7 Amazonian Plants with Remarkable Traditional Uses

In the Amazon, the forest is at once a pharmacy, a marketplace, and a school. Long before the arrival of colonizers, Indigenous peoples possessed deep knowledge of plant properties and used them wisely — to heal, nourish, build, or protect. Much of this knowledge has been passed down orally through generations and is still alive today in riverside communities and villages. Below are some of the most fascinating species and their traditional uses.

Copaíba is one of the forest’s most iconic trees. Its resinous sap is used as a natural healer, anti-inflammatory, and treatment for respiratory issues. Just a few carefully extracted drops yield an oil also used in natural cosmetics.

Andiroba produces a bitter, powerful seed from which a thick oil is extracted — commonly applied to relieve muscle pain, insect bites, and skin inflammations. It's often used in therapeutic massages and as a natural repellent.

Jambu is well known in Amazonian cuisine, but it also has medicinal value. It causes a light tingling sensation in the mouth and is used to relieve toothaches and stimulate blood circulation.

Cat’s claw, or uña de gato, is a vine used in teas and infusions to strengthen the immune system. With anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it's highly regarded in traditional healing systems.

Cumaru, known as “Amazonian vanilla,” has fragrant seeds used to aid respiratory health and alleviate asthma symptoms. Its natural aroma is also used in perfumery.

Ararinha-do-mato, despite its unusual name, is a medicinal plant used to treat digestive discomfort. Its tea is traditionally served after meals in remote forest communities.

And finally, camu-camu — a small reddish fruit found along flooded riverbanks — is considered one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C in the world. Its acidic pulp is turned into juice, ice cream, or used as a natural supplement.

On Untamed Amazon cruises, many of these plants can be spotted in their natural environment, always with expert guides. In some itineraries, guests can also learn about their traditional uses through workshops with local communities. It’s an invitation to see the forest not just as scenery, but as a source of wisdom, health, and balance.