Huayruro has many species that are mainly found in the tropical forest of the Amazon, extending to Central America and southern Mexico. Its name differs from country to country. Thus the seed of huayruro also is called: bean of the luck, tintoria (Brazil), cairuro (Colombia), huayro, huayruro, (Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador), etc.

Huayruro is also the name of a River, a Valley and a Peak (5.500 ms) located in the region of Cusco, Peru.

The seed is a symbol of the germ or origin from all living beings are derived: plants, animals and humans. It is a symbol of fertility and abundance.

In different cultures and traditions, rice is the seed thrown at newlyweds to symbolize happiness and fertility.

The seed huayruro is a symbol of good luck. In Peru it is used as an amulet to attract good luck and to protect against negative energies.

In several regions of the Peruvian Andes, huayruro is used in religious ceremonies and in the Amazon region the native people use this seed to make necklaces, bracelets, earrings and different handcraft adornments.