# Ethnobotanical Research at the Kutukú Scientific Station, Morona-Santiago, Ecuador

Authors: Jose Luis Ballesteros; Francesco Bracco; Marco Cerna; Paola Vita Finzi; Giovanni Vidari
Journal: BioMed Research International
 (2016)

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## Abstract

This work features the results of an ethnobotanical study on the uses of medicinal plants by the inhabitants of the region near to the Kutukú Scientific Station of Universidad Politécnica Salesiana, located in the Morona-Santiago province, southeast of Ecuador. In the surroundings of the station, one ethnic group, the Shuar, has been identified. The survey hereafter reports a total of 131 plant species, with 73 different therapeutic uses.


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## Body

## 1. Introduction

Plants have played a fundamental role for the development of Andean cultures ever since man first arrived to that region approximately 10000 years ago [1]. Through history, man has utilized vegetable resources as a source of nutrition, medicines, fuel, and building materials and they even occupied an important place within their belief system and rites [2].According to the World Health Organization [3, 4] about 80% of the world population uses natural remedies and traditional medicine. Such medicine comes from forest resources that provide a series of benefits to the local, regional, and national populations and include raw materials, patrimony protection, and scenic beauty [5]. Nowadays, Ecuador, located on the equator line, is considered as one of the countries with the greatest biodiversity in the world [6]. In Ecuador, there exist many areas of biological interest that for their unique features currently provide diverse uses for the benefit of the population [7]. These uses of natural resources are the fruits of the accumulation of the ancestral knowledge that the local population has kept until now [8]. This traditional knowledge has been orally transmitted from one generation to the next, but over the last decades, the crisis of the rural world threatens this rich patrimony, which may be lost, together with many interesting aspects concerning the traditional exploitation of natural resources [9].In Ecuador, many ethnobotanical studies have been made: that is, Villacrés [10] studied the bioactivity of plants of the Amazon jungle from the province of Napo; Cerón and Montalvo [11] published a book on the ethnobotanical aspects of the “Huaorani” people in a specific zone in the northeast of Ecuador; the cultural practices of Quechua society in Napo were analyzed in a book by Iglesias [12]; Tene et al. [13] performed an ethnobotanical study on medicinal plants used in Loja and Zamora Chinchipe. A few studies have also been made concerning the traditional use of plants in the Saraguro community of south Ecuador [14–16].In this work we analyzed the ethnobotanical patrimony of Kutukú Scientific Station, located on the Kutukú mountain range in the Morona-Santiago province, Ecuador. By doing that, we intended to safeguard the popular knowledge concerning plants and to produce a database of plant uses and advantages. This data could be used by the citizens themselves and could be the base for future actions in programs of scientific investigations, environmental education, social awareness, and natural resources exploitation, as well as the start point of touristic attraction based on the sustainable development of the territory.


## 2. Methodology

The research herein was performed between August and December of 2013, within the area of the Kutukú Biological Station belonging to Universidad Politécnica Salesiana del Ecuador (2°18′39.1′′S, 78°06′11.6′′W) with 800–1200 m a.s.l. The territory of the station covers 250 hectares and is located within the Kutukú-Shaimi Protected Forest (BPKS) in the center of Ecuador’s eastern region, east of the city of Macas, in the parish of Sevilla Don Bosco, province of Morona-Santiago (Figure1).Figure 1
Region where the study was carried out. (a) Location in Ecuador, (b) location in the province, (c) location in the canton. Source: Geographical Information Systems (IGM and SENPLADES).
(a)
(b)
(c)Within the area of the scientific station, big forest extensions of the evergreen humid type, really difficult to access, still persist in the low montane, montane, and high montane belts [17]. The month average temperature ranges between 16 and 27°C, and the total annual precipitation is 3021 mm approximately [18]. Close to the territory of the scientific station, where this study was carried out, about 7 indigenous communities can be found; all of these belong to the ethnic group “Shuar” (Table 1).Table 1
Communities close to the area of the Kutukú Scientific Station and its buffering zone.
Canton
Parrish
Community
Morona
Sevilla
Sevilla Don Bosco
San Luis Inimks
Santa Ana
San Miguel
Guadalupe
Angel Rouby
AnkuashFor this investigation, a qualitative ethnobotanical method was carried out [20] in which mostly adult persons have been contacted, who live within the area under study and know the use of medicinal plants. One hundred and sixty inhabitants of the seven communities were interviewed. All respondents were farmers or elderly belonging to the “Shuar” ethnicity or their descendants.The collected data were processed and the results are expressed in a list of medicinal plants, with scientific names, families, collection point, used parts, form of preparation, traditional uses, and distribution (Table2). The plant samples were processed and identified at the Ecuadorian National Herbarium (QCNE). They were deposited with their respective code at the Herbarium of the Universidad Politécnica Salesiana in the city of Quito, Ecuador. The botanic nomenclature was registered according to the Catalog of Vascular Plants of Ecuador [6]. A contact was established with the Shuar community through their authorized representatives, with the possibility of performing more precise studies in the future for the recovery, protection, and sustainable use of their traditional knowledge.Table 2
Therapeutic applications of the plants used in the traditional medicine of the persons neighboring Kutukú Scientific Station.
