The use of medicinal plants by Paraguayan migrants in the Atlantic Forest of Misiones, Argentina, is based on Guaraní tradition, colonial and current plant knowledge

Abstract

This study was carried out in a geographic area with a long-standing tradition of Guaraní medicine. Paraguayan migrants in Misiones integrate pre-Hispanic Guaraní names and uses of plants and old humoral concepts with current adaptation of plants to meet new health challenges. Several of the uses described in early colonial times are still practiced, giving a solid background for in-depth studies of the local pharmacopoeia.