Ayahuasca in the Peruvian Amazon is a sacred plant medicine used for centuries by Indigenous communities for healing, spiritual insight, and connection to nature. It is made by brewing two primary plants: Banisteriopsis caapi (a vine) and Psychotria viridis (a leaf containing DMT). When combined, they create a powerful psychoactive brew that opens the door to deep emotional, physical, and spiritual exploration.
Cultural and Spiritual Roots
In the Amazon, ayahuasca is not simply a drug—it’s a medicine, a teacher, and a central part of many Indigenous spiritual traditions. Shamans or curanderos guide ceremonies with songs called icaros, which help direct the healing energy of the plant and protect the space. These rituals are often held at night, in candlelight or darkness, to enhance the inward journey.
Healing and Insight
Ayahuasca is known for helping people:
Release emotional trauma
Heal depression, anxiety, and grief
Gain clarity about life purpose
Reconnect with nature and community
Understand their deeper identity and patterns
Participants often experience visions, emotional purging (through vomiting or tears), and powerful insights during ceremonies.
The Amazon Experience
In the Peruvian Amazon, especially around Iquitos, retreats are often held in the rainforest itself—surrounded by nature, silence, and ancient energy. The setting is crucial: it provides a safe, grounded environment for transformation, supported by traditional practices and local knowledge.
Ayahuasca and Responsible Use
It’s important to approach ayahuasca with respect and preparation. Ethical retreats work with experienced healers, support integration afterward, and provide care for mental and physical safety. At places like Selva Madre, the medicine is offered with deep respect for its Indigenous roots, and with a focus on healing for all—especially those from marginalized or underrepresented communities, like the LGBTQ+ community.