae. "Calabaza" , "Poto-pate",

"White-floweredgourd".Cultivated. Fruit edible (RAR). The shell of the fruit is used as
a container, and to make musical instruments (RVM). For nephritis (RAR). (Fig. 137)

Lagerstroemia indica L. Lythraceae. "Locura", "Crepe myrtle". Cultivated

ornamental.

0 Lantana camara L. Verbenaceae. "Aya albaca", "Tunchi albacan, "Hierba de la

maestranza", "Yellow sage". The vapors from the decoction of the leaves mixed with
Ocimum micranthum are used to clear respiratory passageways. The leaf decoction, mixed
with onion, garlic, and bee honey, for cough and bronchitis. Dried leaves used to cleanse.
Suggested for arterial hypertension. Root antiasthmatic and pectoral. (Decoction of 10 g
root with 250 g water, or a mixture of 40 g root in 800 g water with enough sugar to
obtain syrup.) Leaf decoction used to treat rheumatism and as a stomach tonic (SOU). Leaf
decoction used for upset stomach and colds. In El Salvador, leaf decoction used to reduce
fever, roots as blood purifiers, and for hepatoses. The flowers and roots are used as
expectorant, and to treat bronchitis. The infusion of the entire plant is an emmenagogue,
and an antiseptic (GAB, PCS). Used in Brazil as an antirheumatic in baths, emmenagogue,
and diaphoretic. It is popular to rub anemic children with it. In Pedra Azul, Brazil,
recommended for cough. A good antipyretic because it contains lantanine (considered a
substitute for quinine), which is effective, especially when quinine does not work. Leaf
decoction used for rheumatism. Vapors are useful with mycoses. Pwple from Santa
Catarina, Brazil, consider the leaf infusion tonic, sudorific, expectorant, and emollient,
easing pain of the respiratory passageways. "Exurnas" use boiled leaves to sooth the itch
caused by measles and chickenpox; drinking the tea it said to remove spots from the skin.
The "Cuna" use the entire plant in cold water baths for anemic children (RVM). "Crhles"
use the leaf infusion, alone or mixed with other plants. "Wayiipi" use it for sedative baths,
or to make tea; the "Palikur" mix it with the leaves of Hedychium coronarium, in baths,
and to make tea. The decoction constitutes a specific antipyretic for infants (GMJ).

0 Lantana canescens H.B.K. Verbenaceae. "Canirca". Peruvians consider digestive,

emmenagogue (RAR); Brazilians use the leaf tea for stomachache (BDS).

0 Lantana trifolia L. Verbenaceae. "Aya machana", "Lauraimena", "Siete

colores","Tunchi albaca", "Yona rao". Though its fruits are very small, they are eaten by
children. Leaf decoction used for colds and bronchial diseases. Infusion used in antipyretic
baths around Pucallpa (VDF), and to relieve headaches; the alcoholic maceration of the
leaves sweetened with bee honey is an expectorant. In Palmira (Valle), women use the
decoction of the flowers and leaves to regulate menstrual periods, drinking one portion a
day; roots famous as antibechics; flowers make a good uterine tonic (GAB). Natives of
Colgedes use the infusion of the roots and flowers as cleansing baths for bad luck. When
the body temperature drops suddenly, they leave the infusion outside overnight in order to
obtain a stronger curative effect. "Cuna" use the infusion for mycosis between the toes, the
root decoction for oral hemorrhages (RVM). "Jivaro" chew the leaves to blacken the teeth
(SARI.

Laportea aestuans (L.) Chew. Urticaceae. "Ishanga blanca", "White nettle".

Commonly used to relieve rheumatic pains, and to whip children when they misbehave.
Used by the "Crhles" as a diuretic (GMJ). Elsewhere used for bums, constipation,
dysentery, rickets, and wounds (DAW).

Lecythis chartacea Berg. Lecythidaceae. "Cachimbo", "Machimango colorado".

Wood used for posts, poles, and firewood.

Lecythis peruviana L.O. Williams. Lecythidaceae. "Machimango colorado".

Lumber, fiber and ropes.

Lecythis pisonis Cambs. Lecythidaceae. "Castaiia de monte". Wood for heavy

construction, posts,and forked poles. Seeds edible. (Fig. 138)

Leonia crassa Smith & Fernandez. Violaceae. "Tamara blanca". Ripe fruits used
as a fishbait.

Leonia glycicalpa R.& P. Violaceae. "Tamara", "Nina caspi". The fresh leaves
left in the sun or lightly warmed, are poulticed, as an emollient, for abscesses, tumors, and
phlegm. Fruit pulp used for hemorrhoids, seeds for pulmonary diseases (RVM).

Lepidocaryum tessmannii Burret. Arecaceae. "Irapay" , "Thatch palm". Leaves

used to make "crisnejas", (a bunch of leaves interweaved and tied to a slat of Socratea
exorrhiza), which are used to roof the houses; its use is so common as to be
commercialized around Iquitos. Said to last 5-6 years (cf 1 year for Carludovica). Took
two men ca two months to do the 500,000 fronds for the roof of the hammock house
(upper) at Explorama. L. gracile is used by the "Boras" to clear eye infections; for this
they roast the stems to soften, and the juice is squeezed in the eyes; as good as an
antibiotic (MJB). (Fig. 139 and Fig. 2-Introduction)
Fig. 136. Lacmellea lactescens (GAV)

Fig. 137. Lugenaria siceraria (IIC)

ig. 138. Lecythis pisonis (GAV)

 Leptochloa dubia Nees. Poaceae. "Nudillo", "Greensprangle top".Forage grass.

Leptochloa filiformis (Lam.) Beauv. Poaceae. "Grama dulce" , "Nudillo", "Red

sprangle top". Forage grass. (Fig. 140)

Leptochloa panicoides (Presl) Hitchc. Poaceae. "Grama". Forage grass.

Leptochloa scabra Nees. Poaceae. "Ucsha gramalote". Forage grass.

Leptochloa uninervia (Presl) H.&C. Poaceae. "Nudillo". Forage grass.

Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit. Fabaceae. "Leucaena", "Pashaquilla",

"White popinac". Cultivated ornamental, fixing nitrogen. Contains the depilatory
mimosine. (Fig. 141)

Licania apetala (E. Meyer) Fritsch. Chrysobalanaceae. "Apacharama". Wood for

posts, forked poles, and dormers.

Licania britteniana Fritsch. Chrysobalanaceae. "Apacharama", "Nina caspi".

Wood for posts, forked poles, and dormers.

Licania caudata Prance. Chrysobalanaceae. "Parinari", " Apacharama" . Wood for

posts, forked poles, dormers, beams, and decks.

Licania heteromorpha Benth. var. heteromorpha. Chrysobalanaceae.

"Apacharama", "Casharana". Wood for forked poles, beams, and decks.

Licania lata Macb. Chrysobalanaceae. "Apacharama", "Tinaja caspi". Wood for

forked poles, beams, decks; the ashes of the bark are added to clays used in ceramics
(RVM).

Licania macrocarpa Cuatr. Chrysobalanaceae. "Parinari". Fruit edible.

Licania unguiculata Prance. Chrysobalanaceae. "Apacharama", "Parinari

colorado". Wood for jam posts for bridges, dormers, parquets, pillars, and forked poles
(RVM).

Licaria canella (Meiss.) Kost. Lauraceae. "Muena", "Moena". Wood for

carpentry.

Licaria triandra (Sw) Kost. Lauraceae. "Canela moena". Wood for carpentry and
canoes.

Limnobium laevigatum (Willd.) Heine. Hydrocharitaceae. "Amanso". As an

ornamental plant.

Limnocharisflava Buch. Butomaceae. "Cuchara panga". Sometimes cultivated in

ponds as an ornamental.

Lindackeria paludosa (Benth.) Gilg. Flacourtiaceae. "Huacapusillo", "Casha

huayo", "Iluicho caspi". Wood for forked poles in rural construction.
0 Lindernia crustacea (L.) Muell. Scrophulariaceae. "Aretillon, "Llama plata". The
"Cuna" boil the roots, drinking the decoction twice a day to eliminate intestinal parasites,
especially wonns. Leaf infusion used for rashes in children (RVM). "Crwles" prepare an
infusion for albuminuria; the "Palikur" use the plant decoction as an antipyretic (GMJ).
Considered anthelmintic, antibilious, diuretic, emetic, emmenagogue (RAR).

Lindsaea divaricata KI. Dennstaedtiaceae. "Cilantrilla". Ornamental.

Lindsaea lancea (L.) Bedd. var. falcata (Dry) Rosent. Dennstaedtiaceae.

"Yarinilla", "Culantrillo". Planted as an ornamental. Mashed leaves rubbed on faces of
snakebite victims (RVM).

Lindsaea latifronds Kramer. Dennstaedtiaceae. "Culantrilla". Planted as an

ornamental.

Lippia alba (Mill.) N.E.Br. Verbenaceae. "Pampa orkgano". Curanderos mix with
other plants to bathe patients during magic rituals; also used to relieve vomiting and upset
stomach (RVM). "Crwles" use the leaf infusion with sugar to sooth cardiac pain. The leaf
decoction is relaxant and soporific (GMJ). "Tikuna" wash headache with the crushed leaves
in water (SAR). Mixed with Mentha, leaves are used for diarrhea (SAR). Brazilians use
the leaf tea for stomachache (BDS).

Livistona chinensis (Jacq.) R.Br. Arecaceae. "Fountain palm". Cultivated

ornamental.

Lonchocarpus nicou (Aubl.) DC. Fabaceae. "Barbasco", "CUM", "Rotenone".

Semicultivated. Even though fishing with barbasco or other ichthyotoxics is forbidden, this
plant is still being used in places (RVM). Brazil's "Timbo", at 3 ppm, eliminates piranha
and their eggs in 15 minutes (MJB). "Ketchwa" and "Shuar" use in arrow POISONS
(SAR). Brazilians use L. urucu to kill leaf cutters (SAR).

Lonicera japonica Thunb. Caprifoliaceae. "Madre selva". Cultivated ornamental.

Loreya arborescens (Aubl.) DC. Melastomataceae. "Sacha nisperillo". Fruit edible

(VAG).

Lucuma macrocarpa Hub. Sapotaceae. "Lucma", "Caimito brasilero". Cultivated

fruit tree.

Ludwigia hyssopifolia (G.Don) Exell. Onagraceae. "Chirapa sachan. "Palikur" use

for fever (GMJ).

0 Luffa operculata (L.) Cogn. Cucurbitaceae. "Espongilla", "Spongegourd". Dry

fruit "skeleton", with a sponge consistency, used for cellulitis, etc. Fruit mixed with
Jatropha curcas for sinusitis (RVM). Brazilians use the purgative fruit pulp for dropsy
(SAR), massaging rheumatism with bits of fruit in andiroba oil. Fruit tea somewhat
POISONOUS, ingested for rheumatism (BDS). Considered abortifacient (RAR). Contains
luffanine (SAR).

Luziola subintegra Sw. Poaceae. "Gram". Forage grass especially for water
buffalos.
 Lycopersicum esculentum Mill. Solanaceae. "Tomate", "Tomato". Cultivated
vegetable.

Q Lycopodium cernuum L. Lycopodiaceae. "Shapumba", "Helecho", "Licopodio",

"Club moss". Used with Selaginella as greenery for Christmas nativity displays. Some
pharmacologists recommend it for bladder diseases (SOU). "Crhles" use it against bad
spirits; "Palikur" use the decoction for antipyretic baths, and poisonous spider bites. In
Surinam, lycopods are used as a substitute for tobacco (GMJ). (Some contain nicotine
JAD). In some places they use this plant to stuff pillows. The abundant spores are used in
pharmacy to coat pills and condoms, and can be used as baby powders. Used as a diuretic
for gonorrhea and leucorrhea. The decoction is used for dysentery, and in baths for
arthritic or gouty tumors. Pollen is used as carminative (RVM).

Fig. 139. Lepidocaryum tessmannii (GAV)

Fig. 140. Leptochloa jlgormis WAC)

Fig. 141. Leucaena leucocephala (JAD)

 Mabea nitida Spruce ex Benth. Euphorbiaceae. "Shiringuilla". Wood for beams,
decks, columns, and charcoal (RVM). "Kubeo" rub seed oil into scalp to prevent hair loss
(SAR).

Macfadyena uncata (Andrews) Sprague & Sandw. Bignoniaceae. "Uiia de gato",

" Cat's claw". "Crhles" use leaf infusion as flu preventive (GMJ).

Macjizdyena unguis-cati (L.) A. Gentry. Bignoniaceae. "Cashi tae", "Garra de

Murcielago", "Uiia de gato", "Cat's claw". Around Pucallpa, natives apply leaves to
temples for headache and the fruit infusion for arthritis and rheumatism (VDF). "Crhles"
value the leaf infusion as flu preventive. "Waygpi" use plant in antipyretic baths. "Palikur"
use plant as cough suppressant preparing a decoction with the bark of Tabebuia serratifolia,
and honey (GMJ). Seed oil contains 15% vaccenic acid (JBH).

Machaeriumfloribundum Benth. Fabaceae. "Uiie-gato". Stem decoction used for

diarrhea; sap poulticed onto wounds and indolent sores (RVM).

Maclura tinctoria (L.) Gaud. Moraceae. "Insira", "Insira amarilla". Fruits edible.
Wood occasionally used in carpentry. Cotton soaked in the latex is used to relieve
toothaches. An olive green dye is derived from the plant. Because it contains phloroglucin
and gallic acid, it is probably antiseptic and astringent. Moringin is also antiseptic (AYA).
This species also works as diuretic and anti-venereal. Highly recommended for urinary
infections like blennorrhea. Colombians soak latex in 'cotton' of Ochroma pyramidale or
Ceiba samauma, using it as a filling. Latex removes teeth, whether carious or healthy,
without pain and bleeding (NIC). Used by the "Chami" for 1umber.Considered analgesic,
diuretic, purgative; used for cough, gout, pharyngitis, rheumatism, sore throat, syphilis
(RAN.
Macoubea guianensis Aubl. Apocynaceae. "Loro micuna", "Jarabe huayo".
Timber. Tree used as a blind when hunting game birds (RVM). Fruit pulp edible (SAR).
Latex serves as chewing gum (SAR). Amazonian Brazilians use the latex for lung ailments
(SAR). (Fig. 142)

Macoubea witotorum R. E. Schultes. Apocynaceae. "Amapa". Fruit edible

(RVM).

Macrolobium acaciaefolium (Benth.) Benth. Fabaceae. "Aripari " , " Chavapallana"

"Faveira" , "Pasha quilla", "Pashaco colorado", "Yacu pashaco", "Plata pashaco". Wood
used for canoes, plywood. Bark sometimes used to treat diarrhea (RVM). "Tikuna" dust
ulcerated wounds with powdered leaves (SAR).

Malachra alceifolia Jacq. Malvaceae. "Malva". Leaves used for nephritis and
stomachache (RVM). (Fig. 143)

Malachra capitata L. Malvaceae. "Malva", "Marica". Cultivated. Crushed leaves,

left in water outside overnight, used for stomachache and kidney inflammation (RVM).
Used around Pucallpa for fever and headache (VDF). "Tikuna" use leaf decoction for
colds, fever and stomachache (SAR).
Fig. 144. Malouetia tamaquariM (SAR)
 Malmea diclina R.E.Fr. Annonaceae. "Espintana". Wood used for beams and
decks.

Malouetia tamaquarina (Aubl.) A. DC. Apocynaceae. "Chicle caspi", "Chicle".

An additive to ayahuasca (RVM). "Kubeo", "Puinave" and "Tikuna" paint the vulnerary
latex onto wounds (SAR). Fruits fed to certain birds ("pajuil") render the bones
POISONOUS to dogs (SAR). (Fig. 144)

Malpighia glabra L. Malpighiaceae. "Acerola", Cereso", "Barbados Cheny ".

Cultivated fruit, very high in vitamin C.

Malvaviscuspenduliflorus Cav. Malvaceae. "Cucardacaspi","Malvavisco","Piii6n

ceqeati", "Pepper hibiscus". Cultivated ornamental. Around Pucallpa, used for earache
(VDF). In Brazil used to attenuate noise (RVM). Elsewhere, used for amygdalitis, aphthae,
diarrhea, dysentery, fever and lung ailments (DAW).

Mammea americana L. Clusiaceae. "Mamey", "Mamee apple". Fruit edible

(JAD). In Amazonian Brazil, latex, bark andlor fruit pulp are used for bugbites and
parasitic infections (SAR). Seeds considered antieczemic, febrifuge, insecticide,
parasiticide, vermifuge (RAR). (Fig. 145)

Manettia divaricata Wernham. Rubiaceae. "Yanamuco". "Jivaro" use leaves to

coat their teeth to prevent cavities (SAR).

Manettia glandulosa P.& E. Rubiaceae. "Yanamuco". Pucallpa natives chew

leaves to coat teeth and prevent cavities.

9 Mangifera indica L. Anacardiaceae. "Magua", "Mango", "Mango inherto",

"Mango chico-rico", "Mangua dulce". Cultivated ornamental fruit tree, providing shade
(RVM). "Tikuna" take a cupful of leaf decoction on two successive days during
menstruation as a contraceptive, three days as an abortifacient (SAR). Leaves reportedly
antiviral (SAR). Flower infusion considered antiasthmatic, antitussive, and expectorant
(FEO). Mangiferin is antiseptic (SAR). (Fig. 146)

Manicaria saccifera Gaestn. Arecaceae. "Yarinilla", "Monkey-cap palm".

Immature seeds eaten. In Panama spathes used as hats; leaves for thatch. Fruit eaten by
pigs and other frugivorous mammals. Juice used for colds and asthma (JAD). (Fig. 147)

0 Manihot esculenta Crantz. Euphorbiaceae. "Cassava", "Mandioca", "Yuca".

Cultivated. Many cultivars are morphologically different, and vary in cyanide content.
Some are quite POISONOUS (JAD)! The edible roots yield farina, tapioca, and starch.
Roots are used cooked, fried, roasted, and in other culinary applications. Also used to
make the popular alcoholic refreshments, "mazatto", and "beshu", as well as a gelatinous
beverage. Only "cassaba brava", is used to make farina. A poultice of cassava mixed with
aguardiente, is used for chills and fever (RVM). "Crhles" apply to a child's body a
mixture of starch and rum to relieve cutaneous eruptions. "Waygpi" use leaves as a
"remedy against the arrow", also in hemostatic poultice. They use root juice in ritual baths
to treat sterility in women. The "Palikur" use the starch in poultice soaked in oil of Carapa
sp. for tender muscles (GMJ). "Makuna" use the yuca water to treat scabies (SAR).
"Witoto" used the leachings from cyanidiferous yuca as a fish POISON (SAR). A cupful
of sweet squeezings is given for diarrhea (SAR).
 americana (IIC)

Fig. 146. Mangiyera indica (GAV)

Manicaria saccifera (GAV)

 Manilkara bidentata (A.DC.) A.Chew. Sapotaceae. "Quinilla". Wood for posts,
forked poles, dormers, and parquets. The latex is used in handicrafts to make toys (RVM).
Used for kidney stones (RAR).

Manilkara zapota (L.) Van Royen. Sapotaceae. "Caimito brasilero", "Sapotilla".

Cultivated fruit tree. (Fig. 148)

Mansoa alliacea (Lam.) A.Gentry . Bignoniaceae. "Ajo sacha", "Boens", "Nia

boens", "Wild garlic". Alcoholic maceration of the stem and roots used for rheumatism;
leaf i n h i o n used in baths to relieve "manchiari" (a nervous state caused by terror or
sudden shock), especially in children. Also used as cleansing baths for bad luck.
"Achuales" use the roots as antirheumatic (RVM). "Crhles" use the stem decoction in
baths, to relieve fatigue and small needle-like cramps. "Palikur" use it to protect
themselves against the bad spirits (shades of Dracula?). "Wayiipi" use the decoction of
leaves and stems as antipyretic baths (GMJ), Tapajos natives for body aches, flu (BDS).
Contains alline, allicin, allyl-disulfoxide, diallyl sulfide, dimethyl sulfide, divinyl sulfide,
propylallyl disulfide (AYA), and two cytotoxic naphthoquinones, 9-methoxy-alpha-
lapachone and 4-hydroxy-9 methoxy-alpha-lapachone (Phytochemistry 3 l(3): 1061. 1992).

Mansoa hymenaea (DC.) A.Gentry. Bignoniaceae. "Ajo sacha macho". As with

M. alliacea. Tocache natives use infusions for tuberculosis and rheumatism.

Mansoa standleyi (Steyerm). A. Gentry. Bignoniaceae. "Ajo sacha". As M.

alliacea (RVM). "Tikuna" use the emetic crushed leaf decoction for fever and headache,
"Waorani" for arthritis, fever and myalgia (SAR). In Piura, the branch infusion used for
inflammation and tumors (FEO).

Maprounea guianensis Aubl. Euphorbiaceae. "Airana", "Machinguilla".Decoction

of leaves and bark used by "Crhles" for leg rash. "WayZpi" prepare an antidiarrheic
decoction. "Palikur" grind the bark and apply it to the umbilical cord of the newborn baby
to hasten healing (GMJ).

Maquira calophylla (Poepp. & Endl.) C.C.Berg. Moraceae. "Chimicua coloradan.

Saw timber (RVM). Latex considered caustic and POISONOUS (SAR).

Maquira coriacea (Karst.) C.Berg. Moraceae. "Capinuri", "Capinuri del bajo".

The wood is mainly used for plywood veneer, in lumbers. Latex poulticed onto hernias,
luxations, lumbar pain, etc. Some of the spur branches, naturally pruned, are much more
phallic in appearance than the one illustrated by Vasquez. (Fig. 149)

Maranta arundinacea L. Marantaceae. " Shimi pampana" , "Arrowroot".

Cultivated. Rhizomes edible, used to make starch and love potions. Easy to digest, the
starch is used in convalescent children's diet. Dominicans once used the mashed rhizome
to treat wounds caused by arrows (SOU). Flour used in poultice, and for acid indigestion
(GMJ). Used for asthenia, gall bladder, fever, sprains, urethritis (RAR). (Fig. 150)

Maranta ruiziana L. Marantaceae. "Maaihiiba". Cultivated. Rhizome edible.

Martinella obovata (HBK) Bur. & K. Schum. Bignoniaceae. "Yuquilla". Drops

of root juice used for conjunctivitis, or other eye irritations. Also used to clean chronic
wounds (RVM). The natives from Pichis-Palcazu use the roots as vermifuge. Its flocculant
activity may help render water potable. Bark of this species with leaves of Ambelania
lopezii and bark of Distictella racernosa are used by Colombia's "Barasana" Indians as
ingredients in their arrow POISON. Bark infusion makes an effective but dangerous
antipyretic (SAR). "Candoshin use the root sap, Vaupes natives the fruits, for eye
infections (SAR). (Fig. 151)

Mauritia carana Wallace. Arecaceae. "Aguaje del varillal". Fruit edible (RVM).

Mauritia jZauosa L.f. Arecaceae. "Aguaje", "Moriche", "Buriti", "Moriche

palm". Unripe fruit edible Fresh or in beverages (aguajina), popsicles (frozen sugared fruit
juice), lollypops. From the petiole they make mats, lanterns, candles. Host for the
"papaso" (Rhynchophorus palmarum) which lays its eggs on the palm; the larva is called
"suri"; it is eaten raw, boiled or fried. (For more on the suri, see Euterpe. Leaves used
for roofing. Stem used to make improvised bridges. Humboldt called it "The tree of life".
The starch is collected and consumed as an important carbohydrate source. From the
petiole they make fishing rafts; they also extract a high quality fiber (MJB). (Fig. 152)

Mauritiella aculeata (H.B.K.) Burret, Arecaceae. "Aguajillon.Fruit edible; stems

used for floors and room dividers. (Fig. 153)

Maximiliana maripa (Mart.) Drude. Arecaceae. "Inayuga", "Shapajilla". Cooked

pulp and seed edible (RVM). Petioles used in "Waorani" darts. Infusion taken for colds
(SARI.

Maximiliana stenocarpa Burret. Arecaceae. "Inayuga". Buds edible; fruits yield

oil.

Maximiliana venatorum (Poepp.) Wendl. Arecaceae. "Inayuga". Natives use

petiole in blowgun darts. Nut contains 60-67 % fat, while the mesocarp has 42.1 % fat. Fruit
an excellent food source (MJB).

Mayna amazonica (Mart.) Macbr. Flacourtiaceae. "Sapote yacu", "Shambo

huayo". "Kofain" use in "curark" (SAR). Leaf bath used for leg cramps (SAR). "Siona"
use leaflwood decoction for aching legs and prickly sensations (SAR). Used for leprosy,
POISON for armadillo (RAR).

Maytenus guyanensis Klotzch. Celastraceae. "Chuchuhuasi", "Tonipulmon".

Decoction of branches considered stimulant and tonic (FEO).

? Maytenus macrocarpa (R.&P.) Briq. Celastraceae. "Chuchuasi", "Chuchasha",

"Chuchuhuasi". Bark maceration considered antidiarrheic, antiarthritic, used to regulate
menstrual periods, for upset stomach. Its main use is in a cordial! Bark decoction.used for
dysentery. The wood is used for lumber (RVM). A shot of chuchuhuasi with aguardiente
and honey was given many ecotourists on departure from the Iquitos airport in 1991 (JAD).
Aril of a brazilian species contained 8,500 ppm caffeine (SAR). "Siona" boil stems in
water for arthritis and rheumatism (SAR, under M. laevis). Under the name M. ebenifolia,
Maxwell mentions the "chuchuhuasi" as an effective insect repellent. "Chuchuhuasi" is
"probably the best known of all jungle remedies, in Colombia as well as Peru.
Aphrodisiac.. .best of all antirheumatic medicines" (NIC).
9 Melia azedarach L. Meliaceae. " Cinamono", "Paraiso", "China berry".
Cultivated ornamental; some authors say fruit edible, others POISONOUS. Leaves used
as an insecticide. Bark and roots used in Colombia as an emetic, anthelmintic, and quinine
substitute. Used for intermittent fevers, the leaves are antipyretic and emetic (PEA). In
Santa Catarina, Brazil, fruit and rootbark anthelmintic. Containing abundant bitter
substances, bark can be used as an abortive, emetic, or toxic, externally to clean ulcers,
especially syphilitic ulcers. Bahamans use it for colds and flu. "Cuna" put the bark in cold
water bath to regain strength and vitality.

Melicocca bijugaL. Sapindaceae. "Pitomba", "Genip".Cultivated fruit. Seed also

edible toasted (VAG).

Melinis minutiflora Beav. Poaceae. "Gordura", "Molasses grass". Cultivated

forage.

Melissa oflcinalis L. Lamiaceae. "Toronjil", "Lemon balm". Cultivated. Leaf

infusion used as a sedative (contains at least 5 sedative compounds), antiflatulent, and
antispasmodic.

Mezilaurus itauba (Meissn.) Taub. ex Mez. Lauraceae. "Itauba". Wood used for
tables, boats, canoes, posts, decorative plaques, etc. (Fig. 154)

Mezilaurus opaca Kubit. & V.D.Werff. Lauraceae. "Itauba". Wood for lumber.

9 Miconia impetiolaris (Sw) D.Don. Melastomataceae. "Rifari". The "Cuna" use the
pulverized bark in poultice to treat sores on the breasts (FOR).

Miconia poeppigii Triana. Melastomataceae. "Rifari". Wood for columns, decks

and beams.

Micrandra spruceana (Baill.) R.E. Schult. Euphorbiaceae. "Conoco", "Shiringa

masha". Wood used for interior decorations. The latex is used to bulk with that of Hevea
(RVM). POISONOUS seeds processed to make food by Vaupes natives (SAR). "Bora" and
"Witoto" use as a hemostat followingumbilical separation and dab latex on sore mouth and
gums (SAR).

Micropholis egensis (A.DC.) Pierre. Sapotaceae. "Quinilla negra", "Caimitillo".

Wood used for house construction. Fruit edible (VAG).

Micropholis guyanensis (A.DC.) Pierre, ssp. duckeana (Baehni) Penn. "Balata

rosada". Wood for house construction. Latex extracted for gum "Balata".

Micropholis guyanensis (A.DC.) Pierre, ssp. guyanensis. Sapotaceae. "Balata",

"Quinilla". Wood for house construction.

Micropholis polphyrocalpa (Baehni) Monach. Sapotaceae. "Quinilla". Wood for

house construction.

Micropholis venulosa (Mart. & Endl.) Pierre. Sapotaceae. "Caimitillo",

"Quiilla", "Balatilla". Fruit edible. Wood for house construction.
Fig. 156. Minquartia guianensis (GAV)
 Microtea debilis Sw. Phytolaccaceae. "Capushi". Juice, extracted by crushing
leaves in water, used for acid indigestion; leaves used to soothe swellings and burns.
Infusion used by "Crhles" as a hypotensive diuretic (GMJ).

Mikania congesta DC. Asteraceae. "Sanquillo". "Crbles" use the juice of the
bruised leaves as an aperitive tonic, taking it 3 times a day. The leaf decoction is used for
malaria, and as a laxative. "Wayiipi" use leaf decoction in an antipyretic bath. "Palikur"
take the leaf decoction to stimulate bile secretion (GMJ).

Mikania miwantha HBK. Asteraceae. "Playa huasca". As the preceeding (GMJ).

Mikania guaco HBK. Asteraceae. "Guaco". Crushed stem applied to snakebite;

then they drink the decoction. Infusion is stomachic and antirheumatic; also used as an
antipyretic (SOU). "Crbles" warm the leaves to apply to itching eruptions (GMJ).

Mimosa polydactyla Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd. Fabaceae. "Amor dormido"

"Sleeping love", "Vergonsosa". Floral infusion sedative for insomnia and nerves. (Fig.
155)

Mimosa pudica L. Fabaceae. "Sensitive plant". "Chami" dry and pulverize

leaves, to mix a drink for insomniacs. Strong doses may cause madness (RVM). "Palikur"
make a decoction mixed with pieces of Scoparia dulcis, to bathe irritable people (GMJ).
Contains noradrenalin (JBH).

Minguartia guianensis Aubl. Olacaceae. "Huacapd", "Fierro caspi" , "Ironwood".

Wood one of the best for posts, beams, dormers, bridges, supports; also used for parquets
and handicrafts. High quality wood said to last 30 years, even in contact with the ground.
Fruit edible (RVM). "Ketchwa" and "Waorani" use pounded bark as fish POISON (SAR).
(Fig. 156)

Mirabilis jalapa L. Nyctaginaceae. "Isabelita", "Clavelilla", "Four o'clock".

Cultivated ornamental, root decoction used as a diuretic (RVM). Elsewhere, considered
alterative, carminative, cathartic, hydragogue, purgative, stomachic, tonic and vermifuge;
used for abscesses, boils, bruises, colic, diabetes, dropsy, hepatitis, herpes, hypochondria,
pimples, sores, splenitis, strains, tumors, urticaria, and wounds (DAW).

