Ajo Sacha, or “wild garlic,” holds a prominent role in Shipibo plant medicine for its potent cleansing and protective properties. The leaves and bark are prepared as teas or used in baths to clear negative energies and entities. Its strong aroma, resembling garlic, is believed to repel harmful spirits and shield individuals from energetic attacks. During ceremonies, it is often used to purify the space and participants, fostering an environment conducive to spiritual healing.

Physically, Ajo Sacha is employed to treat colds, respiratory issues, and joint pain. Its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties make it a go-to remedy for arthritis and muscle aches. The plant is often included in dietas, or plant-spirit diets, to strengthen one’s connection with its protective spirit, offering both physical and energetic resilience.

Albahaca, known for its aromatic and calming properties, is a staple in Shipibo healing practices. Its leaves are often used in floral baths to purify the body and mind, dispelling negative energy and restoring balance. The plant’s soothing scent is believed to invite positive energy, making it a common choice for rituals aimed at uplifting the spirit and promoting emotional clarity.

Medicinally, Albahaca is used to calm the nervous system and alleviate stress. The leaves are brewed into teas to help with insomnia, anxiety, and digestive discomfort. This plant is also valued for its ability to enhance focus and mental clarity, often used by healers and participants before ceremonies to prepare the mind for spiritual work.

Alcanfor is a powerful plant used in Shipibo medicine for its purifying and protective qualities. The leaves are often prepared in vapor baths or as infusions to cleanse the respiratory system and release energetic blockages. It is particularly valued for its ability to clear heavy or stagnant energy, making it an essential plant for those seeking spiritual renewal.

The strong scent of camphor is also used to repel negative entities and create a protective shield around individuals. Alcanfor’s cooling properties are applied to reduce inflammation and soothe respiratory conditions such as colds and asthma. In ceremonial contexts, it is used to refresh and fortify both body and spirit, ensuring participants are energetically aligned for healing work.

Anis is a medicinal plant widely used for its digestive and calming properties. In the Shipibo tradition, it is prepared as a tea to alleviate stomach discomfort, bloating, and indigestion. It is also used to promote relaxation, making it helpful for easing anxiety and supporting restful sleep.

Spiritually, Anis is valued for its soothing and harmonizing energy. It is often included in purification rituals to calm the mind and balance emotional states. In ceremonies, it can help participants settle into the experience, fostering a sense of peace and receptivity to healing energies.

Ayahuasca is the cornerstone of Shipibo plant medicine and is considered a sacred “teacher plant.” Prepared as a brew, typically in combination with Chacruna (Psychotria viridis), it induces powerful visionary states that facilitate profound spiritual insight, emotional healing, and reconnection with nature. Ayahuasca ceremonies, led by Shipibo healers, involve singing icaros (healing songs) to guide participants through their journeys. These ceremonies help individuals confront and release traumas, cleanse energetic blockages, and access higher states of consciousness.

The vine itself, Banisteriopsis caapi, is seen as the embodiment of an ancient plant spirit. Its use extends beyond the visions it offers; it helps healers diagnose illnesses, connect with plant spirits, and deepen their understanding of the interconnectedness of all life. Participants often undergo preparatory and integration processes, including fasting and dietas, to maximize the plant’s healing potential.

Ayahuma, or “cannonball tree,” is used for grounding and protection in the Shipibo tradition. The bark is brewed into decoctions to help individuals stabilize emotionally and spiritually, particularly during periods of upheaval or disconnection. Its grounding energy is believed to anchor the spirit, helping individuals stay present and connected to the earth.

The bark and leaves are also employed to alleviate headaches and reduce inflammation. In ceremonial contexts, Ayahuma is used to clear heavy negative energies from the body and space, fostering a sense of calm and focus. Its protective spirit is thought to create a barrier against intrusive or harmful energies, offering a sense of security during challenging healing work.

