Several millennial native cultures of Latin America were experts in natural medicine, and revered these plants. Furthermore, in their fertile land they grow several kinds of plants with healing properties, such as pata de vaca (for diabetes), tres puntas (for paludism and stomachaches), taray (for kidney illnesses), junta huesos (for inflammations due to bruises), hapazote (for parasitical illnesses), hierba del cáncer (for wounds, inflammations, and skin infections), guarumo (as diuretic and heart pulse regulator), and zuquinai (for stomachaches and intestinal cramps),
Currently, the Central American population still uses the knowledge inherited by our ancestors in regards to natural medicine. Carlos Enrique Lix, practicing physician, and a descendant of the Mayans and Kackchiquel culture, states that 80% of the population in Guatemala uses about 5,000 plants to heal illnesses.

Zarzaparrilla, also known as cuculmeca, was used to soothe pains. It was among the first products exported to Europe by the colonists. This plant was very demanded in the old continent because it was supposedly very effective against syphilis. Currently, scientists have proven that it purifies the blood, and controls anemia and menstrual problems.