Medicinal plants are no longer a unique topic in the indigenous or peasant territories of Caldas, now students from public and private schools in Manizales have become interested in exploring this world, through a project led by three researchers from the Department of Anthropology and Sociology from the University of Caldas.
It is “Exploring the World of Ancestral Plants and its relationship with health”, a plan that aims to motivate the little ones, the ecological relationship and healthier habits.
For the teacher and project coordinator Leidy Yohana Pava Yepes, ancestral plants are treasures of knowledge that bring with them an unmatched cultural and historical wealth, and hence the origin of this project where the protagonists are primary and high school students.
“The main objective of the project is to explore and disseminate knowledge about ancestral plants and their relationship with health, especially among children. We seek to raise awareness among the little ones about the cultural, historical and medicinal importance of these plants, as well as promote a closer and more respectful relationship with the environment,” explained Pava Yepes.
And although, within the rural community of the department, medicinal plants play a relevant role among older adults who are knowledgeable about the subject, the inhabitants of the urban area have little or a lot of this approach, so, for the researchers of the project , it is time to rescue these customs.
“This project allows them not only to learn about the medicinal properties of these plants, but also to connect with their cultural roots and strengthen their relationship with nature from an early age. It is a way to promote respect for the environment and appreciation of our traditions,” said the teacher.
He added that, “returning to ancestral plants represents a rich cultural and historical vision. In addition, it benefits health and the environment by promoting a more harmonious relationship with nature and reducing the consumption of ultra-processed products, which have proven to be harmful to our health and the environment.”
For the moment, one of the private schools in the capital of Caldense has had this experience, which will be replicated in the other institutions of the city, as far as the professionals go with pedagogical activities and experiences for children to explore with plants. , their textures, flavors, smells and other characteristics.