Bobinsana is known as a “heart-opener” and is used in Shipibo medicine to address grief, depression, and emotional trauma. Its bark is prepared as a tea or included in plant dietas to help individuals reconnect with their emotions and foster a sense of compassion and love. Spiritually, it enhances dream work and strengthens one’s connection to nature and the spirit world.

The gentle energy of Bobinsana supports emotional release and healing, making it a favorite plant for those seeking deeper emotional and spiritual growth. Participants in Ayahuasca ceremonies often drink Bobinsana tea beforehand to align with its heart-opening and grounding properties, facilitating a more profound connection with the plant spirits.

Cacao is revered in Shipibo medicine as a heart medicine and spiritual ally. Prepared as a ceremonial drink, it is consumed to open the heart and foster feelings of gratitude, joy, and love. Its mood-enhancing properties make it a valuable addition to group ceremonies, promoting harmony and emotional connection among participants.

Cacao also supports physical health, providing antioxidants and nutrients that boost overall well-being. Its gentle, uplifting energy is ideal for integrating ceremonial experiences, helping individuals process their emotions and maintain a sense of balance after deep spiritual work.

Capirona is a tree known for its regenerative properties for the skin and its spiritual cleansing qualities. The bark is used to create washes or ointments to treat skin conditions such as rashes, wounds, and fungal infections. Its antioxidant properties make it beneficial for promoting overall skin health.

In the spiritual domain, Capirona is seen as a protector plant that removes negative energy and promotes renewal. During dietas, it is used to strengthen the connection between the body and spirit, helping individuals release emotional blockages and align with their true selves.

Catahua is known in the Shipibo tradition for its skin-healing properties and anti-inflammatory effects. The latex from the tree is used to treat various skin conditions, including infections, rashes, and wounds. It is often applied topically to soothe inflammation and promote healing.

Spiritually, Catahua is associated with clearing negative energies and fostering emotional balance. The plant’s bark is sometimes included in cleansing rituals to help individuals release stagnant energy and regain a sense of vitality. It is also used in ceremonial baths to fortify one’s energetic field and enhance resilience against external influences.

Chacruna is a fundamental companion plant to Ayahuasca, traditionally used to enhance the visionary aspect of the brew. Its leaves contain DMT, a compound that works synergistically with Ayahuasca to induce deep, introspective experiences. The visions provided by Chacruna help participants uncover hidden aspects of their psyche and connect with spiritual realms.

In the Shipibo tradition, Chacruna is seen as a plant teacher, offering guidance and insight during ceremonies. Its spirit is thought to communicate through the visions it provides, helping individuals navigate their healing journeys and gain clarity on life’s challenges.

Chanca Piedra, often referred to as the “stone breaker,” is renowned for its ability to support kidney and liver health. It is prepared as a tea or decoction to dissolve kidney stones, cleanse the liver, and aid in detoxification. It is also used to treat urinary tract infections and other issues related to the excretory system.

Spiritually, Chanca Piedra is seen as a cleansing plant that purifies the body and spirit. In ceremonies, it is often used to facilitate the release of toxic energies, promoting clarity and a fresh start for those on their healing journey.

Chiric Sanango has a long history of indigenous use in the healing traditions of curanderismo. It is a sacred and spiritual plant sometimes used by Curanderos in ayahuasca preparations, in protective baths, plant diets, as well as remedies. In the Amazon, the root is infused with alcohol for treatment of rheumatism as well as a decoction of leaves used externally. Sometime referred to as the Fever Plant, preparation of the roots are used for chills, fever, yellow fever, colds and flu, and even venereal diseases to clean the blood while using a poultice of the leaves as a topical analgesic.

The root of Chiric Sanango is said to stimulate the lymphatic system, and it has also been used for the treatment of syphilis. It is powerful teacher plant as well and is commonly dieted to increase energy, healing awareness, and to boost the immune system. It is very common for it to be found near the homes of curanderos as well as throughout the gardens of people everywhere, as it is always in bloom and its purple flowers are beautiful.

