Chaliponga (Diplopterys Cabrerana) – Whole Leaves from Putumayo, Colombia

Diplopterys cabrerana

The specimen known as Chaliponga is a shrub native to the Amazon basin, rich in dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and particularly famed for being one of the possible ingredients in the making of Ayahuasca, a sacred brew used in healing rituals to induce visions. Accounts of the effects of this plant, mainly through the consumption of Ayahuasca, include a sense of purging both of the ailments of the mind and body, all the while offering means to connect with the unseen, higher planes.

The leaves of this plant are thought to be at least twice as stronger than other plants commonly used in the making of Ayahuasca, and some Pajés (shamanic healers of indigenous communities) advise beginner practitioners of natural medicine to experience the effects of less potent plants before venturing into trying Chaliponga brews.

Chaliponga Leaves from Putumayo

The territory known as Putumayo, in Colombia, is bordered by the Caquetá River in its northeast region and spans over an area of around 24,885 square kilometers, encompassing a mountainous region that reaches up to 3,500 meters high and several kilometers of Amazonian plains, including rivers, waterfalls, and unique specimens of both fauna and flora.

It is also the home to indigenous groups, such as the Inganos, Camsás, Huitotos, Sibundoyes, Cafanes, Paeces, Coreguajés, and Sionas. Agriculture is very much present in the locals’ culture in Putumayo, with plantations and harvesting being one of their main sources of income.

The source material used in the production of Maya’s Chaliponga leaves is harvested from the Putumayo department, where it’s sustainably grown and ethically reaped, in collaboration with local producers.