Saberes andinos en respuesta a la pandemia Covid-19 y sus secuelas en la Parroquia Pindilig, Provincia de Cañar, 2023 - 2024

Abstract

The global health crisis due to COVID 19 caused a considerable increase in the vulnerability situation of some Andean groups and areas which had to face the health need with the available knowledge; The use of medicinal plants was one of the alternatives as part of their culture. The objective of this research was to describe the Andean knowledge in the COVID 19 pandemic and its consequences in the Pindilig parish, Cañar Province; For this purpose, the interpretive paradigm methodology was applied, adopting a qualitative approach and descriptive scope through the application of semi-structured interviews with the residents of the study community. Among the main results, it was possible to determine the knowledge and perceptions about the COVID 19 pandemic, which were considered a highly contagious disease caused by a virus, and they associated it with a bad flu, pointing out that contagion occurs through direct contact with an infected person. They implemented prevention measures to mitigate the risk of infection. Regarding treatment, the use of infusions and vaporizations with medicinal plants was identified, with eucalyptus and ginger being the most common. In addition, products such as brandy, cocoa butter, vaporub, honey, bicarbonate, chlorine dioxide and cow dewormer were used. These therapeutic practices were used by the participants as part of their strategies to cope with the symptoms and signs of COVID 19. Regarding the post COVID consequences, they identified changes in health at the immune level, making them more susceptible to getting sick more frequently.