The Sacred Teacher Plant of Protection and Purification. In the Amazonian tradition, few plants hold as central and revered a place as Tobacco (Nicotiana rustica). Known as mapacho in Peru, this powerful master plant is considered the father and protector of the plant world. It is used by shamans, healers and patients not only as medicine but also as a spiritual ally, a source of strength, and a bridge to the spirit realm.   Scientific Background Tobacco (Nicotiana rustica) i

Ajo Sacha – The Master Plant of Protection and Cleansing. Among the many sacred plants of the Amazon rainforest, Ajo Sacha (Mansoa alliacea) holds a special place as a master plant in traditional plant dieta practices. At our Ayahuasca retreat center in Peru, we honor Ajo Sacha not only for its medicinal properties but also for its role as a spiritual protector and energetic cleanser.   Scientific Background Ajo Sacha (Mansoa alliacea) is a woody vine from the Bignoniaceae

Chacruna – The Leaf of Light. While the Ayahuasca vine is often called the “vine of the soul,” its companion plant, Psychotria viridis — known throughout the Amazon as chacruna — is cherished as the leaf of light. At our Ayahuasca retreat center in Tarapoto, Peru, we honor chacruna as a sacred plant that brings clarity, vision, and illumination to the medicine.   Scientific Background Chacruna (Psychotria viridis) is a tropical shrub in the coffee family (Rubiaceae). Native t

Banisteriopsis caapi – The Sacred Vine of the Soul. At the heart of every Ayahuasca ceremony in Peru is Banisteriopsis caapi, a sacred jungle vine revered for centuries by shamans of the Amazon. Known as the “vine of the soul,” this powerful plant is considered the foundation of the Ayahuasca brew, providing grounding, protection, and spiritual guidance. ​ Scientific Background Banisteriopsis caapi is a woody vine native to the Amazon rainforest. It belongs to the Malpighiac