It is the name given in Mexico, especially in Yucatán to the plant's scientific name Cnidoscolus chayamansa or Cnidoscolus aconitifolius ( in latin terms meaning stinging nettle or poison thorn ). It is genus of the Family Euphorbiaceae. The consumed raw leaves are toxic as they contain hydrocyanic acid. Consumed with corn and pumpkin 40 seed; ziquil ) they form a food of very high nutritional value, but they must be cooked to eliminate the toxicity. The leaves and latex are consumed. The plant is very similar to hibiscus and Yucca. Gets the common name of tree spinach or chay. Chay and Chaya are words of Mayan origin.
Chaya is the ancient celebration par excellence of the province of La Rioja, Argentina Republic, " The feast of the three-day " a feast of friendship and joy, share and put aside all the penalties. CELEBRATION day neighborhood in CARNAVALCuenta history that the first Spaniards arrived to these lands were found with a singular celebration of water and dance celebrated by the diaguitas celebrating the completion of the harvest, while in La Rioja today is closely linked to the Carnival in February. Is when is the National Festival of Chaya, in addition to the typical topamientos ( 41 festive approach; by neighborhoods, with water, flour, basil, wine and vidalas to cool the friendship of all.