AYAHUASCA
THE MEDICINE
Ayahuasca (Banisteriopsis Caapi) is the name of a vine that grows in the Amazon Rainforest. In Native cultures it is regarded as the “Vine of the Soul” or “Vine of Wisdom.” It is also the name given to the psychoactive brew prepared by combining and slowly boiling the vine with leaves from the Chacruna plant (Psychotria Viridis). The resulting beverage is used for spiritual ceremonies, divination, and healing a variety of psychosomatic complaints. Each shaman or curandero has their own recipe; often adding other medicinal plants to increase the healing potential of the brew.
Ayahuasca contains Beta-Carbolines and Tryptamines which influence brain function and exhibit antioxidant effects and anti-cancer properties. Ayahuasca’s primary Tryptamine, DMT (DiMethyltryptamine) is known as The Spirit Molecule which can also be found in the human brain. DMT spikes during transformative human experiences such as birth and death.
Ayahuasca is the Sacred Feminine; she represents the Mother and Grandmother. She is both gentle and firm. She can nurture us, heal us lovingly or take us on a dark ride where we must face our greatest fears. She unleashes our potential, gives us clarity and deeper understanding. An Ayahuasca Ceremony is a spiritual journey within, guided by the Spirits of the plants. The medicine interacts dynamically with the participant, the healer’s intention, and the Spirit World.
PREPARING THE BREW
Preparing Ayahuasca is no easy task; it is a process of physical labour, deep prayer and patience, taking a minimum of 12 hours. First, materials must be collected: a large amount of Ayahuasca vine is needed. It is cut down, then clubbed, breaking down its’ outer layer in order to pull out the medicine during the cooking process. You also need to collect a large amount of Chacruna leaves, which are the carriers of DMT. Some curanderos (healers) also add various other healing plants to their brew. Each medicine has its own vibration.
Once the materials are layered in a large pot, water is added and the cooking begins. Water is added several times during the process and is cooked down to a honey-like texture. Curanderos monitor the process without taking their eyes off of the medicine. They use Mapacho (strong tobacco) to pray and bless the medicine, infusing it with their intentions.
AYAHUASCA IN ACTION
Ayahuasca increases our state of consciousness. She moves us in the direction of wholeness and loosens the grip of the ego. She activates the part of our brain where the subconscious memory is stored. One may access memories that have been locked away for years. These, often traumatic or unprocessed memories come up to be examined from a different perspective, accepted and released with love. Ayahuasca also activates the part of the nervous system where integration occurs; new connections are made allowing us to let go of long held beliefs, habits and conditioning.