Hierberias along the border
The hierberia (herb store) is an important facet of Curanderismo. They are more than just herb stores, they can be centers for spiritual healing and community building. This page features various hierberias located along the Texas-Mexico border.
Consultorio and Hierberia San Jose
A hierberia or yerberia is a store that carries herbal remedies, amulets, candles, religious images and other tools used in Curanderismo. Botanica serves a similar purpose as the hierberia but is associated with Yoruba Afro-Cuban religion also known as Santeria.
Herbs at the Supermarket
Many Hispanic supermarkets in the United States have a seasonings and chili peppers section where you can find common grocery items like pepper corns, cumin, paprika, oregano and others.
Don Pedrito Jaramillo Shrine
On December first of 2024, I visited the shrine of Don Pedrito Jaramillo also known as the healer of Los Olmos. With appreciation and respect for this sacred site, I took the following photographs:
What are the origins of Curanderismo?
The roots of Curanderismo are artfully summarized by renown author Elena Avila in her book Woman Who Glows in the Dark.
What is Curanderismo?
Curanderismo is a noun in Spanish that means “The Practice of Healing.” It is related to the verb “curar”, which means “to heal.”