Chuchuhuasi is a potent anti-inflammatory plant used to relieve joint pain, arthritis, and rheumatism. The bark is steeped in alcohol or water to create tinctures and teas that help alleviate discomfort and improve mobility. It is also known for boosting energy and stamina, making it a favorite among those recovering from physical exhaustion or illness.

Spiritually, Chuchuhuasi is associated with resilience and endurance. It is used in dietas to strengthen the body and spirit, helping individuals build a foundation of vitality and determination. Its grounding properties make it an excellent plant for those seeking stability and balance in their lives.

Chullachaqui Caspi is a revered tree in the Shipibo plant medicine tradition, valued for its grounding, protective, and healing properties. The bark and resin of the tree are used to create decoctions or topical balms for treating wounds, reducing inflammation, and relieving pain. It is particularly effective for addressing muscular aches, joint issues, and chronic pain conditions. The resin is also applied to skin injuries to accelerate healing and protect against infections.

Spiritually, Chullachaqui is deeply connected to the energy of protection and grounding. The plant is believed to carry the spirit of Chullachaqui, a legendary forest guardian in Amazonian folklore, who represents strength, resilience, and connection to the natural world. In the Shipibo tradition, this tree is used to create energetic barriers, shielding individuals from harmful influences and negative energies. During ceremonies or dietas, it supports participants in finding their inner stability, fostering a sense of security and balance as they navigate transformative healing processes.

Copaiba is a versatile plant known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. The resin from the tree is used to treat skin issues, respiratory conditions, and inflammation. It is applied topically to wounds, burns, and rashes, promoting faster healing and reducing discomfort.

Spiritually, Copaiba is seen as a cleansing plant. It is included in rituals to purify the body and mind, helping individuals release pent-up emotions and energetic blockages. Its soothing and balancing nature makes it a trusted ally for restoring harmony during times of physical or emotional imbalance.

Guanabana, or Graviola, is a versatile plant used for immune support and its reputed anti-cancer properties. The leaves and fruit are prepared as teas or infusions to strengthen the body’s defenses and address infections. Guanabana is also valued for its calming effects, making it useful for relieving stress and anxiety.

In the Shipibo tradition, Guanabana is seen as a nurturing plant spirit. It is used to help individuals release emotional burdens and find inner peace. Its gentle yet powerful energy fosters relaxation and clarity, supporting both physical and emotional healing processes.

Guayusa is a stimulating plant used to enhance energy and focus. Its leaves are brewed into a tea that is consumed to promote mental clarity, physical vitality, and lucid dreaming. Guayusa is often taken in the early morning to prepare for the day or before ceremonies to enhance alertness.

In the spiritual realm, Guayusa is considered a plant that bridges the waking and dreaming worlds. It is used by healers and participants to gain insight during dreams and deepen their connection to intuition. Its invigorating properties support individuals in aligning their intentions with their actions.

Better known as lemon grass, Hierba Luisa is a small bush made of long grass. The leaves can grow as long as 70 cm, but just 1 to 2 cm wide. It rarely produces flowers. Typically, a tea is made from the leaves which is drunk as a delicious beverage but also to provide relief from stomach pain, menstrual cramps, and to help with aches and pains associated with arthritis.

It is sometimes used as a purgative, where a weak tea is drunk in very large quantity to induce vomit at the end of a plant diet or to help with digestion. It has a very nice flavor and smell and helps with maintaining general health when used regularly.

Huacapurana is a medicinal tree valued for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The bark is boiled into a decoction to treat infections, wounds, and chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. It is also used to address respiratory ailments.

Spiritually, Huacapurana is considered a grounding and protective plant. In the Shipibo tradition, it is used to create energetic shields, helping individuals feel secure and supported as they engage in deep healing work. Its energy promotes strength and resilience.

Huayracaspi is renowned for its ability to treat respiratory issues and relieve pain. The bark is prepared as an infusion or decoction to address colds, bronchitis, and inflammation. It is also applied topically for its analgesic effects, helping to soothe muscle and joint pain.

