Mansoa (species unidentified)

Native to the tropical realms of Northern South America, the garlic vine belongs to the genus Mansoa, which extends into Central America and Brazil as well. This tropical liana, recognized by the name ajo sacha among the mestizos of the Amazon rainforest has earned this moniker due to its garlicky aroma, which translates to “forest garlic” or “wild garlic”. The plant is anodyne, antibacterial, anticholesterolemic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antirheumatic, antispasmodic, antitussive, antiviral, and febrifuge. It’s particularly esteemed for its analgesic or antinociceptive effects. Photographed near Tulua, Colombia.