CLASSIFICATION:
Vampire
The Abchanchu roams Bolivian roads in the guise of a doddering, frail old man. He appears confused and disoriented, like someone’s helpless old grandpa, and so inevitably a Good Samaritan volunteers to help him.
That’s the Abchanchu’s ploy. As soon as opportunity allows, out pop the fangs; his fragility is revealed to be an illusion as the Abchanchu attacks.
Under the influence of Dracula-inspired movies, travellers are advised to dab garlic oil on amulets to keep the Abchanchu away. True essential oil of garlic smells so strong that it will likely keep anything away: the power of amulets, sacred texts, and dried garlic flowers carried in a charm bag may be sufficient and definitely more pleasant.
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses – Written by Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.