In ceremonial practices, Huayracaspi is used for protection and cleansing. Its energy is believed to help individuals release heavy emotions and regain a sense of clarity and lightness. The plant is often included in dietas to fortify the body and spirit against external and internal stressors.

Ishanga, or Stinging Nettle, is a perennial plant growing in temperate and tropical wasteland areas around the world. It grows 2 to 4 meters high and produces pointed leaves and white to yellowish flowers. Ishanga, also called Ortega, has a well-known reputation for giving a savage sting when the skin touches the hairs and bristles on the leaves and stems.

Ishanga is used against a variety of complaints such as muscular and arthritis pain, eczema, ulcers, asthma, diabetes, intestinal inflammation, nosebleeds and rheumatism. Externally it is used for inflammations, sciatica, wounds and head lice.
The stinging sensation of the leaf hairs is caused by several plant chemicals including formic acid, histamine, serotonin, and choline. Several of Ishanga’s lectin chemicals have demonstrated marked antiviral actions (against HIV and several common upper respiratory viruses). Other chemicals (flavonoids in the leaves and a lectin in the root) might be useful in the treatment of systemic lupus.

Jergón Sacha is a powerful plant known for its anti-venom properties and immune support. In Shipibo medicine, the root is prepared as a decoction to counteract snake bites and other toxic exposures. It is also used to strengthen the immune system and support recovery from serious illnesses or infections.

On a spiritual level, Jergón Sacha is seen as a protective plant. Its energy is believed to fortify individuals against negative influences, both physical and emotional. During ceremonies or dietas, it is often used to cleanse the body and restore vitality, helping participants feel grounded and secure.

Rich in nutritional content (potassium, and higher levels of calcium than in milk), maca is a natural hormonal balancer which provides great health benefits for both, men and women. Due to its high nutritional value, maca is not only popular as a sexual libido enhancer and menopause symptoms savior, but also greatly affects energy, stamina, depression, and memory.

In Peruvian herbal medicine today, maca is reported to be used as an immunostimulant; for anemia, tuberculosis, menstrual disorders, menopause symptoms, stomach cancer, sterility (and other reproductive and sexual disorders), to enhance memory, to increase energy, stamina, and endurance, to promote mental clarity, and to help with menstrual irregularities, female hormonal imbalances, menopause, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

The roots of mallow are rich in beneficial mucilage. The leaves, dark-green and coarse, are a powerhouse of minerals and vitamins (calcium, iron, vitamin C, copper traces and more) and an abundant, free source of organic nutrition. Curanderos prepare mallow leaves by rubbing the leaves together in cool water to treat a cough or for a cold or flu patient, or just to maintain health. They make a drink of water and mallow mucilage which is a diuretic and soothing to the digestive system, especially the urinary tract. Congestion and chest pain can obtain relief from this drink too.

As a poultice, mallow leaves will draw out boils and pus from old infections. Rashes and burns can be successfully treated with mallow leaves, crushed or blended. Mallow mucilage is also used to treat acne. The morning after an ayahuasca ceremony, It was normal and encouraged to drink the cold water mucilage drink in order to cleanse the digestive system from any toxins left over from the previous night’s purge.

Mapacho, or jungle tobacco, holds a central role in Shipibo plant medicine. The dried leaves are smoked or used in ceremonial offerings for grounding, protection, and connection to the spirit world. Healers use Mapacho to cleanse individuals and spaces, creating a sacred environment for healing work. Some shamans drink the juice of tobacco leaves alone as a source of visions. The principal active biochemicals are nicotine, nornicotine and anabasine.

On a deeper level, Mapacho is considered a teacher plant. It aids in connecting with ancestral wisdom and deepening spiritual awareness. The plant’s spirit is seen as a protector, helping to ward off negative energies and align individuals with their higher purpose during ceremonies.

