Plant Allies
Ceremonial Cacao
Ceremonial cacao is a specially prepared form of cacao (the primary ingredient in chocolate) that is used in ceremonial, spiritual, and healing contexts. It differs from the cacao used in commercial chocolate production, which often undergoes processing that can alter its natural properties. Ceremonial cacao is typically made from high-quality cacao beans that are minimally processed, preserving their natural nutrients and compounds. It's often sourced from specific regions known for producing high-quality beans with unique flavor profiles.
Ceremonial cacao is used in various rituals and practices to facilitate a deeper connection to oneself, others, and the spiritual realm. It's believed to have both physical and spiritual benefits, including:
Heart Opening: Ceremonial cacao is often associated with opening the heart chakra and facilitating emotional release and connection. It's used to create a sense of warmth, compassion and connection to spirit.
Enhanced Meditation: The mild stimulant compounds in cacao, such as theobromine, can promote mental clarity and focus, making it a popular medicine for meditation and introspection.
Energetic Alignment: Ceremonial cacao is thought to align and balance the energies within the body, promoting a sense of harmony and alignment.
Connection to Spirituality: Many indigenous cultures consider cacao a sacred plant that facilitates communication with the spirit world, allowing for deeper insights and spiritual experiences.
Nutritional Benefits: Cacao is rich in antioxidants, minerals, and compounds that can have positive effects on mood and overall well-being.
Contraindications for ceremonial cacao:
Our cacao is regarded as a potent plant medicine, demanding mindful usage to harness its utmost benefits.
Typically, there are minimal concerns to consider. Consuming cacao is similar to enjoying dark chocolate, but specific considerations arise when embracing higher doses, such as in ceremonial contexts with 42 - 56 grams of cacao. The blend of robust cacao and increased dosage calls for extra mindfulness.
For ceremonial use, we recommend commencing with half the full dose, which is 56 grams. Begin with 28 grams, gauge its effects, and allow at least 30 minutes before further consumption.
Cacao, a potent bitter and stimulant, might induce certain side effects and contraindications, especially in ceremonial doses. Symptoms like lightheadedness, sweaty palms, headaches, or nausea may occur. Ease your pace, hydrate, and prioritize self-care until symptoms abate. Detox symptoms could emerge too; hydrating is vital as your body purges what it disapproves of. This may be intensified for those on raw diets or fasting; consider smaller doses in such cases.
Anti-depressants necessitate caution. MAOI-based types don't align with chocolate's tyramine, making larger cacao doses inadvisable. Although rare nowadays, individuals on these anti-depressants are aware of dietary restrictions. Concerns surround larger cacao doses and SSRI anti-depressants due to cacao's MAOIs. Tryptophan, a type of MAOI present in cacao, has minimal research pointing to any adverse effects, yet consulting a doctor or pharmacist when on SSRI anti-depressants is wise.
Serious heart conditions should approach cacao with caution. Theobromine's heart rate acceleration and blood pressure lowering effect might pose risks, warranting medical consultation and limited consumption.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding align with reduced stimulating intake, similar to coffee or tea. Theobromine, akin to caffeine, prompts stimulation, prompting lower dosages (e.g., max 28 grams in ceremonial drinks).
Take caution with pets, as pure cacao is harmful to dogs, and possibly to horses and parrots.
If symptoms manifest, hydrate, rest, and let them pass.
Blue Lotus
Blue lotus (Nymphaea caerulea), also known as the Blue Egyptian water lily, is a plant with a rich history of traditional use in various cultures. While scientific research on blue lotus is limited, it is believed to offer several potential health benefits:
Relaxation and Stress Reduction: Blue lotus is often associated with relaxation and stress relief. It may have calming effects on the nervous system, helping to alleviate anxiety, promote a sense of tranquility, and improve sleep quality.
Mood Enhancement: Blue lotus is thought to have mood-enhancing properties. It may help uplift mood, promote feelings of euphoria, and reduce symptoms of depression. It is believed to work on the serotonin receptors in the brain, which are associated with mood regulation.
Enhanced Cognitive Function: Blue lotus is sometimes used as a nootropic, a substance that may improve cognitive function. It may support mental clarity, focus, and memory, helping to enhance overall cognitive performance.
Digestive Support: Blue lotus may have digestive benefits, including soothing the digestive system and relieving gastrointestinal discomfort. It is sometimes used to alleviate symptoms such as indigestion and bloating.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Some studies suggest that blue lotus may possess anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially benefiting conditions associated with chronic inflammation.
