We approach the preparation of Ayahuasca with utmost responsibility and love, honoring the traditions that guide this sacred process. The journey begins with a full moon harvest, a time when the plant's energy is believed to be at its peak. This involves a meticulous search in the mountains, where we respectfully ask for permission from the plant before taking any part of it.
Once the harvesting is complete, the process of preparing the medicine begins. This stage requires careful attention to protect the brew from external energies and involves empowering the medicine through music and singing. It's a demanding process, often taking 2-3 days to complete. Our teachers emphasize that the person cooking the medicine plays a crucial role in infusing it with healing intent. This work is done in solitude and tranquility to ensure the medicine remains pure and potent.
Our journey to mastering the art of cooking Ayahuasca took four years of full-time dedication. This is our sole focus; we don’t have other jobs. Cooking Ayahuasca is a challenging and demanding process, which is why many prefer to buy it premade, especially in larger retreats. While buying premade Ayahuasca is easier, preparing it yourself is deeply rewarding and creates a stronger connection to the medicine.
Unfortunately, fewer people today know how to properly cook Ayahuasca, and this important tradition is at risk of being lost. If you've attended a retreat, ask yourself: Did the person who served you Ayahuasca also harvest, bless, and cook the plants? If the answer is no, then you understand the point we're making.
The journey to learning how to cook Ayahuasca began with a deep focus on understanding the vine itself. In the first two years, we chose to cook only the Ayahuasca vine, without adding any other DMT-containing plants like Chacruna. This approach allowed us to master the various extraction techniques, recipes, and optimal quantities. It was a thorough learning process where we explored different methods, from cooking over wood or gas to experimenting with maceration.
Through this, we came to understand that the healing spirit of Ayahuasca primarily resides in the vine, while Chacruna acts as a filter that helps reveal visions, colors, and patterns during the experience. However, it's possible to embark on a profound journey with just the vine, especially if you have extensive experience with Ayahuasca.
After gaining this foundational knowledge, we were able to harvest the necessary quantities of Chacruna to add to the mixture, creating the full brew known by everybody.
We take pride in crafting our own Ayahuasca, sourced locally, and made with pure intention. Each batch is a testament to the healing power of nature.
Our recipe includes 10 kilograms of freshly cut Ayahuasca vine (red variety) and one kilogram of Chacruna leaves per batch, harvested around 6:00 AM to preserve their properties. After cooking, we press the Chacruna leaves to extract every drop of the liquid within the plant material. Additionally, we add 6 to 10 leaves of Chiric Sanango, which enhances the medicine's ability to support the nervous system, alleviate rheumatism, and address arthritis. This amount is small enough to be considered a microdose of Chiric Sanango in each cup of Ayahuasca, not really the profound effects this plant give. We also include a pinch of Mapacho tobacco, and when available fresh, lemon juice.
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