Rapé: The tradition of the Sacred Plants of the Amazon
Discover the power of the spirit of the forest through the indigenous practice with rapé.
What is rapé?
The name "rapé" comes from the French language, where it literally means "mixture." While in the Indigenous cultures of the Brazilian Amazon it is referred to as Romê Potô, it is the term rapé that has made its way into the Western world, popularized by European sailors who transported goods from Brazil.
Traditional rapé is a mixture of sacred plants, bark, and ashes from the sacred fire, created through a subtle alchemy process involving long hours of grinding and sifting.
Among the Indigenous tribes of Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, rapé has been known for centuries. The process of preparing and consuming it is done with deep respect for the traditions of the ancestors. Since ancient times, it has been used ceremonially, both to support spiritual processes and to maintain physical health.
How rapé works?
Many experts believe that working with rapé strengthens synaptic connections in the brain, stimulating the production of natural DMT, and can aid in the treatment of psychosomatic diseases. The ingredients from sacred plants are absorbed through the mucous membranes, directly entering the bloodstream. Rapé easily reaches the nasal and frontal sinuses, helping to eliminate accumulated blockages that can cause conditions such as sinusitis or migraines. It is also used for headache relief, neutralizing dementia, or excessive tension, as it effectively regulates blood pressure in the skull. Some of the medicine also travels down to the stomach, helping to eliminate parasites in the digestive tract. Further, it supports intestinal motility, removing excess waste accumulated there.
Rapé also effectively supports the respiratory system, especially in cases of chronic bronchitis, pneumonia or tuberculosis It can also be helpful for asthmatics, as it helps restart the lung cleansing cycle, expelling mucus and foreign bodies. Additionally, it has a relaxing and anti-fever effect, alleviating allergy symptoms, fatigue and pain of various origins.
Finally, rapé is a remedy for the spirit. It supports the process of mental purification by stopping the internal monologue, making it easier to enter a state of pure presence. It assists in achieving deep meditation and other practices that guide our attention inward. It allows us to recognize our true needs and rid ourselves of negative thoughts and emotions.
Get to know our rapé
The elements of Fire and Earth in rapé
One of the two essential ingredients in rapé is ash, which plays a fundamental role in the preparation of this mixture. To obtain the proper type of ash, not only knowledge but also experience with fire is required. Initiated practitioners are able to maintain an optimal flame, not too strong, for long hours. The ash produced in this process serves as a chemical activator, enhancing the effects of rapé and, in combination with the Earth element found in the plants, helps elevate the spirit. All known forms of rapé are based on this combination, with the exception of rapé from Awira plant, from the Apurinã tribe, where ash is not used.
During the burning of wood, most salts and alkaloids are not destroyed by the fire and remain in the ash in varying proportions. The structure of the wood is crucial, as it gives the ash the right consistency. For this reason, only trees with dense, hard, and compact grain are used to produce ash for rapé. Softer wood trees do not produce the necessary amount of ash, which can affect the quality of the mixture.
Subtle alchemy
The transformation of materials through fire is the essence of the ancient art of alchemical change. According to this tradition, fire has the power to purify anything it touches. In Ayurvedic medicine, there is an extensive science related to the creation and use of medicinal ashes, known as bhasmas. Ashes in Ayurveda are produced from various substances, plants, minerals, and even certain metals. Each one, when burned and transformed by fire, has its own unique properties and uses. Bhasmas hold a special place in rasayana, the art of rejuvenation and longevity.
Ayurveda also recognizes the practice of Nasya, which involves the use of medicinal tobacco gently inhaled into the nostrils as a remedy for various ailments. The nose is considered a direct path to the brain – a gateway to consciousness. It is through the nose that our body absorbs prana, the life force. Healthy breathing, free from barriers or disturbances, is vital to ensure the proper flow of prana through the head and the entire body. This is why Ayurveda places great emphasis on the breath, such as in the practice of pranayama.
The power of intention
Rapé occupies the space of a “sacred medicine” within traditional natural healing. It thus carries the intentions and prayers of those who prepare it, as well as those who share it. Every step of the ceremony, from lighting the fire, burning tobacco, playing instruments, to working with rapé, must be accompanied by a deep connection to the sacred.
During a rapé practice with another person, there is a likelihood that one individual may influence the other, as they may transfer part of their energy field into theirs. We are not always energetically prepared to share rapé with others, and it is our right not to accept it from anyone if we feel internal resistance related to this recognition.*
Using rapé comes with responsibility, as there is an exchange at the energetic level between those practicing together. The person administering it must be able to wield the powerful energy of rapé and understand it. A clear intention, a strong mind, and focus are necessary. Working with a kuripe (self-administration) is somewhat different, much gentler than using a tepi (administered by another).*
Remember, excess and extremes are not good guides. Sometimes, at the beginning of contact with rapé, there is an overwhelming desire for frequent daily use. This is not concerning, as long as the ritual is done properly, because over time, the relationship becomes balanced, and the practitioner begins to appreciate the energetic and spiritual effects more than the physical sensations. Therefore, when we are mindful and focused, we naturally regulate our use of rapé in alignment with our true needs. Rapé is a powerful ally and can assist us on the path to healing.*
Some people use the mixture once or several times a week; others use it only during ceremonial gatherings or spiritual practices. However, this depends on the individual’s tolerance level and current needs. Listen to your body, intuition, and the spirit of rapé. Together, they will guide you to what is best for you.*
Types of rapé
There are many variations of rapé. Each community creates them according to their own tradition and recipe, blending ingredients found in the geographical regions they inhabit. Some mixtures are even named after the tribes that produce them, such as Yawanawa, Nukini, or Katukina (Huni Kuin).
Due to this diversity, some rapé blends contain a greater amount of sacred plants, while others may have a higher concentration of ashes:
- Rapé blends with a higher ash content are usually lighter in color, more grayish. They are classified as "air" (De aire), as their effect is more uplifting and stimulating.
- On the other hand, rapé blends containing a greater amount of bark and plants are darker, often in shades of brown. These mixtures are attributed to the earth element (De tierra). They have grounding and calming effects, helping to direct our attention toward roots and ancestors.
Between these two extremes, there is a wide range of varieties with various properties. Their composition, preparation method, and the intentions of those who prepare the rapé all influence the final experience of the person taking it: Will the blend bring healing? Introduce the energy of a warrior? Or perhaps lead to deep concentration?
When using rapé, it is important to be aware that through this form of traditional natural medicine, we are experiencing a connection with the plants of the mountains and forests of the Amazon jungle, which are considered by the indigenous people of these regions to be the healing spirits of nature. We encourage showing proper respect for these forces and the guardians of the sacred plants.
*The provided information is intended for historical, scientific, or educational purposes only and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for specific use. We do not label or sell preparations as consumer products. The responsibility and risk for using the described products in violation of this disclaimer rests with the customer.