Traditional plant lore is disappearing at an alarming rate, in some cases faster than the forest itself. When forest people live in direct relationship with their surroundings, the forest is viewed as a pharmacy, a spiritual teacher and a trustworthy friend. This generates respect for the rainforest and a greater awareness of the importance of protecting it.

Ethnobotany seeks to diminish the loss of practical knowledge among indigenous and rural communities by strengthening the connections between traditional elders and youth. This is accomplished through the publication of bilingual educational materials, establishing ethnobotanical gardens and local teaching centers, as well as through sponsorship of intercultural gatherings.

The need for this work is urgent in the Upper Amazon, where hundreds of indigenous communities have received land titles to thousands of acres of primary rainforest. The survival of these rainforests is in the hands of people who are presently undergoing cultural dissolution and are being pressured by colonization and environmentally destructive industries.

Time is of the essence and we urge all prominent ethnobotanists to support this work and help inspire students. Working towards these important goals represents an opportunity to both learn the plants and offer a significant contribution to the indigenous community.

Please view archival reports for further information and examples of our studies.

Ethnobotanical studies in the new world tropics

Council for Cultural and Biological Diversity

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