High in the Andes, there is a collection of Peruvian herbs and plants known for their medicinal properties and delicious flavors. They have been in use since the time of the Incas, who used them to fight different diseases as well as to flavor their meals. These traditions continue today, with collection of the herbs following ancestral knowledge of harvest times; periods known as “Qora Pallay”
Ayni Peru is happy to announce that we´ll now be offering these fresh herbal teas and infusions on our homestay tours. Enjoy their unique flavors and aromas, many of which can only be found only in the Andes region of Peru.
In the Cuzqueñean highlands, the majority of these herbs are grown in home gardens, which our clients will visit during their homestay visits. They´ll be able to harvest their own fresh herbs, then enjoy a tasty tea with their host families before heading to bed!
Some of these herbs provide healing properties for various discomforts of the human body such as digestion problems, congestion, high blood pressure, insomnia and muscle tension, others are renowned for their pleasant flavor only. Below is an overview of the most common medicinal plants and herbs used in the Peruvian Andes:
MUÑA, also known as Andean mint, is famous for its healing power (indigestion and upset stomach).
MULLACA has healing properties for cough, bronchitis, asthma and fever. Its consumption is by infusion, taking advantage of leaves and stems.
TORONJIL is another herb with a peculiar aroma widely used by Andean people to treat stomach problems.
PINPIÑILLA can be taken after a vigorous day of work to treat muscular ailments.
The PUKA TIKA (RED FLOWER) is a beautiful flower with a unique flavor.
MOLLE Is distinguised by its great variety of healing properties. It´s renowned for it´s anesthetic, antiparasitic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
HUÑUCA ANDINA is another variety of aromatic mint very good for treating symptoms of altitude sickness. An infusion of this herb brings a feeling of freshness, and can be tasted popular soups in the highlands.
PALMA REAL is another plant with a strong aroma, which has properties to cure stomach pain and stomach indigestion.
PAICO is a well-known plant used to alleviate digestive problems and parasitic infections.
SALVIA has anti-inflammatory properties. For this reason, it is recommended to treat symptoms of rheumatism, arthritis, and osteoarthritis. It also helps relieve muscle pain and acts as a muscle relaxant. Some athletes use salvia when their muscles feel sore due to sudden movement or overexertion.