Mollia lepidota Spruce ex Benth. Tiliaceae. "Achote vara". Wood used for house
construction; columns, decks, beams. Bark used as rope (RVM). Rio Apapori Indians use
bark tea for stomach problems following food poisoning (SAR).

Momordica balsimina L. Cucurbitaceae. "Balsaminan, "Balsam apple". Fruit

tincture antiecchymotic, decongestant, vulnerary; decoction purgative (FEO). Used for
bruises (RAR).

0 Momordica charantia L. Cucurbitaceae. "Papailla", "Balsam pear". Fruit edible

cooked. Plant decoction used for colic, and worms; infusion of fruit and flowers used for
hepatitis. Seed pulp mixed with lard as a suppurative (SOU). Considered vermicide,
stomachic, emmenagogue, and very effective in the expulsion of Trichocephalos. Fruit
decoction used as febrifuge and emetic (PEA). Leaf decoction used by the "Cuna" for
measles (RVM), by Brazilians for fever, itch, and sores (BDS). Seeds and pericarp contain
saponin glycosides which produce elaterin and alkaloids, which causes vomiting and
diarrhea (LAE). Leaf infusion a common folk remedy for diabetes around Iquitos (AYA).
TRAMIL cites it as relatively POISONOUS (TRA). On the patent for Compound Q for
AIDS, as a source of momocharin. Also contains rosmarinic acid, with antiviral activity
and calcwlarioside and verbascoside. (Fig. 157)

Momtera dilacerata C. Kwh. Araceae. "Costilla de adan". Fruit edible (RVM).

Monstera apilata Schott. Araceae. "Boa". Decoction given to infants for

convulsions (GMJ).

Momtera obliqua Miq. Araceae. "Costilla de Adan", "Adam's rib". "Palikur" use
for leishmaniasis sores (GMJ).

Montrichardia arborescens (L.) Schotto. Araceae. "Castaiia", "Raya balsa",

"Water chestnut". Toasted seeds edible. Surinamese use the sap to stop bleeding in fresh
wounds (MJP). (Fig. 158)

Moronobea coccinea Aubl. Clusiaceae. "Lagartillo", "Azufre caspi" . Wood used

for construction of boats and canoes. "Crbles" use the latex for various dermatoses; they
also use the latex to reinforce the ligature on their arrows (GMJ). (Fig. 159)

Mouriri acutijlora Naud. Melastomataceae. "Lanza caspi " , "Guayavilla". Wood

for house construction; beams, decks, jam posts. Fruit edible.

Mouriri apiranga Spr. Melastomataceae. "Apiranga". Bark decoction applied to

sores on Rio Tapajos (BDS).

Mouriri grandijlora DC. Melastomataceae. "Lanza caspi". Fruit edible (VAG).

Mouriri oligantha Pilger. Melastomataceae. "Lanza caspi". Fruit edible (VAG).

Moutabea aculeata (R.&P.) P.&E. Polygalaceae. "Coto huayo". Fruit edible.

Moutabea sp. Polygalaceae. "Huasca caimito". Fruit edible (VAG).

Mucoa duckei (Markgraf) Zamchi. Apocynaceae. "Yahuarhuayo blanco". Fruits

edible (RVM).

Mucuna huberi Ducke. Fabaceae. "Mucuna", "T6watacaain. Seeds used in making

necklaces.

Mucuna pruriem (L.) DC. Fabaceae. "Nescafk", "Nescao". Cultivated. Toasted

ground seeds are used as a coffee substitute (RVM). Elsewhere regarded as anodyne,
antidotal, aphrodisiac, diuretic, newine, resolvent, rubefacient, and vermifuge; used for
anasarca, asthma, cancer, cholera, cough, diarrhea, dogbite, dropsy, dysuria, insanity,
mumps, pleuritis, ringworm, snakebite, sores, syphilis, tumors, and worms (DAW).
Interesting that this reputedly aphrodisiac plant should contain 1-dopa, side effects of which
include priapism (JAD).

Mucuna rostrata Benth. Fabaceae. " Vaca iiahui " , "Corpus sacha". Seed infusion
used as a diuretic, as an antidote and antihemorrhoidal. They carry seeds in case they are
bitten by a spider or a snake. The hair from the fruits is used as a mechanical vermifuge
(SOU). (Fig. 160)

Mucuna urens (L.) Medik. Fabaceae. "Vaca iiahui". "Tiriyo" use to treat
gonorrhea and migraine (RVM). Used as a vermifuge because of the mechanical action of
the stinging hairs mixed with honey (GMJ).

Muntingia calabura L. Elaeocarpaceae. "Yumanasa", "Bolaina", "Cereso caspi" ,

"Calabur".Fruit edible; bark used as rope. Flower infusion used as antispasmodic (SOU).
Cuna macerate the plant without roots in cold water for malignant and cronic ulcers (FOR).
Used elsewhere for colds, headache, nerves, and spasms (DAW). (Fig. 161)

0 Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack. Rutaceae. "Naranjilla", "Orange jasmine".

Cultivated ornamental. Elsewhere considered astringent, bactericide, cosmetic, and
stimulant; used for cough, dentifrice, diarrhea, dysentery, eyes, hysteria, rheumatism,
stomachache, and wounds.

Musa spp. Musaceae. "Pliitano", "Banano", "Guineo", "Banana", "Plantain".

Around Iquitos, there are plantains, with angular fruits and hard pulp (common plantain,
bellaco, preto, coto, sapucha, and isleno) and bananas, with cylindrical fruits and soft pulp
(banano, guineo, seda, capirona, guineo morado, pumerillo, or muquichi, viejillo or enano,
and manzano). Recently they are called M. sapienturn for "banana", and M. paradisiaca
for "plantain". Most common dish is "inguiri", (boiled with water and salt). Green fruits
together with the bark are boiled until half of the original liquid is gone; this astringent
liquid is given to people recovering from tuberculosis; they are to drink it every day for
more than six months. Some people recommend the water that accumulates in the cut stem
of the "manzano" for rapid healing of pulmonary scars. The green fruit is boiled, the
resulting juice used to treat diarrhea in infants (AYA). The plantain is used to treat gout,
earache, warts, teeth, and freckles (RVM). Brazilians make a cough syrup boiling the
exudate from cut stems with sugar (BDS). Considered useful for bronchitis, cough,
diarrhea, fever, tuberculosis, and urticaria (RAR). Heated banana leaves seem to help
leishmaniasis (JAD). (Fig. 162)

Mussatia hyacinthina (Standl.) Sandw. Bignoniaceae. "Chamairo". Stem bark

mixed with coca leaves to sweeten and improve the taste, used by "Campa",
"Machinguenga", and "Chimane" (RVM).

Myrcia fallax (Rich) DC. Myrtaceae. "Rupifia". Fruit edible (VAG).

Myrcia sp. Myrtaceae. "Guayabilla". Fruit edible (VAG).

Myrcianthes quinquefolia (McVaugh) McVaugh. Myrtaceae. "Lanche", "Lanchi".

Aromatic cholagogue leaves decocted for jaundice (FEO).

Myrciaria dubia (HBK) McVaugh. Myrtaceae. "Camu-camu". The edible fruit is

the highest known source of ascorbic acid, with 2-3 g/kg (RVM). Provisionally, Plotkin
notes that "a forest stand righ in Camu-Camu is worth twice the amount to be gained from
cutting down the forest and replacing it with cattle." (MJP). (Fig. 163)
 Myrciariafloribunda (West. ex Willd.) Ber. Myrtaceae. "Camu-camu", "Camu-
camu arbol", "Camu-camu negro". Edible fruit used in beverages; wood used for house
construction, and forked poles.

Myristicafragrans Houtt. Myristicaceae. "Nuez moscada", "Nutmeg".Introduced

cultivated spice. Chopped seeds used for hexes and for paralysis and parasites (FEO).

Myroxylon balsamum (L.). Harms. Fabaceae. "Balsamo", "Estoraque", "Balsam

of Peru". For parquets, dormers, posts, jam poles, handicrafts, keel plates for boats. Resin
from trunks believed antipyretic and cicatrizant. Resin used for colds, lung ailments (SAR),
abscesses, asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, headache, rheumatism, sores, sprains, tuberculosis,
venereal diseases, and wounds (DAW, RAR). Powdered bark used as incense (SOU). (Fig.
164)

Fig. 162. Musa spp. (GAV)

Fig. 164. Myroxylon balsamum (GAV)

Pig. 163. Myrciaria dubia UIc)
 Naucleopsis concinna (Standley) C.C.Berg. Moraceae. "Llanchama", "Capinuri
de altura". Fruit edible.

Naucleopsis mello-barretoi (Standley) C .C.Berg. Moraceae. "Llanchamillo".Fruit

edible. Brazilian "Maku" use the latex with antiarigenin- and strophanthidin-based cardiac
glycosides (JE 37: 129. 1992).

Naucleopsis pseudo-naga C.C.Berg. Moraceae. "Puma chaqui". Fruit edible

(VAG).

Naucleopsis ternstroemiifora C.C.Berg. Moraceae. "Motelo chaqui*. Fruit edible

(VAG).

Nealchornea yapurensis Huber. Euphorbiaceae. "Huira caspi". The wood could

be used for beams, joists, doors, windows, and drawers (RVM). "Taiwano" use crushed
leaves as fish POISON (SAR).

Nectandra globosa (Aubl.) Mez. Lauraceae. "Moena amarilla". Wood for lumber
RVM. Rio Loretoyacu natives use the bark tea for fever (SAR).

Nectandra kunthiana (Nees) Koster. Lauraceae. "Moena". Wood for lumber.

Nectandra membranacea (Sw.) Griseb. Lauraceae. "Pukeri". Seed decoction

considered astringent, febrifuge, and tonic iin Piura (FEO). Branches in decoction used as
gastric sedative (FEO).

Nectandra reticulata (R.&P.) Mez. Lauraceae. "Moena". Wood for lumber.

Nectandra woohoniana Allen. Lauraceae. "Moena". Wood for lumber.

Neea divaricata Poepp. & Endl. Nyctaginaceae. "Piosha". "Achuales" chew the
fresh leaves to coat their teeth and protect them from cavities (LAE).

Neeajloribunda Poepp. & Endl. Nyctaginaceae. "Yanamuco". "Achuales" chew

the fresh leaves to coat their teeth to protect them from cavities (LAE).

Neea laxa Poepp. & Endl. Nyctaginaceae. "Mesque", "Puca huayo". Leaf
decoction used in bath or poultice for gastritis (VDF).

Neea macrophylla Poepp. & Endl. Nyctaginaceae. "Tupamaqui". "Yaguas" extract

the purple-violet tint to dye their hammocks, handbags, and garments.

Neea parvifora Poepp. & Endl. Nyctaginaceae. "Palometa huayo", "Tupamaqui".

"Yaguas" use it as fishbait.

Nephelea cuspidata (Kze) Tryon. Cyatheaceae. "Helecho arborescente". Buds

yield a mucilaginous substance, rich in tannin, used as a vulnerary on small wounds.
Trunks used as pillars for houses. The durable wood is nicely marked by the frond scars
(RVM).
 Nephrolepis biseriata (Sw.) Schott. Davalliaceae. "Plumilla". Ornamental.

Nephrolepis cordifolia (L.) Presl. Davalliaceae. "Plumilla". Ornamental.

Nephrolepis rivularis (Vahl) C. Chr. Davalliaceae. "Plumilla", "Serpentinan.

Ornamental.

Nerium oleander L. Apocynaceae. "Adelfa", "Oleander".Cultivated ornamental

plant, the latex POISONOUS.

Nicolaia elatior Zingiberaceae. "BasMn del emperador", "Philippinewaxflower",

"Torchginger". Cultivated ornamental.

Nicotiana tabacum L. Solanaceae. "Tabaco", "Tobacco".Cultivated. The black

tobacco "mapacho or siricaipe", is smoked during the ayahuasca, witchcraft, healing, and
cleansing rituals; the pitch left from the smoke is picked up on a piece of paper and applied
on the skin to kill worms. Powdered tobacco is mixed with aguardiente and given to dogs
to make them better hunters. "Creoles" mixed the dried leaves with Scoparia dulcis leaves,
while the "Way5pin use the pitch, to suffocate the larvae of the wonn "macacon,
Dennatobia hominis (Euterebrides), parasites which live in the skin of humans and dogs.
"Palikur" poultice it onto migraine headaches; it is also used as a cholagogue to treat liver
diseases. One drop of tobacco juice makes a strong collyrium (GMJ). "Bora" and "Witoto"
poultice fresh leaves onto boils and infected wounds (SAR). "Jivaro" take tobacco juice for
chills, indisposition and snakebite (SAR). "Tukanoan" rub the leaf decoction onto bruise
and sprains (SAR). Many Indian groups used it for lung ailments (SAR). In Piura the leaf
decoction is applied externally for parasites and rheumatism.

Nymphaea ampla (Salisb.) DC. Nymphaeaceae. "Loto azul", "Flor de agua",

"Waterlily". Planted in ponds. Flower infusion reputedly aphrodisiac.
 Ochroma pyramidale (Cav. ex Lam.) Urban. Bombacaceae. "Balsa", "Topa",
"Palo de balsa". Wood used for rafts, wooden buoys, net floats, fishing hooks and
sounders. Bark used for cordage and belts. The cotton from the seeds, called "flor de
topa", is used for stuffing toys (RVM).

Ocimum basilicum L. Lamiaceae. "Albaca", "Basil". Cultivated. Used as spice

and medicine.

Ocimum gratissimum L. Lamiaceae. "Albaca". Cultivated. Used as spice (RVM).

Ocimum micranthum Willd. Lamiaceae. "Albaca", "Iroro", "Pichana albaca",

"Pichana blanca", "Wild basil". Used for fever and headache around Pucallpa (VDF). Said
to be hallucinogenic (RVM). "Cr6oles" prepare a collyrium from the flowers; with the
decoction they make a tea to treat flu. The maceration is used by the "Wayiipi" in
antipyretic baths, and in massage to relieve colic (GMJ). Leaves are used to relieve gastric
pains (RVM). "Tikuna" wash the head with leaf macerations for fever (SAR). Leaf juice
dropped into eyes for conjunctivitis (SAR). Sometimes used as spice and perfume (SAR).
Tapajos residents use the plant on bugbites and stings.

Ocotea aciphylla (Nees) Mez. Lauraceae. "Canela muena", "Moena negra". Wood
used to make furniture, keel plates for boats and canoes.

Ocotea argyrophylla Ducke. Lauraceae. "Puspo muena". Timber used for beams,
decks, and columns.

Ocotea fragantissima Ducke. Lauraceae. "Anis muena". Wood for furniture.

Ocotea jelskii Mez. Lauraceae. "Hispingo". Seed decoction considered

antiecchymotic and decongestant (FEO).

Ocotea marmellensis. Mez. Lauraceae. "Moena negra". Wood for furniture.

Ocotea oblonga ssp. cuprea (Meissn.) Rohwer. Lauraceae. "Sicshi muena". Wood
used for furniture, canoes, and general construction. (Fig. 165)

Ocotea petalanthera (Meissn.) Mez. Lauraceae. "Moena amarilla". Wood for

fumiture and general construction.

Odontadenia macrantha (R. &S .) Margkraff. Apocynaceae. " Sapo huasca".

"Wayiipi" consider the nectaries found near the base of the ovary a tonic (GMJ).

Odontocarya tripetala Diels Menispennaceae. Bark boiled with Matisia cordata

and hot peppers to expel worms (SAR). "Tikuna" rub the leaves on body aches (SAR) .

Oenocavus mapora Karst. Arecaceae. "Cinamillo", "Cinamo", "Bacaba".

Warming the fruit in sun or hot water loosens the mesocarp, used to prepare a refreshing
drink. Terminal buds edible; leaves used to roof houses; trunk cut in strips for room
dividers. The whole plant is use to prepare "umshias" used during carnaval. Crushed stems
yield a maroon or white dye (DAT). Green fruit mashed for diarrhea, malaria, and nausea.

Oenocarpus minor Mart. Arecaceae. "Cinamillo" "Bacaba". Similar to the

previous species.

Oenocalpus multicaulis Spruce. Arecaceae. "Cinamillo", "Bacaba". Similar to 0 .

mapora.

Oenothera rosea Ait. Onagraceae. "Chupa sangre", Pink primrose". Chopped

shoots used for ecchymoses and fractures externally; leaf decoction used for respiratory
problems and worms (FEO).

Olyra latifolia L. Poaceae. "Camcillo", "Huasca maronilla". "Cuna" use the

leaves in cold water infusion for mild dermal mycosis; used preferably hot; also for sore
throat (FOR). Hollow stems used to make flutes (DAT). (Fig. 166)

Omphalea diandra L. Euphorbiaceae. "Sapo huasca", "Toad vine". "Wayiipi"

apply stem sap to the forehead for headache. The leaves, warmed by the fire, are applied
over mycotic areas and wasp stings (just after the sting). Leaf decoction used for bugbites
and sores (GMJ). Purgative (RAR). Cooked seeds consumed (VAG).

Opuntia Jicus-indica Mill. Cactaceae. "Cacto", "Tuna", "Opuntia", "Prickly

pear". Cultivated ornamental. In Loreto it is used in dentistry. In Piura, the fruit juice is
drunk for whooping cough (Mexicans recommend it for diabetes, Israelis for prostate);
chopped fruits are applied as a sedative to rheumatic pain and to stop nosebleed (epistaxis).

Orbignyapolysticha Burret. Arecaceae. "Catirina", "Shapaja". Seeds and terminal

buds edible. Leaves used for roofing. The liquid that comes out when the Orbignya is cut,
fermented, and drunk (MJB).

Ormosia amazonica Ducke. Fabaceae. "Huayruro". Wood used for heavy

construction, dormers, parquets, decorative plaques. Seeds used in handicrafts, necklaces,
chaquiras, curtains (RVM). Contains the alkaloid amazonine (SAR).

Ormosia bopiensis Pierre ex Macbr. Fabaceae. "Huayruro". See preceeding. (Fig.

168)

Ormosia coccinea (Aubl.) Jacks. var. subsimplex (Spruce ex Benth.) Rudd.

Fabaceae. "Huayruro colorado". See preceeding (RVM). "Witoto" consider seed
POISONOUS (SAR).

Ormosia macrocalyx Ducke. Fabaceae. "Huayruro". Similar to 0 . amazonica.

Ormosia nobilis Tul. var. santaremensis (Ducke) Rudd. Fabaceae. "Huayruro".

See preceeding.

.
Orthoclada laxa (L. Rich.) Beauv. Poaceae. "Ocajiniimune* White dye (DAT).

Orthomene schomburgkii (Miers) Barneby & Krukoff. Menispermaceae. "Coto

huayo". Additive in curar6 (RVM). "Kofain" take the leaf tea for insomnia (SAR). "Maku"
bathe indolent ulcers with twig decoction (SAR).
Fig. 168. Onnosia bopiensis (GAV)
9 Oryctanthus alveolatus ( H B K ) Eich. Loranthaceae. "Suelda con suelda", "Pishco
isma". Depending on the host, this parasite may cure fast or slow. The most popular host
is lime; used for fractures, dislocations, and cuts. Mashed leaves are applied over the
affected area, before it is splinted. To hasten healing, they drink a cup of the decoction a
day. They mix a leaf with foliar buds of Psidium guayaba and bark of Spondias rnornbin
to give to women after childbirth, two cups a day, morning and afternoon. This helps them
heal faster, enabling them to meet their marital duties, sooner than normally expected
(RVM). Around Pucallpa, the leaf maceration is applied in bruises and fractures (VDF).

Oryctanthusflorulentus(Rich.) Vant. Loranthaceae. "Suelda con suelda" , "Pishco

isma". "Palikur" poultice onto fractures and then splint with strips of Gyneriurn sagitaturn
(GMJ).

Oryza grandiglurnis (Ducke) Presl. Poaceae. "Arroz bravo", "Grama playa".

Forage.

Oryza sativa L. Poaceae. "Arroz" "Rice". Cultivated. Rainfed and paddy rice
often grown in Amamnia.

Osteophloeurn platyspermun (A.DC.) Warb. Myristicaceae. "Cumala blanca",

"Favorito". Wood for carpentry, furniture and interior decorations. Manaus natives smoke
the leaves for asthma (SAR). "Maku" drink the sap for colds and cough (SAR).

Otoba glycicarpa (Ducke) Rodr. Myristicaceae. "Aguanillo", "Cumala colorada".

Wood for carpentry and general construction.

Otobapantifolia (Markg) Gentry. Myristicaceae. "Aguanillo", "Cumalacolorada",

"Mamilla". Fruits edible. Used by the "Campas" as a blind when hunting partridges
(RVM). "Waorani" crush the bark and rub the resin on fungal infections and mite bites
(SAR). Wood used for carpentry.

Omndra euneura Diels. Annonaceae. "Yahuarachi caspi", "Espintana". Wood

used for house construction; beams and decks.

Oxandra spp. Diels. Annonaceae. "Espintana". Similar to the previous species.

(Fig. 169)

Fig. 169. O d r a spp. (GAV)

 Pachira aquatica Aubl. Bombacaceae. " Sacha pandisho", "Punga", "Provision
tree". Seeds edible (RVM). Wood used for buoys; bark used for cordage, handicrafts, and
kitchen utensils. Elsewhere used for diabetes (DAW).

Pachira insignis Sav. Bombacaceae. "Punga de altura". Wood for plaques, buoys;
bark for cordage.

Pachyrrhizus tuberous (Lam.) Spreng. Fabaceae. "Ashipa", "Ajipa", "Nupe",

"Yam bean". Cultivated. The roots are edible; the seeds are piscicidal (RAR).

Palicourea condensata. Standl. Rubiaceae. "Purma sisa", "Sacha huito".

Semicultivated ornamental (RVM). Used to clear the sight on the R. Loretoyacu (SAR).
Mocoa natives use the emetic decoction (SAR). "Siona" employ as fish POISON (SAR).

Palicourea puinapensis Aubl. Rubiaceae. "Purma sisa". Semicultivated

ornamental.

Palicourea triphylla DC. Rubiaceae. "Huitillo". Mashed leaves mixed with water
to stain the body black (DAT). So regarded by "Taiwano" that they won't collect it with
a botanist (SAR). "Kuripako" use leaves as fish POISON (SAR).

Panicum dichotomiflorum Michx. Poaceae. "Gramalote", "Fallpanicurn".Forage.

Panicum hirsutum Swartz. Poaceae. "Grama". Forage grass.

Panicum laxum Poaceae. "Grama nudillo". Forage grass.

Panicum maximum Jacq. Poaceae. "Pasto guinea", "Guinea grass". Invasive

grass, native of Africa, used as forage. Roots used for flu (FOR). (Fig. 170)

Panicum pilosum Sw. Pocaeae. "Torurco". Forage grass. "Cuna" give the root
decoction to children when they lose their appetite, and don't want to drink water (FOR).

Panicum rudgei R.&S. Poaceae. "Grama". Forage grass.

Parahancornia peruviana Monachino. Apocynaceae. "Naranjo podrido". Fruit

edible (RVM). (Fig. 171)

Pariana sp. Poaceae. "Shacapa". Curanderos use it rythmically in their rituals and
chants. Hollow stems for flutes (DAT).

Parkia igneijlora Ducke. Fabaceae. "Pashaco", "Goma huayo", "Goma pashaco".

Wood for lumber. Seeds used in handicrafts. (Fig. 172)

Parkia nitida Miq. Fabaceae. "Pashaco". Wood for lumber. Bark tea for dysentery
(MJP).

Parkia panurensis Benth. ex M. C.Hopkins. Fabaceae. "Pashaco", "Goma

pashaco". Wood for lumber; seeds for handicrafts.
P

Fig. 170. Panicurn maximum (HAC)

Fig. 171. Parahancornia p e r u v i m (GAV)

Fig. 172. Parka ignei@ora (GAV)

Fig. 173. Paspalurn conjugaturn (HAC)

 Parkia velutina Benoist. Fabaceae. " Cutana pashacon, "Pashaco curtidor". Wood
for lumber; bark for tannery.

Paspalurn conjugaturn P. Bergius. Poaceae. "Catahua", "Grama", "Horquetilla",

"Torurco". Forage grass (RAF). "Achuales" use 2 drops of sap for conjunctivitis.
"Palikur" use with other plants to prepare the hunting dogs (RVM). Juice used to cure
infected cornea and pterygium, often reventing blindness (NIC). (Fig. 173)

Paspalurn spp. Poaceae. "Grama". Forage grass.

Paspalurnfasciculaturn Willd. ex Fluegge. Poaceae. "Gramalote". Forage grass.

Paspalurn notaturn Fluegge. Poaceae. "Grama", "Caiiamazo", "Bahia grass".

Cultivated grass for sport fields and lawns.

Paspalurn repens P.Bergius. Poaceae. "Gramalote negro" . Forage grass.

Paspalurn virgaturn L. Poaceae. "Gramalote", "Remolina". Forage grass.

Passiflora alata Ait. Passifloraceae. "Granadilla". Fruit edible (VAG).

Passifora coccinea Aubl. Passifloraceae. "Costada sacha", "Granadilla agria" ,

"Granadilla venenosa", "Redgranadilla".Decoction taken 3 times a day for fever (VDF).
Fruit and flower edible. A collyrium for conjunctivitis is extracted from macerations
(GMJ).

Passtjlora edulis Sims. Passifloraceae. "Maracuyi", "Purple granadilla".

Cultivated. Fruits edible. Brazilians on Rio Tapajos drink the pure fruit juice for the heart
(BDS), using the leaf tea as a sedative. (Fig. 174)

Passiflorafoetida Cas. Passifloraceae. "Bedocan, "Granadilla","Rorbo cirnarr6nn,

"Puro puro". Fruit edible (VAG).

Passzjlora ligularis Juss. Passifloraceae. "Granadilla", "Tumbo", "Sweet

granadilla".In Piura, the leaf decoction is considered antimalarial, antipyretic, mucolytic,
and stomachic. Fruits eaten or boiled in decoction to prevent gallstones, rabies, ulcers, and
yellow fever (FEO).

Passifora nitida HBK. Passifloraceae. "Granadilla". Fruits edible.

9 PassiJlora quadrangularis L. Passifloraceae. "Tumbo", "Giant granadilla".

Cultivated. Fruits edible; stems are considered POISON; the leaves, roots and flowers
abortifacient. "Chami" make an infusion to treat fractures and bruises (RVM). Elsewhere
consideredcalmant, CNSdepressant, cardiodepressant,decongestant,depurative, emollient,
narcotic, sedative; used for arthritis, diabetes, hoarseness, hypertension, inflammation,
liver ailments, neuralgia, sorethroat, and uvulitis (DAW). Contains noradrenalin (JBH).
(Fig. 175)

Passiflora vespertilio L. Passifloraceae. "Cheshteya", "Granadilla", "Yacu

granadilla". Fruits edible (RVM). Vapors from leaf decoction inhaled for rheumatic pain
(VDF).
 . ,
Fig. 177. Paullinia yoco (SAR)
 .
Paullinia cupana HBK. Sapindaceae. "Guarani", "Cupana" Cultivated. Seed
decoction an astringent, bitter, nervine tonic (FEO). From the seeds is prepared
commercial guarana. Considered a preventive for arteriosclerosis, and an effective
cardiovascular drug; also used to treat chronic diarrhea. Considered analgesic (MJB),
aphrodisiac, astringent, febrifuge, intoxicant, piscicide, stimulant, and tonic; used for
diarrhea, dysentery, hypertension, migraine, neuralgia (DAW, RAR). Seeds contains >5 %
caffeine, cf tea with 2.2%, and toasted coffee with 0.896, green coffee with 2.2% , and
cacao with 1.1% (RVM). Traces of theobromine and theophyllline also occur (Int. J.
Pharmacogn. 3 l(3): 174. 1993). (Fig. 176)

Paullinia cf pinnata L. Sapindaceae. " S a p huasca", "Timb6". Considered

POISONOUS; used as an intoxicant. The root bark is a narcotic toxin, used in Brazil by
some natives to prepare the POISON "lanto" (SOU). Used for jaundice (RAR).

Paullinia yoco Schultes & Killip. Sapindaceae. "Yoco blanco", "Huarmi yoco".
Cultivated. For fever, gall baldder, and dysentery (DAW, RAR). The bark contains 2.7%
caffeine (SAR); from the stem is extracted in cold water a stimulant which quells the pangs
of hunger; it contains hallucinogenic compounds. Schultes says you can feel the stimulant
ca 10 minutes after taking one cup, a tingling on the fingers and a nice sensation of well-
being (RVM). Used also for fever (SAR). Taken for bilious conditions following malaria
(SAR). Unlike Vasquez, Schultes says it is never cultivated and becoming scarcer near the
dwellings, perhaps endangered. "Every Indian household keeps a supply of yoco stems"
(SAR). (Fig. 177)

9 Pavonia leucantha Garcke. Malvaceae. "Mashushingo". Infusion used to

strengthen the uterus to avoid an abortion.

Pavonia fruticosa (Willd.) Fawc. & Rendle. Malvaceae. "Hierba del conejo*,
"Pega-pega". "Choc6" use as a cough suppressant (JAD). "Cuna" put roots in cold water
over night, and drink for headache (FOR).

Pavonia paniculata (Cav.) Mon. Malvaceae. "Pega-pega". "Chake" use it to treat

female disorders (RVM). "Waunana" use it as an ornamental plant (FOR).

Paypayrola grandijlora Tul. Violaceae. "Umari del monte" Colombian

Amazonians use the flower decoction for anemia (SAR).

Pedilanthus retusus Benth. Euphorbiaceae. "Planta pliistica", "Zapatito de Jesk".

Cultivated ornamental.

Pennisetum nervosum (Nees) Trin. Poaceae. "Grama pinatan. Forage grass.

Pennisetum puvureum Schum. Poaceae. "Pasto elefante", "Elephant grass",

"Napiergrass". Cultivated. Forage grass.

Pentaclethra macroloba (Willd.) Kuntze. Fabaceae. "Pashaco". Wood for lumber,

bark for handicrafts and tanning.

Pentagonia cf velutina Standl. Rubiaceae. "Aromuhe". Ecuadorian "Waorani" use

the plant for sting ray punctures, drinking the fruit juice (SAR). Colombian "Putumayo"
decoct the leaves with those of a Piper to rub on swollen joints and purify the blood
(SAR).

Peperomiaflavamenta Trel. Piperaceae. "Congona". Shoot decoction considered

vulnerary (FEO).

Peperomia galioides HBK. Piperaceae. "Congona". Shoot decoction considered

vulnerary. Leaves applied externally against alopecia, bums, hemorrhoids, and otitis, the
tea drunk for scurvy and hysteria.

0 Peperomia pellucida H B K . Piperaceae. "Meralla", "Sacha yuyu".Brazilians pour

hot water over the whole plant and drink the tea for metrorrhagia. Surinamese use for
everything from athlete's foot to high blood pressure, gum problems, headaches, even to
exorcise demons (MJP).

Peperomia rubea Trel. Piperaceae. "Lancetillam.Leaf juice or decoction applied

for earaches and inflammations, drunk for tertian fever (FEO).

