Belize Medicinal Plants Trail:

The Maya, renowned for their mastery of their natural environment, have long utilized the jungle’s bounty for nutrition and medicinal purposes, rituals and funerals, and trade. Their innate knowledge and intuitive respect for the local forests’ medicinal plants is a fascinating aspect of their culture.

The Chaa Creek Reserve is a treasure trove of medicinal plants. Our Maya Medicinal Trail is home to a diverse range of flora, from vines that store water for drinking to plants that help abate malaria, aid diabetics, cleanse blood, and more. Each plant has its own unique story and traditional use, quietly waiting to be discovered.

Choose between guided or self-guided tours of the Chaa Creek Reserve. Guided tours are led by our licensed Naturalist guides, with their extensive knowledge of the jungle and unmatched charisma, ensure a fulfilling and informative experience.

Whether you’re out for an afternoon hike or planning a more extensive exploration, our licensed naturalist guides can show you the jungle in a way you will continue dreaming about.

Plants you will encounter:

The unripe berries and leaves of the All Spice Tree are used for indigestion, abdominal pain, fevers, colds, and even high blood pressure.

Copal Tree resin can be collected and burned to help alleviate stress and anxiety; the ancient Mayas used it for rituals.

Wild Yam Dioscorea is used for bladder infections and kidney malfunctions.
Dysentery Bark is locally known as the Negrito, its bark and root are used for the treatment of diarrheal, internal bleeding, and hemorrhages.