Number
Scientific name
Commonn
a
m
e
∗
Family
Herbarium voucher
Therapeutic applications and other uses
Used parts
Preparation
Administration
D
i
s
t
r
i
b
u
t
i
o
n
∗
∗
1
Acmella ciliata (Kunth) Cass.
Botoncillo
Asteraceae
HUPS-as-001
Diarrhea, dysentery, toothache, cold, “mal aire,” forage
Leaves, flowers
Aqueous infusion of crushed leaves
Drink, chew
Native
2
Aiphanes ulei(Dammer) Burret
Chontilla
Arecaceae
HUPS-ae-001
Alimentary, nutritious
Leaves, plant steam
Oil extraction, parched, obtaining flour
Ingestion
Native
3
Anthodiscus peruanusBaill.
Chontaquiro
Caryocaraceae
HUPS-co-001
Alimentary, nutritious
Fruit, flowers
Direct use
Ingestion
Native
4
Anthurium giganteumEngl.
Anturio
Araceae
HUPS-ar-001
Alimentary, nutritious, ornamental
Fruit
Direct use
Ingestion
Native
5
Anthurium mindenseSodiro
Jergón quiro
Araceae
HUPS-ar-002
Muscle ache, poison for hunting
Plant root
Obtaining fibers + water
Topical application, applied on hunting arrows
Native
6
Aparisthmium cordatum(A. Juss.) Baill.
Aguacatillo
Euphorbiaceae
HUPS-eu-001
Dermatitis, spots on the cornea, eye irritation
Leaves
Trituration
Topical application
Native
7
Blakea rosea(Ruiz & Pav.) D. Don
Tuno blanco
Melastomataceae
HUPS-me-001
Cicatrize
Leaves
Trituration
Topical application
Native
8
Borojoa claviflora(K. Schum.) Cuatrec.
Borojo
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-001
Respiratory diseases, psychomotor development, blood circulation, stimulating, helping digestion
Leaves
Syrup medicine
Drink
Native
9
Burmeistera glabrata(Kunth) Benth. & Hook. F. ex B.D. Jacks
Campana
Campanulaceae
HUPS-ca-001
Joint pain
Leaves, flowers
Decoction
Drink
Native
10
Burmeistera refractaE. Wimm.
Campana
Campanulaceae
HUPS-ca-002
Alimentary, nutritious,
Whole plant
Direct use
Ingestion
Endemic
11
Byrsonima arthropodaA. Juss.
Guayabillo
Malpighiaceae
HUPS-ma-001
Alimentary, headache
Bark
Decoction
Drink
Native
12
Calathea hagbergiiH. Kenn.
Bijao
Marantaceae
HUPS-mr-001
Food stimulating
Plant root
Obtaining flour
Ingestion
Endemic
13
Calathea libbyanaH. Kenn.
Platanillo
Marantaceae
HUPS-mr-002
Cold healing
Leaves
Parched + water
Ingestion
Endemic
14
Capparis detonsaTriana & Planch
Sacha bola
Capparaceae
HUPS-cp-001
Gonorrhea
Bark
Decoction
Drink
Native
15
Casearia decandraJacq.
Burro ca’a
Salicaceae
HUPS-sa-001
Leprosy, alimentary
Leaves
Jelly aqueous infusion
Drink
Central and South America
16
Ceiba samauma(Marth.) K. Schum.
Saumauma
Malvaceae
HUPS-ml-001
Thermal insulation
Seed
Obtaining fibers
Direct application
Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador
17
Chamaedorea paucifloraMart.
Palmiche
Arecaceae
HUPS-ae-002
Deodorant, construction, dye, alimentary
Flowers, leaves, fruit
Trituration, maceration, direct use
Topical application, ingestion
Native
18
Chlorospatha longipoda(K. Krause) Madison
Tutunendo
Araceae
HUPS-ar-003
Hepatitis, fiber, malaria, back pain
Bark, root plant, plant stem
Cataplasm, aqueous infusion
Topical application, drink
Native
19
Chrysochlamys membranaceaPlanch. & Triana
Cascarillon
Clusiaceae
HUPS-cl-001
Alimentary, nutritious
Fruit
Direct use
Ingestion
Native
20
Chrysophyllum argenteumJacq.
Yaso
Sapotaceae
HUPS-sp-001
Diarrhea, throat problems, reduction of corns, emetic, anthelmintic
Bark, fruit, sap
Aqueous infusion, direct use
Topical application, ingestion
Native
21
Chrysophyllum argenteumsubsp. ferrugineum (Ruiz & Pav.) T. D. Penn.
Caimito
Sapotaceae
HUPS-sp-002
Alimentary, cosmetic, moisturizing, antiacne, psoriasis, bronzer
Leaves, plant stem
Oil extraction
Topical application, ingestion
Native
22
Citharexylum poeppigiiWalp.
