Digestive plants in a Mapuche community of the Patagonian steppe: multidimensional variables that affect their knowledge and use

MOLARES SOLEDAD; CIAMPAGNA M. L.; LADIO ANA

Ethnobotany Research and Applications

Ilia State University

Lugar: Tbilisi; Año: 2023 vol. 25

1547-3465

Background: In a rural Mapuche community of the Patagonian steppe (Chubut, Argentina), we analyzed how theuse and popularity of digestive plants are affected by their aroma, the presence of dual medicinal-edible uses, theirdigestive versatility, biogeographical origin and accessibility.Methods: Free listing and in-depth interviews were conducted with 25 collaborators, complemented withparticipant observation and walks in the field. Quantitative indices, non-parametric methods (Binomial and Chisquare tests, p < 0, 05) and generalized linear models (GLM, Omnibus test, p < 0, 05) were performed.Results: Local collaborators use 61 digestive plants, including a similar number of native and exotic species. Mostare used for only one type of digestive use, are very accessible and have aroma. There are as many species withdual use as without dual use. Exotic species generally have more aroma than native ones. Only exotic species arehighly accessible. Species with dual uses are mainly used as condiments. Digestive-only species could or could nothave aroma. The popularity of species is only affected by their digestive versatility and aroma, mainly for exoticones.Conclusions: Local pharmacopoeia reflects aspects that account for its cultural resilience, including a high richnessof native and exotic digestive plants, many of which are used for specific ailments. The species have been selectedfrom the joint evaluation of biophysical and sociocultural variables that influence their knowledge and forms ofuse. These variables and perceptions would also allow diversification in response to changes, forming part of a biocultural legacy unique to Patagonia