In autumn, the leaves turn a burgundy colour, and the shrub's pink flowers mature into small, white berries topped with five red spots.

[7] In the Putumayo department of southwestern Colombia, the Inga people treat chronic pain[3] and other conditions with a drink by simmering the root of the plant in water for several hours.

[9] For malaise, the patient drinks a decoction of granicillo, guayabilla (Eugenia victoriana), chichaja, azul tugtu (a Rubiaceae species), Peperomia, and chamomile three times per day.

[9] The Ingas prepare an infusion of conejo guasca, azul tugtu, and chichaja in the belief that it promotes the purging of toxins through the sweat glands.

[9] In Colombia, chichaja is sometimes called yagé hembra ("female ayahuasca"),[8] whereas in Peru this nickname describes Diplopterys cabrerana.