Nacedero
Verbenaceae
HUPS-ve-001
Affections of upper air tract, digestive problems, headache, menstrual pain
Flower, plant root
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
23
Citronella incarum(J.F. Macbr.) R.A. Howard
Citronela
Cardiopteridaceae
HUPS-cr-001
Antispasmodic, carminative, febrifuge, antidepressant, antiseptic, astringent, sedative
Leaves, plant stem, seeds
Plaster, aqueous infusion
Topical application, drink
Native
24
Clidemia spruceiGleason
Mullaca
Melastomataceae
HUPS-me-002
Aphrodisiac, antifebrile, anemia, scabies
Leaves
Aqueous infusion, direct use
Topical application, drink
Native
25
Clusia hammeliana Pipoly
Chuagulo
Clusiaceae
HUPS-cl-002
Cold remedy, antirheumatic, antiseptic, preventing intestinal diseases
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Topical application, drink
Native
26
Clusia pallidaEngl.
Mata palo
Clusiaceae
HUPS-cl-003
Ant tetanic, bone fractures, hemostatic, strengthening the immune system
Leaves
Decoction
Drink
Native
27
Clusia trochiformisVesque
Renaquillo
Clusiaceae
HUPS-cl-004
Hypoglycemic, laxative, antirust, preventing respiratory diseases
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink, inhalation
Native
28
Coccoloba densifronsMart. ex Meisn.
Serra
Polygonaceae
HUPS-po-001
Gastric function stimulating, astringent, hemorrhoids, leucorrhea, metritis
Bark, leaves, plant stem
Decoction
Topical application, drink
Native
29
Compsoneura capitellata(A. DC.) Warb.
Cuangare
Myristicaceae
HUPS-my-001
Carminative, hallucinogen, deodorant
Bark
Aqueous infusion
Drink, inhalation
Native
30
Croton lechleriMüll. Arg.
Sangre de Drago
Euphorbiaceae
HUPS-eu-002
Healing, ulcers, vaginal infections, rheumatism, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
Bark, latex, plant stem
Sap extraction, aqueous infusion, direct use
Topical application, drink
Native
31
Croton rimbachiiCroizat
Algodoncillo
Euphorbiaceae
HUPS-eu-003
Healing
Leaves
Trituration
Topical application
Endemic
32
Cyclanthus bipartitusPoit.
Papango
Cyclanthaceae
HUPS-cy-001
Snake bites, alimentary, “mal aire”
Fruit, plant root
Decoction, parched, direct use
Topical application, ingestion
Native
33
Dacryodes peruviana(Loes.) H.J. Lam
Copal
Burseraceae
HUPS-bu-001
Female reproductive system disorders, jaundice, spleen diseases, liver problems
Fruit, plant stem
Aqueous infusion
Topical application, drink
Native
34
Desmodium poeppigianum(Schindl.) J.F. Macbr.
Pega pega
Fabaceae
HUPS-fa-001
Healing
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Topical application
Ecuador, Panama, Peru
35
Drymonia warszewiczianaHanst.
Desbaratadora
Gesneriaceae
HUPS-ge-001
Skin diseases
Leaves
Cataplasm
Topical application
Native
36
Equisetum giganteumL.
Caballo chupa
Equisetaceae
HUPS-eq-001
Inflammation reduction of liver and kidneys
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
37
Eryngium foetidumL.
Culantrillo
Apiaceae
HUPS-ap-001
Abortive, slimming, aphrodisiac, diabetes, cholesterol lowering
Leaves, plant stem
Direct use
Ingestion
Native
38
Erythrina amazonicaKrukoff
Chiri shetuc
Fabaceae
HUPS-fa-002
Calming the nervous system, oral inflammation reducer, antitussive
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
39
Erythroxylum fimbriatumPeyr.
Kuka
Erythroxylaceae
HUPS-ey-001
Stimulant, altitude problems, local anesthetic, “mal aire”
Leaves
Direct use
Ingestion
Native
40
Faramea amplaC.M. Taylor
Jazmin
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-002
Gout preventer, vasodilator
Leaves
Direct use
Ingestion
Colombia and Ecuador
41
Faramea exemplarisStandl.
Jazmin
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-003
Antitumor
Leaves
Cataplasm
Topical application
Native
42
Ficus tonduziiStandl.
Higuerón
Moraceae
HUPS-mc-001
Laxative, anthelmintic, diuretic, febrifuge, antifungal
Bark, fruit
Decoction, syrup medicine
Topical application, drink
Native
43
Geonoma chococolaWess. Boer
Calzón panga
Arecaceae
HUPS-ae-003
Measles
Leaves, plant stem
Cataplasm
Topical application
Cultivated
44
Geonoma interrupta (Ruiz & Pav.) Mart.
Rabihorcado
Arecaceae
HUPS-ae-004
Antiviral, alimentary, nutritional
Leaves
Maceration
Drink
Native
45
Geonoma stricta(Poit.) Kunth
Calzón panga
Arecaceae
HUPS-ae-005
Spots on the skin
Seeds
Cataplasm
Topical application
Native
46
Graffenrieda cucullata(Triana) L.O. Williams
Huito
Melastomataceae
HUPS-me-003
Urinary track and kidney infections
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
47
Guarea kunthianaA. Juss.
