ENTHEOGEMIC APOTHECARY
I am a medicine woman, herbalist, botanist, mycologist, entheoecologist, and horticulturalist (with fancy degrees to prove it even). I am fascinated by the relationship between humans and the natural world, especially our use of plant, animal, and fungal allies to support mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Depending on local regulations and the intention of the group, some—but certainly not all, for that would be ridiculous—of these medicines may be offered as optional explorations into gross and subtle sensation, awareness, and consciousness. These explorations are always approached with care, respect, and informed choice. Many plant medicines are so common in our culture that they have become nearly invisible, while others remain wrapped in stigma, fear, prohibition, and mystery. This list is far from comprehensive. If I attempted to catalog every medicinal, edible, poisonous, intoxicating, consciousness-altering, and otherwise fascinating being on the planet, we would be here for quite some time. All sentient beings possess a form of consciousness, even if we do not yet fully understand how to communicate with them. I have spent decades tending, studying, and listening to these beings—learning to hear their songs, feel their vibration, and recognize their unique frequency medicine. They speak without words when we become quiet enough inside to listen. (Admittedly, some are louder than others.) When approached with respect, gratitude, and reciprocity, these allies often welcome us into relationship and, at times, offer their lives in service to our healing. May we always strive to minimize suffering and walk gently among all beings. Natural medicines—and their processed and synthetic derivatives—are powerful tools. They can support healing, growth, insight, and transformation, but they can also lead to misuse, addiction, injury, or death when approached carelessly. The difference between a poison and a remedy is often dosage, preparation, administration, and set and setting. Walk humbly when inviting any of these consciousnesses into your body, mind, heart, and spirit. Always cultivate a safe set and setting and seek competent, qualified guidance when working with powerful medicines. Some of these allies can catalyze profound experiences, including ego dissolution, spiritual emergence, or encounters with mortality itself. These are advanced practices, and I encourage developing a strong foundation in mindfulness and integration before exploring the deeper realms of the master teachers. This is not the place to freestyle because you listened to half a podcast and feel unusually confident. Until you are confident in wild identification, ethical harvesting, Indigenous rights and stewardship, proper preparation, dosage, contraindications, and related health considerations, please proceed with caution. Some of these medicines can be dangerous or even fatal without adequate knowledge, preparation, and supervision. Mother Nature is an extraordinary teacher, but she does not always provide gentle feedback.
COMMON PLANT/ANIMAL/FUNGI MEDICINE
SUGAR CANE (Saccharum officinarum)
Sugar is one of the most infamous plant medicines of all time. Although natural sugar cane juice has a long list of health benefits including energy boosting and immune support, the processed and dehydrated evaporated cane juice is highly addictive, leads to obesity, cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Sugar is considered a leading cause in many health issues including severe depression and microbiome imbalances. Culturally, it drove much of the Afro-Cuban slave trade, and continues to be a major socio-economic issue around the world. Although I respect all plant medicines, this plant could be considered one of the most dangerous, although ironically, it is legal in all countries. For entheogemic purposes, I highly recommend eliminating processed sugar from your diet. Processed sugar will not be served during EntheoGEM. Reach out for support on breaking your addiction to sugar.
CACAO (Theobroma cacao)
Cacao, endemic to the rainforest of Central and South America, is the major component of chocolate and is one of the most popular plant medicines on the planet. Used to enhance mood, decrease depression, and increase immunity, it is full of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Theobromine, the active ingredient, significantly increases blood flow and will likely cause a heart-opening experience. Many recount feeling filled with love and openness after drinking cacao. Considered a sacred master plant by many cultures, cacao ceremonies serving this rich brew are increasingly popular in spiritual communities. Ceremonial grade cacao is contraindicated with prescription drugs for depression such as MAOIs and SSRIs. Contains caffeine. Use caution with bleeding conditions and heart conditions.
coffee (Coffea arabica)
Coffee is another powerful plant medicine ally that can easily become highly addictive and detrimental to health. In small amounts it boosts energy levels, concentration, and alertness, supports brain health, promotes weight management, and can lower the risk of depression. However, with daily consumption, it can cause addiction, headaches, adrenal fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and many others. Withdrawal symptoms can be intense resulting in severe headaches, depression, and fatigue, reinforcing the addiction. To support your entheogemic practice, we highly recommend eliminating any addictive habits before attending the course. Coffee will not be served or available.
willow (Salix alba)
Willow bark contains salicin, which is a chemical similar to aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and has been used for pain relief and an antipyretic (fever reducer) for thousands of years. Aspirin is now the most commonly used drug in the world. Good for headaches and body pain during sitting meditations.
