¿Cómo acercar el saber tradicional al académico? I Fuerza Latina DW

Summary

Carla Maldonado, a renowned botanist and biologist from Bolivia, shares her journey from childhood experiences with traditional medicine to her deep passion for plants and botany. As the director of the National Herbarium of Bolivia, Carla advocates for the synergy between traditional knowledge and scientific research. She delves into her research on cinchona, a plant known for its medicinal properties, and emphasizes the importance of preserving biodiversity. With a strong commitment to education and community, Carla continues to inspire the next generation of scientists while honoring her roots in both family and nature.

Takeaways

• 😀 Carla Maldonado is a renowned botanist from Bolivia, specializing in plants and traditional medicine.
• 😀 Carla's childhood memories are deeply tied to traditional medicine, especially her mother's use of plant-based remedies like turnip syrup for colds.
• 😀 Initially uncertain about her career path, Carla chose biology almost by chance and discovered her passion for plants during her studies.
• 😀 Carla’s interest in botany grew through fieldwork and experiments in her university, where she developed a deep connection to nature.
• 😀 Her love for plants, particularly cinchona, led to her significant research on quinine and its medicinal properties, especially in treating malaria.
• 😀 Carla's research also delves into the medicinal uses of plants, emphasizing the need to understand their correct applications, as excessive consumption can lead to harmful effects.
• 😀 Carla advocates for a fusion of traditional wisdom and scientific knowledge to benefit public health, especially in the context of medicinal plants.
• 😀 The National Herbarium of Bolivia plays a crucial role in plant research, with Carla involved in both conservation and educational initiatives there.
• 😀 Carla’s volunteer work at the herbarium and her mentorship from key figures like Licentiate Ester Valenzuela were pivotal in shaping her career.
• 😀 The herbarium collection houses Bolivia's largest plant database, helping researchers identify and catalog thousands of species for conservation and study.
• 😀 Carla’s current focus is on repopulating endangered species, such as cinchona, using innovative techniques like in vitro cultivation and biofertilizers.

Q & A

What inspired Carla Maldonado to pursue biology, especially botany?

Carla was initially uncertain about her career direction, but her exposure to fieldwork in her biology degree, especially through the subject 'laboratory and field methods,' sparked her interest in plants. She was drawn to the diversity, accessibility, and beauty of plant life, leading her to specialize in botany.

How did Carla’s childhood influence her later work in botany?

Carla grew up in a household where traditional medicine was used, with her mother often preparing plant-based remedies. One such memory involved her mother making a syrup with turnips to treat colds, which helped instill a foundational connection to plants and their potential medicinal properties.

What role did Carla’s father play in her botany career?

Carla’s father was a herbarium draftsman, which exposed her to the world of botany from a young age. He connected her with Licentiate Ester Valenzuela, a botanist who greatly influenced her passion for plants and encouraged her to pursue a career in botany.

How did Carla become involved with the National Herbarium of Bolivia?

Carla first encountered the herbarium through her father, and after connecting with Licentiate Ester Valenzuela, she discovered a volunteer position there. Her early work included mounting plants and assisting with teaching, which deepened her commitment to botany.

What is Carla’s research project on cinchona about?

Carla’s research project focuses on cinchona, a plant known for its alkaloids, particularly quinine, used to treat malaria. The project investigates the different species of cinchona across the Andes, with a special emphasis on the Bolivian variety, which has the highest alkaloid content.

How does Carla view the relationship between traditional and scientific knowledge about plants?

Carla believes that traditional and Western medicine should not be seen as separate entities. She advocates for a dialogue between the two, combining traditional wisdom with scientific research to better understand and utilize medicinal plants.

Why is it important for people to understand the proper use of medicinal plants?

Carla emphasizes the need for awareness regarding the proper use of medicinal plants, citing the example of quinine. While it can be beneficial, excessive use can cause harm, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic when people overused eucalyptus and quinine without proper guidance, leading to negative side effects.

What is Carla’s perspective on working with local communities regarding traditional plant knowledge?

Carla acknowledges the importance of working with local communities to preserve traditional knowledge about plants. She highlights the need to rebuild trust with these communities, explaining the value of documenting their knowledge to prevent it from being lost while also ensuring they benefit from scientific research.

What motivates Carla in her work and life?

Carla’s primary motivation comes from her family, especially her children, and the sense of responsibility she feels toward them. She also draws inspiration from her students, seeing them as part of her extended family and striving to help them achieve their potential.

What future plans does Carla have regarding her work with plants and the herbarium?

Carla plans to continue her research in botany, especially focusing on plant conservation and repopulating endangered species. She also envisions further collaboration with institutions to bridge the gap between traditional and scientific knowledge, ensuring a more integrated approach to plant study and conservation.