Natural Awakenings
PLANT MEDICINE
SECTION
community spotlight
Shipibo Ayahuasca design on tapestry.
pages 30-37
AYAHUASCA Transformative Beyond Words by Tavi Meketon
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Evidence of this plant hose reading this mixture and ceremonies article have likely surrounding it is said to already had their date back to at least 1000 minds opened to alternaA.D., when it was discovtive paths that may lead to ered with other various a higher level of spiritual, shamanic substances in a physical and mental conneccave in Bolivia. To make tion. The ancient plant medithe ayahuasca brew, seccine ayahuasca is that path tions of the Banisteriopsis for many, and those that are caapi vine are macerated familiar with its power can and boiled, along with attest to significant changes leaves from any number of in mind and body, heightAlexcis Lopez other indigenous plants. ened states of awareness, mystical journeys and answers to questions The resulting brew should contain the powerful psychoactive compound DMT that some have carried for a lifetime. 34
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and MAOI harmala alkaloids. This mixture is typically determined, crafted and administered by the Maestra or Maestro during a several-hour ceremony that allows participants to enter the world of the Mother Spirit Ayahuasca. Among other endeavors, Alexcis Spencer Lopez is a life coach, ordained minister and best-selling author who facilitates ayahuasca retreats through her organization Sanctuary of our Lady Ayahuasca, or SOLA. She herself heard the calling many years ago and has followed a path that focuses on helping others to heal through various modalities including ayahuasca. Lopez advises those who are on a journey to be a better person or let go of negative thoughts and issues to “allow curiosity and intuition to be your guide”. Most are “called” to this ceremony in order to work on a part of themselves or their life they wish to improve. Her consistent message is to keep an open mind. Insightfully stated by Lopez, “There are many doorways to the same room.” The integration between science and spirit appear to be seamless. According to Lopez, the hallucinogenic works to create new pathways in the brain by restricting or enhancing various blood vessels and allowing neurons and serotonin receptors to communicate with each other, ultimately supporting the brain to be a sort of superpowered version of itself. This connection will naturally open windows to other spiritual and energetic realms. Ayahuasca is illegal in the U.S. and is considered a Schedule 1 drug, however it is currently being studied for its healing effects relating to PTSD, Parkinson’s, addiction and other neurological diseases and impairments. Additionally, a recent study conducted by the Beckley/Sant Pau Research Programme and published in the journal Scientific Report, reveals that certain compounds present in the typical Amazonian brew can stimulate the birth of new neurons after they are damaged or die. A collaborative research project at the International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research and Services is currently investigating the capacity of ayahuasca
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