Traditional use of the Andean flicker (Colaptes rupicola) as a galactagogue in the Peruvian Andes.

Steve Froemming

doi:10.1186/1746-4269-2-23

Abstract

This paper explores the use of the dried meat and feathers of the Andean Flicker (Colaptes rupicola) to increase the milk supply of nursing women and domestic animals in the Andes. The treatment is of preColumbian origin, but continues to be used in some areas, including the village in the southern Peruvian highlands where I do ethnographic research. I explore the factors giving rise to and sustaining the practice, relate it to other galactagogues used in the Andes and to the use of birds in ethnomedical and ethnoveterinary treatments in general, and situate it within the general tendency in the Andes and elsewhere to replicate human relations in the treatment of valuable livestock. The bird's use as a galactagogue appears to be motivated by both metaphorical associations and its perceived efficacy, and conceptually blends human and animal healthcare domains.

Highlights

Hak'achu is the Quechua name for the Andean flicker (Colaptes rupicola) in Ccachín, an agropastoral community in the southern Peruvian highlands
Nutritional anemia is a problem for both sexes and for all ages, but given that it is especially prevalent among pregnant and nursing women in developing countries [6], its use for anemia and milk production suggests that it is prescribed in overlapping contexts
Fennel is widely associated with enhanced milk production throughout the Andes

Summary

Introduction

Hak'achu is the Quechua name for the Andean flicker (Colaptes rupicola) in Ccachín, an agropastoral community in the southern Peruvian highlands. The birds are snared and their carcasses are dried and set aside for later use in ethnoveterinary and ethnomedical treatments. Hak'achu is likewise toasted, ground, and served in a broth to women who have problems nursing their infants, and it is given to sheep, goats, and dogs for the same purpose. While both feathers and flesh may be used as a galactagogue, the flesh is considered to be more effective. I discuss the therapeutic uses of birds in general, the use of salt, protein, and other nutritional supplements for cattle, and Andean peoples' use of the same health care models for their animals as they have for themselves. Compadres and other key consultants in the village provided further information on the local use of the galactagogues I report on here, and comparative data on the variety of galactagogues used in the region as a whole comes from a review of the Andean literature

Background

Discussion and conclusion

Conclusion

Findings

31. Lawrence RA

34. National Research Council