Mucura is a potent plant used for protection, cleansing, and treating respiratory and digestive ailments. Its leaves and roots are prepared in infusions or baths to clear physical and energetic blockages. The plant is particularly effective for alleviating colds, bronchitis, and stomach discomfort.

Spiritually, Mucura is regarded as a guardian plant that shields against harmful energies. It is often included in ceremonies to purify participants and enhance their connection to positive forces. Its protective energy fosters a sense of safety and empowerment during transformational healing processes.

Oje is a powerful detoxifying plant used for parasite cleansing and immune support. The sap is carefully extracted and diluted to create a purgative medicine that clears toxins and restores balance in the body. It is also used to support the liver and overall digestive health.

On a spiritual level, Oje is seen as a plant of purification. It is used in ceremonies to help individuals release deep-seated negativity and regain a sense of vitality. The plant’s cleansing energy fosters renewal, making it an essential ally for those undergoing intense healing processes.

Paico, or Epazote or Wormseed, is a versatile medicinal herb used for its antiparasitic, digestive, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is prepared as a tea or decoction to treat intestinal parasites, alleviate stomach pain, and reduce bloating. It is also used for respiratory issues, such as coughs and colds. Some indigenous tribes bathe in a concoction of Paico to treat childhood trauma or to reduce fever and will also throw a couple of freshly uprooted green plants onto their fires to drive mosquitoes and flies away.

Energetically, Paico is regarded as a purifying plant. It is often used in cleansing rituals to remove negative influences and restore balance. In ceremonial contexts, it helps participants clear energetic blockages, enhancing their ability to connect with their inner selves.

Palo Santo, meaning “holy wood,” is a sacred plant used for cleansing, grounding, and spiritual protection. The aromatic wood is burned as incense to purify spaces, remove negative energy, and invite positive vibrations. In Shipibo ceremonies, it is used to create a sacred environment and enhance meditative focus.

Spiritually, Palo Santo is considered a plant of blessing and renewal. Its soothing scent fosters relaxation and clarity, helping individuals align with their intentions. During healing practices, it is used to strengthen connections with the spirit realm and enhance the transformative power of the ceremony.

Piñon Blanco is a versatile plant used for digestive health, pain relief, and spiritual cleansing. The oil extracted from the seeds is applied topically to relieve pain and inflammation, while teas or infusions made from the leaves support digestion and detoxification.

In Shipibo medicine, Piñon Blanco is also a protective plant. It is often included in cleansing rituals to dispel negative energies and create a sense of lightness. Its grounding energy helps participants feel centered and protected during transformative healing processes.

Piñon Colorado is a potent medicinal plant used in the Shipibo tradition for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and wound-healing properties. Its sap, leaves, and bark are employed in various preparations. The sap is often applied directly to wounds, cuts, or ulcers to promote rapid healing and prevent infections. Decoctions made from the bark or leaves are used to alleviate joint pain, muscle inflammation, and conditions like arthritis. It is also used in poultices for external applications to reduce swelling and soothe skin irritations.

Spiritually, Piñon Colorado is regarded as a plant with cleansing and protective qualities. It is often included in rituals aimed at removing energetic blockages or dispelling negative influences. The plant’s robust energy is believed to strengthen an individual’s connection to the earth, fostering grounding and resilience. During dietas, Piñon Colorado supports participants by providing emotional strength and stability, making it easier to release traumas and confront challenging memories. It is also valued for helping to establish energetic boundaries, ensuring spiritual safety in ceremonial settings.

Piri Piri is a highly versatile plant in the Shipibo tradition, celebrated for its ability to enhance intuition, fertility, and energetic sensitivity. Its roots are often prepared as a tea or decoction to treat various physical conditions, including menstrual irregularities, digestive issues, and respiratory problems. Specific varieties of Piri Piri are used for distinct purposes, such as improving eyesight, boosting fertility, or enhancing sensory perception. It is also applied topically to relieve pain and inflammation or to aid in skin healing.

