Canela de Velho translates to “Old Man’s Cinnamon, or Herb”. This is commonly used by older men and women because it is potent in reducing or ceasing pain and inflammation in the joints. Canela de Velho is also used to harmonize diverse aspects of the being; bring physical strength, bring calm and alignment to the mind and bring connection to the spirit. This hapeh is helpful to bring focus, to ground the consciousness in the body, promoting mental harmony and vigour.

Reinvigorate and Rejuvenate

Latin name: Miconia albicans
Ashes: Canela de Velho leaves
Tribal Ethnicity: Huni Kuin
Element: Fire and Earth
Strength: Strong

Who are the Huni Kuin?

The Huni Kuin (also known as Kaxinawá) are an indigenous people inhabiting the Amazon rainforest near the border of Brazil and Peru. Esteemed for their rich cultural heritage, which includes vibrant rituals, intricate crafts, and profound spiritual practices, the Huni Kuin are also known for their traditional use of rapé. For the Huni Kuin, rapé is a sacred substance that plays a critical role in their spiritual and community life. It is used in rituals to facilitate communication with the spirit world, cleanse the body of illness and negative energies, and as a means of social bonding and communal unity. The preparation of rapé is seen as a form of prayer or meditation, involving the careful selection and grinding of tobacco and other plant ingredients, each with specific medicinal or spiritual properties. This meticulous process and the subsequent use of rapé help to maintain the balance and well-being of the individual and the community, reinforcing their deep connection to nature and ancestral traditions.

What is Rapé?

Rapé (pronounced "ha-peh") is a traditional herbal snuff used by various indigenous tribes of the Amazon Basin, including the Kuntanawa. It is made from finely ground plant materials, which often include tobacco (Nicotiana rustica), known locally as 'mapacho', and the ashes of other plants such as the bark from certain trees. Each tribe and even individual healers have their unique recipes and methods for preparing rapé, which may include various medicinal and aromatic additives to achieve different effects.

Rapé is administered through the nostrils with the aid of a pipe made from bamboo or bone, which can be self-administered or given by another person. The application is often a part of a ritual, aiming to cleanse the body and mind, promote spiritual insights, and connect users to the spiritual world. The effects of rapé include a heightened sense of alertness and focus, intense cleansing of the nasal passages and sinuses, and sometimes profound emotional and psychological experiences. In indigenous cultures, it is used for a variety of purposes, from spiritual and ceremonial to medicinal and therapeutic.

Health and Safety Considerations of using Rapé

Using rapé, the traditional herbal snuff from the Amazon, involves certain safety considerations, particularly because it can have potent physical and psychological effects. Here are some key safety requirements and precautions to consider:

1. Understanding the Ingredients: It’s essential to know the composition of the rapé being used, as different blends contain various plants and ashes that can have different effects. Some ingredients might be stronger or potentially more irritating than others.
2. Proper Administration: Rapé is traditionally administered using a pipe called a "kuripe" for self-application or a "tepi" when administered by another person. It's important that this is done gently to avoid harming the nasal passages.
3. Dosage: Start with a small amount. The potency of rapé can vary widely depending on the specific blend and its ingredients. Overuse can lead to unpleasant effects such as nausea, intense dizziness, or overwhelming psychological experiences.
4. Setting and Supervision: Especially for first-time users, it's advisable to use rapé in a calm, safe environment, ideally under the supervision of someone experienced. This can help manage any unexpected reactions. Health Considerations: People with respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, or other serious health conditions should avoid using rapé. Additionally, pregnant or nursing women should steer clear of it due to the presence of potent substances like nicotine.
5. Mental Preparation: The effects of rapé can be intense and sometimes overwhelming. Mental preparation and a stable mental state are crucial. It's not recommended to use rapé as a form of escapism or while in a distressed emotional state.
6. Cultural Respect: Understanding and respecting the cultural background and sacredness of rapé in indigenous traditions is important. It's not merely a recreational substance but a part of spiritual and healing practices.
7. Legal Status: Be aware of the legal status of rapé and its ingredients in your country. While legal in many places, some ingredients in certain blends might not be permitted everywhere.
8. Consulting with an experienced practitioner or a member of an indigenous community that traditionally uses rapé can provide additional guidance and safety advice.