Physical Health Peru Project #37245

Support Indigenous Medicinal Gardens in the Amazon

by Alianza Arkana

Support Indigenous Medicinal Gardens in the Amazon

Project Report | Jan 30, 2026
The Final Bloom...Bringing Medicinal Shade to Life

By Diego Villegas | Director

Any bucket can be a pot

We are reaching a pivotal moment in our journey. Our project, Rao Banabo ("Cultivate your Pharmacy"), continues to grow as a beacon of health and heritage for the Shipibo-Konibo people living in the urban outskirts of Yarinacocha.

Milestone: The Heart of Maroti Shobo

We are nearing the completion of the medicinal garden at Maroti Shobo. In the city, far from their ancestral forests, Shipibo families often struggle to find the specific medicinal plants essential for their well-being. By finalizing this garden, we ensure these vital species are physically present where the community gathers, works, and leads.

Reflection: A "Shade of Care" in the Cement Desert

In many ways, our work has been about building a "shade of medicinal care" for the Shipibo people in the city. Just as a tree protects the soil, this project provides a refuge of health autonomy.

We are proud to be part of a constellation of indigenous actors and organizations in Yarinacocha—from healers providing accessible care to leaders teaching traditional self-management. Our next strategic goal is to solidify our partnership with these allies, strengthening the collective "canopy" of indigenous health sovereignty that protects our community from the hardships of urban displacement.

Maroti Shobo: Gives and needs shade

Maroti Shobo is the heart of this resistance; it is where mothers create, sell, and pass down their wisdom. It is a space of collective, quality time. However, there is a harsh reality: the concrete courtyard where the children play is currently an island of heat, exposed to a sun that does not forgive.

Solution: Sombra Viva (Living Shade)
We want to turn our metaphorical "shade of care" into a physical reality for the youngest generation. We are seeking support to install the infrastructure for medicinal and edible climbing plants, such as:

Passionfruit (Maracuyá): For its rapid growth and vital nutrition.
Ajo Sacha (Mansoa alliacea): A cornerstone of Amazonian medicine. This plant is not only essential for treating respiratory and rheumatic ailments but is also stunningly ornamental. Its vibrant lavender flowers will transform the courtyard into a beautiful, flowering sanctuary.

Our goals are to:

Cool the Play Space: Transforming the sun-baked concrete into a fresh, green sanctuary where children can play at ease.
A Living Classroom: As the children play under these vines, they will naturally absorb the botanical knowledge of their elders. The shade that protects them from the heat will be the same plants that nourish and heal them.

Support the Next Phase

Your contribution will fund the trellises and seedlings needed to bring this "Living Shade" to life. Help us ensure that the children of Maroti Shobo can play freely under the protection of their own ancestral plants.

Volunteers a few years ago

A minga (collective work)

Seedlings on their way to be planted

Motelillo - For good luck and energy

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