Pedro Guillermo Rodríguez, known in Copahue as “Don Pedro,” is much more than a street vendor: he is a local reference of ancestral knowledge and natural remedies. At 80 years old, he claims not to have taken pharmacy medications and attributes his good health to the benefits of the thermal waters of the Copahue volcano and the use of medicinal plants, which he considers as remedies from the earth.
For four decades, Don Pedro has been making creams, ointments, and natural oils with ingredients such as beeswax, plantain, jarilla, and other herbs that he collects himself. “What I learned was taught to me by my grandmother, my mother, and the people of the countryside. My task is done in the old-fashioned way,” he proudly states.
Without scales, preservatives, or colorants, his production is completely artisanal. His knowledge does not come from laboratories, but from generations that trusted natural medicine as a way of life.
A Life Linked to the Field
“I was born in La Pampa, in the countryside. Then we moved closer to Bahía Blanca and later to Patagonia. I always worked in the field,” says Pedro, as he reflects on his history. That deep connection with the land is what inspires him today to continue producing with respect for natural cycles.
For example, he harvests jarilla in spring, dries it, crushes it, and then lets it cure under the snow for over a month. “That’s how I was taught, and that’s how I continue. I don’t know if it’s better or worse than other methods, but it has given me good results.”
Seasonal Products and Conversations on the Go
Pedro sets up his stall every summer, from December 1st to Easter, coinciding with the opening of the Copahue thermal complex. However, this year, he plans to innovate: he will do mobile sales to walk among the people, offer his products, and share stories.
“Beyond the money, I take a lot of satisfaction. I have seen many people improve from different illnesses. My way is to help, and it also helps me supplement my retirement,” he reflects.
Benefits of Natural Products
Natural preparations like those made by Don Pedro can offer real health benefits, especially when they come from plants with recognized medicinal properties, such as jarilla (anti-inflammatory), plantain (healing), or beeswax (antiseptic and emollient).
These products usually have fewer side effects, do not contain synthetic preservatives, and respect the biological rhythms of both the body and the environment. Additionally, their artisanal production promotes environmental care and the sovereignty of traditional knowledge.
Other Benefits
Natural products offer several health benefits, mainly by reducing exposure to chemicals and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle.
Nutrition
- Higher nutritional quality: Natural foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and organic products, are rich in micronutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, which help fight chronic diseases and improve overall health.
- Less exposure to toxic chemicals: Organic food avoids the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, reducing exposure to harmful substances.
- Heart and artery care: The fiber and nutrients in natural foods help maintain cardiovascular health.
- Improved intestinal transit: The fiber in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains promotes digestion.
Natural Medicine
- Treatment of various conditions: Medicinal plants and other natural resources can be used to treat conditions such as pain, inflammation, digestive problems, and more.
- Complement to conventional medicine: Natural medicine can be used as a complement to conventional medicine, helping manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Increased safety and lower risk of side effects: Natural products often have fewer side effects and better tolerance than conventional medications, making them a safe option for many people.
Personal Care
- Free of harmful chemicals: Natural personal care products, such as soaps, creams, and cosmetics, are made with natural ingredients and are usually free of harmful chemicals for the skin.
- Increased hydration and softness: The natural ingredients in personal care products help hydrate, nourish, and rejuvenate the skin.
Sustainability
- Respect for the environment: The production of natural products is usually more sustainable, with less impact on the environment and animals.
- Reduction of waste: Natural products are often biodegradable, helping reduce pollution and environmental impact.
Sources: LM Neuquén.