Perebea spp. Moraceae. "Chimicua". Wood for lumber; dormers.

9 Persea americana Mill. Lauraceae. "Palta", "Huira palta", "Avorado".Cultivated

fruit tree. Fruit juice considered aphrodisiac, used against dandruff and alopecia (FEO).
Leaves well known as stomachic, emmenagogue, and resolvent. Seed decoction is an
antidiarrheic, also used as an abortive. Used to treat amebic dysentery, diabetes, and
snakebite (SOU). Also well known as antidiabetic (RVM). It eliminates uric acid, is a
reconstituent tonic, antianemic, diuretic, antiinflammatory for the liver, for renal calculus,
to strengthen weak muscles, for dysentery, and it is a mild aphrodisiac (RVM). "Tikuna"
drink a cup of avocado leaf tea before meals to clean the liver (SAR). "Ketchwa" crush
seed with Brownea wood and Rudgea leaves and make a decoction, said to stop
menstruation for 3-6 months (SAR). As contraceptive, the seed decoction is taken each
month during menses (SAR). "Siona-Secoya" also use as contraceptive (SAR). Ecuadorian
"Shuar" take crushed seed in aguardiente for snakebite (SAR). Monounsaturates like oleic-
acid are the health food rage now; avocado proved highest among 1,200 species (JAD).
(Fig. 178)

0 Petiveria alliacea L. Phytolaccaceae. "Chanviro", "Micura", "Mocosa",

"Mucura", "Sacha ajo". Reportedly abortive, antispasmodic, antirheumatic, antipyretic,
diuretic, emmenagogue, sudorific; mostly used in magic rituals call "limpias"
("cleansing"). The curanderos bathe the patients in the liquid left from the infusion to
cleanse them from the "salt" (bad luck); other people bathe with it on the first hour of the
new year. Colombians chew the plant in order to coat their teeth and protect them from
cavities (GAB). Also used in ritual amulets. Preclinical tests show depressive effects on the
central nervous system (CNS), with anticonvulsive effects (RVM). "Crhles" use it to get
rid of bad spirits; the roots are antispasmodic and antipyretic; the leaf decoction, sudorific
and cough suppressant. "Palikur" use to protect their children against bad luck, and in
baths for the vitamin deficiency called "coqueluche" (GMJ). "Tikuna" bathe feverish
patients in the leaf infusion and wash headache with the decoction. For bronchitis and
pneumonia, a drop of kerosene and lemon juice is added to a teaspoon of macerated leaves
(SAR). Rutter mentions beriberi, cramps, nerves, paralysis, rheumatism, scabies, scorpion
sting, spider bites, toothache, venereal diseases, and vision, calling the herb abortifacient,
analgesic, contraceptive, diuretic, emmenagogue, vermifuge, and insecticide (RAR).
Fig. 178. Persea americana (IIC)

Fig. 183. Physalis peruviana (IIC)

Independently, two different sources, one Venezuelan, one Colombian, related anecdotes
about "curing" pancreatic cancer with Petiveria (JAD). Tramil all but endorses inhalation
of the aroma for migraine and sinusitis, and using as a mouthwash for toothache (TRA).
(Fig. 179)

Pharur latifolia L. Poaceae. "Puma barba", "Paujil chaqui". "Cuna" cook the
roots for a long time and drink for diarrhea, taking 2 small cups a day (FOR).

Phaseolus vulgaris L. Fabaceae. "Frejol" "Bean", "Frijol", "Poroto", "Green

bean". 'Cultivated. Seeds edible, served daily at Explorama as black or brown beans.
Probably as good as soybean at preventing cancer (JAD).

Phenakospennum guyannense (L.C.Rich.) Endl. Strelitziaceae. "Aback",

"Platanillon. Fruits edible. Fiber from buds used for cordage; leaves used to wrap food
(RVM). "Andoke" use sap for liver ailments (SAR). Stem chewed to prevent caries (SAR).

Philodendron cuneatum Engl. Araceae. "Itininga sacha". The hanging roots are
used as ropes (RVM). "Taiwano" apply the crushed leaves in fat to dermatoses (SAR).

Philodendron deflexum Poepp. Araceae. "Tsutsihe". "Bora" use in remedy to keep

children from eating soil DAT.

Philodendron gracilis Bunting. Araceae. "Boa sacha". As an ornamental. (Fig.

180)

Philodendron megalophyllum Schott. Araceae. "Itininga". The hanging roots are

used as ropes. Juice of roots used for bugbites and snakebites.

Philodendron goeldii G.M.Barroso. Araceae. "Corona de Neron" . Ornamental;

sap used to extract worms from the skin.

Philodendron solimoesense A. C.Smith. Araceae. "HuambB". Roots are used for

making baskets, handbags, handicrafts, and in finishing chairs and other furniture. The
exudation of the leaves are used to extract worms from the skin (RVM).

Philodendron sp. Araceae. "Mai tanpeshco". Leaves poulticed onto toothache

(VDF).

? Phoradendron crassifolius (DC.) Eichl. Loranthaceae. "Suelda con suelda",

"Pishco isma", "Mistletoe". Depending on the host, this parasite cures fast or slow. If
parasitic on lime, it is used for fractures, dislocations, and cuts. Mashed leaves are applied
over the affected area, before it is splinted. To hasten healing, they drink a cup of the
decoction a day. They mix a leaf with foliar buds of Psidium guayaba and bark of
Spondias mombin for a mother after childbirth, two cups a day, morning and afternoon.
This helps her heal faster, better able to meet her marital duties, sooner than normally
expected.

Phoradendron huallagense Ule. Loranthaceae. "Beguefide". Leaves applied 3

times a day as a topical antiinflammatory (VDF).
Q Phoradendron piperoides (HBK) Trelease. Loranthaceae. "Suelda con suelda",
"Pishco isma". As Phoradendron cmsifolius. Rubber workers drink the leaf tea for anemia
(SAR). (Fig. 181)

Q Phthirusa adunca (Meyer) Maguire. Loranthaceae. "Suelda con suelda", "Pishco

isma". As Phoradendron massifolius. "Karaja" use the leaf maceration for fever (RVM).
(Fig. 182)

9 Phthirusa pyrifolia (HBK) Eichl. Loranthaceae. "Suelda con suelda", "Pishco

isma". As above.

9 Phyllanthus niruri L. Euphorbiaceae. "Chanca piedra", "Sacha foster", "Stone-

breaker". Like other species, quite effective in eliminating kidney- and gallstones (NIC).
Considered anodyne, apertif, carminative, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, laxative,
stomachic, tonic and vermifuge, used elsewhere for blennorrhagia, colic, diabetes, dropsy,
dysentery, dyspepsia, fever, flu, gonorrhea, itch, jaundice, kidney ailments, malaria,
proctitis, stomachache, tenesmus, tumors and vaginitis (DAW). Plant has proven
antihepatotoxic, antispasmodic, antiviral, bactericidal, diuretic, febrifugal, and
hypoglycemic activity (TRA).

Phyllanthus stipulatus (Raf.) Webster. Euphorbiaceae. "Chanca piedra". Well

known for renal calculus and liver diseases.

Phyllanthus urinaria L. Euphorbiaceae. "Chanca piedra". As the previous species

(RVM). Brazilian Indians use the stem decoction to prevent hair loss (SAR).

Physalis angulata L. Solanaceae. "Bolsa mullaca", "Capuli cimarr6nW,"Mullaca".

Fruits edible; leaf infusion diuretic. Leaves and fruits used as narcotics, the decoction as
an antiinflamatory, and disinfectant for skin diseases (GAB). Leaf juice used for worms
(RAR). Also used for earache, liver, malaria (RAF), and rheumatism. "Cuna" often drink
the leaf infusion for asthma (FOR). Root infusion used for hepatitis (AYA). Brazilians use
the sap for earache (SAR), the roots boiled with Bixa and Euterpe for jaundice (BDS).

Physalis peruviana L. Solanaceae. "Aguaymanto" . "Cape gooseberry". Fruit

edible. Fruit juice for pharyngitis and stomatitis, the infusion as an ocular decongestant,
the diuretic leaf infusion for cough and jaundice (FEO). (Fig. 183)

Phytelephm macrocarpa R.& P. Arecaceae. "Yarina", "Pelo ponto" , "Cabeza de

negro", "Ivory palm". The leaves are used to roof houses; terminal buds and immature
seeds are edible. Ripe fruits, called "marfil vegetal" ("vegetable ivory "), used to make
buttons and miniature handicrafts. The mesocarp of the ripe fruit is edible cooked. Diuretic
(RAR). (Fig. 184 and Fig. 2-Introduction)

Phytelephm sp. Areaceae. "Piasaba". Produces a fiber for brushes and brooms.
Leaves used in roofing; seeds edible.

Phytolacca rivinoides Kunth & Bouche. Phytolaccaceae. "Poe-hoe", "Airambo",

"Apacas", "Jaboncillo", "Nipirihe", "Pokeberry". Saponins make this a soap substitute,
occasionally used to wash rashes and pruritus. Ferreyra says young shoots are cooked as
a vegetable (RAF). It is bacteriostatic and disinfectant (RVM). Ecuadorians use the leaf
poultice for tumors (SAR). "Andokes" use the warm leaf infusion as an antiseptic for
inflamed wounds (SAR). "Tanimuka" apply as an antidote to hot peppers (SAR). (Fig. 185)

Picramnia lineata Macbr. Simaroubaceae. "Amii", "Sani panga". Leaf cataplasm

used as antiecchymotic and resolvent (VDF).

Picramnia magnifolia Macbr. Simaroubaceae. "Amiicuche". "Boras" poultice it

onto sores (DAT).

Picramnia sprucei H0ok.f. Simaroubaceae. "Ooniyatso", "Sam Panga"*. Used

by the "Boras" to treat skin irritations (DAT). Fruit soaked overnight for a purple dye
(SAR).

Picrolemma pseudocoffea Ducke. Simaroubaceae. "Sacha caf6". Considered

anthelmintic and febrifuge in Peru (RAR), leaf and root tea used for gastritis in Brazil
(BDS).

Pilocarpus spicatus A.St.Hi1. ex DC. Rutaceae. "Sapote yam". Sedative (RAR).

Pinzona coriacea Mart. & Zucc. Dilleniaceae. "Paujil huasca", "Watewine".

Stems provide potable water.

0 Piper acutifolium R.&P. Piperaceae. "Hierba del soldato", "Matico". Leaf

decoction applied as topical and vaginal antiseptic; ingested for dyspepsia, dysmenorrhea,
and gastrosis (FEO).

Piper aduncum L. Piperaceae. "Cordoncillo", "Matico". Leaves used in ritual

baths for enteritis and upset stomach (RVM). "Karijona" use dried leaves as styptic (SAR).

Piper angustifolium R.&P. Piperaceae. "Cordoncillo", "Matico". Leaves applied

externally as antiseptic vulnerary; the tea consumed for bronchitis, dysentery, gonorrhea,
inflammation, and malaria (FEO, RAR). Infusion washed onto rheumatic areas around
Pucallpa (VDF).

Piper angusturn Rudge. Piperaceae. "Cordoncillo". The dried and burned leaves
are applied on infected abscesses; the leaf infusion is antiseptic.

Piper arboreum L. Piperaceae. "Cordoncillo". Carminative, antirheumatic and

emollient (RVM). Leaves given for debility, overeating and food poisoning (SAR).

Piper annatum Trecul & Yuncker. Piperaceae. "Niu weoko", "Cordoncillo".

"Secoya" use to blacken their teeth (RVM).

0 Piper carpunya R.&P. Piperaceae. "Carpunya". Leaf tea taken for bronchitis and
dysmenorrhea (FEO). Analgesic (RAR).

Piper dumosum Rudge. Piperaceae. "Cordoncillo". "Orejones" once used it to coat

their teeth to prevent cavities; also used for abdominal inflammation (RVM). "Tikunan
once used in curark (SAR).
? Piper hispidum Sw. Piperaceae. "Cordoncillo", "Ungushurato", "Pi66". Leaf
infusion used regularly for menstrual periods. "Achuales" on Rio Huasaga chew leaves to
coat their teeth and prevent cavities (LAE). Leaves used by the "Boras" for mouth sores
in children (DAT). Once used in "Tikuna" curarc? (SAR). Leaf decoction used for malarial
fever on the Rio Putumayo (SAR). Dried leaves used to delouse dogs (SAR). Mixed with
Phyllanthus leaves as a fish POISON (SAR). Believed diuretic in La Pedrera (SAR).

? Piper rnarginutumJacq. Piperaceae. "Cordoncillo", "Katio". Cultivated. Fresh leaf

infusion used to relieve menstrual pains, and as an air refreshener. Colombians chew the
plant to coat the teeth and protect them from cavities (GAB). Brazilians rub fat on
swellings, then place the leaf over it (BDS). Regarded as anesthetic, carminative, digestive,
antiinflammatory, antipyretic, antispasmodic, for hepatoses and blennorrhagia. Used in
perfumery, dentifrices, aromatizers, synthesis of anisaldehyde, caramels, color
photography, and microscopy (POV).

Piper nigrum L. Piperaceae. "Pimienta negra", "BlackPepper". Cultivated. As

a digestive stimulant. Mixed with honey, copaiba, andiroba, and sugar, for coughs,
bronchial affections, laryngitis and pharyngitis (RVM). Contains cinwle.

? Piper obliquumR.&P. Piperaceae. "Cordoncillo". "Secoya" men and women chew

it for 5 days after childbirth. "Waygpi" use it for hernia (GMJ). "Ketchua" use for the
teeth.

Piper peltatum L. Piperaceae. "Santa Maria". Leaves used as table cloths, to wrap
food (RVM), and rubbed on the body as a tick repellent P A W ) . Leaf decoction used as
a diuretic, antipyretic, and emetic. The leaves passed over fire are applied directly on the
head to relieve and reduce the swelling caused by trauma and hernias. Leaf poulticed onto
sores (DAT). Believed anodyne, antiblemorrhagic, antiinflammatory, diuretic, lenitive,
pediculicidal, piscicidal, resolvent, sudorific, vermifuge (JAD, RVM). "Crhles" use it as
an antineuralgic, the leaf infusion as a sudorific (GMJ). Elsewhere used for abscesses,
bums, colds, erysipelas, headache, hepatitis, leishmaniasis, swellings, toothache and
urethritis (DAW). (Fig. 186)

Piper soledademe Trelease. Piperaceae. Amazonian Peruvians chew leaf and stem
for oral sores (SAR).

Piptadenia suaveolem Miq. Fabaceae. "Pashaco". Wood for lumber.

Pistia stratiotes L. Araceae. "Huama", "Lechuga cimarrona", "Water lettucew.

Vapors of the infusion used for mycosis (RVM). "Tikunas" mix crushed leaves with salt
to remove warts (SAR). (Fig. 187)

Pitcairnia sprucei Bak. Bromeliaceae. "Bromilia". Flower shafts used as

ornamental.

? Pityrogramma calomelanos (L.) Link. Adiantaceae. "Apaapalle", "Shapumba".

"Huitotos" use as a preventive collyrium for cataracts. Natives from Trinidad use the leaf
infusion for flu, amenorrhea, and hypertension (DAW). "Cuna" use the root infusion for
stomachache (FOR). Plant infusion used as depurative, mild astringent, and pectoral;
especially recommended in infusions for pulmonary affections. Frond applied to the gums
for toothache (VDF). In Surinam, the whole plant with roots is decocted for bronchitis.
Fig. 188. Plantago major (CRC) Fig. 189. Plukenetia volubilis (GAV)
Leaves are applied to wounds and cuts to stop bleeding (JFM). Root infusion used as a
bechic, for pulmonary ailments; also considered a talisman (GMJ).

0 Plantago major L. Plantaginaceae. "Llanten", "Plantain". Cultivated. Decoction

used as antiseptic for infected wounds. "Chamin use leaf maceration after childbirth;
decoction used as liver analgesic (CAA). "Crhles" use for traumatic irritations and
conjunctivitis (GMJ). "Tikuna" crush leaves with raw eggs for bronchitis and fever (SAR).
For gastric ulcers (RAR). (Fig. 188)

Platymiscium spp. Fabaceae. "Aiiushicumaceba". Wood used for jam posts for
bridges, dormers and posts.

Pleonotoma variabilis Miers. Bignoniaceae. "Nishi bata". Leaf infusion used

internally around Pucallpa for gastritis (VDF).

Pleurothyrium denstjlorum A.C. Smith. Lauraceae. "Pungar muena". Wood used

for rafts, supports, decks, columns, lumber.

Plinia sp. Myrtaceae. "Anihuayo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Plukenetia volubilis L. Euphorbiaceae. "Mad del monte", "Correa", "Sacha

inchi". Sometimes cultivated. Seeds are edible cooked or toasted. Fresh seeds mildly
laxative. Among the "Witoto" who call it "amuebe", fresh leaves are poulticed to "heal
extensive third-degree burns without scamng" (NIC). Leaves said to be edible (RAR).
(Fig. 189)

Plurneria alba L. Apocynaceae. "Jasmin", "Suche rosado" , "Frangipani".

Cultivated ornamental. Elsewhere, regarded as bactericidal, cardiotonic, cathartic, caustic,
emmenagogue, fungicidal, POISON, purgative, rubefacient, stimulant; used for abscesses,
dermatoses, dropsy, fever, gingivitis, herpes, itch, rheumatism, scabies, toothache, tumors,
venereal diseases and warts (DAW).

Podocarpus oleifolius D.Don ex Lamber. Podocarpaceae. "Aceitillo", "Pino

regional", "Podocarp". Wood for house construction.
Poeppigia procera Presl. Fabaceae. "Cedro pashacon. Wood used for decorative
plaques, bark for tannery. Astringent to heal sores (SOU).

Polianthes tuberosa L. Agavaceae. "Ang61ican, "Tuberose". Cultivated

ornamental, grown elsewhere for perfumery (JAD). Elsewhere considered astringent,
detergent, diuretic, emetic, resolvent and styptic; used for diarrhea, fever, gonorrhea, heat
rash, pimples, and tumors (DAW).

Pollalesta discolor (HBK) Arist. Asteraceae. "Yanavara", "Ocuera negra". Wood

is used for beams, columns, construction, decks, and fuel. (Fig. 190)

Polybotrya caudata Kunze. Aspleniaceae. "Shapumba huashu". The "Wayiipi" use

it in rituals (GMJ).

Polygala acuminata Willd. Polygalaceae. "Irgapirina sacha", "Puru pagic sacha".

Root used in Upper Huallaga Valley (UHV) for rheumatic ailments (RAF).
 Polypodium decumanumWilld. Polypodiaceae. "Calaguala","Huayhuashi-shupa".
Rhizome maceration used for fever, whooping cough (grated or in infusion), and renal
indispositions. From the leaves the "Boras" prepare a drink for coughs (DAT). Rhizome
used to treat the pancreas (RVM). "Crhles" use the decoction in ritual baths for infants
(GMJ). In Latin America, "calaguala", "llanten" and "matico" are among the first
mentioned when the subject is medicinal plants, especially cancer (JAD).

? Poraqueiba sericea Tul. Icacinaceae. "Humarf". Cultivated. Mesocarp edible,

frequently fermented; wood used for house construction, beams, charcoal, and decks
(RVM). Used in a Witoto contraceptive (SAR). Astringent leaf tea valued for bacillary
dysentery (SAR). Brazilians use the fruit oil for frying fish (SAR). Perhaps endangered or
lost in the wild (SAR). (Fig. 191)

9 Portulaca oleracea L. Portulacaceae. "Verdolaga", "Purslane". Crushed plant

used for fever, stings, and swellings. Containing noradenaline, purslane might logically be
rubbed onto beestings and/or placed under the tongue, especially of allergic people (JAD).
"Crhles" prepare an antidiabetic, digestive, and emollient tea. Used by the Palikur as a
hypotensive (GMJ) (but contains hypertensive compounds JAD). Elsewhere considered
alexeritic, alterative, aperient, astringent, bactericidal, cardiotonic, demulcent, detergent,
diuretic, emmolient, fungicidal, hemostat, refrigerant, sedative, vermifugal and viricidal;
used folklorically for anthrax, bladder ailments, blenorrhagia, boils, bugbites, bums, colds,
colic, dermatitis, diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia, earache, eczema, edema, enterorrhagia,
erysipeals, fever, gonorrhea, gravel, hematuria, hepatitis, herpes, hyperglycemia,
hypotension, inflammation, insomnia, leucorrhea, nausea, nephritis, palpitations, piles,
pleuritis, pruritis, snakebite, sores, splentitis, strangury, swellings, toothache, tumors,,
warts and wounds DAW. A rather promising chemopreventive (= "cancer-preventive")
herb, loaded with antioxidants (JAD). Seeds of P. peruviana I.M. Johnston are considered
emmenagogue and vermifuge. The shoot decoction, considered diuretic and cholagogue,
is used for headache. Shoots are chopped and applied in pork fat to hemorrhoids (FEO).
(Fig. 192)

9 Portulaca pilosa L. Portulacaceae. "Flor de mediodia", "Flor de once".

Considered digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, vermifuge; used for bums, catarrh, colic,
erythema, gallbladder, hemoptysis, hepatitis, nephritis (RAR). Brazilians drink the tea for
sores.

Posoqueria latifolia (Rudge) Roem. & Sch. Rubiaceae. "Huitillo" , " Sacha huito" .
Fruit edible (SOU). "Cuna" drink bark infusion for diarrhea (FOR). Powdered flowers
used as a flea repellent. Febrifuge; tonic (RAR).

Potalia amara Aubl. Loganiaceae "Curarina", "Sacha mangua". Important

snakebite medicine, also famed for syphilis, urethritis, and other venereal diseases. The
aqueous decoction or extract soothes body aches and pains. Natives boil the root bark to
obtain a black substance which is filtered and taken orally. The "Boras" apply the
maceration on snakebite, stingray, and ant bites (AYA, SAR). Shoots and leaves are
considered antisyphilitic. Leaf decoction used for urethritis and ophthalmia. The strong tea
is used to treat cassava poisoning. It is a cicatrizant, used in dental cavities (RVM).
"Crhles", and "WayZpi" use leaf decoction for fever. "Palikur" use tender leaves and
small branches to treat the swellings caused by deep abscesses (GMJ). Colombian Rio
Vaupes Indians regard the'infusion as an emetic in food poisoning (SAR). Brazilians use
the infusion for food poisoning, ophthalmia, and syphilis. Venezuelans consider it laxative
PAW). Contains squalene, saturated fat, methyl esters (SAR). (Fig. 193)

Poulsenia armata (Miq.) Standl. Moraceae. "Llanchama", "Yanchama". Bark used

for cloth and handicrafts. Few groups use the bark for clothing, but it is still used for thin
mattresses. (Fig. 194)

Pouraqueiba sericea Tul. Icacinaceae. "Humari", "Umari". Fruit edible (VAG).

Pouraqueiba paranesis Ducke. Icacinaceae. "Humari", "Urnan'". Fruit edible

(VAG).

Q Pourouma cecropiaefolia Mart. Moraceae. "Baacohe", "Ubilla", "Grape tree".

Cultivated. Fruit edible, produced ca 3 years after planting (MJB). Wood used for paper
pulp, and the toasted seeds as a substitute for coffee (RVM). Leaf ashes sometimes
substituted for Cecropia as a coca additive. "Bara-Maku" use root scrapings to induce
permanent sterility (SAR). "Cubeo" use as a masticatory, elsewhere considered intoxicant
(DAW). (Fig. 195)

Pourouma guianensis Aubl. ssp. guianensis. Moraceae. "Sacha ubilla". Fruit

edible.

Pourouma herrerense C.C.Berg. Moraceae. "Sacha ubilla". Fruit edible.

Pourourna minor Benoist. Moraceae. "Sacha ubilla". Fruit edible.

Pourouma ovata Trecul. Moraceae. "Chullachaqui blanco". Wood used in house

construction.

Pouteria caimito (R.& P.) Radlk. Sapotaceae. "Caimito", "Tocino caimito",

"Quinilla caimitillo". Cultivated as a fruit tree. Found wild with the name "quinilla
caimito". Wood used for posts, forked poles, fence posts, dormers, bridges, parquet and
handicrafts (RVM). "Witoto" apply toasted macerated leaves as a disinfectant to wounds
(SAR). Contains alpha-amyrin, dammarenediol-11, erythrodiol, and lupeol (SAR). (Fig.
196)

Pouteria cladantha Sandwith. Sapotaceae. "Quinilla caimitillo". Fruit edible

(VAG).

Pouteria cuspidata (A.DC.) Baehni. Sapotaceae. "Caimitillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Pouteria gomphiaefolia (Mart. ex Miq.) Radlk. Sapotaceae. "Quinilla blanca del

bajo". Wood for posts, forked poles, dormers, and fence posts.

Pouteria guianensis Aubl. Sapotaceae. "Caimitillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Pouteria laevigata Radlk. Sapotaceae. "Caimitillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Pouteria lucuma Kntz. Sapotaceae. "Lucuma". Fruit edible (VAG).

 Pouteria macrophylla (Lam) Eyma. Sapotaceae. "Lucma". Cultivated. Fruit tree;
wood for posts, forked poles, dormers and fence posts.

Pouteria multiflora (A.DC.) Eyma. Sapotaceae. "Caimitillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Pouteria neglecta Cronq. Sapotaceae. "Quinilla negra". Wood for posts, forked
poles, fence posts, and dormers.

Pouteria plicata Penn. Saptoaceae. "Caimitillo". Fruit edible. (VAG).

Pouteria procera (Mart.) Baehni. Sapotaceae. "Caimitillo", "Quinilla blanca" .

Fruit edible (VAG). Wood used like P. negbcta.

Pouteria reticulata (Engl.) Eyma. Sapotaceae. "Caimitillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Pouteria simulans Monach. Sapotaceae. "Quinilla blanca". Wood used like the
previous species.

Pouteria unilocularis (Donn. Sm.) Baehni. Sapotaceae. "Caimitillo". Fruit edible.

Wood for forked poles, posts, dormers, and fence posts.

Pouteria sp. Sapotaceae. "Caimitillo", "Caracha quinilla". Wood for forked poles,
posts, dormers, jam posts for bridges, parquets, and fence posts. Fruit edible (VAG).

9 Priva lappulacea (L.) Pers. Verbenaceae. "Puspo quihua", "Bolsa quihua".

Women drink an infusion of the leaves and roots during menstruation as a contraceptive.
"Choc6"use it for whooping cough (JAD). "Cuna" drink root decoction with lemon juice
for stomachache (FOR). "Crhles" poultice the maceration of the whole plant with salt onto
sprains (GMJ). In Hispaniola used for colic, cough, diarrhea, gas, and gastritis (DAW).

9 Prosopis chilensis (Mol.) Stuntz. Fabaceae. "Algarrobo". Unripe fruit considered

astringent, lactagogue; unripe fruit applied to toothache. Seed infusion considered
nutritious, tonic (FEO).

Protium altsonii Sandw. Burseraceae. "Copal". Wood for lumber. Latex once
widely used for caulking boats; today more people use petroleum tar in caulking. For
torches (shupihui), they put some coagulated latex on a palm leaf and then light it; bright,
it gives a pleasant aroma. Latex also used for shining ceramics.

Protium divaricatum Engl. ssp. divaricatum. Burseraceae. "Copal colorado". For

extraction of latex.

Protium grandifolium Engl. Burseraceae. "Copal", "Brea caspi". The latex is used
for caulking boats. Aril of the seed edible.

Protium hebetatum Daly. Burseraceae. "Copal carana". Wood used for lumber.
Latex gathered.

Protium nodulosum Swart. Burseraceae. "Copal". Latex extracted. Arils eaten

(VAG).
 Protium spruceanurn Engl. Burseraceae. "Copal". Latex extracted. Arils eaten
(VAG).

Protium subserratum (Engl.) Engl. Burseraceae. "Copal". Latex extracted. Arils

from the fruit edible.

Prunus avium L. Rosaceae. "Cereso", "Sweet cherry". Cultivated ornamental,

also for fruit.

Prunus cerasus L. Rosaceae. "Guinda", "Sour cherry". Cultivated ornamental,

also for fruit.

Pseudobombax munguba (Mart. & Zucc.) Dugand. Bombacaceae. "Punga",

"Pretino punga". Wood used for buoys; cotton from seeds is used with darts. "Boras" use
the inner bark to make "tipiti", an implement used to press cassava. Bark used for rope
(RVM).

Pseudolmedia laevigata Trecul. Moraceae. "Chimicua", "Misho chaqui" , "Motelo

chaqui". Wood for lumber, posts, forked poles, dormers.

Pseudolmedia laevis (R.&P.) Macbr. Moraceae. "Chimicua", "Itauba amarilla".

Wood for timber, stakes, and dormers. Fruit edible (VAG).

Pseudoxandra polyphleba (Diels) R.E. Fries. Annonaceae. "Siririca", "Espintana".

Wood for house construction, and fishing poles.

Psidium acutangulum DC. Myrtaceae. "Guayabilla". Fruit edible WAG).

0 Psidium guayaba L. Myrtaceae. "Guayabo", "Guayabo blanco", "Guava".

Cultivated. Fruit is edible. Wood used to for tool handles, and for the "tramojo" (an
implement put on pigs so they cannot walk easily). The infusion of foliar buds is used for
diarrhea (especially that caused by bacteria, AYA). Also used for sanitary napkins; for
dentition, and swellings of gout (VAM). "Exurnas" use the leaves and roots for diarrhea.
Natives of Cojeles (Venezuela) use the bark decoction for diarrhea, the floral infusion to
regulate menstrual periods (FOR). "Cr&lesn and "WayFipi" use decoction of bark, leaves,
and shoots for diarrhea (GMJ). Tramil recommends the leaves for diarrhea, emotional
shock, vertigo, and vomiting (TRA). (Fig. 197)

Psychorria acuminata Benth. Rubiaceae. "Sananguillo". "Cuna" use a daily portion

of the cooked root for children who urinate too often (FOR).

Psychotria alba R.& P. Rubiaceae. "Tupamaqui", "Ucumi-micuna", "YagB".

Sometimes used with "ayahuasca".

Psychotria carthaginensis Jacq. Rubiaceae. "Sameruca" "YagC". Added to

"ayahuasca" (RVM). Considered TOXIC, the leaves contain tryptamines (SAR). (Fig. 198)

Psychotria deflexa DC. Rubiaceae. "Sananguillo". The "Cunas" put the leaves in
cold water to bathe the children, twice a day, to relieve fever (FOR).

Psychotria horizontalis Sw. Rubiaceae. "Tupamaqui". Added to "ayahuasca".

 Psychotria marginata Sw. Rubiaceae. "YagB", "Sanaguillo". Added to
"ayahuasca". "Cunas" use the hot leaf decoction to wash (many times a day) sore parts
caused by blows (FOR).

Psychotria poepiggiana Muel1.-Arg. Rubiaceae. "Boca pintada", "Oreja del

diablo" "Devil's ear", "Picho e mula". Ornamental. "Chami" use it in baths to treat
hemorrhoids (CAA). "Way5pin use the flower bracts as an analgesic for the auricular
pains; "Palikur" use the flower decoction as an antitussive (GMJ). Colombians take the hot
root internally and massage it on the chest for lung ailments (SAR).

