A mixture of sacred jungle tree barks and various sacred leaves for powerful journeying into the Amazon jungle. Also, commonly known as “Nu-nu” or “Nene” by the Matses tribe for use in their hunting magic. This is a very special and rare type. It’s gentle, potent and deep, which is made from toasted, crushed and finely powdered Mapacho leaves, combined with the toasted, crushed and powdered inner bark of the Macambo tree, a member of the Cacao family.

Grounding and Clearing

Latin Name: Unknown
Ash: Macambo Tree
Tribal Ethnicity: Matses
Element: Earth
Strength: Gentle

Who are the Matses?

The Matsés, an indigenous people residing in the Amazon rainforest of Peru and Brazil, hold a profound reverence for their ancestral traditions, including the ceremonial use of rapé. For the Matsés, rapé serves as a conduit to their spiritual beliefs and practices, deeply rooted in their connection to the natural world. The preparation and administration of rapé are considered sacred rituals, conducted with meticulous care and reverence. The ingredients, often a blend of tobacco, tree ashes, and medicinal plants, are chosen for their healing properties and spiritual significance. Rapé ceremonies are integral to Matsés life, serving as occasions for communal bonding, healing, and spiritual exploration. The effects of rapé are believed to cleanse the body and mind, heighten awareness, and facilitate communication with ancestral spirits and the forest's guardians. Through the use of rapé, the Matsés uphold their cultural identity and ancestral knowledge, fostering a profound sense of harmony with the natural and spiritual realms.

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.