Jardin Etnobotanico

Jardin Etnobotanico

 

Estela took us to the Botanical Garden today. We went into the museum first and saw many interesting things. For example, we got to see a symbolic display of an offering that was used to cure “mal aire.” We then went to the garden where we saw many different herbs. Many of these herbs have been around for thousands of years. Estela shared with us some history of the different herbs. She told us that when the Spaniards came to Mexico they were interested in developing their knowledge of herbal medicine. They destroyed many other medicinal things like the temezcal because the ceremonial rituals didn’t mean as much to them as the healing properties of the herbs did. They were interested in learning about the herbs and rejected the spiritual component of the indigenous people.

 

Estela also shared with us her belief that a human being can survive in the wilderness knowing at least 13 herbs because every plant has some antibiotics properties. We also learned that some plants are toxic therefore; we need to be aware of them and the amount we consume. An herb that we believe is important to know about is “mala mujer.” “Mala mujer is an herb that is used to cure snake bites.

 

Another important plant in the Mexican culture is the Maguey. The maguey is seen as the feminine image and is worshipped because it is seen as the lady of remedies. Although perhaps it is not as worshipped as it was in the day of the Aztecs; it is still very important because of its many benefits. Maguey produces agua dulce for 2-3 years and through fermentation turns into pulque. Pulque when taken correctly can enhance all of ones senses and can also provide vitamins and minerals. During Aztec times it was usually only taken during ceremonial practices because being intoxicated was perceived to be almost a sin and resulted in punishment. However, intoxication only results when large quantities are consumed but when taken in an average amount there are many benefits

 

Estela then lead us in a “platica” by having us sit in a circle on the mother earth. The “platica” centered on the importance of duality in our daily lives. The discussion got lively when Estela asked “what are feminine and masculine traits?” It seemed like everyone had something to contribute to the discussion by sharing their own personal experiences and ideas on masculine and feminine traits. Saul showed his perspective on how strong females are sometimes intimidated and act less sure of themselves in the presence of many men. This directly related to our experience in Oaxaca.

 

A group of us women were walking back to the hotel late at night then we spotted a large group of men standing on the sidewalk, they immediately struck a sense of fear in the group. The group unconsciously stopped and waited for Dr. Garcia, a man, to lead the way. This forced many of us to reflect on why women sometimes instinctively react fearfully to men. Many other important ideas and experiences were shared and as the plactica ended many of us were left mindful of this idea of duality and continued to think on it the rest of the day.

 

As we returned home we continued to explore this idea of masculine and feminine traits and it left us thinking, “Are there really masculine and feminine traits or are they just human traits?”

 

- R.L., A.M., M.L., M.T.

07-22-08