Psychotria stenostachya Standl. Rubiaceae. "YagBw, "Rumo sacha". Used in

preparing "ayahuasca".

Psychotria viridis R.&P. Rubiaceae. "Chacruna", "YagB", "Tupamaqui". Used

in making "ayahuasca". Contains N,N-dimethyl tryptamine (SAR).

Pterocarpus amazonum (Mart.) Amshoff. Fabaceae. "Coshon tama", Jaguar

caspi", "Maria buena", "Mututi", "Palo sangre blanca". Latex applied under the tongue
three times a day for fever (VDF). Bites of inhabitant ants used for rheumatic pains
(RVM).

Pterocarpus rufescens Benth. Fabaceae. "Maria buena" , "GoodMary". Wood for

decorative plaques.

Pueraria phaseoloides (Roxb.) Benth. Fabaceae. "Kudd". Cultivated. As a soil-

ameliorating nitrogen-fixing forage, sometimes becoming undesirable (RVM). Elsewhere
used for boils and ulcers (DAW).

? Punica granatum L. Punicaceae. "Granda", "Pomegranate".Cultivated shrub,

fruit edible. Bark taenicidal. Seeds, containing more than 15 ppm estrone, are reportedly
estrogenic (JAD).
 Qualeaparaensis Ducke. Vochysiaceae. "Quillo sisa", "Yescacaspi", "Moena sin
olor". Wood for furniture, house construction.

Q Quararibea cordata. (H.&B.) Vischer. Bombacaceae. "Numiallamihe", "Sapote",

"Sapote de monte". Fruit is edible; wood for lumber. "Tikuna" use fruit pulp with
Pouzolzia for dysmenorrhea (SAR). (Fig. 199)

Quararibea ochrocalyx (K.Schum.) Vischer. Bombaceae. "Machin sapote". Fruit

edible (VAG).

Quassia amara L. Simaroubaceae. "Amargo", "Cuasia", "Bitterwood".

Insecticidal, tonic, for fever and hepatitis (RAR). Brazilians use the leaf tea in bathing for
measles (BDS), a remedy that sounds a bit better than tea of ashes of dry white dog dung.
Brazilians also wash the mouth with leaf tea after tooth extraction. Surinamese "Maroons"
use the bark for fever and parasites (MJP). Potent aphidicide (MJP).

Fig. 199. Quararibea cordata (IIC)

 Randia ruiziana DC. Rubiaceae. "Huitillo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Rauwolfia andina Markg. Apocynaceae. "Misho runto". Roots used as POISON.

Reserpine extracted from Rauwolfia spp. is used for arterial hypertension and CNS
problems.

Rauwo@a sprucei Muel1.-Arg. Apocynaceae. "Sanango", "Misho runto". Source

of reserpine. (Fig. 200)

Rauwolfia tetraphylla L. Apocynaceae. "Misho runto", "Pelilla", "Sanango",

"Turcassa", "Amazunian snakeroot". Around Pucallpa, the leaf decoction is used for
toothache (VDF). "Shipibos", "Yaguas", and "Achuales" use the roots as arrow POISON
(AYA). Reserpine, tetraphylline, and tetraphyllicine are obtained from this species and
from R. sprucei (LAE).

Remijia asperula Standl. Rubiaceae. "Padojcohen. Used in house construction

(DAT).

Remijia peruviana Standl. Rubiaceae. "Chullachaquicaspi" . Iquitos children drink

it during the new moon to become strong (SAR). Febrifuge (RAR).

Renealmia alpina (Rottb.) Maas. Zigiberaceae. "Mishquipanga". Fruits yield a

red-purple dye used for cloth and handicraft. Don Segundo suggests this plant as an
ephemeral mosquito repellant; it seems to work, albeit briefly, on some of us.

Rhabdadenia biflora (Jacq.) Muel1.-Arg. Apocynaceae. "Nea pono". Around

Pucallpa, the leaf decoction is used as an antiseptic cicatrizant for abscesses. Latex used
for toothache and gingirrhagia (VDF).

? Rhacoma urbaniana Loes. Celastraceae. "Ullucuy chuchuashi". Tocache natives

use bark infusion as an abortive (RVM).

Rheedia gardneriana (Miers ex P h c h . ) Triana. Clusiaceae. "Charichuelo de hoja

menu&". Fruit edible; wood for house construction.

Rhigospira quadrangularis Marcgraf. Apocynaceae. "Yahuarhuayo colorado".

Fruit edible (RVM).

Rhodognaphalopsisbrevipes A.Robyns. Bombacaceae. "Punguilla", "Punguilladel

varilla". Wood used for house construction, beams, decks, and columns.

Rhodostemonodaphne grandis (Mez) Rohwer. Lauraceae. "Muena", "Garza

muena". Wood for lumber, and boat contruction.

Ricinus communis L. Euphorbiaceae. "Higuerilla", "Castor bean". Cultivated.

Seeds yield castor oil, used as liniment and laxative. Presently used industrially in paints,
soaps, varnish, ink, and plastics (CRC). "Crhles" use as a purgative; "Palikur" use leaf
decoction for fever. The oil is used as a liniment to soothe muscular pains (GMJ). The
deadly POISON rich can be put on "kamikaze" monoclonal antibodies and directed to
tumors or viruses (JAD). (Fig. 201)

Rinorea racemosa (Mart.) Ktze. Violaceae. "Yutubanco", "Lim6ncillon,

"Cafecillo". Wood used in home construction. "Tirio" use the crushed bark of a
Surinamese species for wasp stings (MJP).

Rollinia cardiantha Diels. Annonaceae. "Anona", "Anonilla". Fruit edible

(RVM).

Rollinia curvipetala R.E.Fries. Annonaceae. "Anonilla". Fruit edible (RVM).

Rollinia cuspidata Mart. Amonaceae. "Anonilla". Fruit edible (RVM).

Rollinia edulis P1. & Tr. Annonaceae. "Anona", "Anonilla". Fruit edible (RVM).

Rollinia mucosa (Jaq.) Baill. Annonaceae. "Anona". Cultivated. Fruit edible.

(Fig. 202)

Rollinia pittieri Safford. Annonaceae. "Sacha anona". Wood used for house
construction, beams, decks.

Rosa canina L. Rosaceae. "Rosa", "Rose". Cultivated. Ornamental.

Rosa centifolia L. Rosaceae. "Rosa del remedio", "Medicinal rose".Ornamental.

Rosa gallica L. Rosaceae. "Rosa". Cultivated. Ornamental.

Rosa indica L. Rosaceae. "Rosa Alejandrina", "Alexandran rose". Ornamental.

Roucheria punctata Ducke. Linaceae. "Puma caspi". Wood used for construction,
beams, decks, and columns (RVM). "Taiwano" believe the bark decoction of the related
R. calophylla Planch. is a "sure cure" for malaria (SAR).

Ruitzerania trichanthera (Spruce ex Warm.) Marcano-Berti. Vochysiaceae. "Quillo

sisa", "Moena sin olor". Wood for lumber, general construction.

Ruizodendron ovule (RAP.) R.E.Fr. Annonacxe. "Espintana". Wood is used for

interior decoration.

? Ruta chalepensis L. Rutaceae. "Ruda", "Rue".Cultivated. Around Iquitos, tied

to many superstitions; a little branch of rue dispels bad spirits, and attracts clientele. Some
merchants carry a rue leaf on their ears. Rue tea mixed with castor oil is well known as
an oxytocic (SOU). Powdered leaves used to treat otitis, ophthalmia, and pediculosis. Leaf
tea taken, perhaps dangerously, as antidysmenorrheic, antihysteric, cardiotonic, digestive,
sedative, vermifuge. Vinegar decoction of leaves used for decongestant and sedative in
myalgia (FEO). Brazilians use the tea for stroke (BDS). Psoralens in the plant may render
it photoTOXIC (JAD).
 Ryania speciosa Vahl var. tomentosa (Miq.) Monach. Flacourtiaceae. "Esponja
huayo", "Espuma huayo". Highly toxic species used by the "Paurnari"as fish POISON;
used for making insecticides (RVM). On Rio Negro, they used the roots for rat POISON
(SAR) "Maku"said to use the plant for euthanasia, homocide and suicide (DAW). (Fig.
203)

Fig. 201. Ricinus communis (PKD)

Fig. 202. Rollinia mucosa (GAV)

Fig. 203. Rym'a speciosa (GAV)

 Sabal palmetto (Walt.) Lodd. Aracaceae. "Texas palmetto". Cultivated
ornamental.

Sabicea paraensis (Schum.) Vernh. Rubiaceae. "Huasca mullaca", "Ruichao".

Edible fruits.

Sabicea villosa Roemer & Schultes. Rubiaceae. "Curihjau", "Huasca mullaca" .

Edible fruits. "Wayspi" use the leaf decoction for dysentery, for cramps, colic, and
abdominal pains (RVM). Around Rio Apaporis, the astringent leaf infusion is used for
malaria (SAR).

Saccharum x oflcinarum L. Poaceae. " M a de &car" "Sugar cane".Cultivated.

Sugar cane juice used as a refreshing beverage, fermented into spiritous beverages. Known
locally as "leva" or "guarapo", distilled to make "aguardiente". Used to sweeten foods and
medicine.

Sacoglottis mattogrossensis Mal. Humiriaceae. "Loro shungo". Wood for

construction, posts, dormers, bridges, and mortars for sugar mills.

Salix martiana Leyboyld. Salicaceae. "Sauco" "Willow". Bark and leaves used as
sudorific antirrheumatics (RVM), both internally and as a wash (VDF). Also for
gonorrhea, hemoptysis, and worms.

Salvia occidentalis Sw. Lamiaceae. "Salvia" "Sage".Used for colic, nausea, and
flatulence.

Salvia splendens Ker-Gawl. Lamiaceae. "Flor de fuego", "Scarlet sage".

Cultivated ornamental.

Salvinia minima Bab. Salviniaceae. "Lenteja de agua" "Water lentil". Aquatic

ornamental.

? Sambucus mexicana Presl. var. bipinnata (S.&C.) Schw. Caprifoliaceae. "Sauco"

"Elder". Cultivated ornamental. Flower decoction used as a sudorific, antipyretic, for
stomachaches, and urinal problems (urethritis). Infusion of flowers and shoots drunk to
relieve fever and flu (CAA). "Tikuna" take 3 cups leaf decoction a day for measles (SAR).
Elsewhere, considered anodyne, aperient, cathartic, diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, and
stimulant; used for amenorrhea, asthma, catarrh, cough, dropsy, epilepsy, fever, flu,
headache, inflammation, rheumatism and syphilis (DAW). Fruit edible (RVM).

Sambucus peruviana HBK. Caprifoliaceae. "Rayan", "Sauco", "Elderberry".

Chopped leaves applied as a "galactophorus application"; decoction used as an oral
antiseptic. Flower decoction considered aphrodisiac, antirheumatic, antiseptic, depurative,
and sudorific (FEO, BDS). Brazilians take flower tea of Sambucus nigra for chickenpox.

Sanchezia peruviana (Nees) Rusby. Acanthaceae. "Antara caspi". Planted

ornamental.
 Sanchezia tigrina Leon. Acanthaceae. "Matzi sanban", "Sanban". Leaves applied
to rheumatic joints around Pucallpa (VDF).

Sansevieria thyrsiflora Thunb. Agavaceae. "Sanseveria", "Bowstring hemp".

Cultivated ornamental.

Sapindussaponaria L. Sapindaceae. "Choloque", "Tingana", "Soapberry".Fruits

once used for soap; now used in children's games ("canicas") like marbles.

Sapium glandulosum (L.) Morong. Euphorbiaceae. "Caucho masha",

"Shiringarana". The latex is bulked with that of Hevea; used as gutta-percha. (Fig.204)

Sapium marmieri Huber. Euphorbiaceae. "Shiringarana", "Gutapercha". As the

previous species.

Sauvagesia erecta L. Ochnaceae. "Hierba de San Martin", "Intimiracu". Decoction

used as diuretic. "Crhles" use the leaf tea for fever (GMJ). "Siona" take the plant
decoction for stomachache (SAR). Elsewhere used for snakebite (DAW); tuberculosis
(RAR).

Scheelea basleriana Burret. Arecaceae. "Shebon". Fruit and/or seeds edible (RAR,
RVM).

Scheelea cephalotes (Epp.) Karst. Arecaceae. "Shapaja". Seeds and terminal buds
edible. Small edible grubs (suri) may eat the kernel (JAD). Used for construction.

Scheelea plowmanii Glass. Arecaceae. "Catirina". Seeds edible. Leaves used to

roof houses.

Scheelea princeps Karst. Arecaceae. "Shapajilla". Seed edible cooked (VAG).

Scheelea salazerii Glassm. Arecaceae. "Shapaja". Seeds edible.

Scheelea tessmannii Burret. Arecaceae. "Shapaja". Seeds edible.

Schenera morototoni (Aubl) Maguire, Steyerm. & Frodin. Araliaceae. "Moena

sin olor", "Sacha uvilla". The clean wood is used for interior decorations. Young leaf
rachis used by "Campa-ashaninca" for arrows (RVM). Considered anodyne, antirheumatic,
antisciatic, aphrodisiac and tonic in Haiti (DAW). Cataplasm for "luxaciones" (RAR).

Schistostemon reticulaturn (Ducke) Cuatr. Humiriaceae. "Parinari sacha". Fruit

edible (RAR).

Schizaea elegans (Vahl) Sw. Schizaeaceae. "Se5oritaU,"Paraguita". Ornamental.

Leaf maceration with water for pimples. Cold water infusion is tonic (RVM).

Schizolobium arnazonicum Huber ex Ducke. Fabaceae. "Pashaco". Wood for

lumber, plaques, and plywood (RVM). "Tikuna" use leaf tea as febrifuge (SAR).

Schizolobium parahyba (Vell. Conc.) S.F.Blake. Fabaceae. "Pashaco". Wood for

lumber, decorative plaques, and plywood. It can also be used as an ornamental.
 Schoenobiblusperuvianus Standl. Thymelaeaceae. "Barbasco". Mashed roots a fish
POISON (AYA). "Kofh" use in curark (SAR). "Tikuna" poultice powdered leaves onto
infected cuts and wounds (SAR). Ophthalmic analgesic (RAR).

Scleria flagellum-nigrorum Berg. Cyperaceae. "Cortadera", "Verdugo",

"Cutgrass". The leaves and stems are put under the roofs to keep the bats away. (Fig.
205)

Q Scleria malaleuca (Schlecht. & Cham.) Reichb. Cyperaceae. "Cortadera". Leaf

decoction used in treating female sterility (FEO).

Scleria microcalpa (Liebm.) Steud. Cyperaceae. "Cortadera". Rhizome decoction

for renal calculus (RVM).

Sclerolobium melinonii Harms. Fabaceae. "Tangarana de hoja menuda". Wood for

lumber.

Sclerolobium rigidum Macbr. Fabaceae. "Tangarana de altura". Wood for lumber.

Q Scoparia dulcis L. Scrophulariaceae. "Bati matsoti", "Escobilla", "Ruciiu-

pichana", "Piqui pichana". Leaf infusion used for bronchitis, cough, diarrhea, fevers,
kidney diseases, and hemorrhoids (RVM, VDF). Leaf infusion antidiarrheic and emetic
(CAA). Antiseptic leaf decoction used for wounds; and fever. "Crhles" use the leaf
decoction mixed with maternal milk as an antiemetic for infants. Dried leaves used by as
a marihuana substitute. "Palikur" use the leaf decoction in antipyretic baths and in poultices
for migraine headaches (GMJ). Ecuadorians take the tea for pain and swelling (SAR).
"Tikuna" drink the tea, with or without "paico", three days during the menses as an
abortifacient or contraceptive (SAR). Four to five plants tied together make the typical
river-dweller's broom (RVM). Brazilians add the root to the bath when "cleaning their
blood" (BDS). They apply strained leaf juice for eye ailments; and to infected wounds
(erysipelas) (BDS).

Sechium edule (Jacq.) Sw. Cucurbitaceae. "Chayote". Fruit edible (VAG). Often
cooked as a vegetable at Explorama.

Securidaca paniculata L.C. Rich. Polygalaceae. "Gallito". "WayiZpi" use the inner
film of bark (cambium) to prepare a decoction used as a dental analgesic; "Palikur" use it
to treat dermatosis (GMJ).

Selaginella exaltata (Kunze) Spring. Selaginellaceae. "Shapumba", "Helecho".

Greenery used for Christmas decoration. "Cuna" boil the roots for a long time, and drink
a cup a day of this tea for stomachache and pancreatic ailments (FOR).

Selaginella speciosa A.Br. Selaginellaceae. "Helecho", "Shapumba". Similar to

S. exaltata.

Selaginella stellata Spring. Selaginellaceae. "Palillow,"Sapo magui" . Brazilians

bathe in the decoction as a flu treatment (BDS).

Senefeldera inclinata Muel1.-Arg. Euphorbiaceae. "Tscaahe". Firewood (DAT).

Mayna "Jivaro" apply scraped bark to toothache (SAR).
 Sesamum indicum DC. Pedaliaceae. "Ajonjoli", "Sesame".Oil from macerated
seeds used in massage for contortions (BDS). Sounds more pleasant than grated crocodile
penis, drunk as a remedy, even better than crocodile oil for massage (BDS).

Sesuvium portulacastrum L. Aizoaceae. " Capin", "Litho". Decoction or infusion

prescribed for bronchitis (VDF).

Setaria geniculata (Lam.) Beauv. Poaceae. "Grama-chilco", "Knotroot-bristle-

grass". Forage grass. (Fig. 206)

? Sicana odorifera Naud. Cucurbitaceae. "Secana", Cassabanana". Young fruits

cooked as vegetables, ripe fruits edible uncooked; taken for sore throat; leaf and flower
decoction considered emmenagogue, laxative, vermifuge. Flowers may contain
POISONOUS cyanide (JFM).

Sida acuta Bum. Malvaceae. "Jocuchuchupa", "Pichana". Plant used to make

brooms. "Crhles" consider the leaf infusion diuretic. Macerated leaves soaked in water
produce a mucilaginous solution valued as a shampoo to get rid of lice. "WaySipi" use the
decoction for fever. "Palikur" poultice the leaves onto migraine headaches (GMJ).

? Sida rhombifolia L. Malvaceae. "Ancusacha", "Pichana", Varilla" . Considered

analgesic, aphrodisiac, demulcent, diuretic, emmenagogue, emollient, lactagogue, and
sedative; used for alopecia, antibiotic, bilious conditions, bladder ailments, boils, burns,
conjunctivitis, dermatosis, diarrhea, dyspepsia, dyspnea, gastrosis, gonorrhea, impetigo,
leucorrhea, lupus, piles, rheumatism, snakebite, sores, thrush, tuberculosis, tumors, ulcers,
urethritis, and wounds (DAW, TRA, RAR).

Simarouba amara Aubl. Simaroubaceae. "Marupai". Wood for lumber, interior

decorations, furniture, plywood veneer, paper pulp. Bark decoction for fever. "Crhles"
mix macerated bark with rum as a tonic for malaria and dysentery (GMJ). Emetic,
hemostat, purgative, tonic (RAR).

Simira rubescens (Benth.) Bremek. Rubiaceae. "Puca quiro" .Wood for handicrafts
and plaques. "Achuales" chew bark to prevent caries (AYA). "Boras" make a pink dye
from the bark (SAR). "Taiwano" poultice the flowers onto skin infections (SAR).

Simira tinctoria (HBK) K.Schum. Rubiaceae. "Huacamayo caspin, "Puca quiro".

The wood is used for handicrafts.

P Siparuna guianensis Aubl. Monimiaceae. "Isula huayo" , "Picho huayo" , "Asna

huayo". Fruit used in fiestas, the leaf infusion believed aphrodisiac. Leaf decoction used
in baths for mycosis. "Crhles" use the leaf tea as an abortive, oxytocic, and antipyretic;
the alcoholic leaf maceration as vulnerary, and the salty leaf decoction as hypotensive.
"WayZpi" use the decoction of leaves and bark as a refreshment and antipyretic (GMJ).
The tea of the leaves and flowers is used as a carminative, in dyspepsia, and painful
spasms (RVM). Don Segundo informed one class that the aroma of this plant, applied to
the skin to prevent hunted animals from smelling the hunter (by masking his body odor),
was not only effective, but rendered the hunter all but irresistible to females. One of my
taxonomic associates claims to have confirmed this empirically (JAD). "Tikuna" eat the
fruits for dyspepsia (SAR). Elsewhere considered anodyne, insecticidal and stomachic; used
foklorically for colds, colic, cramps, dermatosis, fever, headache, mange, rheumatism,
Fig. 204. Sapium glandulosum (GAV)

Fig. 205. Scleria jlugellum-nigrorum (GAV)

1I
Fig. 206. Setaria genicula~(HAC)

2m I
Fig. 207. Socratea emrrhiza (GAV)

Fig. 208. Spigelia anthelmia (GAV)

snakebite and wounds (DAW). Tapajos natives make solar tea from the leaves for bathing
headache (BDS).

Sloanea laxiflora Spruce ex Benth. Elamrpaceae. "Cepanchina". Wood for

lumber; buttress roots used to make oars, tables, doors, and handicrafts.

Sloanea ~~~~~~~~a(Moc. & Sesse). Standl. Elaeocarpaceae. "Cepanchina", "Yacu

achotillo". Wood used for house construction; buttress roots used for doors, handicrafts,
oars and tables.

Sloanea sp. Elaeocarpaceae. "Puzanga caspi". With dried leaves of Jacaranda

copaia, the bark is used in love potions.

Smilux ruiziana Kunth. Smilacaceae. "Mai mosha". Leaves poulticed onto arthritic
joints around Pucallpa (VDF).

Socratea exorrhiza (Mart.) H. Wendl. Arecaceae. "Pona", "Cashapona", "Stilt

palm". Stem bark slatted and used for floors, walls, room dividers, supports for roofs etc.
"Achuales" use the leaf decoction for hepatitis (AYA). Ashuar use the roots (NIC).
"Palikur" consider the fruits TOXIC. "Wayiipi" use the grated stipes to poultice on
umbilical cords of newborn babies (GMJ). (Fig. 207 and Fig. 2-Introduction)

Solanum americanum Mill. Solanaceae. "Ucsha-coconilla" .Used to treat erysipelas

and cough. "Cuna" use leaf infusion for mycoses, rubbing liquid on the affected areas,
preferably hot (FOR).

Solanum barbeyanum Huber. Solanaceae. "Mashua". Leaves used to massage local

inflammation around Pucallpa (VDF).

Solanum coconilla Huber. Solanaceae. "Coconilla colorada". Fruit edible.

Solanum grandiJ1orum R.&P. Solanaceae. "Poni ani mite", "San Pablo". Plant
used internally as antiinflammatory resolvent around Pucallpa (VDF).

Solanum jamaicense Mill. Solanaceae. "Coconilla con espiiias". Fruit edible

(RVM), but "Tikuna" regard the fruits as TOXIC (SAR). Leticia natives boil the fruits
with yuca flour as an antidote to food-poisoning (SAR).

Solanum leucopogon Huber. Solanaceae. "Cubu nichi" , "Intuto quirow. Leaf

decoction as a topical antiinflammatory around Pucallpa (VDF).

9 Solanum mammosum L. Solanaceae. "Vaca chucho", "Tinctona", "Breast beny".

Used as an ornamental; fruit said to be POISONOUS. "Boras" use it to treat the sores of
leishmaniasis, a worm infection (DAT). "Choc6" (JAD) and the "Chami" use the fruit to
kill cockroaches (CAA). "Cuna" use fruit macerated in hot water for growths on the breast
(doctrine of signatures?). In Tolima and Santander seeds are used as insecticides (FOR).
Guatemalans use fruits as medicine and ornament during pilgrimages. In Costa Rica, the
leaf decoction is used for kidney and bladder infections. The decoction of the fruit with all
its juice is used for asthma; plant also used for sinusitis, arthritis and rheumatism (POV).
"Kofh" use as a pacifier for small children (SAR).
 Solanum sessiliflorum Dun. Solanaceae. "Cocona", "Topiro". Cultivated. Fruit
edible and makes good juice, often sewed at Explorama. Juice used as a scabicide; also
recommended after snakebite (RVM). "Waorani"rub juice on scalp to cleanse and gloss
the hair (SAR). Boiled plant rubbed on spiderbites to heal necrotic tissue (SAR). Following
scorpion sting, juice is drunk to prevent vomiting (SAR).

Solanurn sisimbrifolium Lam. Solanaceae. "Misqui corrota" , " Ocote mullaca".

Leaves regarded as febrifugal around Pucallpa (VDF).

Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench. Poaceae. "Sorgo", "Escoba", "Maiz guineo" .

Cultivated. As a forage, grain or as raw material for industry.

Sparattanthelium sp. Hernandiaceae. "Chundu huasca". Peruvians use the stem

decoction for cough, diarrhea, headache and stomachache (SAR). "Tikuna" assert that
powdered leaves of S. glabrum applied to the lip in oil for two weeks is depilatory
(paralleling an activity reported for Hernandia in Oceania) (SAR).

0 Spartium junceum L. Fabaceae. "Retamita", "Talhui", "Spanish broom".

Cultivated ornamental. Roasted flowers used for rheumatic pains and migraine headaches.
They rub the fresh flowers on to clear freckles; also used as a diuretic, antirrheumatic, and
for jaundice (RVM). Dried flowers smoked for asthma (SAR). Ecuadorians take the root
infusion as abortifacient (SAR). Analgesic, diuretic, purgative (RAR). For albuminuria
(RAR). Contains cytisine, methyl-cytisine, and sparteine.

Spathicalyx xanthophylla (DC.) A. Gentry. Bignoniaceae. "Huapan", "Quillo-

panga huasca". Around Pucallpa, leaf maceration used in washes for fever and headache
(VDF). "Tikuna" from Colombia treat conjunctivitis with leaf infusion (AYA).

Spathodea campanulata Beauv. Bignoniaceae. "Espatodea", "African tulip tree".

Cultivated ornamental. Elsewhere considered laxative, POISON, and stomachic; used for
backache, dermatoses, dysentery, edema, enteritis, gastritis, gonorrhea, guineaworm,
nephritis, stomach problems, ulcers, urethritis, and wounds (DAW).

Spigelia anthelmia L. Loganiaceae. "Pega pinto", "Wonngrass". Roots used as

anthelmintic, POISONOUS when fresh (SOU). "Choc6" use it as a dangerous purge
(JAD). "Cuna" respect this plant, using it in small doses to eliminate parasites; if used in
bigger doses, it can kill a person (JAD). "Cuna" cook the roots with leaves of Piper
peltata. The liquid from the decoction is used for stomachache, taking a small cup a day.
Considered POISONOUS by the "Crhles" who use it as a vermifuge (GMJ). Root infusion
used to bathe children as sedative and tranquilizer. Given, perhaps dangerously, as a
soothing and cooling drink (SAR). (Fig. 208)

Spigelia humboldtiarmCham.& Schl. Loganiaceae. "Yape". Fruit reportedly mixed

with Bira orellana as face paint (RVM).

Spilanthes acmella L. Asteraceae. "Botoncillo". Brazilians boil the flowering tops

for the lungs, specifically tuberculosis (BDS). (Fig. 209)

Spondim cytherea Sonn. Anacardiaceae. "Taperiba", "Tapisho", "Otaheite

apple". Cultivated fruit tree. Ripe fruits edible, pickled. Leaves eaten or used to tenderize
meat (JFM). Tramil mentions antifertility effects (TRA).
Fig. 212. Stenotaphrum secundatum (HAC)
9 Spondias mombin L. Anacardiaceae. "Ciruela", " H u h " , "Ubos, "Ushun", "Hog
Plum". Fruit edible. Wood for lumber and veneer. Root decoction used for diarrhea, and
for mothers after giving birth, taking small doses for two consecutive months. Itaya
residents use it for tuberculosis, as an adjuvant with antibiotics. Docoction used for vaginal
baths to treat infections and hemorrhoids (AYA). "Campas"use it to lure tapirs (RVM).
"Cr&lesmuse the bark for diarrhea and upset stomach (GMJ). "Tikuna* use bark decoction
as anodyne and hemostat in diarrhea, metrorrhagia and stomachache (SAR). A single cup,
given each day during the menses, is believed contraceptive; drunk one day after delivery,
it is believed to lead to permanent sterility (SAR). Tramil mentions antiviral, myorelaxant
and uterotonic activities (TRA). In Brazil, used in ice creams and liqueurs (MJP). (Fig.
210)

Spondias purpurea L. Anacardiaceae. "Ciruela" "Spanish plum". Cultivated fruit

tree. Leaves used for amebiasis, diarrhea, fever, flu, sprains and trauma, bark for diarrhea
and ulcers (TRA). (Fig. 21 1)

Spondias radlkoferi Donn. Smith. Anacardiaceae. "Ushum", "Tapisho sacha".

Wood for lumber, plywood; fruit edible.

Spondias venulosa Mart. ex Engl. Anacardiaceae. "Ubos", "Ushum". Wood for

lumber; fruit edible. Bark decoction for diarrhea.

Stachytarpheta cayennensis (Rich). Vahl. Verbenaceae. "Ocollucuysacha", "Sacha

verbena". The stems and leaves are soaked in some water, squeezed and mixed, the
greenish extract drunk, one glass a day, for three consecutive months for diabetes (AYA).
UHV natives use the plant in medicine for their dogs (RAF). "Crt?oles" use the leaf tea as
a cholagogue purgative for dysentery. "Way5pi" and "Palikur" use the plant decoction in
baths to relieve colds and headaches (GMJ). Venezuelans have used it for tumors,
Dominicans as a panacea, and Trinidadians as a collyrium and depurative in chest colds,
dysentery, fever, heart attacks, ophthalmia and worms (DAW).

P Stenomesson variegatum R.&P. Amaryllidaceae. "Mayhua". Bulb decoction taken

internally as abortifacient emmenagogue (FEO).

Stenosolen eggersii Markgf. Apocynaceae. "Papelillo", " L o h sanango". Used for

rheumatism (RVM).

Stenosolen van-huerchii (Muel1.-Arg.) Mgf. Apocynaceae. "Huano sacha". Bark

decoction used internally for rheumatism, leaf decoction a wash for headache (VDF).

Stenotaphrum secundatum (Walt.) Kuntze. Poaceae. "Grama inglesa", "St.

Augustine grass". Cultivated lawn grass. (Fig. 212)

Sterigmapetalum obovatum Kuhlmann. Rhiwphoraceae. "Quillobord6n masha",

"Mangle de altura". Wood for house construction.

