Sacred Medicines

No one knows for sure when humanity first started working with this plant medicine. When we consider the comparative archaeological evidence of the native use of the plant, it seems that the consumption of this plant medicine dates back at least two millennia ago, but perhaps even tens of thousands of years. The first known contact with the West occurred in 1851, through Richard Spruce, the renowned English ethnobotanist.

Ayahuasca brew is made by combining the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the leaves of Chakruna or other plants containing the psychoactive compound DMT, including Chagroponga and/or Jurema. DMT is found in the brain, blood, and lungs of the human body. There is strong evidence pointing to the pineal gland ("the third eye" in esoteric traditions), located in the center of the brain, as being the main source of naturally present DMT in the human body. In addition to being found in humans, DMT is also found in all mammals and a variety of plants. The combination of these plants creates a potent psychedelic experience when consumed. It is unknown how and when the mixture of the vine and companion plants was discovered by the indigenous peoples of the Americas, although many tribes and shamans have their own mythical stories explaining the origins of the Medicine.

An Ayahuasca ceremony is a traditional spiritual practice that involves the ceremonial consumption of the Ayahuasca brew. Ayahuasca is a powerful psychoactive plant mixture traditionally used by indigenous communities in the Amazon rainforest for healing, spiritual exploration, and personal growth.

During an Ayahuasca ceremony, participants gather in a designated ceremonial space, led by an experienced shaman or facilitator who has extensive knowledge of the Ayahuasca brew and its effects. The ceremony involves various rituals, prayers, and chants that create a sacred and supportive environment for the participants.

Participants drink the Ayahuasca brew and then typically lie down or sit in a comfortable position, often with eyes closed, to enter into an introspective and visionary state. The effects of Ayahuasca can vary from person to person but often include vivid visual and sensory experiences, emotional introspection, and a deep connection to one's inner self, nature, and the spiritual realm.

The journey of an Ayahuasca ceremony varies depending on the individual's intentions, but common experiences include: finding personal insights, healing past traumas, exploring spiritual dimensions, and gaining clarity and guidance in life. The experience can be intense and transformative, often bringing to the surface deep-seated emotions, unresolved issues, and personal challenges that can be addressed and worked through during and after the ceremony.

The ritual of consecration, where the use of the sacramental drink takes place, carries within itself a universal message of peace, fraternity, and love, valid for all the peoples of the earth. Our experience tells us that the use of sacramental drink within an appropriate spiritual context, far from being a dissociative experience for the mind and detrimental to the health of the individual or society, is, on the contrary, an activity beneficial for healing, evolution and the expansion of consciousness, and in turn, positive for the purposes of spiritual quest with which we engage.

The minister prepares the medicine themselves in a deeply spiritual ritual using prayers and blessings. This holy sacrament is prepared in an intensive process that typically takes several days and involves devotion and technique… a true meeting of the heart and the intellect.

During the ceremony 2-3 cups are typically served over the course of a 6-10 hour period, most typically at night. An hour and a half after the first cup is served, the second cup is administered to each individual in the ceremony. A third and often final cup is offered approximately two hours before the ceremony comes to a close. 

It is important to note that Ayahuasca is a potent psychedelic substance, and participation in a ceremony should be approached with reverence and respect. It is recommended to engage in Ayahuasca ceremonies under the guidance of experienced and reputable practitioners who can provide a safe and supportive setting, offer proper integration support, and ensure a responsible and informed use of this plant medicine.

Ayahuasca, in particular, leads us to profound encounters with the Divine Feminine—the active and nurturing essence of existence, the Creatirix Herself. This energy is known by an infinitude of names by the spiritual traditions and religions of the world. She is the active and creative aspect of the Divine alive and at work in the Universe. We, Her children, present ourselves to Her during the ceremony, for healing, transformation, and enlightenment. She is our Mother, Guru, and Guide. We practice this spiritual path with sincerity, devotion, and discipline. Our work with Her is grounded in a cohesive synthesis of Shamanic practice, Vedanta, and the traditions of Kali Kaula.

Bufo, also known as Bufo Alvarius or the Colorado River toad, is a species of toad found in parts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is known for its secretion of a potent psychedelic substance called 5-MeO-DMT (5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine).

The use of Bufo venom, specifically the extraction and vaporization of the venom for inhalation, is a powerful form of psychedelic therapy and personal exploration. Many people experience profound spiritual experiences, personal insights, and healing through the use of 5-MeO-DMT.

