Friday, April 04, 2014

Hikí is Taino

Did You Know: The Hikí (jiquí, jigi, jequí), Pera bumeliaefolia; P. bumeliifolia, is a tree endemic to some Caribbean islands and known for its hard wood and moisture resistance. The tree retains it Taino name, Hikí, which sounds like “hee-kEE.” Archeologists in Kuba have found ancient Taino artifacts such as sculptures and axe handles made of this wood. According to local healing traditions, the astringent quality of this tree’s bark can be used to treat certain skin conditions. – UCTP Taino News © 2014