Chacruna (Psychotria Viridis) – Ethically and Sustainable Harvested, Shade Dried Whole Leaves from Tarapoto, Peru

What is Chacruna?

A perennial shrub of the Rubiaceae family native to the regions of Central and South America, primarily Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador, that is also known as the Visionary Vine. A popular use of this plant amongst native communities revolves around the making of a sacred brew called Ayahuasca, along with another medicinal specimen known as Banisteriopsos caapi or Jagube.

Compounds in this plant offer antioxidant and neuroprotective effects, preventing damage caused by free radicals and cognitive loss, as well as acting upon brain receptors by mimicking the effects of adrenaline on the body.

Shamanic Culture and Chacruna

The leaves of Chacruna are appreciated in shamanic culture, being used in sacred rites of healing due to therapeutic properties and the effects caused by a chemical known as DMT, that can induce visions. Shamans and indigenous folk credit this plant’s properties with performing miracles of healing and even with the prevention of witchraft, in addition to helping with migraines and cleansing of the intestines.

Leaves from Tarapoto

The scenery of Tarapoto is rich with wildlife and booming with both daytime explorations and nightlife activities. Located in the northern jungle of Peru, it is the greatest city in the San Martín province, and local lore states that the name Tarapoto comes from the junction of two words coming from the dialect used by the Lamas indigenous people: “tara,” meaning beans or fish, and “poto,” referring to the shape of a jungle fruit called huingo.

The Chacruna leaves used in the making of this product come directly from Tarapoto grounds, and like all other products offered by Maya, are ethically harvested amidst sustainable plantation sites.