A Taste of Colombia: Exploring Local Herbs and Their Healing Properties

Colombia is a land rich in biodiversity, where nature provides an abundance of healing plants and herbs used for centuries in traditional medicine and everyday life. From the Andean highlands to the lush Amazon, Colombian herbs are deeply connected to the country’s culture, wellness practices, and culinary traditions. At Casa Coya, we embrace these natural gifts, incorporating them into our meals, teas, and holistic healing rituals.

Sacred and Healing Herbs of Colombia

1. Guasca – The Flavor Behind Ajiaco

Guasca is a staple herb in Colombian cuisine, best known for its role in the beloved soup, ajiaco. Beyond its rich, earthy taste, guasca is traditionally used to support digestion and reduce inflammation. It’s also believed to have mild diuretic properties, helping to cleanse the body naturally.

2. Yerba Buena – The Colombian Mint

A close relative of mint, yerba buena is a go-to herb for soothing digestive issues, headaches, and stress. Whether brewed into a calming tea or used fresh in salads and drinks, this fragrant herb brings balance to both the body and mind.

3. Toronjil (Lemon Balm) – The Herb of Tranquility

Known as toronjil in Colombia, lemon balm is cherished for its calming effects. Used in teas and natural remedies, it helps ease anxiety, improve sleep, and support the nervous system. A warm cup of toronjil tea is the perfect way to wind down after a day of movement and exploration.

4. Prontoalivio – Nature’s Quick Relief

True to its name, prontoalivio (which translates to "quick relief") is a powerful medicinal herb used to alleviate respiratory issues, muscle aches, and inflammation. Often infused into teas or applied topically, this herb is a staple in many Colombian households.

5. Anís (Anise) – A Soothing Digestive Aid

Colombians have long used anise for digestive health, often brewing it into a post-meal tea to reduce bloating and indigestion. Its naturally sweet and licorice-like flavor makes it both a healing and delicious addition to herbal infusions.

Bringing Colombian Herbs Into Your Daily Life

At Casa Coya, we honor these healing traditions by incorporating local herbs into our farm-to-table meals, wellness rituals, and teas. Whether you're enjoying a cup of toronjil by the fire or tasting the earthy essence of guasca in a homemade soup, each herb tells a story of connection—to the land, to history, and to ourselves.

Want to experience the magic of Colombia’s healing plants firsthand? Join us for a retreat at Casa Coya, where nature, nourishment, and tradition come together.