Objective:

We analyzed different sociocultural spaces and communication mechanisms that are used for collective learning among the inhabitants of San Cristobal de Las Casas, Chiapas, in order to explain the appropriation of knowledge about the use of medicinal and gastronomic plants.

Methodology:

With a qualitative approach, the study privileged the use of ethnographic techniques with members of the urban agriculture group Sembrando Jovel, citizens of the Santa Lucia neighborhood and different markets of the city.

Results:

We identified the formal, non-formal and informal spaces that are related to each other with communication mechanisms such as intergenerational coexistence, practice, and experimentation, the exchange of knowledge, classes, courses, workshops, diploma courses and mass media.

Limitations:

About the domestic sphere, this study was limited to a small number of families (four cases) in the Santa Lucia neighborhood, because it was interesting to know the experiences articulated to the processes of appropriation and not to have a statistical sample.

Conclusion:

We concluded that as a result of the appropriation processes, the knowledge on the uses of medicinal and gastronomic plants has been re-signified, adopting a critical approaches against the food industries and in favor of personal, social and cultural well-being.