During a Bufo ceremony, participants typically gather in a safe and supportive environment, led by experienced facilitators who are knowledgeable about the effects and risks associated with Bufo venom or synthetic 5-MeO-DMT. The ceremony may include various rituals, intentions setting, and integration practices to create a sacred and intentional space for the experience.

Bufo venom or synthetic 5-MeO-DMT is usually vaporized and inhaled, which allows for rapid onset and intense psychedelic effects. The experience of 5-MeO-DMT is often described as a state of ego dissolution, unity with the universe, and a sense of merging with a higher consciousness. The effects can be powerful and may involve intense physical, emotional, and spiritual sensations.

There is archeological and anthropological evidence that ancient peoples of Mexico, including the Olmec, Toltec and Maya, worked with Bufo Alvarius as the “Cosmic Toad Mother” for thousands of years during the Pre-Colombian era in sacred ceremony.

Kambo, also known as Sapo or "frog medicine," is a traditional ceremony and healing practice that involves the administration of the secretions from the skin of the Phyllomedusa Bicolor frog, commonly known as the Giant Waxy Monkey Tree Frog or the Kambo Frog. Taking the frog vaccine is an ancient practice for both medicinal and spiritual purposes, widespread among the indigenous peoples of Columbia, Brazil and Peru. 

During a Kambo ceremony, small burns or superficial openings are made on the skin, usually on the upper arm or leg, and the Kambo secretion is applied to these points. The secretion contains bioactive peptides that are believed to have various physiological effects when absorbed into the body.

Kambo is primarily known for its purgative effects, as it typically induces vomiting and can also lead to bowel movements. It is considered a form of detoxification and is believed to cleanse the body of toxins. Additionally, Kambo provides pain relief, and promotes physical and mental well-being.

The substances present in the secretion of the frog also have antibiotic properties and strengthen the immune system. There is widespread anecdotal evidence of the great efficacy in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, AIDS, cancer, and depression. 

It's important to note that Kambo is a powerful substance and should only be administered by trained practitioners in a ceremonial setting. The ceremony is typically facilitated by a person who has undergone traditional training and has experience working with Kambo.

Due to its potential effects on the body and individual health considerations, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before participating in a Kambo ceremony, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications. They can provide personalized advice and help determine if Kambo is suitable for you.

Overall, Kambo is a traditional healing practice that carries cultural and spiritual significance in certain Amazonian communities. However, it is essential to approach it with caution, respect, and proper guidance to ensure safety and a meaningful experience. Kambo is considered an “ordeal medicine” and can be intense and powerfully transformative and should be engaged with by those prepared for deep spiritual work.

Huachuma, also known as San Pedro, and the close cousin Aguacolla, is a psychoactive cactus native to the Andean region of South America. It has a long history of ceremonial and spiritual use by indigenous cultures, particularly in Peru and Ecuador. Huachuma is regarded as a sacred plant medicine and is often used in traditional shamanic practices and healing ceremonies.

The active compound in Huachuma is mescaline, a psychedelic substance that induces altered states of consciousness. The Medicine is prepared by boiling or simmering the neon green layer of the cactus, and the resulting liquid is consumed as a tea or infusion. The effects of Huachuma can vary depending on the dosage and individual sensitivity, but they generally include enhanced sensory perception, introspection, emotional openness, and a deep connection to nature and spiritual realms.

Huachuma ceremonies are typically conducted in a safe and supportive environment, often under the guidance of experienced shamans or facilitators who have a deep understanding of plant medicine and its effects. These ceremonies may include rituals, prayers, singing, and other ceremonial elements to create a sacred space and facilitate a transformative experience.

Participants in Huachuma ceremonies often seek personal growth, spiritual insights, healing, and a deeper connection to themselves and the world around them. The experience can be introspective and may bring forth suppressed emotions, memories, or patterns for exploration and healing. Many people report feelings of unity, interconnectedness, and a renewed sense of purpose and meaning in life after working with Huachuma.

It's important to approach the use of Huachuma with respect and caution. The psychedelic effects can be intense and profound, and it is recommended to participate in ceremonies led by knowledgeable and experienced practitioners who prioritize safety and provide proper integration support.

Peyote is a small, spineless cactus native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It contains the psychoactive compound mescaline, which is classified as a hallucinogen. Peyote has a long history of ceremonial and spiritual use by indigenous cultures, particularly Native American tribes.

The ceremonial use of peyote is deeply rooted in Native American traditions, such as the Native American Church (NAC). In these traditions, peyote is considered a sacred plant medicine and is used in rituals for spiritual exploration, healing, and community bonding.