Stigmaphyllum sp. Malpighiaceae. "Huasca sisa". The sap is used by the

"Achuales" to extract decayed teeth (LAE).
Fig. 213. Strychnos guianensis (GAV)
Fig. 214. Swartzia polyphylla (GAV)

Fig. 2 16. Symbolanthus calygonus (GAV)

Fig. 215. Swietenia macrophyUa (GAV)

Fig. 218. Syzygium cumini (IIC)

Fig. 217. Symphonia globulifera (GAV)
 Strychnos guianensis (Aubl.) Mart. Loganiaceae. "Comida del venado", "Anzuelo
casha". Stems used to make "curar6"; recommended as an aphrodisiac. Mixed with
Uncaria guianensis, the decoction is used in genital baths for venereal diseases (RVM).
Contains brucine, eritocurarine, guaiacurarines, guaiacurine, c-guaianine, and strychnine
(JAD). (Fig. 213)

Strychnos rondeletioides Spruce. Loganiaceae, "Anzuelo yacu". Similar to the

previous species.

Strychnos sp. Loganiaceae, "Vona muca". Branches chewed for toothache (VDF).

Stryphnodendron polystachyum (Miq.) Klein. Fabaceae. "Pashaco",

"Huarnanzamana pashaco". Wood for lumber.

Swartzia laevicarpa Amshoff. Fabaceae. "Acero shimbillo", "Palo sangre

dominanten. Wood used for construction, beams, decks, tool handles, and dormers.

0 Swartzia polyphylla A.DC. Fabaceae. "Aiiushi-remo caspi " , "Cumaseba". Wood

used for house construction, beams, decks, dormers. Alcoholic maceration of the duramen
is used to hasten healing of dislocations, and to speed healing after childbirth. (Fig. 214)

Swartzia simplex (Sw.) Spreng. Fabaceae. "Porotillo". "Cuna" put the fruit and
leaves in cold water, and use it for sudden cerebral pains, by washing their heads
continuously with this liquid (FOR). "Kubeo" rub boiled crushed leaves on the abdomen
four times a day for hepatitis (SAR).

Swietenia macrophylla G. King. Meliaceae. "Aguano", "Caoba", "Mahogany".

Wood for lumber, decorative plaques, furniture and handicrafts. Considered one of the best
quality woods in Amazonian Peru. (Fig. 215)

Syagnrs tessmannii Burret. Arecaceae. "Bella vista", "Inchaui". Wood used for
construction and lances. Larvae living in fallen stems may be edible (RVM).

Symbolanthus calygonus (R.&P.) Griseb. Gentianaceae. "Flor de mariposa",

"Butterfly flower". As an ornamental. (Fig. 216)

Symphonia globulifea L. f. Clusiaceae. "Azufre caspi" , "Navidad caspi",

"Chullachaqui", "Buckwax". Wood used for house construction, canoes, paddles, keel
plates, flooring, carpentry, tool handles, etc. It is good quality for construction, carpentry,
and firewood (RVM). Latex used to caulk boats (RVM). "Crhles" use the latex for
dennatosis, and to reinforce the binding of the arrows (RVM). Indians apply the bark ash
to wounds and indolent ulcers (SAR). Brazilians use the seed oil for dermatoses (SAR).
(Fig. 217)

Syngonium vellozianum Schott. Araceae. "Bonan rao". Aerial parts applied

topically to relieve the itch of bugbites around Pucallpa (VDF).

Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels. Myrtaceae. "Aceituna dulce", "Java plum", "Sweet
olive". Cultivated ornamental tree; fruit edible. (Fig. 218)
 Syzygium jumbos (L.) Alst. Myrtaceae. "Pomarrosa", "Rose apple". Cultivated
for the edible fruit. Leaves, containing limonene and pinene, used for conjunctivitis, fever,
rheumatism, root for epilepsy (VAG).

Sytygium malaccemis (L.) Merr. & Perry. Myrtaceae. "Pomarrosa", "Mamey",

"Malayapple". Cultivated ornamental; fruit edible. (Fig. 219)

Fig. 219. Syzygium malaccensis (IIC)

164 AMAZONIAN ETHNOBOTANICAL
DICTIONARY

Tabebuia chrysanta (Jacq.) Nichols. Bignoniaceae. "Tahuarinegro", "Paliperro".

Wood for lumber, posts, poles, handicrafts, parquets. "Yaguas" use the trunk to make
jungle drums. Over-exported to the US as "tahebo" or "paod'arco", bark tea marketed for
candidiasis, cancer, and malignant tumors (JAD).

Tabebuia incana A.Gentry. Bignoniaceae. "Tahuari" , "Tarota". Same applications

as the previous species; bark decoction, or tincture used for tumors (RVM). "Urarina" use
one "tahuari" for kidney and liver disorders (NIC). (Fig. 220)

0 Tabebuia obscura (Bur & K . Schum). Sandw. Bignoniaceae. "Purma tahuarf".

Planted as an ornamental (RVM). "Taiwano" put dried flowers in food for dysmenorrhea,
"Bora" believe the bark antirheumatic (SAR).

Tabebuia ochracea (Chan) Sandw. ssp. heteropoda (DC.) Gentry. Bignoniaceae.

"Tahuari colorado". Wood for lumber; parquet, posts, forked poles, dormers, support for
sugar mills; the bark is used like T. chrysantha.

Tabebuia rosea (Bertol.) DC. Bignoniaceae. "Tahuari", "Pali-perro", "Trumpet

tree". Wood for posts, forked poles, dormers, and parquet.

Tabebuia serratifolia (Vahl) Nichol. Bignoniaceae. "Tahuarf", "Surinam

greenheart".Wood and bark used as T. chrysantha. "Crbles" use the flower decoction
mixed with sugar, as a pectoral syrup for colds, cough, and flu. "Palikurn use bark to
poultice onto leishmaniasis sores. "Waygpi" use the bark for fever (GMJ).

Tabernaernontana marcgrafiana Apocynaceae. "Sanango". Fruit edible (RVM).

Tabernaernontana maxima Markg. Apocynaceae. "Sanango ucho". Fruit edible

PAT).

Tabernaemontana muelleriana Mart. ex Muel1.-Arg. Apocynaceae. "Sanango".

Latex used by the "Boras" to POISON fish (DAT).

Tabernaernontana rimulosa Woods. Apocynaceae. " h b o Sanango". Amazonian

panacea (SAR). Around Iquitos regarded as antirheumatic, calmative, diuretic, emetic,
febrifuge and vulnerary (SAR). Venezuelans boil a few leaves in milk as a sedative (SAR).
(Fig. 221)

0 Tabernaemontana sananho R.&P. Apocynaceae. "Sanango", " L o b sanango",

"Toomecocoriu". Much as T. rimulosa. The leaves, softened by fire, are applied to relieve
rheumatic pains (RVM). In Pastm, taken one week after delivery. "Pulp is used as a
gargle for sore throat and colds" (SAR). "Tikuna" mix the latex with water for eye wounds
(SAR). "Jivaro" apply the bark juice to toothache (SAR). Considered sudorific, tonic, used
for colds, obesity, rheumatism, syphilis (RAR).

Tabernaernontana vanheurickii Muell. -Arg. Apocynaceae. "Ucho sanango".

Similar to the previous species.
 Tachigaliformicarum Harms. Fabaceae. "Tangarana de altura". Wood for lumber;
the small individuals are used for house construction, beams, decks, and columns.

Tachigalipaniculata Aubl. Fabaceae. "Tangarana de altura" , "Tangarana blanca" .

Wood used for house construction (RVM). "Makuna" rub the hot leaf infusion onto aching
limbs (SAR). "Tikuna" take hot leaf tea as a stimulant. "Taiwano" rub leaf infusion over
chest-ache, and believe the unripe pods aphrodisiac (SAR). "Kubeo" mix leaf ash with coca
(SAR).

Tachigalipolyphylla Poepp. & Endl. Fabaceae. "Tangarana amarilla". Wood used

for house construction.

Tachigali tessmannii Harms. Fabaceae. "Tangarana". Wood for construction.

Tachigali sp. Fabaceae. "Uuapa". Pucallpa natives use the leaves for headache
(VDF).

Tachigali sp. Fabaceae. "Tangarana". Wood for lumber for house construction.

Tagetes erecta L. Asteraceae. "Aya sisa" , "Aztec marigold". Cultivated

ornamental (RVM). "Tikuna" use leaf decoction as an ophthalmic anodyne, bathing fever
with the same decoction (SAR).

0 Tagetes minuta L. Asteraceae. "Huacatay" , "Muster John Henry". Decoction

considered antiabortive, cholagogue, digestive, gastric sedative, vermifuge (FEO).

Tagetes patula L. Asteraceae. "Flor de muerto", "French marigold".Analgesic,

antiasthmatic (RAR); leaf juice massage for fever in Tapajos (BDS).

Talisia cerasina (Benth.) Radlk. Sapindaceae. "Virote huayo". Fruit edible;

supposed to make one good with the blowgun. Source of black stain; used for gonorrhea
(RAN.

Talisia guianenris Aubl. Sapindaceae. "Virote huayo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Talisia reticulata Radlk. Sapindaceae. "Virote huayo". Fruit edible (VAG).

Tamarindus indica L. Fabaceae. "Tamarindo", "Tamarind". Cultivated

ornamental leguminous tree, the fruits used in making delicious beverages (JAD). Pulp
diuretic and laxative, inhibiting gram-negative bacteria responsible for urinary infections.
Aquwus leaf extracts exhibited antilipoperoxidative and hepatotropic activities while
alcoholic extracts exhibited bactericidal, spasmolytic and vasodilator activities. Tramil
approves use of the hepatotrophic leaves for jaundice and fruit pulp as antibacterial (TRA).
In Amazonian Brazil, the bark tea is used for ameba (BDS). (Fig. 222)

Tanaecium nocturnum (Barb.-Rodr.) Bureau & K.Schum. Bignoniaceae.

"Huangana huasca". Stem infusion used to eliminate lice and fleas from domestic animals.
The leaves have high concentration of HCN. "Choc6" natives use it as an aphrodisiac.
"Paunari" dry, toast, and pulverize the leaves, and mix with Nicotiana tabacum to inhale
(RVM). "Crwles" believe it effective for pulmonary diseases. "Wayiipi" use the bark
decoction to bathe cutaneous eruptions. The decoction of leaves and stems is used by the
 Pig. 221. Tabemmonkma rimulosa (SAR)

Fig. 222. Tamarindus indica (IIC)

V
Fig. 223. Terminalia dichotoma (GAV)
"Palikur" in baths to treat migraine headaches (GMJ). "Paumari" make a hallucinogenic
snuff from the vine (SAR).

Tapirira guianensis Aubl. Anacardiaceae. "Huira caspi " , "Jemeco" . Timber tree,
"Waygpi" use the bark to treat infants (RVM). "Taiwano" use flower tea for dysuria in the
elderly (SAR). Fruits edible (RVM). Vesicant POISON (RAR).

Tapirira retusa Ducke. Anacardiaceae. "Huira caspi", "Wira caspi". Wood for
lumber. Fruit edible (RVM).

Taralea oppositifolia Aubl. Fabaceae. " Cumaru-Rana" , "Palo sangre dominante".

Wood for lumber, poles, posts, dormers, and decorative plaques.

Tecoma stuns (L.) Juss. Bignoniaceae. "Campanilla amarilla", "Yellowbells".

Cultivated ornamental. In SOME MEDICINAL FOREST PLANTS OF AFRICA AIM) LADN
AMERICA, F A 0 (1986), note that the alkaloids tecomine and tecostanine lower the blood
sugar in experimental animals. Leaf infusions lower the blood sugar in humans. In Mexico,
its roots have shown antisyphilitic, diuretic and tonic properties (FAO).

Tectaria incisa Cav. Aspleniaceae. "Helecho". "Cuna" use cooked roots for
stomachache and hepatoses (FOR).

Tectona grandis L. Verbenaceae. "Tectona", "Teak". Cultivated ornamental and

timber tree.

Teliostachya lanceolata Nees. Acanthaceae. "To6 negro". Used as an additive to

ahuayasca, but only in witchcraft (RVM). "Kokama" said to use it directly as an
hallucinogen (SAR). "Secona" use for stomachache (SAR).

Tephrosia sinapou (Buch.) A. Chev. Fabaceae. "Cube", "Barbasco", "Kumu".

Cultivated as a fish POISON.

Tephrosia toxicaria Sw. Pers. Fabaceae. "Barbasco", "Cube". Contains

tephrosine, a fish POISON (SOU). Leaf decoction used by "Crhles" for snakebite and
syphilis, by "Galibi" for blenorrhagia (GMJ). Used for the heart, considered POISON.

Terminalia amazonica (J.F. Gmel.) Exell. Combretaceae. "Yacushapana". Wood

for lumber, heavy construction, parquet, decorative plaques, posts, and dormers (RVM).

Terminalia catappa L. Combretaceae. "Almendro", "Castaiiilla", "Indian

almond".Cultivated ornamental (RVM). Kernel edible (JAD). Brazilians use the astringent
bark for bilious fevers and dysentery (SAR) and the leaf tea for the liver (BDS). Tramil
does not discourage the use of the leaf decoction for hypertension (TRA).

Terminalia dichotoma G.Meyer. Combretaceae. "Yacushapana". Wood for

lumber, heavy construction, parquet, decorative plaques, posts, and dormers (RVM). (Fig.
223)

Tenninalia ivorensis A.Chew. Combretaceae. "Almendrillo", "Terminalia".

Cultivated ornamental.
Fig. 224. lheobroma grandzyorurn (IIC)
Fig. 225. I'heobroma obovatum (RVM)

Fig. 226. l'hevetia peruviana (GAV)

Fig. 227. Tripsacurn lanceolaturn

 Terminalia oblonga (R.&P.) Sten. Combretaceae. "Itauba", "Matsajcahe",
"Yacushapana". Wood for lumber, heavy construction, parquet, decorative plaques, posts,
and dormers (RVM).

Tessaria integrifaliaR.&P. A s t e r w e . "Huapariu", "Pajaro bobo", "Tseco". The

wood is used to build provisional houses for the cultivators of rice; leaf infusion ingested
for asthma (RVM). Leaf decoction ingested for gallstones and kidneystones (FEO). Around
Pucallpa, leaf decoction used for fever, hepatitis, inflammation, and renitis (VDF).

Tetracera volubilis L. Dilleniaceae. "Paujil chaqui" , "Watervine". For drinkable

water, cut a one-meter section of the stem and stand it vertically, the water will start
flowing (RVM). Considered antisyphilitic, antitumor, diuretic, febrifuge and sudorific
PAW).

Tetragastrispanamensis (Engl). 0. Kuntze. Burseraceae. "Brea caspi" , "Lacre",

"Copal colorado". Wood for lumber; latex used to caulk boats.

Tetrameranthus pachycalpus Westra. Annonaceae. "Carahuasca". Wood used for

house construction.

Tetrathylacium macrophyllum P.&E. Racourtiaceae. "Amuu", "Anonillan.Wood

used in construction (DAT).

lhelypteris opulenta (Klf). Fosberg. Thelypteridaceae. "Ap&ipalle". Used by the

"Boras" to plug dental cavities (DAT).

lheobroma bicolor Humb. & Bonpl. Sterculiaceae. "Macambo". Cultivated. Fruit

edible.

lheobroma cacao L. Sterculiaceae. "Cacao", "Chocolate".Cultivated. The pulp

of fruit edible. Food uses of chocolate, made from the seed, are well known (RVM). Not
so well known is the fact that much cocoa butter ends up in suppositories. Leaf infusion
widely used as cardiotonic and diuretic in Colombia (SAR). "Karijona" use toasted seed
with manihot squeezings for a scalp condition like eczema. "Ingano" use the bark decoction
as a wash for sarna (SAR). Thwbromine and thwphylline, like caffeine, all found in this
plant, used in modem medicine as antiasthmatic (JAD). We are cooperating with one
entrepreneur seeking a "lean green cacao bean" for renewable "organic low-fat rainforest
chocolate".

lheobroma cacao L. ssp. leiocalpurn (Bernoulli) Cuatr. Sterculiaceae. "Cacao

amarillo". Fruit pulp edible.

lheobroma grandiJlorum (Willd. ex Spreng) Schum. Sterculiaceae. "Copoasu",

"Cupuasu". Cultivated. Fruit pulp edible. (Fig. 224)

lheobroma obovatum Kl. Sterculiaceae. "Cacahuillo", "Ushpa cacao". Fruit pulp

edible. (Fig. 225)

lheobroma subincanum Mart. Sterculiaceae. "Cacahuillo", "Cacao macambillo"",

"Macambillo", "Macambo sachaw.Fruit pulp edible.Powdered inner bark (of pod) mixed
with tobacco as an hallucinogen. "Tirio" value the bark as tinder for starting fires (MJP).
0 Thevetia peruviana (Pers.) Schumann. Apocynaceae. " h b o l de Panama",
"Bellaquillo", " Camalonga", "Flor amarilla", "Lucky nut", "Yellow oleander".
Cultivated. As a POISONOUS ornamental (JAI)). The latex is toxic. "Karaja" use the fruit
for necklaces (RVM). Leaf juice used for toothache, the decongestant decoction for
rheumatism; tincture of branches febrifugal and purgative (FEO). Elsewhere considered
abortifacient, antidotal, anesthetic, cardiotonic, cathartic, emetic, insecticidal, piscicidal,
and purgative; dangerously used for dropsy, fever, heart ailments, piles, rheumatism,
toothache and tumors (DAW). (Fig. 226)

Thorococarpus bissectus (Vell.) Harl. Cyclanthaceae. "Puspo tamshi " . Various

species are used for temporary shelters.

Zhunbergia grandijlora (Roxb. ex Rottl.) Roxb. Acanthaceae. "Soga de Cristo",

"Blueskyflower". Ornamental.

Q Tococa juruensis Pilg . Melastomataceae. "Palo de hombre", "Tsaruwa",

"Yojadataka". "Andoke" take the swollen leafbase during pregnancy, assuring the birth of
a male child (SAR).

ToninaJluviatilisAubl. Eriocaulaceae. "Yura pasto". Decoction used by "Palikur"

in fortifying bath for infants (GMJ).

Tournefortia maculata Boraginaceae. "Boro shoanco rao". Around Pucallpa used

for headache and hemicrania (VDF).

Tovomita sp. Clusiaceae. "Chullachaqui colorado". Wood sometimes used for

house construction. Bark tincture antirrheumatic, added to ayahuasca.

Tradescantiaelongata Mey. Commelinaceae. "Yona rao". Used in febrifugal baths

around Pucallpa (VDF).

Tradescantia zebrina Hort. ex Bosse. Commelinaceae. "Bujeo", "Callicida",

"Hiedra". Cultivated ornamental. Cockroach repellant. Suppurative cataplasm for
infections.

Trattinickia aspera (Standl.) Sw. Burseraceae. "Copal", "Gallinam copal" . Wood

for lumber.

Trattinickia peruviana Loesn. Burseraceae. "Caraiia", " Copal caraiia" . Wood for
lumber.

Trema micrantha (L.) Blume. Ulmaceae. "Atadijo". Bark used for cordage; stems
used for fencing. The plant soaked in water makes an astringent liquid (PEA). "Cuna" use
the bark as an antipyretic for infants (FOR).

Trichilia euneura. C.DC. Meliaceae. "Bola requia". Seed maceration mixed with
aguardiente to poultice onto scabies.

Trichilia rnaynasiana C.DC. ssp. maynasiana. "Requia". Wood for lumber and
decorative plaques.
 Trichomanes elegans Rich. Hymenophyllaceae. "Helecho". Ornamental.
"Waunana" rub the leaves on their hands for good luck when hunting peccary and boars
(FOR). "Choc6" use it for snakebite (JAD). Leaf infusion drunk for colds (RVM).

Trichocereus pachanoi Britt. & Rose. Cactaceae. "Achuma", "San Pedro".

Decoction applied topically to prevent alopecia (FEO).

Trichospennum galeottii (Turcz) Kost. Tiliaceae. "Atadijo blanco". Wood for

lumber, beams, decks; bark for cordage.

Trigynaea duckei (R.E.Fries) R.E.Fries. Annonaceae. "Espintana blanca" . Wood

used for house construction, beams, and decks.

Triplaris peruviana Fisch. ex Meyer. Polygonaceae. "Tangarana sin madre".

Wood for house construction and raft supports.

Triplarispoeppigiana Wedd. Polygonaceae. "Tangarana del bajo". Bites from ant

inhabitants used for rheumatic pains (like those of bee and nettle stings? JAD). Around
Pucallpa, the species called "tangarana" is used for diarrhea, enteritis, and fever (VDF).

Tripsacum lanceolatum Rupr. ex Fourn. Poaceae. "Grama amarga", "Mexican

gama grass". Cultivated. Sometimes it escapes. As forage. (Fig. 227)

Trithrinax acanthocoma Drude. Arecaceae. "Palma brasilera", "Brazilianpalm".

Cultivated ornamental.

0 Triumfetta semitriloba forma althaeoides (Lam.) Uittien. Tiliaceae. "Caballousa",

"Pega-pega", "Carnaval huayo", "Carnival fruit". The fruits are used to molest people
during holidays. Leaf infusion used for diarrhea and hernia (RVM). Used for uterine
complaints around Iquitos (SAR). Astringent diuretic (RAR).

Trophis racemosa (L.) Urban. ssp. meridionalis (Bur.) W. Burger. Moraceae.

"Urpay machinga", "Sachavaca micuna". Wood for dormers; this tree is a good one for
hunting "motelos" (land tortoise). Leaves used for forage (RAR).

0 Tynnanthus panurensis (Bur.) Sandw. Bignoniaceae. "Clavo huasca", "Inejkeu" ,

"Clove vine". The pieces of roots and stems are macerated in aguardiente to make a
stimulant liqueur, good for rheumatism (RVM). Resin used for fevers (DAT). Some
explorama visitors have used it, effectivly, for toothache, being as effective as, and
probably chemically similar to clove oil (JAD). Some visitors believe, others disbelieve,
that the rays of the cross, steeped in aguardiente, are aphrodisiac, some for females, some
for males, some for both. We have no incontrovertible empirical evidence, one way or the
other.
9 Uncaria guianensis (Aubl.) Gmel. Rubiaceae. "Uiia de gato", "Cat's claw",
"Paraguayo", "Garabato", "Uiia de gavilain", "Hawk's claw". In Piura, the bark decoction,
considered antiinflammatory, antirheumatic, and contraceptive, is used in treating gastric
ulcers and tumors (FEO). Considered a remedy for cancer of the female's urinary tract;
also used for gastritis, rheumatism and cirrhosis. The "Boras" use it for gonorrhea (RVM).
Colombian and Guianan Indians use it for dysentery (SAR). Nicole Maxwell culimates her
latest edition with an illustrated anecdote about this plant, now exported by the tons to
Europe, for various cancers. Nicole even states that it turns grey hair black, including
some of her own (NIC). See following entry. (Fig. 228)

Uncaria tomentosa (Aubl.) Gmel. Rubiaceae. "Uiia de gato", " Cat's claw",
"Paraguayo", "Garabato", "Uiia de gavilain", "Hawk's claw". Widely used in Peru for
antiinflammatory, contraceptive, and cytostatic activities, the plant has yielded an
antiinflammatoryantiedemic glycoside (JNP54{2):453.1991). In Piura, the bark decoction,
considered antiinflammatory, antirheumatic, and contraceptive, is used in treating gastric
ulcers and tumors (FEO). In her latest edition, Nicole Maxwell (1990) has added much
information which may reflect the potential of the cat's claw. She informs us that Sidney
McDaniel submitted samples to the NIH cancer screen.

Unonopsis elegantissima R.E.Fries. Annonaceae. "Espintanilla". Wood for house

construction, beams, and decks.

Unonopsisf2oribundaDiels. Annonaceae. "Icoja". Wood for construction, beams,

and decks. Alcoholic bark maceration used for arthritis, rheumatism, and diarrhea.

Unonopsis spectabilis Diels. Annonaceae. "Icoja". Bark used for arthritis,

bronchitis, diarrhea, lung disorders, malaria and rheumatism (RVM).

9 Unonopsis veneficiorum (Mart.) R.E. Fries. Annonaceae. "Icoja". Bark used like
U. floribunda (RVM), also in curare (SAR). "Maku" use in antifertility potions (SAR).
(Fig. 229)

Urena lobata L. var. reticulata (Cav.) Gurke. Malvaceae. "Malva roja", "Yute",
"Jute". Cultivated. Bark provides a hemp-like fiber; anthelmintic, sedative (RAR). (Fig.
230)

9 Urera baccifera (L.) Gaud. Urticaceae. "Ishanga Moe", "Mara maraW,"Stinging

nettle". The stinging hairs on the leaves are used to relieve rheumatic pains. "Chami" cook
and eat the leaves and stems after removing the thorns (CAA). Around Pucallpa, applied
to the body for persistent fever (VDF). Elsewhere considered diuretic, rubefacient and
vesicant; used for amenorrhea, arthritis, chills, fever, gonorrhea, leucorrhea, malaria,
rheumatism and venereal diseases (DAW). One M.D. speculated that the acetylcholine,
choline and histamine injected with the stings, would stimulate the production of mast cells
which might in turn result in antiinflammatory (and antiarthritic) activity, away from the
sting.

9 Urera caracusana (Jacq.) Griseb. Urticaceae. "Cunshi ishanga", "Ishanga macho".

Fruit used as fishbait. "Wayiipi" use it in ritual at the first menstrual period. They rub
leaves on their bodies to relieve fever (RVM). Vaupes Indians use an infusion for
erysipelas, the roots for hemorrhage (SAR). Mexicans use it for poison ivy and syphilis,
Panamanians for brain cancer (DAW).

Urera laciniata (Gaud.) Wedd. Urticaceae. "Mara mara". Same as the U.

baccifra (RVM). "Siona" use externally for myalgia and to discipline children (SAR).

Urospathasagittifolia (Rodach.) Schott. Araceae. "Jerg6n sacha". Believed to help

snakebites. Some people sting their feet and legs to repel snakes (RVM).

Urtica magellanica Pois. Urticaceae. "Ishanga", "Quisa". Leaf infusion for

rheumatism and sciatica (FEO).

.
Utriculariafoliosa L. Utriculariaceae. "Maiz del tuqui tuqui " Aquate ornamental.

Fig. 228. Uncaria guianensis (GAV)

Fig. 229. Unonopsis veneJiciorum (SAR)

Urena lobata (GAV)

 Vanilla sp. Orchidaceae. "Vanilla". As an aromatic; the commercial species, K
planifolia and V. pompona, are cultivated in Central America, and Madagascar. (Fig. 23 1)

Vantanea guianensis Aubl. Humiriaceae. "Manchari caspi" , "Yerno prueba" .

Wood used for bridges, dormers, posts, poles, possibly for parquets (RVM).

Vantanea peruviana Macb. Humiriaceae. "Manchari caspi", "Yerno prueba".

Wood is used as jam posts for bridges, dormers, posts, forked poles, and has good
posibilities for parquets (RVM).

Vantanea tuberculata Ducke. Humiriaceae. "Manchari caspi", "Parinari s a p " ,

"Loro shungo". Wood is used as jam posts for bridges, dormers, posts, forked poles, and
has good posibilities for parquets (RVM).

Vatairea guianensis Aubl. Fabaceae. "Mari mari del bajo". Wood for posts and
forked poles. The "Crhles" and "Palikur" use leaves and seeds in ointments to treat skin
diseases (GMJ). Fresh seeds are poulticed onto mange, herpes, and other cutanwus
eruptions; adding bark chips makes the treatment more effective (GMJ, RAR).

9 Verbena littoralis H.B.K. Verbenaceae. "Verbena", "Yapo", "Verbena".

Considered abortifacient around Napo (JAD), also antitussive, emetic, febrifuge, and
vermifuge (RAR). Leaves used in antitussive febrifuges (VDF).

Vernonia baccharoides H.B.K. Asteraceae. "Ocuero", "Perma caspi", "Ticsa

micuna", "Zui". Huallaga natives use the sap for conjunctivitis (RAF).

Victoria amazonica (Poepp.) Sowerby. Nymphaeaceae. "Victoria regia", "SAbana

del lagarto". Aquatic ornamental. Mixed with andiroba oil for rheumatism, inflammation
and hemorrhoids (RVM). Root, seed and stem edible (RAR).

Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. Fabaceae. "Chiclayo", "Caupi", "Cowpea".

Cultivated. Forage; seeds edible.

Virola albidiflora Ducke. Myristicaceae. "Aguano cumala". Wood for interior

decoration, furniture, and plywood veneer (RVM). "Kunw" and "Tukano" use the resin
on sores (SAR).

Virola calophylla Warb. Myristicaceae. "Cumalablanca". Wood for lumber. Some

natives (e.g. "Bora" and "Huitoto"), use Virola as a powerful hallucinogen, taking it orally
and nasally. They grate, dry, and toast the inner bark slowly until it becomes powder so
they can inhale it. They also grate the cambium, boil it in water, mixing continuously until
it forms a thick syrup; after it dries, they make pills and swallow them. The alkaloids
found are mostly derivatives of tryptamine: DMT, MMT, 5-MeO-DMT, 5-MeO-MMT, and
the derivatives of beta-carboline: 6-MeO-DMTHC; the percentage of such compounds vary
according to the species, as well as their environment (RVM). Widely used for fungal
diseases and scabies (SAR). Amazonian Peruvians use for bladder and stomach ailments
(SAR). "Maku" use the bark tea for malaria (SAR). (Fig. 232)
 Virola decorticans Ducke. Myristicaceae. "Cumala negra". Wood for lumber
(RVM). "Jivaro" rub the leaf juice on the gums of children cutting teeth (SAR).

Virola divergens Ducke. Myristicaceae. "Cumala negra". Wood for lumber.

Virolaelongata (Benth.) Warb. Myristicaceae. "Cumalablanca". Wood for lumber

(RVM). "Bora" and "Huitoto" use the cambium as a hallucinogenic snuff, but this use is
more common in the native communities of the Orinoco, Rio Negro, and Amazonian
Colombia (RVM). "Barasana" apply the leaftiwig decoction to arthritic swellings (SAR).
Resin widely known for its fungicidal activity SAR. Bark contains sesartemin and
yangambin, which reduces aggressiveness (JBH). (Fig. 233)

Virolaflexuosa A.C.Smith. Myristicaceae. "Caupuri de altura" , "Cumala blanca" .

Wood for lumber, plywood (RVM). "Taiwano" use powdered leaves as insect repellent
(SAR).

Virola loretensis A.C.Smith. Myristicaceae. "Cumala blanca". "Boras" and

"Huitotos" use as an hallucinogen.

Virola multinervia Ducke. Myristicaceae. "Cumala negra". Wood for lumber.

Virolapavonis (A.DC.) A.C.Smith. Myristicaceae. "Caupuri del bajo" , " Aguano

cumala". Wood for lumber, plywood. "Bora" and "Huitoto" use as hallucinogenic.

Virolaperuviana (A.DC.) A. C.Smith. Myristicaceae. "Cumala blanca" . Bark used

as an hallucinogen (RVM); resin used to stop bleeding (SAR). "Tikuna" use the resin for
mycoses (SAR). "Waorani" use the sap for mites and dermatoses (SAR).