Piiche
Meliaceae
HUPS-mi-001
Worming, applied against acne, dander and insect bites
Bark, leaves
Decoction
Topical application, drink
Native
48
Gurania eriantha (Poepp. & Endl.) Cogn.
Zapallito
Cucurbitaceae
HUPS-cu-001
Diarrheas, wounds, sores, worming
Fruit
Direct use
Topical application, ingestion
Native
49
Hedyosmum goudotianumSolms
Granizo
Chloranthaceae
HUPS-ch-001
Flavoring, stimulant
Leaves
Aqueous infusion of crushed leaves
Topical application, drink
Native
50
Heisteria acuminata
Tinchi
Olacaceae
HUPS-ol-001
Alimentary, nutritious, flu
Fruit
Direct use
Ingestion
Native
51
Heisteria acuminatasubsp. intermedia P. Jorg.
Yutubanco
Olacaceae
HUPS-ol-002
Alimentary, astringent, nutritional
Fruit
Direct use
Ingestion
Native
52
Heliconia schumannianaLoes.
Situlli
Heliconiaceae
HUPS-he-001
Anti-inflammatory, astringent, hernia
Flowers
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
53
Hieronyma duquei Cuatrec.
Urucurana
Phyllanthaceae
HUPS-ph-001
Aphrodisiac, intestinal parasites
Whole plant
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
54
Hippotis albifloraH. Karst.
Sol caspi
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-004
Antidiabetic
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
55
Huberodendron swietenioides(Gleason) Ducke
Carrá
Malvaceae
HUPS-ml-002
Relaxing
Whole plant
Direct use
Inhalation
Bolivia, Ecuador, Brazil, Peru, French Guyana
56
Hyospathe macrorhachisBurret
Terent
Arecaceae
HUPS-ae-006
Tooth decay, flu
Leaves, whole plant, seeds
Oil extraction, maceration, direct use
Drink, ingestion
Native
57
Ilex guayusaLoes.
Guayusa
Aquifoliaceae
HUPS-aq-001
Alimentary, antirust, stimulant, fight against stress, gastritis, infertility
Leaves
Aqueous infusion, direct use
Drink, ingestion
Native
58
Jacaranda copaia(Aubl.) D. Don
Gualandano
Bignoniaceae
HUPS-bi-001
Dental abscesses, bronchitis, itch, scabies, syphilis
Whole plant
Cataplasm, aqueous infusion
Topical application, drink
Native
59
Juanulloa ochraceaCuatrec.
Dedo de oro
Solanaceae
HUPS-so-001
Syphilis, malaria, snake bites
Leaves
Decoction
Topical application, drink
Native
60
Kotchubaea semisericeaDucke
Huitillo
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-005
Blood clotting, cancer treatment (female genital tract, bronchopulmonary and gastric)
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
61
Lacmellea floribunda(Poepp.) Benth.
Chicle caspi
Apocynaceae
HUPS-ao-001
Treatment of the vascular brain disorders, hypotensive, heart problems
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Brazil, Ecuador, French Guyana, Peru, Surinam
62
Lonchocarpus seorsus(J.F. Macbr.) M. Sousa ex D.A Neill, Klitg. & G.P. Lewis
Chaperno
Fabaceae
HUPS-fa-003
Lowering bad cholesterol
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
63
Mabea speciosaMüll. Arg.
Chamizo
Euphorbiaceae
HUPS-eu-004
Diarrhea, liver inflammations, improving digestion.
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
64
Machaerium leiophyllum(DC.) Benth.
Uña de gavilán
Fabaceae
HUPS-fa-004
Anticancerous
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
65
Malachra ruderalisGürke
Malva
Malvaceae
HUPS-ml-003
Kidney disease
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
66
Matisia malacocalyx(A. Robins & S. Nilsson) W.S. Alverson
Bacao
Malvaceae
HUPS-ml-004
Thermal and acoustic insulation
Seeds
Fiber extraction
Topical application
Native
67
Mendoncia orbicularisTurrill
O’me
Acanthaceae
HUPS-ac-001
Eye evil “mal aire”
Whole plant
Parched, direct use
Inhalation
Native
68
Miconia ombrophilaWurdack
Tuno
Melastomataceae
HUPS-me-004
Snake bites
Leaves
Cataplasm
Topical application
Endemic
69
Miconia prasina(Sw.) DC.
Aguanoso
Melastomataceae
HUPS-me-005
Healing, snake bites
Leaves
Cataplasm
Topical application
Native
70
Miconia punctata (Desr.) D. Don ex DC.
Huitoto
Melastomataceae
HUPS-me-006
Healing
Leaves, plant stem
Cataplasm
Topical application
Native
71
Mollinedia latifolia(Poepp & Endl.) Tul.
Amunamue
Monimiaceae
HUPS-mo-001
Treatment of liver diseases
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
72
Mollinedia repandaRuiz & Pav.
Amunamue
Monimiaceae
HUPS-mo-002
Healing, rheumatism, dropsy, syphilis, migraine, headache
Leaves
Cataplasm, trituration
Topical application
Native
73
Monolena primulifloraHooke. f.
