Ayahuasca sometimes also called Iowaska – has grown immensely popular amongst western culture. But for indigenous people from countries like Colombia and Peru, this brew is no stranger. The story behind Ayahuasca and how indigenous people started to work with it differs between cultures. Nonetheless, Ayahuasca is made from the iowaska vine and the leaf of the chacruna plant. Combination of these two ingredients creates this powerful tea.
Native people all around South America have been using Ayahuasca for years, both for spiritual and religious purposes. They consider it a medicine capable of healing internal wounds and giving you the ability to reconnect with your inner self.
But truly, what is Ayahuasca? Is it a psychedelic drug or a powerful plant medicine?
There truly isn’t much scientific evidence on Ayahuasca. People that have had the opportunity of experiencing Ayahuasca, responsibly via a retreat ceremony, have said it is a true spiritual experience. Some people say they’ve managed to activate repressed memories, which allows them to know more about themselves and understand their past. Ayahuasca has helped many people overcome traumatic experiences, to the point where neuroscientist are looking into ayahuasca retreats as a way to treat depression and PTSD.
These ceremonies have a sole purpose, to transform and heal. Tourists have grown increasingly more attracted to this mythical medicine throughout recent years. Its popularity has increased so much that travellers are constantly on the lookout for specialised ayahuasca retreat centres, or shamans in the depths of Peru´s bejewelled Amazon. Although studies on the true benefits of Ayahuasca are still quite limited, no one can deny that going on an Ayahuasca retreat is a truly personal and spiritual experience. It is sourced not only because of its numerous benefits associated with self- discovery. This unique experience has also been known to aid people dealing with temperament or anger issues, addiction and even medical problems.
I know I want to do it, so where do I go?
It goes without saying, Ayahuasca retreats can change your life. For those of you interested in going on an Ayahuasca ceremony, it is recommended that you find the right place for you. Somewhere where you feel comfortable and safe. Furthermore, it is advised that people do their research, ensuring the ceremonies are performed by authentic ayahuasca healers! In the case of Peru, Shipibo’s are known to be the most knowledgeable of the indigenous people, due to the fact they are highly experienced users of the Ayahuasca medicine. They are known for their ancient healing traditions to improve health, in addition to harnessing self-discovery and spiritual awakening.
If you are interested in participating in an authentic Ayahuasca experience in Peru, here at Flower of Life – Ayahuasca Retreat Centre, we would be delighted to welcome you! To suit the desires of all of our customers here at Flower of Life, we work with both male and female authentic, expert Shipibo healers. For more information on our upcoming retreats or any questions you may have, please contact us at [email protected]