Gaultheria insipida

In the Putumayo department of southwestern Colombia, the Inga people treat chronic pain and other conditions with a drink by simmering the root of the plant in water for several hours. For myalgia (body ache), low energy/motivation, and hypersomnia, the patient drinks an infusion of chichaja. The infusion is also said to cleanse the blood and to help prevent disease. In cases of rheumatism, chronic fatigue, or hemorrhoids, the patient drinks the infusion hot. For malaise, the patient drinks a decoction of granicillo, guayabilla (Eugenia victoriana), chichaja, azul tugtu (a Rubiaceae species), Peperomia, and chamomile three times per day. The Ingas prepare an infusion of conejo guasca, azul tugtu, and chichaja in the belief that it promotes the purging of toxins through the sweat glands. In Colombia, chichaja is sometimes called yagé hembra ("female ayahuasca"), whereas in Peru this nickname describes Diplopterys cabrerana.