Shankur
Melastomataceae
HUPS-me-007
Antiparasitic, alimentary, stimulant, treatment for conjunctivitis
Rhizome, plant stem, sap
Decoction, direct use
Topical application, ingestion
Native
74
Myrcia bracteata(Rich.) DC.
Arrayán
Myrtaceae
HUPS-mt-001
Astringent, diarrhea, dysentery, healing
Flowers, fruit, leaves
Cataplasm, trituration
Topical application
Native
75
Nectandra acutifolia(Ruiz & Pav.) Mez
Moena
Lauraceae
HUPS-la-001
Stomach infection, astringent, diarrhea, antifebrile
Leaves, plant stem
Oil extraction, aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
76
Nectandra reticulata(Ruiz & Pav.) Mez
Jigua
Lauraceae
HUPS-la-002
Moisturizer, skin lightener
Leaves
Trituration + honey bee
Topical application
Native
77
Neea spruceana Heimerl
Cueyihue
Nyctaginaceae
HUPS-ny-001
Antihemorrhagic, leucorrhea treatment
Leaves
Decoction, aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
78
Neurolaena lobata(L.) Cass.
Sepi
Asteraceae
HUPS-as-002
Healing, antiacne
Leaves
Cataplasm, trituration
Topical application
Native
79
Notopleura epiphytica(K. Krause) C.M. Taylor
Huati
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-006
Antidiabetic, antilipid, cholesterol lowering, slimming, hypotensive
Bark, leaves
Decoction
Drink
Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, French Guyana, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru
80
Ocotea skutchii C.K. Allen
Laurel
Lauraceae
HUPS-la-003
Intestinal disorders, emollient, blood purifier, dyspepsia
Fruit, plant stem
Direct use
Ingestion
Native
81
Oryctanthus alveolatus(Kunth) Kuijt
Pajarito
Loranthaceae
HUPS-lo-001
Emmenagogue, abortive, diuretic, hypotensive, antiepileptic, wound treatment, purgative, healing of angina, tonsillitis, antidiarrheal, purifying the blood
Flowers, leaves, whole plant
Decoction, aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
82
Ossaea laxivenulaWurdack
Rifari
Melastomataceae
HUPS-me-008
Healing, snake bite, construction
Leaves, plant stem
Cataplasm
Topical application
Native
83
Palicourea luteoniveaC.M. Taylor
Café de monte
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-007
Antimalarial
Leaves
Direct use
Ingestion
Native
84
Palicourea subalatoidesC.M. Taylor
Café de monte
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-008
Antimalarial
Leaves
Decoction
Drink
Endemic
85
Patinoa sphaerocarpaCuatrec.
Almirajo
Malvaceae
HUPS-ml-005
Diuretic, tonic cardiac, against warts, cosmetic
Seeds, plant stem
Decoction, parched
Topical application, drink, ingestion
Cultivated
86
Pavonia castaneifoliaA. St.-Hil. & Naudin
Mozote
Malvaceae
HUPS-ml-006
Colic, anti-inflammatory, constipation, refreshing
Whole plant
Aqueous infusion, direct use
Drink, ingestion
Native
87
Pearcea sprucei(Britton ex Rusby) L.P. Kvist & L.E. Skog
Chirishi
Gesneriaceae
HUPS-ge-002
Relaxing, “mal aire”
Whole plant
Parched
Inhalation
Native
88
Peperomia striataRuiz & Pav.
Congonilla
Piperaceae
HUPS-pi-001
Kidney disease, blood circulation
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
89
Peperomia tetragonaRuiz & Pav.
Congonilla
Piperaceae
HUPS-pi-002
Liver disorders
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
90
Philodendron heleniaeCroat
Itininga
Araceae
HUPS-ar-004
Vaginal bleeding, obstetric pain
Leaves
Direct use
Ingestion
Native
91
Phoradendron crassifolium (Pohl ex DC.) Eichler
Suelda con suelda
Santalaceae
HUPS-sn-001
Epilepsy, hysteria, diuretic, relieving rheumatic pain
Leaves
Decoction, direct use
Topical application, drink
Native
92
Piper augustumRudge
Matico
Piperaceae
HUPS-pi-003
Urinary tract infection, flu
Leaves
Decoction
Drink, inhalation
Native
93
Piper imperiale(Miq.) C. DC.
Cordoncillo
Piperaceae
HUPS-pi-004
Antidiarrheal, ulcer
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
94
Piper inmutatumTrel.
Shiliempoja
Piperaceae
HUPS-pi-005
Healing
Leaves
Crush + water
Topical application
Native
95
Piper macrotrichumC. DC.
Guaviduca
Piperaceae
HUPS-pi-006
Vaginal antiseptic, herpes
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Topical application
Native
96
Piper macerispicum Trel. & Yunck.
Guaviduca
Piperaceae
HUPS-pi-007
Bronchitis, healing
Leaves
Decoction, crush
Topical application, inhalation
Native
97
Piper musteumTrel.
Sacha guando
Piperaceae
HUPS-pi-008
Kidney diseases
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
98
Piper obtusilimbumC. DC.
Matico de monte
Piperaceae
HUPS-pi-009
Abortive
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
99
Piper poporenseTre. & Yunck.
