Huni Kuin Rapé – Emburana

The Rapé of the True People

Learning a bit more about Amburana cearensis

Known as “Cumaru de Cheiro” or Emburana, this Brazil native plant has been used for medicinal and therapeutic reasons for quite some time now. It’s especially used to relieve pain related to or caused by rheumatism and even dental issues due to its anti-inflammatory effects. Precisely because it possesses that property, it can also help in the treatment of bronchitis, asthma, and general coughing-related issues.

In addition, it can offer antimicrobial and antifungal action. There are, even, accounts stating that the use of this plant in ritualistic medicine by the hands of indigenous shamans can help with spasms and cramps, helping with menstrual flow as well.

The use of Emburana seeds is very common in the making of Rapés, cigars, and certain drinks, as they can offer a pleasant vanilla-like aroma. It’s worth noting that the taste of these products doesn’t suffer any changes caused by the ashes of this ingredient, just its scent.

Who are the Huni Kuin

Consideres the largest indigenous group in the northern Brazilian state of Acre, the Huni Kuin are also present throughout the territory that extends from the base of the Peruvian Andes all the way to the borders of Brazil. The very name Huni Kuin means “true men” or “true people”, and can sometimes replace the term Kaxinawá, which also refers to the same community.

The Huni Kuin Pajés (Shamans or Healers) practice very singular styles of Shamanism, as the combination of practices, rites, and beliefs that compose this unique culture is very particular to this group. There are different “kinds” of Shamans, according to the way they practice their healing and protective spells and magic.

Still, there’s a common factor to all Shamanic customs of the Kaxinawá: the discretion related to the skills required to promote healing or to inflict diseases. Meaning, even though they are keepers of great power and deep knowledge, these Shamans possess the wisdom to keep their full competence secret, performing their good deeds in a humble and respectful manner.

In addition to Rapé, another healing method that is frequently appreciated by the Huni Kuin is the medicine of Kambô. To learn more about this practice, check out this blog entry! // Unite the power of both these medicines with our Kambô Kuripe, an applicator that’s perfect for individual ceremonies.

How to Use Rapé Emburana

Using Rapé demands profound respect for the practice itself, extensive knowledge of its properties and possible effects, in addition to understanding the cultural significance and historical weight this medicine carries and, of course, thankfulness for the natural healing and spiritual growth only Rapé can offer.

Usually, those who are just only starting on their path of sacred medicine look for the guidance of more experienced practitioners, like a Shaman or a representative of one of the communities that make and use Rapé, both to administer this medicine and to observe and explain the possible effects this medicine can offer for the human body.

Those who already possess previous experience with using this secular medicine might feel more confortable with self-administration, usually with the aid of a pipe called Kuripe, being familiar with the required previous preparation for the ritual and the mental and physical outcomes it may cause.

Shop online on Sacred Connection

Sacred Connection offers easy and secure online shopping for traditional medicines sourced directly from Amazonian communities. Our own housebrand products are ethically and sustainably sourced, and produced under direct supervision with standardized recipes. We offer excellent customer service and fast, secure shipping. Sacred Connection’s product range includes sacred snuffs, Sananga eye drops, and more.

We believe in making transformative medicines accessible to everyone at an unbeatable price. Shop with us for authentic and powerful products that have been used for centuries in traditional Amazonian cultures, and experience spiritual, physical, and emotional healing.