The term curanderos can be traced back to the Spanish colonization of Latin America. Curanderos in this part of … See more

Historically, in the United States, curanderos were only found in concentrated Amerindian populations. It was largely thought that curanderos mainly practiced in New Mexico & along the Mexico–Un… See more

There are many different types of curanderos. Yerberos are primarily herbalists. Hueseros are bone and muscle therapists who emphasize physical ailments. Parteras are midwives. Oracionistas work … See more

Hispanics might seek out curanderos if the properties of their bodies are "hot" and "cold". Most of these practicing curanderos do not have formal medical training and inherit their gift or learn through being an apprentice… See more

Among some of the illnesses that curanderos treat are: espanto ("scare") or susto ("fright"); detaching or warding off vampiric espiritus (spirits); defending against or negating brujeria ("witchcraft" or "sorcery"), … See more

In the 21st century as the popularity of alternative medicines grow, some curanderos are concerned about the appropriation of these practices.
The Moche people of ancient Peru often depicted cu… See more

Curanderos, probably because of the mystery and intrigue that surrounds them, are frequently included in fictional works:
• César Calvo, Las Tres Mitades de Ino Moxo y otros brujos de la Amazonías (Iquitos 19… See more