Matico de monte
Piperaceae
HUPS-pi-010
Abortive
Leaves
Decoction
Drink
Native
100
Piper umbellatumL.
Matico
Piperaceae
HUPS-pi-011
Healing, “mal aire”
Bark
Trituration, parched
Topical application, inhalation
Native
101
Piptocoma discolor(Kunth) Pruski
Pigue
Asteraceae
HUPS-as-003
Diarrhea, antispasmodic, snake bites
Leaves, plant stem
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
102
Pleurothyrium insignevan der Werff
Comino
Lauraceae
HUPS-la-004
Stomach infection
Whole plant
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
103
Pseuderanthemum subauriculatum Mildbr.
Flor estrella
Acanthaceae
HUPS-ac-002
Antidepressant
Leaves
Decoction
Drink
Endemic
104
Pseudolmedia rigida(Klotzsch & H. Karst.) Cuatrec.
Chimicua
Moraceae
HUPS-mc-002
Back pain relief, hernias
Leaves
Cataplasm
Topical application
Native
105
Psychotria borucana(Ant. Molina) C.M. Taylor & W.C. Burger
Flor de labios
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-009
Antiviral, irregularities with the menstrual cycle
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
106
Psychotria brachiataSw.
Chacruna
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-010
Gonorrhea, general weakness, convalescence
Leaves
Decoction
Drink
Native
107
Psychotria costanensis Steyerm.
Chacruna
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-011
Diabetes, treatment against profound wounds
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Topical application, drink
Cultivated
108
Psychotria flaviflora (K. Krause) C.M. Taylor
Chacrona
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-012
Hemorrhoids, fistulas
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Topical application
Native
109
Psychotria trivialisRusby
Flor de labios
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-013
Rheumatism, immunodeficiency, HIV
Leaves
Direct use
Ingestion
Cultivated
110
Psychotria zevallosiiC.M. Taylor
Chacrona
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-014
Antibiotic, ulcers, treatment against tumors
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
111
Pterozonium brevifrons(A.C. Sm.) Lellinger
Helecho
Pteridaceae
HUPS-pt-001
Respiratory diseases, scalp problems, antitussive, menstrual problems
Leaves
Aqueous infusion, crushed
Topical application, drink, inhalation
Native
112
Reldia minutiflora(L.E. Skog) L.P. Kvist & L.E. Skog
Chiri
Gesneriaceae
HUPS-ge-003
“Mal aire”
Whole plant
Parched
Inhalation
Native
113
Rudgea verticillata(Ruiz & Pav.) Spreng.
Chirishri
Rubiaceae
HUPS-ru-015
“Mal aire,” tincture
Whole plant
Parched, maceration
Inhalation, dye
Cultivated
114
Siparuna harlingiiS.S. Renner & Hausner
Picho huayo
Siparunaceae
HUPS-si-001
Febrifuge, analgesic, anti-inflammatories, antitussive, hypotensive, healing, “mal aire,” flavoring, aphrodisiac
Leaves
Cataplasm, aqueous infusion
Topical application, drink
Native
115
Siparuna lepidota(Kunth) A. DC.
Limoncillo
Siparunaceae
HUPS-si-002
Ear pain
Leaves
Juice
Topical application
Native
116
Smilax officinalisKunth
Uña de gato
Smilacaceae
HUPS-sm-001
Antisyphilitic, antirheumatic, digestive, diuretic, antifebrile
Root plant, rhizome, plant stem
Decoction, direct use
Drink, ingestion
Cultivated
117
Solanum acerifoliumDunal
Coconillo
Solanaceae
HUPS-so-002
Stimulant
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
118
Solanum altissimum Benítez
Yoroi
Solanaceae
HUPS-so-003
Digestive, diuretic, antifebrile, depurative, blood, skin diseases
Root plant, rhizome, plant stem
Decoction, direct use
Drink, ingestion
Native
119
Solanum malletiiS. Knapp
Siucahuito
Solanaceae
HUPS-so-004
Antisyphilitic, antirheumatic, urinary tract diseases, bladder and kidney problems, blennorrhagia
Root plant
Decoction
Drink
Native
120
Sterculia colombiana Sprague
Sapotejin
Malvaceae
HUPS-ml-007
Against cough and asthma, bronchodilator
Seeds
Aqueous infusion
Drink, inhalation
Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, Peru
121
Tapirira guianensisAubl.
Palo de gusano
Anacardiaceae
HUPS-an-001
Cystitis, vesicant
Fruit
Maceration, syrup medicine
Drink
Native
122
Thibaudia floribunda Kunth
Hualicón de árbol
Ericaceae
HUPS-er-001
Alimentary, treatment and prevention of urinary tract infection
Leaves
Aqueous infusion
Drink
Native
123
Tradescantia zanonia(L.) Sw.
Calcharón
Commelinaceae
HUPS-cm-001
Treatment for burns, anti-inflammatories
Leaves
Cataplasm, crushed
Topical application
Native
124
Trema integerrima(Beurl.) Standl.