Antioxidant Activity: Blue lotus contains compounds with antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help protect the body against oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which can contribute to aging and various health issues.
It's important to note that the information provided is based on traditional uses and anecdotal reports rather than extensive scientific research. If you are considering using blue lotus for its potential health benefits, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or herbalist to ensure its suitability for your specific circumstances. They can provide personalized guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your health.
Contraindications for Blue Lotus
It's essential to be aware of potential contraindications and precautions when consuming Blue Lotus or any herbal substance. Keep in mind that the available information might not be exhaustive, and consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable.
Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to Blue Lotus or related plants. If you have a known allergy to plants in the Nymphaeaceae family, such as water lilies, it's recommended to avoid Blue Lotus.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is limited information regarding the safety of Blue Lotus during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It's generally advisable for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals to avoid herbal supplements unless specifically recommended and supervised by a healthcare professional.
Sedative Effects: Blue Lotus is reported to have mild sedative and psychoactive effects. It may enhance the effects of medications with sedative properties or substances that affect the central nervous system. Combining Blue Lotus with other sedatives or substances like alcohol can lead to increased drowsiness and impaired cognitive function.
Interaction with Medications: Blue Lotus may interact with certain medications. If you are taking prescription medications or have pre-existing health conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before consuming Blue Lotus to avoid potential interactions.
Liver Conditions: There is limited information on the effects of Blue Lotus on the liver. Individuals with liver conditions or those taking medications that may impact liver function should exercise caution and seek medical advice before using Blue Lotus.
Operating Machinery and Driving: Due to its reported sedative effects, consuming Blue Lotus may impair your ability to operate machinery or drive. Avoid engaging in activities that require alertness and concentration until you understand how Blue Lotus affects you personally.
Dosage and Duration: It's essential to adhere to recommended dosages and not exceed them. Prolonged or excessive use may lead to adverse effects. Like any substance, moderation is key.
Before incorporating Blue Lotus or any herbal supplement into your routine, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications. Individual responses to herbs can vary, and professional guidance can help ensure safe consumption.
Rapé
Rapé / Harpé / Harpeh
A Rapé ceremony is a traditional indigenous practice that involves the use of a sacred and shamanic snuff made from powdered tobacco and various medicinal plants. It is primarily associated with the indigenous tribes of the Amazon rainforest, particularly those in Brazil and other South American countries. The term "Rapé" (pronounced ha-pey or ha-pay) comes from the indigenous languages of these tribes.
During a Rapé ceremony, a practitioner blows the powdered mixture into the nostrils of participants using a special applicator, often made from bone or wood. The ceremony is typically conducted in a ritualistic and ceremonial setting, often accompanied by chanting, singing, and other practices.
Rapé can have various effects, including stimulating mental clarity, enhancing focus, and inducing altered states of consciousness. It's also thought to have medicinal properties.
We will be using Rapé with the intention of physical and spiritual clearing, releasing and grounding before entering into our cacao and breath ceremony.
Rapé contains tobacco, which contains nicotine. When administered, nicotine can have stimulant effects on the body, similar to the effects of smoking or using other tobacco products. This can lead to increased heart rate, improved focus, and a sense of alertness.
Many people report experiencing a purging effect after inhaling Rapé, which can involve sneezing, coughing, tears, and sometimes vomiting. This purging is often seen as a way of releasing toxins and negative energy from the body. The act of blowing Rapé into the nostrils can lead to a temporary opening of the airways, potentially facilitating improved breathing and a sense of clarity in the respiratory system.
Rapé may facilitate a state of heightened awareness and clarity of mind. This can lead to a sense of being more present in the moment and can aid in meditation or introspection.
Many users describe feeling a sense of energetic alignment and balance after using Rapé. It is thought to help align one's energies and chakras.
Rapé ceremonies have a spiritual dimension. The use of Rapé is believed to help connect individuals with the spirit world, ancestors, and the divine.
Rapé ceremonies can sometimes lead to emotional release, allowing individuals to process and release suppressed emotions.
Some people report experiencing enhanced introspection, insights, and a deeper understanding of themselves and their life journey.
Please consider the following contraindications for the use of Rapé before taking Rapé.
Rape´ should not be mixed with recreational drugs as the effects of the combination is unknown and cannot be controlled. If you’re on medication, make sure you have made this clear ahead of time to ensure the ceremony is right for you. Because Rape´ contains a very strong form of nicotine, repeated use in a short time span can be addictive. Rape´ is intended as a form of healing, but like all medicines, misuse can be problematic.