What to say when drinking caña con ruda for Pachamama Day

August 1st marks the Day of the Pachamama, an ancient celebration honoring Mother Earth, widely observed across Argentina and South America. This day is filled with gratitude, prayers, and rituals, many of which are aimed at seeking protection, health, and prosperity for the coming cycle.

A deeply ingrained custom, particularly in northeastern Argentina's Corrientes and Misiones provinces, is the consumption of "caña con ruda." This tradition dates back to indigenous communities who viewed August as a challenging month due to harsh weather, illnesses, and livestock losses. The "caña con ruda" is a mixture of Paraguayan white cane liquor or gin with rue leaves, a plant historically valued for its medicinal properties, particularly for the digestive and circulatory systems.

Believers hold that drinking this concoction helps attract good health, repel negative energies, protect against misfortune, and usher in the new cycle with optimism. Families often prepare the drink months in advance, preserving it to be consumed on August 1st or even the following year. The tradition dictates drinking it on an empty stomach, typically in the early morning hours. There are variations in how it's consumed, with some opting for three sips, others seven, and some preferring a single, long draught.

Accompanying the ritual drink are specific phrases intended to manifest desires and express gratitude. The most common and traditional is "Kusiya, kusiya," an Aymara expression meaning "help me, help me," spoken while drinking or after making an offering to Pachamama. Another popular saying is "Caña con ruda, contra el mal ayuda" (Cane with rue, helps against evil), a well-known rhyme invoked for health and to ward off bad luck. Many also use the occasion to voice personal wishes for health, employment, family protection, and prosperity.