Cuba unites tradition and science at UNESCO international event
During the Latin America and Caribbean Week currently underway at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, Cuba has presented a standout initiative: "Flora: Botica de la Abuela" (Grandmother’s Apothecary). This local development project blends traditional herbal medicine with modern scientific advancements.
Showcased in the organisation’s central hall, the initiative highlights the cultural richness and diversity of the region through natural remedies like infusions and tisanes, widely known as "cocimientos" in many Latin American countries. This is reported by Prensa Latina, a partner of TV BRICS.
Rodolfo Arencibia, leader of the project, explained that the aim is to preserve traditional knowledge passed down through generations, such as remedies used by grandmothers at home, while enhancing it with scientific backing from Cuban and global research.
Among the products exhibited were herbal preparations featuring well-known plants such as chamomile, mint, basil, and rosemary. Arencibia stressed that these herbs have been thoroughly researched in Cuba, guaranteeing their safety and effectiveness.
The presence of "Flora: Botica de la Abuela" at the event, running from 3 to 6 June, also seeks to promote international collaboration and share the project’s successes.
Cuba now plays a leading role in coordinating UNESCO chairs on medicinal plants across Latin America and the Caribbean, positioning itself as a regional reference in the study and responsible use of herbal medicine.
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