Kallawaya

The Kallawaya, which in Aymara means "He who brings healing herbs", are itinerant doctors who have since time travelled enormous distances between Chile, Argentina and Ecuador. With a striped poncho, a silver cross and a canvas bag full of healing herbs and amulets they assimilate new knowledge and gain fame and respect. They believe that the infirmity derives from the breaking of a harmony between man and nature. Healing depends on an internal balance between the two. It therefore assumes considerable importance the spiritual energy regained to heal. The Kallawaya come from 8 Communities in Bolivia; they are Quechua native speakers and are predominantly men as women are excluded from medical practice and work in the fields replacing the husband during travel.