Pharmacy in the Jungle - Medicinal Plants (IMAGE) Florida Atlantic University Caption Daniela M. Robles Arias, first author (left) interviews a Kichwa woman (right). The woman is showing the white, tender inner core, also called "palmito" of the "chontaduro" palm (Bactris gasipaes, Arecaceae family). The Kichwa woman explains that "palmito" is consumed for food and is praised for its nutritious value, which makes it a good food for children to prevent malnutrition. The roots of this palm also are used to treat hair loss. Credit Daniela M. Robles Arias Usage Restrictions Credit: Daniela M. Robles Arias License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.