Mayan herbal medicine: an option to improve respiratory health in Campeche and Chiapas, Mexico

Objective: To document the medicinal plants used by Mayans from Campeche and Chiapas to alleviate respiratory ailments. Design/methodology/approach: Ethnographic and ethnobotanical data were collected through the application of a semi-structured questionnaire with traditional healers and individuals who use medicinal plants for respiratory relief. Results: A total of 28 medicinal plants were recorded, primarily sourced from agricultural fields and home gardens. These plants belong to 19 botanical families: six were registered in the village of Bolonchén de Rejón, 12 in Mazapa de Madero, and 14 in the Motozintla de Mendoza area. Limitations/implications: The study was conducted during a single season; results may vary in other periods. Findings/conclusions: Teas prepared mainly from leaves are used by 43% of respondents, followed by extracts and toasted plant parts.