Cunacuma
Cannabaceae
HUPS-cn-001
Astringent, nasal decongestant, leishmaniasis
Whole plant
Aqueous infusion
Drink, inhalation
Belize, Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Surinam, Venezuela
125
Trianaea naekaS. Knapp
Naeka
Solanaceae
HUPS-so-005
Digestive, diuretic, antifebrile, blood circulation problems, skin problems
Rhizome, plant stem
Decoction
Topical application, drink
Endemic
126
Triolena pluvialis(Wurdack) Wurdack
Cangrejo
Melastomataceae
HUPS-me-009
Female sterility
Leaves
Decoction
Drink
Native
127
Verbena litoralisKunth
Verbena
Verbenaceae
HUPS-ve-002
Headaches, ulcers, hair loss
Leaves, plant root
Aqueous infusion, crushed
Topical application, drink
Native
128
Virola pavonis(A. DC.) A.C. Sm.
Caupuri
Myristicaceae
HUPS-my-002
Tooth and kidney pain, analgesic
Sap
Direct use
Drink
Native
129
Virola sebiferaAubl.
Chalviande
Myristicaceae
HUPS-my-003
Carminative, flavoring, hallucinogen
Flowers, leaves
Parched
Inhalation
Native
130
Vriesea zamorensis(L.B. Sm.) L.B. Sm.
Pluma de indio
Bromeliaceae
HUPS-br-001
Alimentary, nutritional, fright
Whole plant
Maceration
Drink, inhalation
Endemic
131
Witheringia solanaceaL’Hér.
Hoja puñada
Solanaceae
HUPS-so-006
Bronchitis, diarrhea, acne
Leaves
Crushed, juice
Topical application, drink
Native
C
o
m
m
o
n
∗ names can be found in Spanish, Quechua, Shuar, and Huaorani languages.
León
∗
∗-Yánez et al. [19].


## 3. Result and Discussion

The ethnobotanical study performed in this work gave us a real panorama about the natural remedies used by the inhabitants in the territory of the Kutukú Scientific Station of the Morona canton of the province of Morona-Santiago, south of Ecuador. This research was realized with “Shuar” community, which is very different from the “Achuar” community cited in the article by Giovannini [21], even the geographical location and the altitude are different.One hundred thirty-one different plants have been identified, which many medicinal properties have been attributed to; their uses and forms of therapeutic usage also have been recorded. From the total number of plants, 107 are native, 9 are grown traditionally, 9 are endemic, and 6 are cultivated [6].This long list of plants comprises species yet unknown from a phytochemical point of view, as well as deeply studied ones, for example,Croton lechleri Müll. Arg. andIlex guayusa Loes.Croton lechleriis used locally as a wound healing aid, as a treatment for ulcers and sometimes for vaginal infections. These usages and other are scientifically validated in literature, especially concerning the treatment of infections and the wound healing aid [22]. According to another author [13],Croton lechleri is traditionally used in Ecuador as a diuretic remedy and is also employed to treat dermatologic and hepatic illnesses.Ilex guayusa is used in case of gastritis, as a stimulant replacing coffee, and to enhance fertility in women. In the Amazon forest of Ecuador and Peru, a traditional guayusa decoction that yields a high content of caffeine is used as a stimulant in the morning [23]. It is also reported [24] thatIlex guayusaof Peru has a strong antimicrobial activity.Verbena litoralis Kunth keeps being very appreciated in local medicine, particularly for the treatment of headaches, ulcers, and alopecia. Data in scientific literature [25] support its activity as an analgesic too.According to the collected information, the plants utilized for headache treatment areVirola pavonis (A. DC.) A. C. Sm.,Siparuna harlingii S. S. Renner & Hausner,Byrsonima arthropoda A. Juss.,Acmella ciliata (Kunth) Cass., andCitharexylum poeppigii Walp.Virola pavonis is used and very appreciated by the local inhabitants for the treatment of diseases, from inflammation to headache, from hangovers to renal problems. Outside Ecuador, this plant was tested in Brazil for the treatment of leishmaniosis [26], while the antifungal activity of the extracts from the leaves was studied in detail by Zacchino et al. [27]. The leaves ofSiparuna harlingii S. S. Renner & Hausner are used by the local inhabitants as remedies for headache and cough and as an anti-inflammatory. At other latitudes, different authors described diverse applications of this plant: in Zamora Chinchipe province of Ecuador, the inhabitants employ it against rheumatism [28]; meanwhile in Colombia, it is used to treat illnesses of nervous system and stomach [29].The bark ofByrsonima arthropoda in decoction is employed as an analgesic, although the whole plant is used as food for birds and mammals. The Makuna Indians from Praparaná River, a Colombian Amazon ethnic group, uses the ground plant as a wound healing aid [30].In our study we found that the leaves ofAcmella ciliata are used as a remedy against diarrhea, headaches, colds, and toothache and for “mal aire.” Only a few papers are available in literature, either ethnopharmacologic or phytochemical, forAcmella ciliata. In a study performed in the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil [31] it is reported that the leaves of this plant are traditionally used to treat hepatic problems.From the flowers and leaves ofCitharexylum poeppigii aqueous infusions are prepared, which are used to treat affections of upper respiratory tract such as cough. This infusion is also used for digestive discomfort, headaches, and menstrual cramps. In literature information concerning the ethnobotanical use of this species is lacking; nonetheless, the presence of this plant is confirmed in Ecuador [32] and Venezuela [33].The plant families mostly used by the inhabitants are Rubiaceae (15), Piperaceae (11), Melastomataceae (9), Malvaceae (7), Arecaceae (7), Solanaceae (6), and Euphorbiaceae (4). Figure2 shows the plant families reported in this study with a main role in the traditional use.Figure 2
