Traditional Medicine of the Kichwa of the Upper Napo

In the province of Napo, Ecuador, various Indigenous groups coexist: mainly the Waorani and Kichwa, as well as smaller populations of Andoa, Colorada, Shiviar, Zápara, Secoya, Saraguro, and Kañari, among others, each with their own traditions and knowledge. Cruz et al. (2015) found that 80 species of medicinal plants are used by the Napo Runa to treat 69 pathologies and symptoms. Among the most important species that can treat cancer and benign tumors are: lan iki (Croton lechleri), kuika chuku (Erythrina amazonica), kali kali kasha waska (Uncaria tomentosa), and tamia muyu (Leonia crassa). Investigating the active ingredients of the different medicinal species is a challenge in the field of bioknowledge, since many elements of Ecuadorian biodiversity have characteristics and capabilities not yet discovered.