Spiritually, Piri Piri is known as a “teacher plant,” providing profound insight and connection to the spiritual realm. It is commonly used in dietas to open energetic pathways, deepen intuition, and strengthen the practitioner’s ability to connect with plant spirits and the wisdom of the natural world. Shipibo healers utilize Piri Piri to heighten their perception during healing ceremonies, enabling them to detect and address the root causes of spiritual or physical ailments. Additionally, Piri Piri is believed to attract love and harmony, and its essence is used in rituals to strengthen bonds, enhance personal magnetism, or draw positive energy into one’s life.

Sacha Culantro is a plant used for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. The leaves are prepared as a tea to alleviate stomach discomfort, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation. It is also used to address respiratory issues. It is often used in conjunction with sage and/or malva to maintain healthy digestion and immune system function.

Spiritually, Sacha Culantro is known for its cleansing energy. It is often included in purification rituals to clear emotional and energetic blockages. Its gentle but effective action helps individuals release tension and restore harmony in both body and spirit.

Salvia, or sage, is a plant known for its antimicrobial and calming properties. One of the oldest known medicinal herbs, there is no part of this plant that can not be used. The leaves, flowers and stems all have healing attributes. In the Shipibo tradition, it is used as a tea to treat throat infections, digestive problems, and respiratory ailments. It is also valued for its ability to reduce inflammation and support overall wellness.

Spiritually, Salvia is a sacred plant used in purification rituals. Its smoke is burned to cleanse spaces and individuals of negative energies. In ceremonies, it helps create a calm and protected environment, fostering introspection and clarity for participants.

Sangre de Grado, or “Dragon’s Blood,” is a tree sap known for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. The sap is applied topically to treat cuts, burns, and skin conditions, while it is also taken internally to support digestive health and reduce inflammation. It is an excellent instant bandage for children and adults, good for leucorrhea, piles, cuts, etc. The alkaloid taspine hydrochloride has been found to be the main cicatrizant, wound healing principle, anticancer agent.

Sangre de Grado has been known and used as: anti-tumor, cicatrizant/anti-cancer, anti-diarrheal, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, wound healing. It demonstrated potent antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, genital herpes lesions, excellent healing agent for wounds, blisters, and burns.

Tangarana is a tree known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The bark is prepared as a decoction to treat skin infections, wounds, and chronic inflammation. It is also used to strengthen the immune system and support recovery from illness.

In the spiritual realm, Tangarana is seen as a protector plant that wards off negative energies and entities. It is often used in cleansing rituals to create a safe and grounded environment. In dietas, its energy helps individuals release deep-seated fears and gain confidence in their healing journey.

Toe is a highly potent visionary plant used for dream work, protection, and intense spiritual experiences. The leaves or flowers are used with great caution, often under the guidance of experienced healers, to induce altered states of consciousness and access the spiritual realm. Its medicinal qualities are spasmolytic, anti-asthmatic, anticholinergic, narcotic and anesthetic. A vapor bath is prepared from the leaves for bad coughs and bronchitis.

Spiritually, Toe is regarded as a teacher plant that can reveal profound truths and hidden knowledge. However, its energy is intense and requires careful preparation and intention. In Shipibo ceremonies, it is used to provide guidance, remove deep energetic blockages, and facilitate transformative experiences.

Uña de Gato, or “Cat’s Claw,” is a renowned medicinal vine used for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. It is prepared as a tea or tincture to treat arthritis, digestive issues, and chronic illnesses, supporting the body’s natural healing processes.

In Shipibo traditions, Uña de Gato is considered a protector plant. Its energy strengthens the body’s defenses and fosters resilience in the face of physical and emotional challenges. Cat’s Claw is used to treat cancer, HIV, AIDS, urinary track infection & inflammations, arthritis, rheumatism, sciatic nerve spasm, ulcers, and tumors. It is a very potent immune system booster and studies indicate that cat’s claw has the ability to protect cancer cells from maturing.