Contemporary Uses of Vilca (Anadenanthera colubrina var cebil): A Major Ritual Plant in the Andes

A species known for its psychoactive properties was widely used by pre-Hispanic peoples in the southern Andean area. Despite assumptions that its use became scarce after the Spanish conquest, an updated overview based on literature review and ethnobotanical research in markets across Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru affirms the continuity of its use. Results show significant diversity in usage types, plant parts used, treatments, and conditions, along with new vernacular names. The paper interprets this from Andean logic, highlighting the current therapeutic effectiveness of the seeds through movements that restore health.

Study at a glance

Abstract

) is a species known for its psychoactive properties and its widespread use among the pre-Hispanic peoples who inhabited the southern Andean area (southern Peru, Bolivia, northern Chile and northwest Argentina). Studies on this species, as well as on medicinal, psychoactive, or magical plants in general, tend to consider its use in post-Spanish conquest times to be scarce or irrelevant in the Andes of South America. However, based on an in-depth review of the existing literature and on ethnobotanical research conducted in markets in Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru, this paper provides an updated overview affirming the continuity of the use of this species. The results indicate a significant diversity in terms of usage types, plant parts used, treatments, and conditions in which it is applied, along with new records of vernacular names. This paper also offers an interpretation from the perspective of Andean logics, highlighting the current therapeutic effectiveness of the seeds of this plant, facilitated through a series of "movements" that aim to restore the affected person's health.