Virola sebifera Aubl. Myristicaceae. "Cumala blanca". Wood for lumber; the
leaves for tea; the sap, bark decoction, and aril for dyspepsia and intestinal colic, applied
directly for erysipelas, also for cleaning and healing wounds and inflammations (RVM).

Wrola surinamensis (Rol.) Warb. Myristicaceae. "Cumala blanca hoja parda*.

Wood for lumber, plywood. "Bora" and "Huitoto" use the cambium as a hallucinogen. The
decoction of the aerial rootlets that appear on the base of the trunk is used for cough.
"Palikur" prepare a bark emollient used for swellings and erysipelas; used as an oral
antiseptic to treat canker sores and abscesses. For swelling, it is mixed with bark of
Humiria balsarnifea, the decoction used for external baths (GMJ). Tea of leaves, sap, and
bark, mixed with Physalis angulata, is used for upset stomach, intestinal colic, erysipelas,
and inflammations (RVM). Leaves contain the antitubercular compound galbacin, the
antiaggregant veraguensin, and the antischistosomal surinamensis (JBH).

Vismia angusta Miq. Hypericaceae. " P i c h i ~ ahoja grande". The wood is used
for rural construction; the decoction of the latex from the buds, mixed with the latex of
Euphorbia cotinifolia, is used to treat ringworm or "caracha" (dermatosis caused by
fungus) (RVM). Amazonian Colombians use the latex for infected sores and wounds.
"Tikuna" use to treat herpes and mycoses (SAR). The latex of one Vismia is slated for
studies by a California pharmaceutical company; preliminary tests suggest it to be effective
(MJP). Both Segundo and JAD suffered long-lasting rashes as a result of the latex (JAD).
 Vismiaferruginea HBK. Hypericaceae. "Pichirina". The yellowish resin is applied
like iodine to wounds and dermatoses (SAR).

Vismia 1ateriJlora Ducke. Hypericaceae. "Pichirina colorada". Wood used for

construction.

Vismiamacrophylla HBK. Hypericaceae. "Pichirina". Wood used for construction.

Vismia minutijlora Ewan. Hypericaceae. "Pichirina hoja menuda". Wood used for
construction. The latex is fungicidal.

V i t a pseudolea Rusby. Verbenaceae. "Cormiiion", Paliperro". Seed edible.

V i t a trijlora Vahl. Verbenaceae. "Paliperro". Seed edible.

Vitis vinifera L. Vitaceae. "Uva", "Parra", "Grape". Cultivated ornamental fruit

vine. The tannins and anthocyanins in red wine have been shown to have antiherpetic
activity (JAD).

Vochysia demtjlora Spruce ex W . Vochysiaceae. "Quillo sisa". Wood used for

panels, ceilings, and light drawers (RVM).

Q Vochysia lomatophylla Standl. Vochysiaceae. "Quillo sisa", "Capiron" "Sacha

alfaro", "Sacha casho". Wood used for panels, ceilings, and light drawers (RVM).
"Barasanan give bark and pulverized leaves with warm chicha as an abortifacient (SAR).

Vochysia venulosa Warm. Vochysiaceae. "Mauba". Wood used for panels,

ceilings, and light drawers (RVM).

Vochysia vismiifolia Spruce ex Warm. Vochysiaceae. "Quillo sisa". Wood used

for panels, ceilings, light drawers and piling (RVM).
 Warscewiczia coccinea (Vahl) Klotzch. Rubiaceae. "Pucasisa", "Bandera caspi",
"Flag tree". Ornamental. "Choc6" wear the root on their ear as a perfume; they believe
it is an aphrodisiac (JAD). In Colombia the bark is used as a hemostat (JAD). "Cuna"
drink regularly a portion of the cooked root for nosebleed (FOR). (Fig. 234)

Q Wedelia trilobata (L.) Hitch. Asteraceae. "Manzanilla cimarrona", "Both de

oro", "Gold button". Sometimes cultivated as an ornamental. For toothache the flowers
are chewed and the extracted juice held in the mouth (RVM). In Trinidad used for
amenorrhea, dysentery, fever, foot problems, kidney ailments, sores and stomach problems
(DAW).

Wettinia maynensis Spruce. Arecaceae. "Ponilla", "Pona coto-shupa". The stems

cut into strips are used for walls, room dividers etc.

Witheringia solanacea L'Her. Solanaceae. "Urpa coconilla". Used as fishbait.

"Cuna" cook the roots for a long time, and drink the juice to relieve stomachache (FOR).

Witta amazonica K . Schum. Cactaceae. "Lagarto shupa". As an ornamental.

WulDa baccata (L. f.) Kuntze. Asteraceae. "Manzanilla sacha", "Chirapa sacha".
Rutter says fruit is edible (RAR). "Crbles" use flower tea to treat flu. Leaf decoction used
as an antidiabetic; used by the "Wayzpi" as refreshing baths for fever. The decoction of
the aerial parts is recommended for nausea (GMJ).
 Xanthosoma helleborifolium (Jacq.) Schott. Araceae. "Mano abierta". Cultivated.
As an ornamental; corms edible. Used elsewhere for snakebite (DAW).

Xanthosoma mafaffa Schott. Araceae. "Mafaffa". Corms and leaves edible.

Xanthosornapulpuratum Krause. Araceae. "Oreja de elefantew, "Elephant's ear".

Cultivated. As an ornamental.

Xanthosoma saggitifolium Schott. Araceae. "Huitina". Cultivated. Leaves and

corms edible (RVM). Elsewhere used for bums, cancers, polyps, sores and tumors
(DAW). (Fig. 235)

Xanthosoma violaceum Schott. Araceae. "Huitina","Uncucha". Cultivated. Corms

edible.

? Xiphidium caeruleum Aubl. Haemodoraceae. "Sacha orquidia" , "Wild orchid".

"Choc6" use for snakebites; "Cuna" use it to treat weakness in women (JAD). Flowers and
leaves are left in cold water overnight by the "Cuna" and taken to hasten childbirth. The
thick juice from the macerated leaves in cold water is applied to relieve pain (FOR).
"Waygpi" use the decoction of the entire plant for children who cry too much (GMJ).

Xylopia aromatics (Lam.) Mart. Annonaceae. "Espintana". Wood used for house
construction, beams, and decks. Toasted seeds and stem bark are mashed and used as a
carminative, stimulant, and aphrodisiac (RVM). (Fig. 236)

Xylopia barbata Mart. Annonaceae. "Espintana". Wood used for house

construction, beams, and decks.

Xylopia benthamii R.E. Fries. Annonaceae. "Pisha callo". Wood used for house
construction, beams, and decks. Fruit tea used for stomachache (RVM).

Xylopia frutescens Aubl. Annonaceae. "Espintana". Wood used for house

construction. Toasted seeds, and the aromatic bark, used as carminatives, aphrodisiac,
stimulants for the bladder, and as a tonic for rheumatism (RVM).

Xylopia micans R.E.Fries. Annonaceae. "Espintana". Wood for lumber.

Xylopia parvifolia Spruce. h o n a c e a e . "Espintana del varillal". Wood used for

house construction, lumber; the stems cut into strips are used for ceilings (RVM).
Elsewhere used for sores (DAW).

Xylopiapoeppiggii R.E.Fries. h o n a c e a e . "Yahuarachi caspi". Wood is used for

house construction.

Xylopia sericea A.St.Hi1. Annonaceae. "Espintana". Wood used for house

construction, beams, decks, and columns. Used as a spice in Brazil (DAW).
Fig. 235. Xnnthosoma saggih~olium(IIC)

- Fig. 236. Xylopia aromatica (SAR)

Fig. 238. Zingiber oflcinale (IIC)

Fig. 237. Zamia sp. (GAV)

 Zamia ulei Dammer. Cycadaceae. "Palma de goma". Cultivated ornamental. (Fig.
237)

Zanthoxylum juniperinum. Poepp. & Endl. Rutaceae. "Hualaja", "Shapilleja".

Wood for lumber.

Zanthoxylum cf rigidum Humb. ex Willd. Rutaceae. "Hualaja". Wood used for

house construction.

Zanthoxylum sprucei (Engl.) Engl. Rutaceae. "Hualaja". Wood used for house
construction.

Zanthoxylum valenr Macb. Rutaceae. "Hualaja". Wood for lumber.

Zea mays L. Poaceae. "Maiz" (Corn). Cultivated. The hybrid commonly cultivated
is yellow hard corn; when green, it is eaten as "sweet corn"; when ripe it is used for
animal feed; in small amounts, it is used for flour for baking breads, and beverages such
as "chicha". "Maiz polvo saran is used for flour; other cvs are of lesser importance. For
medicinal purposes, corn is soaked in aguardiente, and used in poultices for fever (RVM).
In Piura, the silk decoction is considered antiblennorrhagic, diuretic, sedative, and tonic.
The grain tincture is used for alopecia and rheumatism. Tramil recommends the use of
cornsilk for edema and kidney pains (TRA).

9 Zingiber oflcinale Roscoe. Zingiberaceae. "Jengibre", "Ki6n". Cultivated.

Macerated rhizomes in aguardiente for arthritis and rheumatism; believed to invigorate
males. Rhizome decoction used for diarrhea, and, with a pinch of cinnamon, stomachaches.
Also used as an antiflatulent and spice. "Palikur" poultice the rhizomes onto migraine
headaches (GMJ). Used also for bronchitis and rheumatic pains (RVM). Tramil reports that
oral doses of 50-100 mgkg of the alcoholic extract have antiinflammatory activity
comparable to aspirin, and not so promising analgesic activity. The extract is active against
gram negative and positive bacteria. Ginger01 and shogoal show molluscicidal activity
(TRA). Furanogermenone, at oral doses of 500 mgkg helps prevent gastric ulcer. Shogoal
is intensely antitussive, compared to dihydrocodeine (TRA). One gram of powdered ginger
can prevent seasickness (JAD). Tramil all but recommends it for colds, coughs, flu,
stomachache and vomiting (TRA). Rio Tapajos women drink the tea while in labor, giving
the "baby the strength to come out" (BDS). They also take the tea for colic, menstrual
cramps, sore throat. (Fig. 238)
 INDEX OF COMMON NAMES