When consumed, typically by ingesting the dried buttons or brewing them into a tea-like concoction, peyote induces altered states of consciousness characterized by sensory enhancements, perceptual distortions, and introspective experiences. These experiences can vary from person to person, but common effects include a sense of unity, spiritual insights, emotional catharsis, and a deep connection to nature and the spiritual realm.

Peyote is recognized as a sacrament and protected for religious purposes under the American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA) in the United States. It is important to approach peyote with respect, cultural sensitivity, and an understanding of the legal considerations. If you are interested in working with peyote, it is advisable to seek guidance from experienced practitioners, elders, or authorized members of recognized Native American religious organizations who can provide proper cultural context, guidance, and support.

Furthermore, it's worth noting that the sustainable and ethical sourcing of Peyote is a significant concern. Peyote populations in the wild have been threatened by over-harvesting, habitat destruction, and illegal collection. Responsible and sustainable practices, such as Peyote conservation efforts and cultivation projects, are being implemented to protect this sacred plant and its ecosystems.

Yopo, also known as Anadenanthera peregrina, is a plant native to South America that has been used for thousands of years for its psychoactive properties. Yopo seeds contain several psychoactive compounds, including bufotenin, 5-MeO-DMT, and DMT.

Traditionally, indigenous cultures in South America have used Yopo in ceremonial and shamanic practices for spiritual and healing purposes. The seeds are typically ground into a powder and then mixed with various substances, such as lime or ashes, to create a snuff that is blown into the nose using a blowpipe or other means.

When ingested, the active compounds in Yopo can produce intense visionary experiences, altered states of consciousness, and profound spiritual insights. The effects of Yopo are relatively short-lived, typically lasting for 15 to 60 minutes.

It's important to note that working with Yopo and its psychoactive compounds requires caution and respect. The use of Yopo can induce strong physical and psychological effects, and it should only be undertaken in a safe and supportive environment with knowledgeable guidance. There are specific techniques for administering and working with Yopo which help facilitate the Medicine that require training and skill.

If you are interested in working with Yopo, it is advisable to seek guidance from experienced practitioners or individuals who have knowledge and experience with its traditional use. They can provide proper preparation, guidance, and integration support to ensure a safe and meaningful experience.

Iboga, also known as Tabernanthe iboga, is a perennial rainforest shrub native to Central Africa, particularly Gabon and Cameroon. It is notable for its psychoactive properties and has been used for centuries in spiritual and healing practices by indigenous people, particularly the Bwiti religion in Gabon.

The main active compound in Iboga is called ibogaine. Ibogaine is a hallucinogenic alkaloid that interacts with various neurotransmitter systems in the brain, including the serotonin and dopamine systems. It is known for producing intense and profound visionary experiences that can last for several hours.

Iboga is traditionally used in initiation ceremonies and rituals for spiritual and therapeutic purposes. It is believed to have the ability to induce deep introspection, provide insights, and facilitate personal transformation. Some individuals also find Iboga as a tool for addiction interruption or treatment due to its reported effects on reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

It's important to note that Iboga is a potent substance and should be used with caution. It can have profound physical and psychological effects, and there are potential risks associated with its use. These include cardiovascular effects, potential interactions with other medications, and the potential for psychological distress or exacerbation of pre-existing mental health conditions. If you are considering using Iboga, it is crucial to seek guidance from a trained and experienced practitioner who can provide proper preparation, supervision, and integration support. As with any powerful plant medicine, it is essential to prioritize safety and make informed decisions based on your circumstances. 

Psilocybin mushrooms, known as “Ninos Santos”, meaning “The Holy Children”, are perhaps the most ancient and sacred sacrament on planet Earth. We believe that Psilocybin mushrooms have been consumed by man for tens of thousands and perhaps hundreds of thousands of years. We believe that Psilocybin mushrooms allowed early man to commune with the spiritual realm, whereby early man received information downloads that allowed him to better survive on planet Earth by building communities. There is evidence of ancient use of Psilocybin mushrooms spanning the entire globe. Psilocybin mushrooms are found on almost every continent and their ancient use transcends time, geographic location, and culture.