The most frequently used families of plants in the area of Kutukú Scientific Station.In the area of Kutukú Scientific Station plants of the Rubiaceae family are used mostly as anticarcinogens (4), for circulatory system problems (4), as a treatment for diabetes (3), and against malaria (2). In literature plants of the Rubiaceae family are reported as being antihepatotoxic [34], as well as having anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities [35].Piperaceae plants are often used locally against kidney and urinary tract affections (3), as wound healing aids (3), and curiously sometimes as an abortive (2). The use of the plants of this family in infusions of whole plant is frequently reported in the literature, which confirms the usage as wound healing aid [36] and for the treatment of kidney affections [37].In this study we found that the plants of the Melastomataceae family are used especially as treatment of poisonous snake bites and for wound healing (4). Many plants of this family are used in Mexico for the traditional treatment of gingivitis and oral infections overall [38] and have been tested in Brazil for treating gastrointestinal problems [39].We confirm the usage of plants of the Malvaceae family as diuretic remedies, as reported, for example, in Alarcón-Alonso et al. [40] forHibiscus sabdariffa L., and also the use ofPatinoa sphaerocarpa Cuatrec in the same way. The antiviral properties of the plants of the Arecaceae family, reported, for example, inCocos nucifera L. from Brazil [41], are confirmed on the base of the speciesGeonoma chococola Wess. Boer andGeonoma interrupta (Ruiz & Pav.) Mart found at the Kutukú Scientific Station.The plants of the Solanaceae family are used generally as a treatment for syphilis (3), rheumatism (2), kidney problems (2), and infections of the urinary tract (2). A study carried out in the Bolivian Chaco pointed out the traditional use of some species of Solanaceae family for the treatment of headaches, fever, acne, and diarrhea [42]; these pharmacological uses can be correlated with our findings. Besides, the Solanaceae family has been broadly studied and its plants are used for their hallucinogenic properties [43].Plants of the Euphorbiaceae family are used mostly as wound healing aids (2), for intestinal problems (1), for diarrhea (1), and as hepatoprotective agents (1), the latter being confirmed by a study performed in India [44].Many plants of these families and of the other families reported in this study are used for the treatment of “espanto” or “mal aire,” a typical Andean pathology that is poorly defined, in which the psychosomatic problems, originated from phobia factors, produce deep physical and psychological weakness [45]. To talk about etiology of “mal aire” is not just talk about the origin of the disease but rather is to speak of the limits of medicine and get into the field of philosophical approaches; in general the “mal aire” is a state of general decay of the body generated by evil spirits that inhabit the crossing mountains and under large trees, orchards abandoned, ponds, streams, cemeteries, places where they have been burials fact of valuables, and so forth [46].Overall, 73 different therapeutic uses for the cited plants have been recorded, including their use as wound healing aids (14), for “mal aire” (10), for diarrhea (9), as nourishment (9), for kidney and bladder affections (8), for fever (8), and for rheumatism (7). All of these are indicated in Figure3.Figure 3
Main therapeutic uses of the plants of the Kutukú Scientific Station reported in this article.An aqueous infusion is the most generalized form of administration; decoctions, direct consumption, and topical applications are also common. The leaves (50%) are the plant parts more frequently selected, followed by the stem (12%), fruits (16%), and barks (10%).


## 4. Conclusions

The use of plants for treating diseases keeps being necessary to indigenous populations in emerging countries which, due to high costs, have a difficult access to western medicines and, therefore, use to rely on their own traditional remedies. On the other hand, the integrated forms of modern and traditional medicines are often practiced by many physicians nowadays. Morona-Santiago, the Ecuadorian province where the Kutukú Scientific Station is located, owns a high plant biodiversity and a rich ethnobotanical tradition based on it. This has given origin to a popular medicine comprising the use of more than 100 local plants, which have been botanically identified. The illnesses cured with the plants are, of course, strictly related with the health situation of local communities. Wound healing aids, renal and stomach infections, headaches, and colds are the most common ailments which natural resources are used for. Nonetheless less frequent diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and malaria, are also treated with different plant extracts.On these days, the preservation of traditional knowledge is threatened by a great amount of external factors related to the “modernization” of the region. It is, therefore, urgent to save the cultural patrimony of the indigenous populations, by confirming the therapeutic use of plants with scientific criteria and by encouraging the phytochemical research of the species containing potential active principles of interest.Within this context, more studies on the use of medicinal plants by the indigenous communities nearby the Kutukú Scientific Station are being carried out by our investigation groups, in which scientists, technicians, and students are involved, assessing the biological activity of the region’s most promising plants.



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*Source: 9105746-2016-12-15.xml*