La chagra Ticuna: un espacio biocultural para la preservación de rituales, plantas medicinales y saberes ancestrales en la Amazonia colombiana

Abstract

This study documents the Ticuna chagra (agroforestry garden) as a vital space preserving 63cultivated species, including medicinal plants (Uncaria tomentosa, Banisteriopsis caapi) andritual crops. Fieldwork in Amazonian communities revealed its dual role in biodiversityconservation (85% of medicinal species cultivated) and cultural transmission, though youthengagement is declining.Women emerged as key knowledge-holders, maintaining seed diversity and oral traditions.Threats include land-use changes and crop standardization. The chagra exemplifies indigenous resilience, integrating ecological and cultural preservation. Findings advocate community-ledagroecological initiatives to safeguard this living heritage.