Abaca: Phenakospennum Alcaparillo: Cassia

Abuta: Abuta Alexandran rose: Rosa
Abuta macho: Abuta Alfaro: Calophyllum
Abuta sacha: Anomosperum Algarrobo: Prosopis
Aceite caspi: Caraipa Algod6n: Gossypium
Aceite caspi blanco: Caraipa Algodon bravo: Ipomoea
Aceite caspi negro: Caraipa Algodonero: Gossypium
Aceitillo: Podocalpus Almendrillo: Tenninalia
Aceituna dulce: Syzygium Almendro: Terminalia
Acerola: Malpighia Almendro colorado: Caryocar
Acero shimbillo: Swartzia Aloe: Aloe
Achiote amarillo: Bira Alpinia: Alpinia
Achira: Canna Altamisa: Ambrosia
Achira cimarrona: Canna Amanzo: Echinodorus, Limnolobium
Achote: Bira Amapa: Macoubea
Achote vara: Mollia Amaraguna: Chelonanthus
Achuni muena: Caryodaphnopsis Amasisa: Erythrina
Achupa poroto: Cassia Amazonian coraltree: E~ythrina
Acid lemon: Citrus Amazon lily: Eucharis
Adam's rib: Monstem American oilpalm: Elaeis
Adelfa: Nerium Amii: Picramnia
Afasi caspi: Bothriospora, Cespedesia Amiicuche: Picramnia
African oilpalm: Elaeis Amor dormido: Mimosa
African tulip tree: Spathodea Amor seco: Bidens, Desmodium
Aguaje: Mauritia Ampato huasca: Cissus
Aguaje del varillal: Mauritia Ampihuasca: Chondrodendron
Aguajillo: Helosis, Mauritiella Amuu: Tetrathylacium
Aguanillo: Otoba Ana caspi: Apuleia
Aguano: Swietenia Anallo caspi: Cordia
Aguano cumala: Virola Ancusacha: Sida
Aguano masha: Huberodendron Andiroba: Carapa
Aguaymanto: Physalis AngBlica: Polianthes
Airambo: Phytolacca Angel sisa: Caesalpinia
Airana: Maprounea Angels trumpet: Brugmansia
Air plant: Kalanchoe Aiiil: Indigofera
Air potato: Dioscorea Anis moena: Acotea
Ajipa: Pachyrrhizus Annatto: Bira
Ajonjoli: Sesamum Anona: Annona, Rollinia
Ajo sacha: Mansoa Anonilla: Guatteria, Rollinia,
Ajo sacha macho: Mansoa Tetrathylacium
Ajos quiro: Cordia Antara caspi: Sanchezia
Alacran: Heliotropium Antarilla: Sanchaia
Alamendro blanco: Caryocar Aiiushi cumaceba: Platymiscium
Alamendro colorado: Caryocar Aiiushi moena: Anaueria
Albaca: Ocimum Aiiushi-remo caspi: Swartzia
Albaca cimarrona: Hyptis Anzuelo casha: Strychnos
Albaquilla: Hyptis Anzuelo yacu: Strychnos
Alcapaquilla: Cassia Apfipalle: Pityrogramma, lkelypteris
Apacas: Phytolacca Balsamina: Momordica
Apacharma: Licania Bhlsamo: Myroxylon
Apacharama blanca: Licania Balsam of Peru: Myroxylon
Apiranga: Mouriri Balsam pear: Momonlica
A r a k Eugenia Banana: Musa
bybol de Panama: lhevetia Banano: Musa
Arbol del pan: Artocarpus Bandera caspi: Warscewiczia
h b o l del tambor: Cavanillesia Barba de chivo: Eucharis
Aretillo: Lindernia Barbados cherry: Malpighia
Aripari: Macrolobium Barbasco: Clibadium
Aripay : Gordonia Barbasco: Clibadium, Lonchocalpus,
Aromuhe: Pentagonia Schoenobiblus, Tephrosia
Arrowroot: Mamnta Barbasco negro: Dictyoloma
Arroz: Oryza Barbusho: Cordyline
Arroz bravo: Oryza Bamg6n: Iriarte
Asahi: Euterpe Basil: Ocimum
Ashipa: Pachyrrhizus Bast6n del emperador: Nicolasia
Asna huayo: Siparuna Bean: Phaseolus
Asna panga: Cyphomandra Bedoca: Passijlora
Assacu: Erythrina Beggar-lice: Desmodiun
Assasu-rana: Erythrina Begonia: Begonia
Ataco: Amaranthus Beguefide: Phoradendron
Atadijo: Trema. Guazuma Bellaco caspi: Himatanthus
Atadijo blanco: Trichospeimum Bellaquillo: Zhevetia
Avocado: Persea Bella vista: Syagrus
Aya albaca: Lantana Bijao: Calatheq, Ichnosiphon
Ayahuasca: Banisteriopsis Bijao chancaquero: Calathea
Ayahuasca sacha: Banisteriopsis Bird's nest fern: Asplenium
Ayahuma: Couroupita Black pepper: Piper
Ayamurillo: Hibiscus Black physic nut: Jatropha
Ayaporoto: Cassia Bleeding heart: Caladium
Aya sisa: Tagetes Bloodflower: Asclepias
Azafran: Curcuma Blue skyflower: Thunbergia
Azar quiro: Isertia Boa: Monstera
Aztec marigold: Tagetes Boa caspi: Haploclathra
Mcar-huaillo: Qnometra Boa sacha: Philodendron
Anicar huayo: Hymenaea Boca pintada: Psychotria
Azufre caspi: Moronobea, Symphonia Boens: Mansoa
Azul: Juanulloa Bolaina: Guazuma, Muntigia
Bolaina blanca: Guazuma
Bacaba: Oenocarpus Bola requia: Guarea, Trichilia
Bahia grass: Paspalum Bolsa quihua: Priva
Bala huayo: Gnetum Bolsa mullaca: Physalis
Balata: Eclinusa, Micropholis Bombonaje: Carludovica
Balata rosada: Micropholis Bombonaje sacha: Ichnosiphon
Balata sapotina: Chrysophylum B o t h caspi: Anthodiscus
Balatilla: Micropholis Bot6n de oro: Wedelia
Balatillo: Chrysophyllum, Haploclathra Botoneillo: Spilanthes
Balsa: Ochroma Bouquet de novia: Lrora
Balsa huasca: Arrabidaea Bowstring hemp: Sansevieria
Balsam apple: Momonlica Brazilian mahogany: Campa
Brazilian palm: Trithrinar Campanilla: Hibiscus
Br,ea caspi: Caraipa, Protium, Campanilla amarilla: Tecoma
Tetragastris Campanilla de oro: Allamanda
Breast berry: Solanum Campanilla morada: Ipomoea
Bride's bouquet: Zxom Campanita del campo: Iribachia
Brinco de dam: Clerodendron Camaroncillo: Justicia
Bromilia: Aechmea, Pitcairnea Camu-camu: Myrciaria
Bubinsana: Calliandra Camu-camu arbol: Myrciaria
Buckwax: Symphonia Camu-camu negro: Myrciaria
Bujeo: Zebrina Canaria: Allamanda
Buriti: Mauritia Canela moena: Licaria, Ocotea
Butterfly lily: Hedychium Caiia agria: Costus, Dimerocostus
Butterfly's flower: Symbolanthus Caiia brava: Gynerium
Butterfly pea: Clitoria Caiia de azucar: Saccharurn
Caiiagre: Costus
Caballo sanango: Faramea Caiia isana: Gynerium
Caballo shupa: Cespedesia Canalete: Aspidospenna
Caballusa: Triumfetta Caiiamaw: Paspalum
Cabalonga: Fevillea Canirca: Lantana
Cabeza de negro: Phytelephas Canna lily: Canna
Cacao: lheobroma Cantaloupe: Cucumis
Cacao amarillo: lheobroma Caoba: Swietenia
Cacao macambillo: lheobroma Cape gooseberry: Physalis
Cacahuillo: Ca~otroche,Erisma, Capinuri: Maquira
Herrania, i'lwobroma Capinuri de altura: Clarisia,
Cachimbo: Cariniana, Lecythis Naucleopsis
Cacto: Opuntia Capinuri del bajo: Maquira
Cadillo: Bidens Capiron: Vochysia
Cadillo cabezon: Hyptis Capirona: Calycophyllum
Cafk Coffea Capirona de altura: Capirona
Cafecillo: Rinorea Capuli cirnarr6n: Physalis
Caferi: Coffea Capushi: Microtea
Cafeto: Coffea Caracha quinilla: Pouteria
Cahuara micuna: Crateva Carahuasca: Anaxagorea, Guatteria,
Caigua: Cyclanthera Tetrameranthus
Caimitillo: Chrysophyllum, Diospiros, Carahuasca-millua: Guatteria
Micropholis, Pouteria Carambola: Averrhoa
Caimiitillo hoja grande: Chrysophyllum Carana: Bursera
Caimito: Chrysophyllum, Pouteria Carnaval huayo: Triumfetta
Caimito brasilero: Lucuma, Manilkara Carnival fruit: Tkiumfetta
Calabaza: Lagenaria Carpunya: Piper
Calabazo: Cucurbita Camcillo: Arthrostylidium, Olyra
Calabur: Muntingia Carrot: Daucus
Calaguala: Polypodium Cascarilla: Ladenbergia
Calzbn panga: Cyclanthus Cascarilla verde: Ladenbergia
Camalonga: lhevetia Casha huayo: Lindackria
Camaroncillo: Beloperone Casha piiia: Ananas
Cam6: Clusia Cashapona: Socratea
Camona: Iriartea Casharana: Licania
Camote: lpomea Casho: Anacardium
Camote caspi: Ipomoea Cassabanana: Sicana
Cassava: Manihot Cheriz: Dendropanax
Castaiia: Bertholletia, Montrichardia Cheshteya: Parsijlora
Castaiia de monte: Lecythis Chicken's eye: Alternanthem
Castaiiilla: Tenninalia Chiclayo: Vigna
Castor bean: Ricinus Chicle: LacrneUea, Malouetia
Casuarina: Caruarina Chicle caspi: Malouetia
Catahua: Hura, Paspalum Chicle huayo: Lacmellea
Catahua amarilla: Hura Chilca: Bidens
Catahua blanca: Hura Chimicua: Brosimum, Perebea,
Catirina: Orbignya, Scheelea Pseudolmedia
Cat's claw: Macfadenya, Uncaria Chimicua colorada: Maquira
Cat tooth: Alseis China berry: Meliu
Cauchillo: Ficus Chinese lemon: Averrhoa
Caucho: Castilla Chinese rose: Hibiscus
Caucho masha: Sapium Chingana: Bambusa
Caupi: Vigna Chingonga: Brosimum
Caupuri de altura: Virola Chirapa sacha: Ludwigia, Wulfia
Caupuri del bajo: Virola Chiricaspi: Brumfehia
Cauassu: Calathea Chiricsanago: Brumfehia
Cebolla de Venus: Adiantum Chirimoya: Annona
Cebolla Peruna: Allium Chirimoya brasilera: Annona
Cedar: Cedrela Chocolate: Theobroma
Cedro: Caesalpinia, Cedrela Choloque: Sapindus
Cedro blanco: Cedrela Chonta: Euterpe
Cedro colorado: Cedrela Chontaduro: Bactris
Cedro macho: Cabralea Chonta quiro: Diplotropis
Cedro masha: Cedrelinga Chop6: Gustavia
Cedro pashaco: Poeppigia Chop6 cimarron: Gustavia
Cedro rojo: Cedrela Chuchohasi: Heisteria
Ceiba: Ceiba Chuchuasi: Maytenus
Cemetery flower: Dmcaena Chuchuasha: Maytenus
Century plant: Agave Chuchuhuasha: Heisteria
Cepanchina: Sloanea Chuchuhuasi: Maytenus
Ceresa: Eugenia Chuchuwasha: Brunsfelsia
Cereso: Malpighia, Prunus Chullachaqui: Symphonia
Cereso caspi: Muntingia Chullachaqui blanco: Pourouma
Cetico: Cecropia Chullachaqui caspi: Remijia
Chacruna: Psychotria Chullachaqui colorado: Tovomita
Chamairo: Mussatia Chupa sangre: Oenothera
Chambira: Astrocaryum Cilantrilla: Lindraea
Chami papa: Dioscorea Cinamillo: Oenocalpus
Chamisa: Humiria Cinamo: Oenocalpus
Champa huayo: Carpotroche Cinamono: Melia
Chanca piedra: Phyllanthus Ciruela: Bunchosia, Spondias
Chanviro: Petiveria Clammy cherry: Co&
Charapilla: Capsicum, Dipteryx Clavelilla: Mirabilis
Charapilla del murcielago: Dipteryx Clavo huasca: Tynnanthus
Charichuelo: Rheedia Clove vine: Zjnnanthus
Charichuelo de hoja menub. Rheedia Club moss: Ly copodium
Charichuelo hoja grande: Rheedia Coca: Erythroxylum
Chavapallana: Macrolobium Cock's comb: Celosia
Coco: Cocos Cucarda: Hibiscus
Coco enano: Cocos Cucarda caspi: Malvaviscus
Cocona: Solanum CuW. Lonchocarpus, Tephrosia
Coconilla wlorada: Solanum Cuchara caspi: Ambelania
Coconilla con espiiias: Solanum Cuchara panga: Limnocharis
Coconut: Cocos cucumber: Cucumis
Cocotero: Cocos Culantrilla: Lindsaea
Coffee: Coffea Culantrillo: Adiantum, Lindsaea
Coffee senna: Cassia Culantro del pais: Coriandrum
Cola de caballo: Andropogon, Cumaseba: Swartzia
Axonopus Cumala blanca: Virola, Osteophloeum
Colch6n quihua: Homolepis, Imperata Cumala blanca hoja parda: Virola
Comida delvenado: Strychnos Cumala colorada: Iryanthera, Otoba
Congona: Peperomia Cumala negra: Virola
Conoco: Micrandra Cumaru-rana: Taralea
Conta: Attalea Cunshi ishanga: Urera
Copaiba: Copaifera Cupana: PauUinia
Copal: Dacryodes, Protium, Cupuasd: lheobroma
Trattinickia Curarb: Chondrodendron
Copal: Copaifem Curarina: Potalia
Copal blanco: Crepidospermum Curihjau: Sabicea
Copal carana: Protium, Trattinickia Cushqui-huasca: Dalbergia
Copal colorado: Protium, Tetragastris Custard apple: Annona
Copoasd: lheobroma Cutana pashaco: Parkia
Coral hibiscus: Hibiscus Cutgrass: Scleria
Coralito: Capsicum Cdwarahiia: Bactris
Coraz6n de Jesds: Caladium Cuya cuya: Juanulloa
Coraz6n sangriento: Caladium,
Clerodendron Dale dale: Calathea
Cordoncillo: Piper Delia: Drymonia, Eucharis
Coriander: Coriandrum Devil's ear: Psychotria
Cormiiion: V i t a Dictamo real: Ichthyothere
Corn plant: Dmcaena Doctor ojb: Ficus
Corona de neron: Stomatophyllum, Dog's ear: Caladium
Philodendron Dormidera: Cassia
Corpus sacha: Mucuna Dried love: Bidens
Correa: Plukenetia Drimonia: Drymonia
Cortadera: Scleria
Cosho: Iriartea Elder: Sambucus
Costada sacha: Parsijlora Elderberry: Sambucus
Costilla de Adan: Momtera Elephant grass: Pennisetum
Elephant's ear: Xanthosoma
Coto huayo: Diclidanthera, Moutabea, Enrredadera: Ipomoea
Orthomene Entrada a1 baile: Coleus
Cotton: Gossypium Escoba: Sorghum
Cotton rose: Hibiscus Escalera de mono: Bauhinia
Cow hoof: Bauhinia Espatodea: Spathodea
Cowpea: Vigna Espintana: Anaxagorea, Diclinanona,
Cow's tongue: Asplenium, Guatteria, Malmea, Oxandra,
Elephantopus Pseudoxandra, Ruizodendron,
Crepe myrtle: Lagerstroemia Xylopia
Espintana blanca: Trigynaea Giant cane: Gynerium
Espintana del varillal: Xylopia Giant granadilla: Passzfrom
Espintanilla: Unonopsis Ginger lily: Hedychiwn
Esponjilla: Luta Girasol: Helianthus
Esponja huayo: Ryania Globe amaranth: Gomphrena
Espuma huayo: Ryania Gold button: Wedelha
Estoraque: Myroxybn Golden bell: AUamanda
Goma huayo: Parkia
Fall panicum: Panicum Goma pashco: Parkia
False balsa: Croton Good-luck plant: Coniyline
Faveira: Macrolobium Good Mary: Pterocarpus
Favorite: Osteophloeum Gordura: Melinis
Fer-de-lance: Dmcontium Grama: Acroceras, Axonopus,
Fiber palm: Astrocaryum Brachiaria, Eleusine,
Fierro caspi: Minquartia Eragrostis, Leptochloa,
Fig: Ficus Luziola, Panicum, Paspalum
Flag tree: Warscewiczia G r a m amarga: Tripsacurn
Flor amarilla: i'hevetia Grama chilco: Setaria
Flor de agua: Nymphaea G r a m dulce: Imperata, Leptochloa
Flor de cementerio: Dracaena Grama grass: Acrocems
Flor de fuego: Salvia Grama inglesa: Stenotaphrum
Flor de mariposa: Symbolanthus Grama nudilla: Panicum
Flor de mediodia: Portulaca Grama peineta: Pennisetum
Flor de muerto: Asclepias, Tagetes Grama playa: Hemarthria, Oryza
Flor de once: Portulaca Gramalote: Hymenachne, Panicum,
Flor de s a p : Isotoma Paspalum
Flor de seda: Asclepias Gramalote capo: Echinochloa
Flor variable: Hibiscus Gramalote negro: Hymenachne,
Floripondio: Brugmansia Paspalum
Fountain palm: Livistona Gramilla: Digitaria
Four o'clock: Mimbilis Granadilla: Passijbra
Frejol: Phaseolus Granadilla agria: Passijbra
Frejol del tunchi: Crotalaria Granadilla caspi: Dilkea
French marigold: Tagetes Granadilla venenosa: Passiflora
Frijol: Phaseolus Grape: Vitis
Frog's flower: Isotoma Grape tree: Pourouma
Green bean: Phaseolus
Galicosa: Ichthyothere Green sprangle top: Leptochloa
Gallinazo copal: Trattinickia Gru-gru: Acrocomia
Gallinazo panga: Cyphomandra Guaba: Inga
Gallito: Erythrina, Securidaca Guaco: Mikania
Gallo cresta: Celosia Guanibana: Annona
Gallo-cresta-rango: Centropogon Guaniibana sacha: Annona
Garabato: Uncaria Guaranii: Paullinia
Garland flower: Hedychium Guariuba: Clarisia
Garlic: AUium Guava: Psidium
Garrafon piiia: Ananas Guayaba brasilera: Eugenia
Garza muena: Rhodostemonodaphe Guayabilla: Myrcia
Gebero piiia: Ananas Guayabo: Psidium
Genip: Melicocca Guayabo blanco: Psidium
Gherkin: Cucumis Guayabilla: Mouriri
Guayusa: Ilex Huambk Philodendron
Guinda: Prunus Huanarpo macho: Jatropha
Guinea grass: Panicum Huangana huasca: Tanaecium
Guineo: Musa Huanguilla: Eclipta
Guisador: Curcuma Huarmi yoco: Paullinia
Gutapercha: Sapium Huasahi. Euteye
Huasahpi del varillal: Euterpe
Habilla: Fevillea Huasca bijao: Ichnosiphon
Hackberry: Celosia Huasca caimito: Moutabea
Hamaca huayo: Couepia Huasca maronilla: Olyra
Hambre huayo: Gnetum Huasca mullaca: Sabicea
Hawk's claw: Uncaria Huasca sisa: Stigmaphyllum
Heart palm: Euterpe Huayhuashi shupa: Polypodium
Hedionda: Cassia Huayra caspi: Brosimum, Cedrelinga
Helecho: Lycopodium, Selaginella, Huayra papa: Dioscorea
Tectaria, Trichomanes Huayruro: Erythrina, Ormosia
Helecho arborescente: Cyathea, Huayruro amasisa: Erythrina
Nephelea Huayruro colorado: Batesia, Ormosia
Hiedra: Zebrina Hubo: Spondias
Hierba de la maestranza: Lantana Huicungo: Astrocaryum
Hierba de la virgen: Cestrum Huimba: Ceiba
Hierba del conejo: Pavonia Huingo: Crescentia
Hierba del soldato: Piper Huingo sacha: Crescentia
Hierba de San Martin: Sauvagesia Huira caspi: Nealchornea
Hierba santa: Cestrum Huira palta: Persea
Higo: Ficus Huiririma: Astrocaryum
Higuera: Ficus Huiririmi: Astrocaryum
Higuerilla: Ricinus Huitillo: Alibertia, Palicourea,
Hispingo: Ocotea Posoqueria, Randia
Hoja del aire: Kalanchoe Huitillo del supay: Duroia
Hog plum: Spondias Huitina: Xanthosoma
Holy weed: Cestrum Huito: Genipa
Hormiga caspi: Duroia Huitol: Genipa
Horquetilla: Paspalum Humari: Poraqueiba
Horse's tail: Andropogon Hungurahui: Jessenia
Hot pepper: Capsicum
Huacamayo caspi: Simira Ice cream bean: Znga
Huacamayp piiia: Ananas Icoja: Unonopsis
Huacapli: Minquartia Iluicho caspi: Lindackeria
Huacapurana: Campsiandra Imchic masha: Cissampelos
Huacapusillo: Lindackeria Imicayo: Axonopus
Huacatay : Tagetes Inayuga: Maximiliana
Huaco: Clibadium Inchahui: Syagnrs
Huacrapona: Iriartea Inchi: Caryodendron
Hualaja: Zanthoxylum Indano: Bunchosia, Byrsonima
Huama: Pistia Indano colorado: Byrsonima
Huamannmana: Dictyoloma, Indian almond: Tenninalia
Jacaranda Indian rubber tree: Ficus
Huamanzamana del varillal: Jacarancda Indigo: Indigofem
Huamanzamana pashaco: Inejkeu: Dnnanthus
Stryphnodendron Insira: Chlorophora
Insira amarilla: Chlorophora Knotroot-bristle-grass: Setaria
Intimiracu: Sauvagesia Kudtni: Pueraria
Intuto caspi: Capparis Kudzu: Calopogonium, Vigna
Ipadd: Erythroxylum Kumu: Tephrosia
Iporuro: Alchornea
Ipururo: Alchornea Lablab bean: Lablab
Ipurosa: Alchornea Lacre: Tetragastris
Irapay : Lepidocalyum Lagartillo: Moronobea
Irgapirina sacha: Polygala Lagartillo de altura: Buchenavia
Ironwood: Caesalpinia, Minquartia Lagarto caspi: Calophyllum
Isabelita: Cataranthus, Mirabilis Lagarto piiia: Ananas
Ishanga: Urtica Lagarto shupa: Epiphyllum, Witta
Ishanga blanca: Laportea Ugrima de Job: Coin
Ishanga macho: Urera Ugrirna de la virgen: Coin
Ishpingo: Amburana Lancetilla: Peperomia
Ishtapi: Jacaranda Lancetilla blanca: Conmelina
Isula huayo: Siparuna Lanche: Myrcianthes
Itauba: Mezilaurus, Terminalia Lanchi: Myrcianthes
Itauba amarilla: Pseudolmedia Lanza caspi: Mouriri
Itininga: Philodendron Latapi: Guarea
Itininga sacha: Philodendron Laurel: Cordia
Ivory palm: Phytelephas Leche caspi: Courna
Iwajyu: Costus Leche huayo: Couma
Lechuga: Lactuca
Jaboncillo: Phytolacca Lechuga cimarrona: Pistia
Jacaranda: Jacamnda Lechuga de agua: Ceratopteris
Jambo piiia: Annanas Lemon: Citrus
Japanese lantern: Hibiscus Lemon balm: Melissa
Jarabe huayo: Macoubea Lemongrass: Cymbopogon
Jarilla: Ichthyothere Lengua de vaca: Asplenium
Jasmin: Plumeria Lenteja de agua: Salvinia
Java plum: Syzygium Lettuce: Lactuca
Jefe dt5bil fino: Hevea Leucaena: Leucaena
Jemeco: Tapirira Licopodio: Lycopodium
Jengibre: Zingiber Lilea: Eucharis
Jerg6n quiro: Anthurium Lim6n: Citrus
Jerg6n sacha: Dracontium, Urospatha Lim6n iicido: Citrus
Jesus's heart: Caladium Lim6n cidra: Citrus
Jimsonweed: Datum Lim6ncillo: Rinorea
Job's tear: Coix Lim6n chino: Averrhoa
Jocuchuchupa: Sida Lim6n s&il: Citrus
Juanache: Eugenia Lion's tail: Acalypha
Jungle flame: Zxom Lirio: Hedychium
Jute: Urena Llama plata: Episcia, Lindernia
Juumyba: Duguetia Llanchama: Naucleopsis, Poulsenia
Llanchamillo: Naucleopsis
Kapok: Ceiba Llanten: Plantago
Katio: Piper Llausaquiro: Apeiba
K&ui: Aciotis Lluichu lancetilla: Justicia
Kiiwahe: Aciotis Lob0 sanango: Stenosolen,
Ki6n: Zingiber Tabernaemontana
Locura: Lagerstroemia M a d Arachis
Loro micuna: Macoubea Mani del monte: Plukenetia
Loro shungo: Duckesia, Humaria, Mangle de altura: Sterigmapetalum
Sacoglottis, Vantanea Mango: Mangifem
Loto azul: Nymphaea Mango chiw-rico: Mangifera
Lucky nut: Thevetia Mango inherto: Mangifea
Lucma: Lucuma, Pouteria Mangua dulce: Mangifera
Lupuna: Ceiba, Chorisia Mano abierta: Xanthosoma
Lupuna blanca: Ceiba Manto de Cristo: Gomphrena
Lupuna bruja: Cavanillesia Manzanilla cimarrona: Wedelia
Lucma sacha: Clavija Manzanilla sacha: Wulfla
Maquizapa fiaccha: Apeiba
Maaihiiba: Maranta Maquizapa fiaccha blanco: Apeiba
Macambillo: lheobroma MaracuyB: Passiflora
Macambo: lheobroma Mara mara: Urera
Macambo sacha: lheobroma Maraii6n: Anacardium
Macaquiiio: Dioscorea Marco: Ambrosia
Machimango: Eschweilera Margarita: Desmodium
Machimango blanco: Couratari, Maria buena: Clitoria, Pterocarpus
Eschweilera Maria Luisa: Cymbopogon
Machimango cachimbo: Couratari Maricahua: Brugmansia
Machimango colorado: Eschweilera, Marihuana: Cannabis
Lecythis Man Mari: Hymenolobium
Machimango negro: Eschweilera Mari Mari del bajo: Vatairea
Machinga: Brosimum Marona: Bambusa, Guadua
Machinguilla: Maprounea MarupB: Simarouba
Madre selva: Lonicera Masaranduvilla: Chrysophyllum
Mafaffa: Xanthosoma Mashishe: Cucumis
Magaranduva: Chrysophyllum Mashonaste: Batocarpus, Clarisia
Magua: Mangifera Mashushingo: Pavonia
Mahogany: Swietenia Matapalo: Clusia, Ficus
Maicillo: Axonopus Mataro: Cassia
Maidenhair fern: Adiantum Mataro chico: Cassia
Mai tanpeshco: Philodendron Mataro grande: Cassia
Maiz: Zea Mataro huasca: Cassia
Maiz del tuqui tuqui: Utricularia Matico: Piper
Maiz guineo: Sorghum Matsajcahe: Terminalia
Malay apple: Syzygiwn Mauba: Erisma, Vochysia
Malva: Malachra Mayhua: Stenomesson
Malva roja: Urena Medicinal rose: Rosa
Malvavisco: Malvaviscus Melina: Gmelina
Mamee apple: Mammea Melon: Cucwnis
Mamey: Mammea, Syzygium Meloncito blanco: Celtis
Mamilla: Otoba Meneco: Jacaranda
Manapeui: Callichlamys Meralla: Peperomia
Mancoa: Grim Mesque: Neea
Manchari: Humiriastrum Meto huayo: Caryodendron
Manchari blanco: Humiriastrum Mexican gama grass: Tripsacurn
Manchari caspi: Duckesia, Vantanea Micura: Petiveria
Mandarins: Citrus Milkbush: Euphorbia
Mandioca: Manihot Milk tree: Couma
Millua situlli: Heliconia Naparo cimarr6n: Eclipta
Misho chaqui: Brosimum, Helicostylis, Napier grass: Pennisetum
Pseudolmedia Naranja: Citrus (Orange)
Misho quiro: Alseis Naranja agria: Citrus (sour orange)
Misho runto: Rauwo&a Naranja dulce: Citrus (sweet orange)
Mishquina: Eugenia Naranjilla: Murraya
Mishquipanga: Renealmia Naranjo: Aspidospenna
Mishquipanguilla: Geogenanthus Naranjo podrido: Parahancornia
Mishuisma: Hibiscus Nashum: Calatokz
Mistletoe: Phomdendron RatiPapa: Dioscorea
Mocosa: Petiveria Navidad caspi: Symphonia
Moena: Caryodaphtwpsis, Reja: Bactris
Cinnamomum, Endlicheria, Rejilla: Bactris
Licaria, Nectandra, Nescaf6: Canavalia, Mucuna
Ocotea, Phoebe Nescao: Mucuna
Moena alcanfor: Ocotea Nia boens: Mansoa
Moena amarilla: Aniba, Nectandra, Nina caspi: Leonia, Licania
Ocotea Nipirihe: Phytolacca
Moena negra: Aniba, Ocotea Nishi bata: Pleonotoma
Moena sin olor: Didymopanar, Qualea, Niu weoko: Piper
Ruitzernania Rorbo cimarr6n: Parsiflora
Mojarra caspi: Alchornea, Hieronima fiucfiu pichana: Scoparia
Molasses grass: Melinis Nudillo: Brachiaria, Ichnanthus,
Molle: Schinus Leptochloa, Axonopus
Monkey-cap palm: Manicaria Nuez moscada: Myristica
Monkey comb: Apeiba Numiallamihe: Quararibea
Monkey ladder: Bauhinia Nupe: Pachyrrhizus
Moriche: Mauritia Nutmeg: Myristiuz
Moriche palm: Maurilia
Motelilla: Cakzthea Ocajiniimune: Orthoclada
Motelilla enana: Calathea Ocollucuy sacha: Stachytarpheta
Motelillo: Fittonia Ocuera negra: Pollalesta
Motelo chaqui: Naucleopsis, Ocuero: Vernonia
Pseudolmedia OjB: Ficus
Motelo huasca: Bauhinia Oj6 macho: Ficus
Motelo sanangri: Abuta OjB de hoja menuda: Ficus
Mountain soursop: Annona OjB del cauchero: Ficus
Mucuna: Mucuna Ojo de pollo: Alternanthera
Mucura: Petiveria Oleander: Nerium
Muena: Licaria, Rhodostemonodaphe Onion: Allium
Muena rifarillo: Coupia Ooniyatso: Picramnia
Mullaca: Clidemia, Physalis Opuntia: Opuntia
Mullaca morada: Clidemia Orange: Citrus
Mullo huayo: Coix Orange jasmine: Murmya
Musk: Abelmoschus Oreja de elefante: Xanthosoma
Muster John Henry: Tagetes Oreja del diablo: Psychotria
Miitdjkeu: Blepharodon Oreja sacha: Hydrocoryle
Mututi: Pterocarpus Orquidia: Cattleya
Otaheite apple: Spondius
Najahe: Batocarpus
Rame: Dioscorea Pablo manchana: Chimarrhis
Pacay: Inga Paraguayo: Uncaria
Pacunga: Bidens Paraguita: Schizaea
Paddle tree: Aspidospenna Paraiso: Melia
Padojcohe: Remijia Parinari: Couepia, Humiria, Licania
Paichecara: Kalanchoe Parinari colorado: Licania
Paico: Chenopodium Parinari sacha: Schistostemon
Pairajo de altura: Inga Parinari sapo: Vantanea
Pijaro b o b : Tessaria Pam: Vitis
Palillo: Campomanesia, Curcuma, Pashaca (0): Macrolobium, Parkia,
Selaginella Pentaclethra, Piptadenia,
Paliperro: Tabebuia, V i t a Schizolobiurn,
Palisangre: Brosimum Stryphnodendron
Palisangrillo: Haploclathra Pashaco colorado: Macrolobium
Palma aceitera: Elaeis Pashaco curtidor: Parkia
Palma africana: Elaeis (African palm) Pashaco oreja de negro: Enterolobium
Palma brasilera: Cycas, T r i t h r i n ~ Pashaquilla: Jacqueshuberia, Leucaena,
(Brazilian palm) Macrolobium
Palma de goma: h i a Pashna huachuna: Croton
Palmicha: Geonoma Pasto de cuaresma: Digitaria
Palmito: Euterpe Pasto elefante: Pennisetum
Palo brujo: Brosimum Pasto estrada: Eleusine
Palo cruz: Brownea Pasto guinea: Panicum
Palo de ajo: Gallesia Pasto yaragua: Hyparrhenia
Palo de balsa: Ochroma Pata de gallina: Digitaria, Eleusine
Palo de cebolla: Gallesia (hen's leg)
Palo de hombre: Tococa Pata de vaca: Bauhinia, Cynometra
Palo de rosa: Aniba (cow's leg)
Palo de sangre: Hieronima Pate: Crescentia
Palo de vaca: Alseis Patiquina: Dieffenbachia
Palometa huayo: Alchornea, Neea Paujil chaqui: Davilla, Pharus,
Palo perro: Chimarrhis Tetracera
Pa10 sangre: Dialium Paujil huasca: Pinzona
Palo sangre dominate: Swartzia, Paujil ruro: Gnetum, Guarea
Taralea Pava chaqui: Begonia
Palo santo: Bursera Pawpaw: Cariea
Palta: Persea Peach grass: Hemarthria
Pamarrosa: Syzygium Peach palm: Bactris
Pampa moena: Endlicheria Peanuts: Amchis
Pampa orkgano: Lippia P&ojtlhe: Casearia
Pampa remocaspi: Chimarrhis, Duroia Pega josa: Boerhavia
Panama hat palm: Carludovica Pega pega: Boerhavia, Desmodium,
Pan del Brbol: Artocarpus Pavonia, Triumfetta
Pandisho: Artocarpus Pega perro: Adenaria
Papa china: Colocasia Pega pinto: Spigelia
Papailla: Carica, Momordica Pejibaye: Bactris
Papaya: Carica Pel0 ponto: Cycas, Elaeis, Phytelephas
Papaya caspi: Jacaratia Penca: Fourcroya
Papaya del venado: Jacaratia Pepino: Cucumis
Papelillo: Bougainvillea, Cariniana, Pepper hibiscus: Malvaviscus
Couratari, Stemsolen Perma caspi: Vernonia
Papelillo caspi: Cariniana Peruvian onions: Allium
Peruvian ragweed: Ambrosia Plantilla pashaco: Enterolobium
Philippine waxflower: Nicloaia Plata pashaco: Macrolobium
Physic nut: Jatropha Platanillo: Phenakospermum
Piasabas: Phytelephas Plhtano: Musa (Plantain)
Pichana: Sida Playa huasca: Mikania
Pichana albaca: Ocimum Plumilla: Nephrolepis
Pichirina: Vismia Podocarp: Podocarpus
Pichirina colorada: Vismia Poe-hoe: Phytolacca
Pichirina hoja grade: Vismia Poeinsek. Euphorbia
Pichirina hoja menuda: Vismia Poinsettia: Euphorbia
Picho e muela: Psychotria Pokeberry: Phytolacca
Picho huayo: Siparuna Pomarrosa: Syzygium
Picsho: Codonanthe Pomelo: Citrus
Picurillo: Alternanthera Pona: Socratea
Pigeon pea: Cajanus Pona coto-shupa: Wettinia
Pijuayo: Bactris Ponilla: Catoblastus, Iriartella,
Pimienta negro: Piper Wettinia
Pimiento: Capsicum Porotillo: Swartzia, Vigna
Piiia: Ananas (Pineapple) Poroto: Phaseolus
Piiia amarilla: Ananas Poroto huango: Geophila
Piiia negra: Ananas Poroto shimbillo: Inga
Piiiado: Floscopa Poto-pate: Lagenaria
Piiiaquiro colorado: Hieronima Pretino: Cavanillesia
Pineapple: Anacardium Pretino-punga: Pseudobombax
Pink primrose: Oenothem Prickly pear: Opuntia
Piii6n: Jatropha Pride of Barbados: Caesalpinia
Piii6n blanco: Jatropha Provision tree: Pachim
Piii6n ceqeati: Malvaviscus arboreus Puca cabacina: Gasteranthus
Piii6n negro: Jatropha Puca huasca: Doliocapus
Pino regional: Alseis, Podocarpus Puca huayo: Neea
(Regional pine) Puca lupuna: Cavanillesia
Pinsha callo: Xylopia Puca panga: Arrabiduea
Pinsha caspi: Aspidosperma Puca quiro: Simira
Pi6: Calatola Puca sisa: Besleria, Warscewiczia
Pi66: Piper Puca varilla: Adenaria
Piosha: Neea Pucuna caspi: Iryanthera
Piri piri: Cyperus Pucunucho: Capsicum
Piri piri de vihra: Cyperus Puma barba: Pharus
Pishco huichi: Dichorisandra Puma caspi: Roucheria
Pishco isma colorado: Juanulloa Puma chaqui: Naucleopsis
Pishco isma: Oryctanthus, Puma y a ~ a Elaeis
:
Phoradendron, Phthirusa Pumpkin: Cucutbita
Pitanga: Eugenia Punga: Pachira, Pseudobombax
Pitomba: Melicocca Punga de altura: Pachira
Pituca: Colocasia Pungar muena: Pleurethyrium
Planta china: Die$enbachia Punguilla: Rodongnaphalopsis
Planta navideiia: Euphorbia (Christmas Punguilla del varillal:
plant) Rhodognaphalopsis
Planta plhtica: Pedilanthus (Plastic Purma cetico: Cecropia
plant) Purma sisa: Palicourea
Plantain: Musa, Plantago Purma tahuan': Tabebuia
Purple granadilla: PassiJlom Roselle: Hibiscus
Purslane: Portulaca Rosewood: Aniba
Puru pagic sacha: Polygala Rotenone: Lonchocalpus
Puspo moena: Ocotea Rubber: Hevea
Puspo poroto: Cajanus Ruda: Ruta
Puspo quihua: Priva Ruichao: Sabicea
Puspo tamshi: Asplundia, Torococarpus Rumo sacha: Psychotria
Putu putu: Eichhomia Rupiiia: Myrcia
Puzanga caspi: Sloanea
Siibana del lagarto: Victoria
Quillobord6n: Aspidospenna Sacha ajo: Petiveria
Quillobord6n masha: Sterigmapetalum Sacha alfaro: Vochysia
Quillo-panga huasca: Spathicalyx Sacha ampihuasca: Curarea
Quillo sisa: Erisma, Qualea, Sacha anona: Rollinia
Ruitzerania, Vochysia Sacha bombonaje: Chelyocarpus
Quinilla: Chrysophyllum, Manilkara, Sacha cafk Picrolemma
Micropholis Sacha caimito: Chrysophyllum
Quinilla blanca: Pouteria Sacha casho: Anacardium, Vochysia
Quinilla blanca del bajo: Pouteria Sacha culantro: Eryngium
Quinilla caimitillo: Pouteria Sacha chope: Gustavia
Quinilla colorada: Chrysophyllum Sacha foster: Phyllanthus
Quinilla negra: Humiria, Micropholis, Sacha guayaba: Lacunaria, Eugenia
Pouteria Sacha huito: Palicourea, Posoqueria
Quisa: Urtica Sacha inchi: Pluknetia
Sacha mangua: Grias, Potalia
Rabo de zorro: Andropogon Sacha nispero: Bellucia
Raya balsa: Montrichardia Sacha nisperillo: Loreya
Raya caspi: Banara Sacha oj6: Ficus
Rayan: Sambucus Sacha oje del cauchero: Ficus
Red granadilla: Paspalum Sacha orquidia: Xyphidium
Red sprangle top: Leptochloa Sacha papa: Dioscorea
Red spurge: Euphorbia Sacha papa morada: Dioscorea
Remo caspi: Aspidospenna Sacha pichana: Croton
Remolina: Paspalum Sacha piiia: Aechmea
Renaco: Ficus Sacha pandisho: Pachira
Renaquilla: Clusia Sacha punga: Cochlospermum
Requia: Carapa, Guarea, Trichilia Sacha rifari: Banara
Retama: Cassia Sacha tulpay: Batocarpus
Retamita: Spartium Sacha uvilla: Didymopanax, Pourouma
Rice: Oryza Sachavaca micuna: Trophis
Rifari: Miconia Sacha verbena: Stachytarpheta
Ringworm senna: Cassia Sacha yuyu: Peperomia
Rosa: Rosa Sage: Salvia
Rosa A l e j a n d ~ a :Rosa Salvia: Salvia
Rosa china: Hibiscus Sameruca: Pyschotria
Rosa del monte: Brownea Sam Pange: Picmmnia
Rosa del remedio: Rosa Sanango: Bonafousia, Fararnea,
Rosca shimbillo: Inga Rauwolfia, Tabernamontana
Rose: Rosa Sanango ucho: Tabernamontana
Rose apple: Syzygium Sananguillo: Psychotria
Rosella: Hibiscus Sandia: Citrullus
Sangre de drago: Croton Siririca: Pseudonandra
Sangre de grado: Croton Situlli: Heliconia
Sani panga: Picrarnnia Siuca culantro: Eryngium
Sanquillo: Mikania Sleeping love: Mimosa
Santa Maria: Pothomorphe Snakewood: Brositnum
Sanseveia: Sansevieria Soapberry: Sapindus
Sapo huasca: Cissus, Odontadenia, Soga de Cristo: Ihunbergia
Omphalea, Paullinia Solidonio: Boerhavia
S a p magui: Selaginella Soliman: Jacaranda
Sapote: Quararibea Soliman del monte: Jacaranda
Sapote del monte: Quararibea Sorgo: Sorghum
Sapote yacu: Mayna Soul vine: Banisteriopsis
Sapote yam: Pilocatpus Sour cherry: Prunus
Sapotilla: Manilkara Soursop: Annona
Saracuramira: Ampelozizyphus Soya: Glycine
Sauco: Salix, Sambucus Soybean: Glycine
Scarlet sage: Salvia Spanish cedar: Cedrela
Seaside heliotrope: Heliotropium Spanish plum: Spondias
Secana: Sicana Spiny pigweed: Amamnthus
Seiiora Narca: Croton Spirit vine: Banisteriopsis
Seiiorita: Schizaea Squash: Cucurbita
Semambi: Hevea Star fruit: Averrhoa, Clusia
Serpentina: Naphrolepis St. Augustine grass: Stenotaphrum
Shacapa: Pariana Stilt palm: Iriartea
Shambo huayo: Mayna Stinging nettle: Urem
Shambo quiro: Croton Stone-breaker: Phyllanthus
Shamburi: Cochlospemzum, Jacaratia Strangler fig: Ficus
Shapaja: Orbignya, Scheelea Suche amarillo: Plumeria
Shapajilla: Maximiliana Suche rojo: Plumeria
Shapillejo: Zanthoxylum Suche rosado: Plumeria
Shapumba: Asplenium, Cyathea, Suelda con suelda: Oryctanthus,
Cyclopeltis, Lycopodium, Phoradendron, Phthirusa
Selaginella, Pityrogramma Sugar cane: Saccharum
Shapumba huashu: Polybotria Sunflower: Helianthus
Sheb6n: Scheelea Supay ocote: Couepia
Shiari: Cecropia Supinini: Hedyosmum
Shihuabuaco: Dipteryx Surinam greenheart: Tabebuia
Shimbillo: Inga, Pithecellobium, Swamp immortelle: Erythrina
Abarema Sweet cherry: Prunus
Shimi pampana: Maranta Sweet granadillo: Passiflom
Shiringa: Hevea Sweet pepper: Capsicum
Shiringa amarilla: Hevea Sweet potato: Ipomoea
S h i ~ g maposa:
a Hevea Sweet olive: Syggium
Shiringa masha: Micrandra Sweetsop: Annona
S h i ~ g a r a n a Sapium
:
Shiringuilla: Mabea Tabaco: Nicotiana
Sicklepod: Cassia Tabaco bravo: Chelonanthus
Sicshi muena: Ocotaa Tabla shimbillo: Inga
Siempre viva: Gomphrena Tahuari: Anthodiscus, Tabebuia
Silt palm: Socmtea Tahuari amarillo: Anthodiscus,
Sincha pichana: Croton Tabebuia
T a h d colorado: Tabebuia Topillo: Croton
Tahuari negro: Tabebuia Topiro: Solanum
Talhui: Spartium Torch ginger: Nicloaia
Talla: Caesalpinia Tornillo: Cedrelinga
Tamamuri: Brosimum Toronja: Citrus (Grapefruit)
Tamara: Leonia Toronjil: Melissa
Tamara blanca: Crateva, Leonia Tortuga blanca: Diclinanona (White
Tamarillo: Gleospermum tortoise)
Tamarind: Tamarindus Tortuga caspi: Duguetia
Tamarindo: Tamarindus Torurco: Digitaria, Hornolepis,
Tamshi: Heteropsis Panicum, Paspalum
Tamshi canastero: Heteropsis Tree cotton: Gossypium
Tamshi delgado: Heteropsis Tree papaya: Jacamtia
Tanasharina: Citrus Tree tomato: Cyphomandm
Tangarana: Tachigalia Trigo: Cok (Wheat)
Tangarana amarilla: Tachigalia Trompetero sacha: Abuta
Tangarana blanca: Tachigalia Trompo huayo: Lacistemrna
Tangarana de altura: Sclerolobium, Tropical milkweed: Asclepias
Tachigalia Trueno shimbillo: Brownea
Tangarana de hoja menuda: Trujillo: Impatiens
Sclerolobium Trujillo amarillo: Impatiens
Tangarana del bajo: Triplaris Trumpet tree: Tabebuia
Tangarana sin madre: Triplaris Tsaruwa: Tococa
Tansharina: Citrus Tscaahe: Senefeldera
Tabtaco: Catablatus Tsutsihe: Philodendron
Taperiba: Spondias Tuaruubia: Cleome
Tapisho: Spondias Tuberose: Polianthes
Tara: Caesalpinia Tulpay: Batocalpus, Clarisia
Tarota: Tabebuia Tumbo: Passijlora
Teak: Tectona Tuna: Opuntia
Tectona: Tectona Tunchi albaca: Lantana
Terminalia: Terminalia Tupamaqui: Neea, Psychotria
Tbwatacd: Mucuna Turmeric: Curcuma
Texas palmetto: Sabal Tutumo: Crescentia
Thatch palm: Lepidocaryum
Ti plant: Cordyline Ubos: Spondias
Ticsa micuna: Vernonia Ucsha-coconilla: Solanum
Timb6: Paullinia Ucsha gramalote: Leptochloa
Tinaja caspi: Licania Ucho caspi: Casearia
Tinctona: Solanum Ucho mullaca: Humiriastrum
Toad vine: Cissus, Omphalea Ucho sanango: Tabornamontana
Toa-td: Brugmansia Ucumi-micuna: Psychotria
Tobacco: Nicotiana Ukshaquiro: Aparisthmium
To6: Brugmansia Ullucuy chuchuashi: Rhacoma
To6 negro: Teliostachya Umark Pouraqueiba
Tocino caimito: Pouteria Umari del monte: Paypayrola
Tomate: Lycopersicum Uncucha: Xanyhosoma
Tomato: Lycopersicum Ungushurato: Piper
Tonipulmon: Maytenus Uiia de gato: Macfadenya, Uncaria
Toomecocoriu: Tabernaemontana UBa de gavilh: Uncaria
Topa: Ochroma Uiia de tigre: Chelonanthus
Uiiegato: Machaerium Willow: Salix
Ungurahui: Jessenia Wira bijao: Calathea
Urpa coconilla: Witheringia Wira bijao del bajo: Calathea
Urpay machinga: Trophis Wira caspi: Tapirira
Usia-ey: Hamelia Worm grass: Spigelia
Ushpa aguaje: Chelyocarpus Wormseed: Chenopodium
Ushpa cacao: lheobroma
Ushum: Spondias YagB: Banisteriopsis, Psychotria
Uuncucha: Xanthosoma Yacu achotillo: Sloanea
Uva: Vitis Yacu granadilla: Passiflora
Uvilla: Pourouma Yacu ishanga: Caperonia
Yacu moena: Endlicheria
Vaca chucho: Solanum Yacu quinilla: Bothriospora
Vaca Eahui: Mucuna Yacu pashaco: Macrolobium
Vaca paleta: lnga Yacuruna huito: Genipa
Vanilla: Vanilla Yacu sanango: Faramea
Vara casha: Desmoncus Yacushapana: Buchenavia, Terminalia
Varilla: Sida Yahuarachi caspi: Oxandra, Xylopia
Verbena: Verbena Yahuarhuayo blanco: Mucoa
Verdolaga: Portulacca Yahuarhuayo colorado: Rhigospira
Verdugo: Scleria Yahuar piri pin: Eleuterine
Vergonsosa: Mimosa Yam: Dioscorea
Victoria regia: Victoria Yam bean: Pachyrrhizus
Vino huayo: Coccoloba Yanali: Bocconia
Virgin's tear: Coir Yanamuco: Manettia, Neea
Virgin's weed: Cestrum Yana vara: Aparisthmium, Pollalesta
Virote huayo: Talisia Yanchama: Poulsenia
Yanchama caspi: Ficus
Waca: Clibadium Yape: Spigelia
Wacamasha: Clibadium Yapo: Verbena
Water hyacinth: Eichhomia Yarina: Phytelephas
Water lentil: Salvinia Yarinilla: Lindsaea, Manicaria
Water lettuce: A'stia Yellowbells: Tecoma
Water lily: Nymphaea Yellow oleander: Thevetia
Watervine: Doliocarpus, A'wna, Yellow sage: Lantana
Tetmcem Yerba Luisa: Cymbopogon
West Indian elm: Guazumu Yerno prueba: Chimarrhis, Vantanea
Wheat: Coir Yesca caspi: Qualea
White cedar: Cedrela Yoco blanco: Paullinia
White-flowered gourd: Lagemria Yojadataka: Tococa
White nettle: Laportea Yuca: Manihot
White popinac: Leueaena Yumanasa: Mutingia
White tortoise: D i ~ l i ~ n o n a Yuquilla: Euphorbia, Martinella
Wild basil: Ocimum Yura pasto: Tonina
Wild cashew: Anaeanlium Yute: Urena
Wild coca: Elythroxylwn Yuto banco: Hamelia
Wild coriander: Eryngium Yutubanco: Heisteria, Rinorea
Wild garlic: Mansoa
Wild orchid: Xiphidim Zacate amargo: Axonopus
Wild pineapple: Aechmea Zanahoria: Daucus (Carrot)
Wild soursop: Annona Zancudo caspi: Alchornea, Daucus
Zapallito: Gurania
Zapallo: Cucurbita
Zapatito de Jesk: Pedilanthus
Zapayo: Cucurbita
Zarandeja: Lablab
Ziu: Vernonia
Zorro caspi: Couratari, Guatteria
MEDICINAL INDEX TO VASQUEZ' and SCHULTES' AMAZONIAN COMPENDIA

Jim Duke

(Note: This index does not cover the extra-Amazonian entries which are computerized in
Duke and Wain, Medicinal Plants of the World. 1981. The index is fairly complete for
Rodolfo's entries.)

abortifacient: Ananas, Brunfelsia, Caesalpinia, Carica, Citrus, Crescentia, Qperus,

