Healers

Relying on the medicinal properties of plants, Healers help promote a peaceful, nurturing society.

While the rise of the Caralan culture led to significant demographic development and the creation of a strong political and religious authority, it does not seem to have been accompanied by prolonged episodes of violence. In fact, to this day, no traces of major destruction have been found on the thirty or so sites that make up the Caralan urban network in Norte Chico.
However, systematic analysis of the grains and plants unearthed by archaeologists on these excavation sites has revealed that a large number of them were commonly used. Known for their healing properties, these grains and plants have been found in a variety of different contexts and over long periods of time – confirming the acquisition of medical know-how and its dissemination by different members of the society.
Among other important elements of this pharmacopoeia, we find willow, pichana, and deadly nightshade, plants renowned for their respective sedative, antiseptic, and analgesic effects. Used in decoctions, infusions, or poultices, they were used to alleviate and treat illnesses and injuries.