Mushrooms are known as the internet of nature.  Social beings are capable of awareness and consciousness. Similar to our brain they build a neurological network with information sharing membranes. Those membranes can react to change and collectively have the long-term health of their environment in mind. Of the thousands of mushrooms existing all around the globe our ancestors and modern scientists have identified several dozen that have unique combinations of healing talents, which improve our health. Some of the main benefits are treating depression like PTSD, helping manage smoking, alcohol, cocaine addictions, obsessive-compulsive disorder, cluster headaches, and cancer-related or other end-of-life psychological distress.

The compounds psilocybin and psilocin have mind-altering effects similar in some aspects to mescaline and DMT. The chemicals have a structure very similar to the structure of serotonin, a chemical messenger with important roles in our brains and digestive systems. Because of this similarity, psilocin can bind to receptors in the brain that are meant for serotonin. Even though it is still classified as a hallucinogenic drug, the therapeutic effects and potential for long-term healing through these miniature pharmaceutical factories are no longer deniable. Moreover, we believe that the chemical structure of psilocybin was designed by Source to allow man to communicate directly with it via the serotonin receptors.

The term “mystical experience” has been coined by modern researchers to describe the high-dose psilocybin experience. To date, researchers have been unable to pinpoint exactly what causes and/or what exactly is the “mystical experience.” We believe the “mystical experience” is where the person consuming the Psilocybin mushrooms communes directly with the spiritual realm, thereby escaping a logical or scientific explanation for the experience.

The factors that help determine whether a ceremonial journey is rewarding or “nightmarish” are the concept of ‘set’ and ‘setting’. A person’s ‘set’ (or mindset) includes their mood, disposition, thoughts, and expectations. A person’s ‘setting’ is the specific place and social situation in which they take this plant medicine. Psilocybin should be taken in a ceremonial setting in a calm and familiar place or nature.  Our psilocybin ceremonies will comport with other ceremonial traditions surrounding the ingestion of natural entheogens and will be structured in such a way as to allow the participant the optimal opportunity for interaction with the spiritual realm. As with all other natural entheogen ceremonies, this ceremony will begin with a prayer and a blessing of the sacraments. 

Amanita Muscara, commonly known as the fly agaric, is a type of mushroom that has a distinct appearance with a red or orange cap covered in white spots. It is well-known for its psychoactive properties and has a long history of traditional use in various cultures around the world.

The psychoactive compounds in Amanita Muscara are muscimol and ibotenic acid. These compounds have sedative and hallucinogenic effects. The effects of consuming Amanita Muscara can be highly variable and dose-dependent, and they can include altered perception, euphoria, relaxation, dream-like experiences, and visual and auditory hallucinations.

It's important to note that Amanita Muscara contains potentially toxic compounds, and the effects can be unpredictable and potentially unpleasant or even dangerous to novices. Some individuals may experience nausea, dizziness, confusion, and other adverse effects. 

The preparation and consumption of Amanita Muscara requires careful attention to dosages and proper processing methods to minimize the risk of toxicity. The traditional use of Amanita Muscara in some cultures involves various preparation techniques to reduce the levels of toxins and enhance the desired effects. These methods can include drying, fermenting, or boiling the mushrooms and require specific knowledge and expertise to be conducted safely.

Blue Lotus, scientifically known as Nymphaea caerulea, is a water lily that is native to Egypt and other parts of North Africa. It has been valued for its aesthetic beauty and cultural significance for thousands of years. Blue Lotus is often associated with symbolism, spirituality, and relaxation.

The plant has attractive blue flowers that float on the water's surface, and various parts of the plant, including the flowers, leaves, and roots, have been used for their psychoactive and medicinal properties. In ancient Egypt, Blue Lotus was highly regarded and often depicted in art and religious ceremonies.

Blue Lotus contains several active compounds, including alkaloids such as nuciferine and apomorphine. These compounds have mild sedative and psychoactive effects. The plant is known for its calming and relaxing properties, and it is often used to promote relaxation, relieve stress, and induce a mild euphoric state.

Blue Lotus is typically consumed as a tea or infusion. The flowers or petals are steeped in hot water, and the resulting liquid is consumed. The taste of the tea is described as floral and slightly bitter.

It's important to note that the psychoactive effects of Blue Lotus are generally considered mild, and the plant is not known to produce strong hallucinations or profound altered states of consciousness. However, individual experiences may vary, and it's advisable to start with a low dose to assess personal sensitivity.

Tohe also called Borrechera (known commonly as Angels Trumpet) is Brugmansia. It contains deliriant hallucinogenic tropane alkaloids (atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine). In modern medicine, these tropane alkaloids found in Brugmansia and other related members of Solanaceae have proven medical value for their spasmolytic, anti-asthmatic, anticholinergic, narcotic, and anesthetic properties, although many of these alkaloids, or their equivalents, are now artificially synthesized.

