A tianguis is a traditional open-air market in Mexico, tracing its roots back to the pre-Hispanic era. The name comes from the Nahuatl word tianquiztli, meaning “market.” These weekly or bi-weekly gatherings are enduring social and cultural hubs. Historically, the tianguis served as the primary venue for commerce, and today they remain a significant source for a diverse array of goods, including traditional medicinal items. This tradition has ensured the survival of indigenous and colonial-era healing practices.
Common Medicinal Plants and Their Uses
Stalls dedicated to plant medicine display a wide variety of dried, fresh, and bundled herbs used in domestic remedies. These raw plant materials are categorized by their traditional therapeutic application for common ailments. For example, herbs addressing digestive issues are abundant, often including Chamomile, or Manzanilla, used to calm stomach inflammation and aid in promoting restful sleep.
For respiratory relief, Hierba Buena (spearmint) is frequently brewed into a tea to soothe coughs, colds, and asthma symptoms. Another common offering is Toronjil morado (Agastache mexicana), traditionally prepared as an infusion to help with nervous system issues, anxiety, and insomnia, while also addressing gastrointestinal distress. These raw herbs are typically sold in dried bundles, meant to be prepared by the consumer as infusions or decoctions.
Prepared Remedies and Traditional Formulations
Beyond raw plant material, the tianguis offers a range of prepared remedies that combine herbs with other natural ingredients. These formulations include balms, ointments, and specialized tinctures, which are distinct from simple herbal teas. One common product is a salve made from Mexican Arnica (Heterotheca inuloides), infused into a base of oil or beeswax. This topical formulation is applied to the skin to reduce bruising, treat contusions, and soothe minor burns or lacerations.
Specialized dried blends are also prevalent, often consisting of multiple herbs mixed together for a specific purpose, such as a detoxifying tea or a blend for liver support. Non-herbal substances are incorporated into some traditional formulations, such as copal resin, which can be ground and dissolved to treat ailments like diarrhea or used externally as an anti-inflammatory poultice.
The Guidance of the Yerbero
The vendors who specialize in these medicinal items are known as yerberos or herbolarios, serving as more than mere merchants. The yerbero functions as a consultant, drawing on inherited knowledge about plants and their applications. They offer advice on how to use the medicinal items they sell, including the appropriate preparation method, the correct dosage, and the duration of the treatment.
This guidance is crucial because the knowledge is passed down through oral tradition, rather than written instructions. A customer seeking a remedy will describe their symptoms, and the yerbero will select a combination of herbs tailored to that individual’s condition. This personalized consultation connects the buyer to centuries of traditional Mexican herbalism, emphasizing a holistic approach to wellness.
Understanding Quality and Safety
When purchasing traditional medicinal products at a tianguis, consumers should be aware that these items often lack the formal oversight of pharmaceutical goods. Herbal products classified as food supplements in Mexico may not undergo the same rigorous quality control or safety testing as regulated medicines. This creates potential risks, including plant misidentification, where a less effective or harmful plant is mistakenly sold as the intended remedy.
The risk of adulteration is another factor, as some herbal preparations may contain different plant species or materials not listed in the traditional formulation. If a person is taking modern pharmaceuticals, they should consult with a healthcare professional before combining them with traditional herbal remedies. Consumer due diligence regarding sourcing and potential drug interactions is necessary.