Plant Medicine

Juan Guillermo Chindoy, known as Taita Juanito, descends from the indigenous Inga tribe and hails from a lineage of traditional healers and plant experts. His identity as a healer is deeply ingrained, a legacy inherited from his ancestors and destined to be passed on to future generations. He has diligently preserved this heritage, mastering ancestral remedies to aid communities and individuals who embrace and seek to learn traditional medicine.

‍

Affectionately called Juanito, he lived with his family until he was seven. At that age, his family decided to send him to live with the Siona indigenous community. In this new environment, he was adopted by Elder Laureano Piaiguaje and his family. Laureano, the most senior Taita of the Putumayo Region in Southern Colombia, and his family imparted crucial knowledge that further solidified Juanito's role as a 'Taita Curaca,' specializing in the sacred yagé plant. This period marked a significant turning point for Juanito, as he realized his autonomy and wholeheartedly embraced his Siona grandfather's teachings. Juanito continued to study with Taita Laureano for over 15 years until Laureano's passing in 2019, at an age some believe to have been 112.

‍

In his own words, Juanito expresses that these experiences taught him to live joyfully and to embrace happiness. He recalls being particularly captivated by Elder Laureano's lifestyle, which inspired him to follow this path. He admired Laureano's nonjudgmental nature and tendency to observe and internalize life's experiences.

‍

To Juanito, Laureano embodied the philosophy that nothing is inherently bad or good; things simply exist as they are. He learned that not all phenomena require explanations — some mysteries remain unsolved, representing the enigmatic magic of the spirit, accessible through thought. 

‍

Today, Taita Juanito is a highly respected and world-renowned healer and teacher, celebrated for his compassionate heart, profound wisdom, and deep reverence for the sacred path of plant medicine. His journey from a young boy in the Inga community to a revered teacher across the globe is a testament to the enduring power of traditional healing practices and the timeless wisdom of indigenous cultures. Taita Juanito's life work continues to inspire and heal, bridging ancient traditions with modern seekers, ensuring that the knowledge and benefits of these practices are accessible to all.