Brugmansia species have also traditionally been used in many South American indigenous cultures in medical preparations and as an entheogen in religious and spiritual ceremonies. Medicinally, they have mostly been used externally as part of a poultice, tincture, ointment, or where the leaves are directly applied transdermally to the skin. Traditional external uses have included the treating of aches and pains, dermatitis, orchitis, arthritis, rheumatism, headaches, infections, and as an anti-inflammatory. Internal uses, in highly diluted preparations, and often as a portion of a larger mix, have included treatments for stomach and muscle ailments, as a decongestant, to induce vomiting, to expel worms and parasites, and as a sedative.

Several South American cultures have used Brugmansia species as a treatment for unruly children, so that they might be admonished directly by their ancestors in the spirit world. In the Northern Peruvian Andes, shamans (curanderos) traditionally used Brugmansia species for initiation, divination, and rituals. Tohe is known as the Path of Day and Night, a plant with astonishing but ambiguous powers. She is considered a powerful ally and benevolent Spirit doctor capable of the most profound levels of healing and deep visionary states. But if the Mother of Tohe is over-used or abused, She may play dangerous and devious games with those who treat her with disrespect and can be deadly.

Changa is a type of smoking blend that combines various herbs with a DMT-containing substance, typically extracted from plants like Psychotria viridis or Diplopterys cabrerana, which are natural sources of DMT. As there is no standardized recipe for Changa, the specific ingredients and ratios of the blend can vary.

The purpose of Changa is to provide an alternative and potentially more gentle smoking experience compared to smoking pure DMT crystals and a shorter duration immersion in the visionary realms compared to sitting with an Ayahuasca brew, which involves the ingestion of a DMT-containing plant mixture. By blending the DMT with other herbs, Changa aims to provide a smoother and gentler psychedelic experience.

The additional herbs commonly used in Changa blends can include: Banisteriopsis caapi, mint, passionflower, mullein, or other plants with mild psychoactive or calming properties. These herbs are often chosen to enhance the smoking experience, add flavor, and potentially modify the effects of the DMT.

When Changa is smoked, the DMT is vaporized and inhaled, leading to an altered state of consciousness characterized by intense visuals, alterations of time and space, and profound insights. The effects of Changa are similar to those of smoked DMT or Ayahuasca, but the presence of other herbs in the blend can influence the overall experience and potentially provide a smoother and/or more gradual journey.

Salvia divinorum, commonly known as salvia, is a psychoactive plant native to the cloud forests of Mexico. It contains the active compound salvinorin A, which is a potent hallucinogen. Salvia has a long history of traditional use by indigenous cultures for spiritual and healing purposes.

When consumed, typically by smoking or vaporizing the dried leaves, Salvia induces intense but relatively short-lived psychedelic experiences. The effects of Salvia can vary from person to person, but they often include alterations in perception, hallucinations, distortions of time and space, and profound introspection. The intensity of the experience can range from mild perceptual changes to full-blown dissociative and visionary states.

Cannabis (Santa Maria) has been used ceremonially in almost every major religion, and its spiritual use goes back thousands of years, predating all religious traditions. Cannabis is considered a sacred medicine by some cultures and spiritual traditions. It has been used for centuries for its potential healing, transformative, and spiritual properties. The use of cannabis as a sacred medicine is often associated with rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual practices aimed at achieving a deeper connection with oneself, others, and the divine.

In certain cultures, such as certain indigenous communities in South America, cannabis is used as part of traditional shamanic practices. It is believed to have the ability to facilitate introspection, expand consciousness, enhance spiritual experiences, and provide insights into oneself and the nature of existence. Cannabis may be used in combination with other sacred plants or as an aid during meditation, prayer, or other spiritual activities.

The effects of cannabis can vary depending on the strain, chemical composition, and individual response. It contains various cannabinoids, including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which interact with the body's endocannabinoid system and can influence mood, perception, and consciousness.

THC and CBD are two main compounds that are found in cannabis and they interact with the endocannabinoid system that is found in humans and animals, however, the effects of the two are different.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main psychoactive compound that is found in cannabis. Due to its psychoactive properties, it is popular amongst people who are using cannabis for recreational purposes. Apart from psychoactive properties, THC also contains medicinal properties.

THC can be used to treat the symptoms of: pain, low appetite, anxiety, insomnia, nausea, glaucoma