If you are interested in South America’s indigenous culture, you must have heard about the famous yopo seeds, less commonly known as Anandenanthra peregrina. They have multiple names such as cohoba, parica, jopo and calcium tree due to their existence in various regions of the Caribbean and South America.
The seeds are found in a tree with pale yellow and white flowers. The tree is 20m high, containing seed pods that have 3 to 10 beans. Not less than 55 tribes of South America have actively used this tree for more than a thousand years. The seeds contain elements such as bufotenine and DMT which are known for their intoxicating effect. Due to its durability, the wood of the tree of yopo seeds is used for making high-quality furniture.
Cultural background
These seeds have not been used solely for recreational purposes. Shamans believe that the consumption of these seeds can open the third eye of humans through which they can see beyond defined dimensions.
The cultural importance of these seeds is that they were believed to act as healers in the Sikuani tradition. When sniffed, these seeds stimulate the sensory and nervous systems, inducing a transcendental experience.
In ancient culture, the indigenous population served these in trays. The host blew the seeds into the nostrils of another person. As soon as that happened, the person experienced a hallucination, which they perceived as spiritual elevation. It is a common American ritual.
Resemblance
While you already know the texture of the tree, you must know what the properties of this plant resemble. The characteristics of Yopo seeds resemble Ayahuasca. It creates the same effect as Ayahuasca because of the presence of DMT.
It helps in spiritual healing by deleting past trauma and anxieties from your mind. The interaction between DMT with MAO inhibitors stimulates the nervous system. It creates conditions of euphoria, hallucination, and delusion.
Yopo seeds are also known for their medicinal value. Hidden in the wilderness of the Amazon, these seeds, when regulated under scientific conditions, produce a cleansing effect on the body. They are natural anti-depressants and help in calming the mind
These seeds have been an important part of the ceremonies for many tribes of South America. Overdosing on these seeds is harmful to health. As was experienced by many farmers, these seeds proved to be disastrous for cattle.
Conclusion
Yopo seeds, when taken consciously and responsibly, can release negative emotions of your body and mind. When first taken, they might make you feel nauseous. As the nausea subsides, you begin to feel elevated. Grown in tropical regions, these seeds require a temperature of at least 22 degrees to attain a smoky and roasted form.
The usage of Anandenanthra peregrina does not lead to psychotic breakdowns. It has been used for treating addiction by many Shamans. It can either be sniffed or taken with a solvent that relaxes its effect. We advise a small usage of yopo seeds only for medicinal purposes.