Caapi (Banisteriopsis caapi) – Selection

Banisteriopsis Caapi

Banisteriopsis Caapi, commonly known as the Ayahuasca vine, is a perennial liana native to the lush Amazon rainforest. Belonging to the Malpighiaceae family, this extraordinary plant exhibits thick, woody stems, which can grow up to 10 centimeters in diameter, offering exceptional support for its remarkable climbing ability. Its elliptical leaves boast a glossy dark green color adorned with prominent veins. Meanwhile, Ayahuasca’s unique flowers, though small and inconspicuous, display a lovely blend of yellow and pinkish-white hues.

During their brief blooming season, these delicate flowers emit a distinct fragrance, filling the humid air of their natural habitat with an otherworldly aroma. What sets this vine apart and garners great attention is its possession of psychoactive properties, primarily attributed to the presence of harmala alkaloids, such as harmine and tetrahydroharmine, found in significant amounts within the stem bark. Through intricate preparation rituals, indigenous tribes combine Banisteriopsis Caapi with various psychotropic plants like Psychotria viridis or Diplopterys cabrerana, thereby unlocking the centuries-old wisdom hidden within the botanical realm of Ayahuasca. This unique practice allows them to explore altered states of consciousness for ceremonial and spiritual purposes.