Eleuterine, Genipa, Gossypium, Mangifera, Melia, Passiflora, Persea, Rhacoma, Ruta,
Scoparia, Siparuna, Verbena, Vouacoupa

abscess: Brosimum, Leonia, Piper, Potalia, Virola

acaricide: Iryanthera, Virola

adenopathy: Davilla

albuminuria: Eclipta, Lindernia

alopecia: Entada, Guazuma, Mabea, Phyllanthus

altitude sickness: Erythroxylum

ameba: Couma, Eleuterine, Humiria, Persea

amenorrhea: Gossypium, Pityrogramma

analgesic (anodyne): Abuta, Anadenathera, Asclepias, Bonafousia, Brugmansia,

Cissampelos, Cissus, Crotalaria, Croton, Duguetia, Erisma, Erythrina, Erythroxylum,
Gossypium, Goupia, Hedychium, Hibiscus, Ilex, Iribachia, Jatropha, Mansoa, Mayna,
Odontocarya, Paullinia, Pilea, Piper, Plantago, Potalia, Psychotria, Sabicea, Scoparia,
Securidaca, S i p a m , Spartium, Spondias, Swartzia, Tabernaemontana, Tachigalia,
Tagetes, Urera, Warszewiczia, Wedelia, Xiphidium, Zingiber

anemia: Abuta, Lantana, Persea, Phoradendron

anesthetic: Piper, Wedelia

angina: Bidens

anorexic: Paullinia

anthelmintic: Ananas

antiabortive: Pavonia

antibechic: Lantana, Pityogramma

antibilious: Gurania, Iribachia, Paullinia, Solanum, Terminalia

antidote: Bixa (HCN), Jatropha, Manihot, Maranta, Mollia, Mucuna, Phytolacca
(capsaicin), Piper, Potalia, Solanum

antiflatulent: Melissa

antiseptic:Aspidospema, Chlorophora,Clidemia,Hibiscus, Lantana, Mangifea, Physalis,

Phytolacca, Piper, Plantago, Schoenobiblus, Scoparia, Virola

antispasmodic: Annona, Brugmansia, Clidemia, Hibiscus, Indigofera, Mayna, Melissa,

Muntingia, Petiveria, Phyllanthus, Piper, Siparuna

antitussive: Erythrina, Hibiscus, Macfadenya, Pavonia, Petiveria, Psychotria, Tabebuia,

Virola

antivenereal: Brunfelsia, Cassia, Chlorophora, Copaifera, Hamelia, Ilex, Jatropha,

Lycopodium, Melia, Mucuna, Potalia, Strychnos, Uncaria

anxiety: Allamanda,

apertif: Panicum

aphidicide: Quassia

aphrodisiac: Abuta, Bka, Caraipa, Davilla, Ilex, Maytenus, Mimosa, Nymphaea, Persea,
Siparuna, Strychnos, Tachigalia, Tanaecium,Tynnanthus,Warscewiaia, Xylopia, Zingiber

aphthae: Bidens, Piper

arteriosclerosis: Caryodendron

arthritis: Alchornea, Brugmansia, Carapa, Lycopodium, Mansoa, Maytenus, Pentagonia,

Solanum, Unonopsis, Virola, Zingiber

asthma: Brosimum, Couma, Crescentia, Eclipta, Gynerium, Hura, Jessenia, Lantana,

Osteophloeum, Physalis, Solanum, Tessaria

astringent: Chlorophora, Pityogramma, Poeppigia, Poraqueiba, Sabicea, Trema

atherosclerosis: Paullinia

athlete's foot: Hymenaea, Peperomia

atticide: Euphorbia, Lonchocalpus

backache: Warszewiczia

bactericide: Eleuterine, Kalanchoe, Phyllanthus, Poraqueiba

balm: Erisma

bat-repellent: Scleria
bladder: Xylopia

blenorrhagia: Chlorophora, Piper, Tephrosia

blenorrhea: Costus, Dimerocostus,

boils: Croton, Dioscorea, Hancornia, Kalanchoe

bot-fly: Anacardium

breasts: Miconia, Solanum

bronchitis (osis): Adiantum, Anadenanthera, Brosimum, Cajanus, Caryodendron, Cordia,

Costus, Crescentia, Dimerocostus, Genipa, Hibiscus, Jessenia, Kalanchoe, Lantana,
Macoubea, Myroxylum, Nicotiana, Petiveria, Piper, Pityrogramma, Plantago, Psychotria,
Smilax, Tanaecium, Unonopsis, Zingiber

bruises: Abuta, Brosimum, Carludovica, Curcuma, Dipteryx, Eleusine, Jatropha,

Kalanchoe, Microtea, Nicotiana, Passifora

bugbite (sting): Adiantum, Carapa, Cyclanthus, Indigofera, Lycopodium, Mammea,

Omphalea, Otoba, Potalia, Urera

bums: Allium, Microtea

callus: Luffa

calmant: Annona, Brugmansia, Potalia, Tabernaemontana

cancer: Cariniana, Miconia, Tabebuia, Uncaria

candidiasis: Tabebuia

canker: Virola

cardiopathy: Cecropia, Chondrodendron

cardiotonic: Annona, Carica, Paullinia, Iheobroma

caries: Anacardium, Calatola, Dendropanax, Duroia, Ficus, Manettia, Neea, Petiveria,

Phenakospennum, Piper, Potalia, Simira, Stigmaphyllum, Ihelypteris, Virola

carminative: Ananas, Capsicum, Lycopodium, Melissa, Piper, Salvia, Siparuna, Zingiber

cataracts: Goupia, Pityogramma

catarrh: Eleusine

cathartic: Caesalpinia, Genipa

cellulitis: Luffa
chickenpox: Cicer, Lantana

chills: Bidens, Brugmansia, Brunfekia, Manihot, Nicotiana

cholagogue: Mikania, Nicotiana, Stachytalpheta

cholecystosis: Virola

cholera: Chenopodium, Harnelia

choleretic: Crescentia. Pilea

cicatrizant: Andira, Brosimum, Copaifea, Coussapoa, Cyathea, Jacaranda, Jacaratia,

Jatropha, Kalunchoe, Maprounea, Myroxylum, Parahancornia, Piper, Potalia, Socratea,
Virola

cirrhosis: Uncaria

CNS-depressant: Petiveria

coffee: Canavalia, Mucuna, Pourouma

colds: Alchornea, Brugmansia, Chenopodium, Cordia, Crotalaria, Eleusine, Eryngium,

Faramea, Jacaranda, Lantana, Macfadyena, Malachra, Maximiliana, Melia, Myroxylum,
Osteophloeum,Piper, Solanum, Stachytalpheta, Tabebuia,Tabernaemontana, Trichomanes

colic: Abuta, Chenopodium, Eleuterine, Iribachia, Momordica, Ocimum, Physalis, Sabicea,

Salvia, Sambucus, Virola

collyrium: Nicotiana, Ocimum, Passiflora, Pityogramma

conjunctivitis: Abuta, Arrabidaea, Asclepias, Kalanchoe, Lepidocaryum, Martinella,

Nicotiana, Ocimum, Paspalum, Passiflora, Plantago, Spathicalyx, Syzygium,
Tabernaemontana, Zingiber

contraceptive (male): Curarh,

contraceptive: Anacardium, Chenopodium, Citrus, Curarh, Cyprus, Desmodium,

Guatteria, Mangifera, Persea, Poraqueiba, Pourouma, Priva, Scoparia, Spondias,
Unonopsis, Zingiber

convulsions: Monstera, Sabicea, Siparuna

cornea: Caraipa,

cosmetic: Goupia, Hibiscus, Jessenia, Mabea, Palicourea, Solanum, Xylopia

cough: Costus, Dimerocostus, Ficus, Hibiscus, Lantana, Macfadenya, Tabebuia, Melia,

Osteophloeum, Pavonia, Piper, Polypodium, Solanum, Sparattanthelium, Tabebuia

cystitis: Chlorophora, Costus, Dimerocostus, Eleusine, Kalanchoe

debility: Abuta, Brosimum, Canna, Cyphomandra, Gnetum, Persea, Phoradendron, Piper,
Xiphidium

depilatory: Sparattanthelium

depurative: Ampelozizyphus, Jatropha, Pentagonia, Persea, Pityogramma

dermatosis: Arrabidaea, Artocarpus, Bixa, Caraipa, Calycophyllum,Caryodendron, Cassia,

Cestmm, Chenopodi-dm, Couma, Curarh, Dioscorea, Eclipta, Eleusine, Geophila,
Gossypium, Hamelia, Lindernia, Manihot, Maprounea, Mikania, Moronobea, Olyra,
Philodendron, Physalis, Phytolacca, Picramna, Picrolemma, Sciulea, Securidaca, Simira,
Solanurn, Symphonia, Tanaecium, Theobroma, Vatairea, Virola, Vismia, Warszewiczia

diabetes: Alternanthera, Annona, Calophyllum, Calycophyllum, Coutarea, Momordica,

Persea, Portulaca, Stachytarpheta, Wullfia

diaphoretic: Brunfelsia, Isertia, Lantana

diarrhea: Alchornea, Anacardium, Asclepias, Calophyllum, Casearia, Cedrela, Couma,

Crescentia, Cyperus, Dalbergia, Eleuterine, Eleusine, Eryngium, Erythroxylurn, Ficus,
Genipa, Harnelia, Helosis, Hibiscus, Hymenaea, Iryanthera, Jessenia, Lippia,
Machaerium, Manihot, Maprounea, Maytenus, Musa, Paullinia, Persea, Pharus,
Posoqueria, Psidium, Scoparia, Sparattanthelium, Spondias, Triumfetta, Unonopsis

digestive: Bixa, Cymbopogon, Piper, Portulaca

disinfectant: Copaifea

dislocation: Maquira, Oryctanthus, Phoradendron, Phthirusa, Swartzia

diuretic: Abuta, Andropogon, Bauhinia, Bidens, Brunfelsia, Cajanus, Canna, Cassia,

Chlorophora, Chondrodendron, Copaifera, Dioscorea, Eleusine, Gynerium, Imperata,
Indigofera, Laportea, Lycopodium, Microtea, Mirabilis, Mucuna, Phyllanthus, Piper,
Tabernaemontana, Pothomorphe, Sauvagesia, Sida, Spartium, lheobroma, Urera

divination: Banisteriopsis, Brugmansia,

dropsy: Bidens, Canna, Chondrodendron, Luffa,

dye: Anacardium, Arrabidaea, Bellucia, Chlorophora, Faramea, Genipa, Guatteria, Neea,

Oenocarpus, Orthoclada, Palicourea, Picramnia, Picrolemma, Renealmia, Simira,
Warszewiczia

dysentery: Anacardium, Bidens, Bixa, Bunchosia, Cajanus, Celtis, Clidemia, Eleusine,

Grias, Guazuma, Hamelia, Helosis, Humiria, Lycopodium, Maytenus, Persea, Poraqueiba,
Sabicea, Simarouba, Stachytarpheta, Tenninalia, Uncaria

dysmenorrhea: Abuta, Brownea, Caryocar, Clidemia, Cymbopogon, Faramea, Gossypium,

Gurania, Isertia, Lantana, Matisia, Maytenus, Persea, Piper, Pityogramma, Psidium,
Quararibea, Spondias, Tabebuia
dyspepsia: Ananas, Carica, Cymbopogon, Erythroxylum, Lippa, Maranta, Microtea,
Siparuna, Virola

dyspnea: Capsicum

dysuria: Cedrela, Indigofera, Kalanchoe, Microtea, Sambucus, Uncaria

earache: Cassia, Gossypium, Juanulloa, Kalanchoe, Musa, Petiveria, Physalis, Psychotria

eczema: Amaranthus, Caraipa

edema: Zea

emetic: Abuta, Adiantum, Asclepias, Banisteriopsis, Brownea, Faramea, Grias, Guarea,

Ilex, Jatropha, Mansoa, Melia,, Momordica, Palicourea, Pothomorphe, Scoparia,
Tabernaemontana, Tachigalia

emmenagogue: Ambrosia, Bidens, Chenopodium, Chondrodendron, Gossypium,

Hibiscus,Lantana, Momordica, Persea, Sicana

emollient: Carapa, Lantana, Piper, Portulaca, Virola

enteritis (osis): Crescentia, Croton, Erythroxylum, Kalanchoe, Physalis, Piper, Virola

epilepsy: Cissus, Eleuterine, Indigofera, Syzygium

epistaxis: Warscewiczia

erysipelas: Brugmansia, Physalis, Solanum, Urera, Virola

evil-eye: Brosimum,

excitant: Piper, Xylopia

expectorant: Bixa, Croton, Lantana

fever: Abuta, Aciotis, Allamanda, Arnbelania, Ambrosia, Aspidospenna, Bixa, Brosimum,

Caesalpinia, Canna, Carapa, Cmsia, Ceiba, Chempodium, Chondrodendron,
Cissampelos, Citrus, Cochlospennum, Coix, Costus, Cymbopogon, Cyperus,Dimerocostus,
Dipteryx, Eryngium, Erythrina, Faramea, Hamelia, Hibiscus, Hypts, Indigofera, Iribachia,
Isertia, Jatropha, Justicia, Kalanchoe, Ladenbergia, Lindernia, Ludwigia, Lycopodium,
Macfadenya, Malchra, Manihot, Mansoa, Martinella, Melia, Mikania, Momordica,
Myroxylum, Nectandra, Ocimum, Petiveria, Phyllanthus, Piper, Plantago, Polypodium,
Portulaca, Potalia, Pothomorphe, Psychotria, Ricinus, Sambucus, Sauvagesia,
Schizolobium, Scoparia, Sida, Simarouba, Siparuna, Syzygium, Tabebuia,
Tabernaemontana, Tagetes, Tenninalia, Trema, Tynanthus, Urera, Wulfia, Zea

filariasis: Caryocar, Gossypium

flu: Anacardium, Chenopodium, Costus, Croton, Cymbopogon, Cyperus, Dimerocostus,
Eleusine, Eryngium, Erythrina, Hibiscus, Macfadenya, Ocimum, Panicum, Pityogramma,
Sambucus, Stachytarpheta, Tabebuia, Wulffia

food-poisoning (started lated): Solanum

fracture: Kalanchoe, Passiflora

freckles: Musa, Spartium

fright: Cyperus

fumitory: Brugmansia,

fungicide: Aspidosperma, Calycophyllum, Caraipa, Caryocar, Cassia, Chelonanthus,

Chrysophyllum, Curarh, Erythrina, Gwphila, Helicostylis, Hymenaea, Iryanthera,
Omphalea, Otoba, Siparuna, Solanum, Tabebuia, Virola, Vismia, Warszewiczia

gastritis (osis): Allium, Clwme, Croton, Cymbopogon, Erythroxylum, Himatanthus, Ilex,

Jessenia, Lantana, Malachra, Maytenus, Microtea, Mollis, Ocimum, Piper, Uncaria, Virola

gingivitis: Chrysophyllum, Croton, Jatropha

gonorrhea: Canna, Copaifera, Lycopodium, Mucuna, Uncaria

gout: Lycopodium, Musa, Persea, Psidium

grippe: Allium

gums: Cecropia

hairdye: Casearia

hairloss: Bertholletia

hallucinogen: Banisteriopsis, Brosimum, Brugmansia, Capsicum, Erythroxylum,

Gloeospermum, Helicostylis, Ocimum, Paullinia, Scoparia, Tanaecium, Teliostachya,
Virola

hangover: Begonia, Ilex

headache: Bonafousia, Cassia, Cymbopogon, Dioclea, Erythrina, Erythroxylum, Faramea,

Gnetum, Jatropha, Jessenia, Kalanchoe, Lippia, Mansoa, Pavonia, Petiveria, Pothomorphe,
Scoparia, Sida, Sparattanthelium,Spartium, Stachytarpheta, Swartzia, Tanaecium, Zingiber

heart: Lippia, Cecropia

heartburn: Kalanchoe

hematochezia: Diplotropis, Erythroxylum

hematomas: Justicia

hemoptysis: Anacardium, Campomanesia

hemorrhoids: Jatropha, Leonia, Mucuna, Psychotria, Scoparia, Victoria, Virola

hemostat (styptic): Asclepias, Brownea, Catharanthus, Clidemia, Costus, Croton,

Dimerocostus, Faramea, Helosis, Lantana, Manihot, Piper, Pityogramma, Spondias, Urera,
Warscewiczia

hepatitis (osis): Asplenium, Banara, Bertholettia, Bixa, Cassia, Curcuma, Cyclopeltis,

Erythrina, Gossypium, Guarea, Momordica, Nicotiana, Phenakospennum, Phyllanthus,
Physalis, Piper, Plantago, Socratea, Swartzia, Tectaria, Uncaria

herbicide: Duroia

hernia: Artoarpus, Himatanthus, Maquira, Piper, Pothomorphe, Swartzia, Triumfetta

herpes: Caraipa, Cassia, Vismia

hex ("bad luck"): Gallesia, Jatropha, Lantana, Lycopodium, Mansoa, Petiveria, Ruta

hypertension: Cyclanthera, Lantana, Microtea, Pityogramma, Portulaca, Rauwolfia,

Siparuna

hypoglycemic: Chrysophyllum, Phyllanthus

hypothermia: Lantana

hysteria: Ambrosia

ictericia: Bidens

impetigo: Caraipa,

inappetence: Gnetum, Grias

incontinence: Bidens,

infection: Brugmansia, Cassia, Codonanthe, Eleuterine, Erythrina, Ficus, Genipa,

Geophila, Gossypium, Himatanthus, Indigofera, Iryanthera, Jatropha, Macrolobium,
Mamma, Martinella, Momordica, Otoba, Phytolacca, Piper, Plantago, Potalia,
Schoenobiblus, Simira, Spondias, Symphonia, Vismia, Warszewiczia

inflammation:Amaranthus, Arrabidaea, Calophyllum,Carapa, Cissampelos, Coix, Costus,

Croton, Cucumis, Dimerocostus, Dioscorea, Erythrina, Genipa, Hamelia. Hibiscus,
Humiria, Kalanchoe, Malachra, Ocimum, Physalis, Phytolacca, Piper, Pothomorphe,
Victoria, Virola

insanity: Chondrodendron
insecticide: Anthodiscus, Cordia, Euphorbia, Himatanthus, Iryanthera, Lonchocarpus,
Melia, Piper, Ryania, Solanum, Tanaecium, Vitex

insectifuge (repellent): Ambelania, Anthodiscus, Aspidosperma, Carapa, Cassia,

Chelonanthus, Virola

insomnia: Eryngium, Mimosa, Orthomene

itch: Caraipa, Curarea, Lantana, Mayna, Mikania, Phytolacca

jaundice: Spartium

kidney: Bauhinia, Zea

lactagogue: Alibertia, Bactris, Gossypium,

laryngitis: Chenopodium, Costus, Dimerocostus, Piper

laxative: Amaranthus, Caryodendron,Copaifera, Dichorisandra, Hura, Jessenia, Mikania,

Plukenetia, Ricinus, Sicana

legache: Mayna, Odontocarya, Tachigalia

leishmaniasis: Callichlamys, Jacaranda, Monstera, Solanum, Tabebuia

leprosy: Aspidosperma

leucorrhea: Costus, Dimerocostus, Lycopodium, Urera

liniment: Jessenia, Ricinus

lumbago: Himatanthus, Maquira

lung ailments: Cordia

malaria: Abarema, Ampelozizyphus, Campsiandra, Doliocarpus, Erythrina, Grim, Ilex,

Zsertia, Ladenbergia, Melia, Mikania, Paullinia, Piper, Pithecellobiurn, Roucheria,
Sabicea, Simarouba, Unonopsis, Virola

mange: Caraipa, Theobroma, Vatairea

measles: Citrus, Lantana, Momordica, Sambucus,

metrorrhagia: Brownea, Clidemia, Faramea, Hibiscus, Spondias

migraine: Erythrina, Faramea, Kalanchoe, Mucuna, Nicotiana, Petiveria, Scoparia, Sida,

Spartium, Tanaecium, Zingiber

miscamage: Cocos

myalgia: Alchornea, Brugmansia, Duguetia, Erisma, Mansoa, Mayna, Ricinus, Urera

mycosis: Calycophyllum, Cassia, Chelonanthus, Chrysophyllum, Geophila, Helicostylis,
Iryanthera, Kalanchoe, Lantana, Olyra, Omphalea, Otoba, Pistia, Simaruba, Solanum,
Virola, Vismia, Warszewiczia

myorelaxant: Abuta, Chondrodendreon, Curarh,

narcotic: Erythriaa, Paullinia, Physalis

nausea: Salvia, Scoparia, Wulffia

nervousness: Abuta, Desmodium, Ilex, Mansoa, Mimosa

niguas: Cassia

ophthalmia: Cecropia, Goupia, Kalanchoe, Lepidocaryum, Martinella, Ocimum,

Palicourea, Pityogramma, Plantago, Potalia, Spathicalyx, Tabernaemontana, Tagetes

otitis: Kalanchoe

@oxytocic: Cypems, Ruta

parasiticide: Bothriospora, Dieffenbachia, Ficus, Helicostylis, Mammea, Spigelia,

Stomatophyllum

parturition: Abuta, Arrabidaea, Brosimum, Chenopodium, Croton, Erythroxylum, Ficus,

Grias,Hibiscus, Maproune., Oryctanthus, Phoradendron, Phthirusa, Piper, Plantago,
Socratea, Spondias, Swartzia, Tabernaemontana, Tococa, Xiphidium

pectoral: Brosimum, Cordia, Justicia, Lantana, Pityogramma, Tabebuia

pediculicide: Caraipa, Sida, Piper, Tanaecium

pertussis (whooping cough) Costus, Dimerocostus, Polypodium, Priva

pharyngitis: Chenopodium, Costus, Dimerocostus, Piper

philtre (love potion): Desmodium, Jacaranda, Maranta, Sloanea

phlegm: Leonia

pimples: Schizaea

piscicide: Anthodiscus, Caesalpinia, Caryocar, Clibadium, Dictyoloma, Diplotrophis,

Euphorbia, Jatropha, Lonchocarpus, Manihot, Minquartia, Neoalchomea, Palicourea,
Piper, Ryania, Schoenobiblus, Tabemaemontana, Tephrosia

pneumonia: Bougainvillea, Jacaranda, Justicia, Petiveria,

POISON: Abuta, Anomospennum, Asclepias, Bothriospora, Guarea, Guatteria, Hamelia,

Helicostylis, Hura, Impatiens, Isotoma, Lonchocarpus, Malouetia, Maquira, Nerium,
Ormosia, Pachyrrhizus, Passiflora, Paullinia, Rauwolfia, Ryania, Socratea, Solanum,
Spigelia, Tanaecium, Thevetia

polyuria: Psychotria

pruritis: Caraipa, Phytolacca

psoriasis: Copaifera

pulmonosis (see brcnchosis)

purgative: Anacardium, Bactris, Banisteriopsis, Bixa, Caesalpinia, Cassia, Crescentia,

Erythrina, Fevillea, Ficus, Genipa, Grias, Gustavia, Hamelia, Hymenaea, Indigofera,
Jatropha, Luffa, Paullinia, Ricinus, Spigelia, Stachytarpheta

rash: Lindernia, Phytolacca

renitis (osis): Bauhinia, Cassia, Malchra, Persea, Phyllanthus, Polypodium, Scleria,

Scoparia, Solanum

resolvent: Abuta, Persea, Pothomorphe

rheumatism: Abuta, Alchornea, Ambrosia, Anaxagorea, Brosimum, Brugmansia,

Brunfelsia, Campsiandra, Canna, Caraipa, Clusia, Crateva, Dipteryx, Eleusine, Etythrinu,
Ficus, Hamelia, Hyrnenaea, Lantana, Laportea, Mansoa, Maytenus, Mikania, Piper,
Pterocarpus, Salk, Solanum, Spartium, Stenosolen, Syzygium, Tabebuia,
Tabernuemontanu, Tovomita, Triplaris, Tynnanthus, Uncaria, Unonopsis, Urera, Victoria,
Xylopia, Zingiber

rickets: Amona,

rodenticide: Ryania

scabies: Iryanthera, Manihot, Otoba, Solanum, Theobroma, Trichilia, Virola

scar-preventive: Bixa,

scorpion stings: Crotalaria, Solanum

scrofula: Bougainvillea,

scurvy: Hamelia

sedative (soporific): Annona, Bactris, Brugmansia, Lantana, Lippia, Melissa. Mimosa,

Orthomene, Spigelia, Xylopia

@shampoo: Solanum

shock: Desmodium, Mansoa, Psidium (emotional)

shyness: Desmodium
sinusitis: Jatropha, Luffa, Petiveria, Solanum

snakebite: Abuta, Adiantum, Andropogon, Brunfelsia, Cordia, Cyclanthus, Cyperus,

Dipteryx, Dracontium, Hibiscus, Lindsaea, Mikania, Mucuna, Nicotiana, Persea, Potalia,
Solanum, Tephrosia, Trichomanes, Xiphidium

snoring: Cyperus,

soap: Bertholettia, Carapa, Phytolacca

soporific: Hyptis, Lippia

sores (external ulcers): Canna, Cassia, Codonanthe, Copaifera, Croton, Ficus, Genipa,
Indigofera, Kalanchoe, Machaerium, Macrolobium, Martinella, Melia, Miconia, Monstera,
Muntingia, Omphalea, Orthomene, Picramnia, Piper, Poeppigia, Pothomorphe, Psychotria,
Solanum, Symphonia, Tabebuia, Virola, Vismia

sorethroat: Capsicum, Erythroxylum, Olyra, Tabernaemontana

spice: Allium, Capsicum, Coriandrum, Eryngium, Ocimum

spiderbite: Lycopodium, Mucuna, Solanum

sprain: Anthodiscus, Nicotiana

sterility: Abuta, Guarea, Manihot, Spondias,

stimulant: Copaifea, Anadenanthera, Dipteryx, Ficus, Maytenus, Murraya, Paullinia,

Piper, Plumeria, Sambucus, Tachigalia, Tynnanthus, Xylopia

stingray: Pentagonia, Potalia

stomachache: Adiantum, Cassia, Chelonanthus, Chenopodium, Costus, Cyclanthus,

Cyclopeltis, Cymbopogon, Cyperus, Dimerocostus, Diospyros, Erythroxylum, Ficus,
Herrania, Ilex, Jatropha, Jessenia, Justicia, Lantana, Lippia, Malachra, Maytenus,
Microtea, Mollia, Ocimum, Physalis, Piper, Pityogramma, Priva, Sabicea, Sauvagesia,
Selaginella, Sparattanthelium, Spigelia, Spondias, Tectaria, Teliostachya, Virola,
W i t h e ~ g i a Xylopia,
, Zingiber

stomachic: Crateva, Indigofera, Lantana, Mikania, Momordica, Persea, Sambucus

stomatosis: Banisteriospsis,

stones (calculus): Persea, Phyllanthus, Scleria

sudorific: Lantana, Petiveria, Pothomorphe, Salix, Sambucus

suppurative: Momordica

"susto": Desmodium, Xylopia

swellings: Brugmansia, Caperonia, Codonanthe, Eleusine, Geogenanthus, Jatropha,
Microtea, Pentagonia, Portulaca, Potalia, Pothomorphe, Scoparia, Virola

syphilis: Brunfelsia, Hamelia, Indigofera, Ilex, Melia, Potalia, Tephrosia

tachycardia: Lippia

tuberculosis: Jessenia, Musa, Spondias

tetanus: Eleuterine,

tick-repellent: Carapa,

tonic (stimulant): Abuta, Ambrosia, Brosimum, Carapa, Crateva, Dipteryx, Hibiscus,

Jessenia, Lantana, Mansoa, Mikania, Odontadenia, Paullinia, Persea, Piper, Remijia,
Schizaea, Spigelia, Tachigalia, Tonina, Xylopia.

tonsilitis: Bixa, Costus, Dimerocostus,

toothache: Abuta, Asclepias, Capsicum, Chlorophora, Coix, Couroupita, Crescentia,

Erythroxylum, Ficus, Fittonia, Humiria, Jatropha, Securidaca, Stigmaphyllum,
Tabernaemontana, Virola, Wedelia, Zingiber

tooth-black: Arrabidaea, Calatola, Duroia, Lantana, Manettia, Neea, Piper

tooth-extraction: Asclepias, Chlorophora, Genipa, Stigmaphyllum

tranquilizer (entered late): Spigelia, Xylopia

trauma: Cassia, Plantago, Pothomorphe

tremors: Dracontium, Eleuterine,

tuberculosis: Bauhinia, Mansoa, Jessenia

tumors (malignant sores): Anacardium, Caperonia, Chenopodium, Cocos, Himatanthus,

Leonia, Miconia, Muntingia, Solanum, Tabebuia

ulcer(interna1): Croton, Genipa, Himatanthus, Indigofera

urethritis: Kalanchoe, Potalia, Sambucus

uricosuric: Persea

uterosis: Triumfetta

uterotonic: Lantana, Pavonia

vaginitis: Costus, Desmodium, Dimerocostus, Genipa, Spondias

vermicide (fuge): Ambrosia, Ananas, Apeiba, Asclepiar, Begonia, Bellucia, Bothriosproa,
Calophyllum, Carapa,Carica,Catharanthus, Chenopodium,Costus, Coutarea,Cyclanthus,
Dieffenbachia, Dimerocostus, Eleuterine, Ficus, Geogenanthus, Helicostylis, Hieronyma,
Himatanthus, Hymenuea, Hyptis, Jacaratia, Jessenia, Lindernia, Mamma, Melia,
Momordica, Mucuna, Nicotiana, Odontocarya, Paullinia, Philodendron, Pothomophe,
Sicana, Sida, Spigelia, Stomatophyllum

vertigo: Psidium

veterinary: Banisteriopsis, Fevillea

viricide: Croton, Mangifera, Phyllanthus

vomiting: Psidium

vulnerary: Croton, Curcuma, Indigofera, Justicia, Malouetia, Maprounea, Myroxylum,

Nephelea, Siparuna, Solanum, Tabernaemontana

warts: Anacardium, Musa, Pistia

water: Costus, Davilla, Dimerocostus, Doliocarpus, Pinzona, Tetracera

wounds: Asclepias, Bixa, Brosimum, Cassia, Clusia, Codonanthe, Costus, Curarka,

Curcuma, Cyathea, Eleuterine, Erythrina, Ficus, Gurania, Himatanthus, Humiria,
Jacaranda, Juanulloa, Machaerium, Macrolobium, Malouetia, Maranta, Martinella,
Momordica, Nephelea, Orthomene, Oryctanthus, Phoradendron, Phthirusa, Phytolacca,
Pityogramma, Plantago, Schoenobiblus, Scoparia, Symphonia, Tabernaemontana, Virola,
Vismia

yellow fever: Brunfehia

NOTE: Not a complete index, just a hastily contrived summary index, taking many
liberties. A rash might have been entered under both rash and dermatitis. Going through
several translations, the references above may refer either to the translation or the original.
Medicinal terms, like common names, have different meanings in different places.(l did
not always index uses that are clearly external to Amazonia)
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