The Yacumamay Live Pharmacy wouldn’t exist without the dedication of A.k.a. “Don” Gilber Chufandana Tapullima. Born in Chazuta, San Martin, Gilber’s journey intertwined with medicinal plants from a young age. Following his military service, he settled in Iquitos and became a public health worker, a role he continues to this day. Notably, Gilber’s father was a renowned plant shaman, passing down a wealth of knowledge that would become the foundation of the Yacumamay project.

Driven by this inherited wisdom and his own leadership qualities, Gilber, along with his sons, established the Yacumamay Live Pharmacy in 1997. This sprawling 5-acre garden boasts over 300 medicinal plant species, meticulously arranged to reflect the traditional understanding of their importance. Trees, shrubs, vines, herbaceous plants, and even air plants (epiphytes) all find a place in this unique collection.

Gilber’s deep knowledge extends beyond his family heritage. The garden’s layout draws inspiration from the rich “Pharmacopia” of shamans from the San Martin region. This area, known for its long history of exchange with the Northern Andes, holds a vast treasure trove of medicinal plant knowledge, one of the most comprehensive in Amazonia.

While most plants are local, some specimens were brought in from San Martin and other parts of Peruvian Amazonia, reflecting historical connections established by Gilber’s ancestors. Unlike typical botanical gardens, the Yacumamay prioritizes a local perspective. Here, plants aren’t just categorized scientifically; they are arranged based on their cultural significance and traditional uses. This layout reflects the holistic view of Amazonian shamans, where plants, animals, and the spirit world are interconnected.

The Yacumamay Live Pharmacy serves as a crucial resource for the local community. It’s a place for people to learn about and propagate medicinal plants, ensuring this valuable knowledge is carried forward. As the garden flourishes, plans are underway to build a visitor center and a small laboratory. This facility will allow for the creation of plant extracts and basic medicinal preparations, solidifying the Yacumamay’s role as a cornerstone of traditional medicine.