Table 7 Uses of San Pedro cactus in the Saraguro community
Uses | Preparation | Administration |
|---|---|---|
To induce visions (oral) | The cactus pulp is cooked for 7 h until a viscous consistency is obtained. | It is drunk (one or two glasses). |
To induce visions (inhaled) | The cactus is cooked and extracted with trencillas, wuamingas (Lycopodiaceae spp.), tobacco leaves, and Agua Florida. | It is administered through the nose using small shells. The process is led by the yachak. |
As a purgative | Fresh San Pedro juice is mixed with other plant preparations, known as cargados. | The beverage is drunk while the patient is in a fasting state before breakfast; the process is repeated for three days. |
To treat shuka | The pulp juice is mixed with an extract of tobacco and cararango (Lobelia sp.). | The extract dose drunk by the patient is approximately 5 ml. |
To treat anxiety | One San Pedro leaf is added to 1 liter of infusion prepared with plants that are used to treat anxiety. | The infusion is drunk for several days until the patient recovers. |
As an anti-inflammatory or wound disinfectant. | The cooked pulp is used as bandage. | The affected part is washed, and the bandage is placed. |