MINT (Mentha Spp.)
Mint is found widely through the temperate world. It exhibits multiple health beneficial properties, such as prevention from cancer and anti-obesity, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and cardioprotective effects. Often used as a digestive aid and aromatic herb in tea and essential herbs, mint is one of the most common but effective plant medicines with little dangers or side effects. I find it an excellent tea to help wean off of addictions to support clarity.
ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger root is indigenous to China, and its dried and powdered root is one of the most popular spices in the world. This root can be made into a tea and aids digestion and relieves nausea and indigestion. It improves immunity and relieves PMS symptoms. However, for some it causes heartburn and diarrhea. Ginger tea can also help support one in quitting sugar and caffeine, therefore is used as an entheogemic ally.
tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum)
Tobacco is indigenous to the Americas and has been used ceremonially by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Traditionally regarded as a sacred plant, tobacco has been utilized for prayer, offerings, purification, protection, and communication with the spirit world. In many cultures, it is considered a powerful teacher plant and is used intentionally rather than recreationally. Tobacco contains nicotine, a potent alkaloid that can increase alertness and concentration, but also carries a significant risk of dependence and adverse health effects when misused. Modern commercial tobacco products have contributed to widespread addiction and disease, often obscuring the plant’s traditional ceremonial role. Tobacco is a powerful ally that deserves respect, discernment, and conscious relationship within the entheogemic apothecary.
tea (Camellia sinensis)
Tea is native to Asia and is one of the most widely consumed plant medicines in the world. The leaves of Camellia sinensis are used to produce green, white, oolong, black, and pu-erh teas, each offering unique flavors and effects. Tea contains caffeine and other compounds that can enhance alertness, focus, mood, and mental clarity while also providing antioxidant benefits. For many, tea serves as a gentle bridge between stimulation and mindfulness, supporting contemplative practice, ritual, and social connection. However, excessive consumption may contribute to anxiety, insomnia, digestive discomfort, or caffeine dependence. When approached with awareness and intention, tea can be a subtle but powerful ally in the entheogemic apothecary.
lion's mane mushroom (Hericium Spp.)
Lion's Mane Mushrooms grow wild on the wood of dead or dying deciduous trees, often fallen oak, beech, or maple. A white, globe-shaped mushroom with long, shaggy spines, they are often eaten or taken as a supplement. Considered to benefit cognitive and heart health, and with anti-inflammatory properties, Hericium is growing in popularity. It is legal in all countries and has no psychotropic effects. Some people are allergic to Hericium, presenting with symptoms of a skin rash or difficulty breathing. When sauteed with oil and salt, it often tastes like a mixture of almonds and scallops and is considered a delicacy. Use extreme caution when wild harvesting mushrooms, as many mushrooms are toxic and even fatal. Hericium helps to boost brain function and can support in caffeine withdrawal.
honey bee (Apis spp.)
The honey bee is one of the most important creatures on planet Earth. Responsible for pollinating the majority of our agricultural crops, the honey also produces many valuable substances, such as honey, royal jelly, bee pollen, propylis (antiviral, antimicrobial, antifungal), and bees wax. Additionally, apitherapy is also a powerful animal medicine, where deliberate stings are applied to specific places on the body to help to facilitate healing in chronic and debilitating illness. However, the honey bee dies once it stings, so the practice is considered controversial, although legal in most places. Proceed with caution utilizing a qualified apitherapist, as the sting can cause allergic reaction and anaphylaxis. Local honey itself can be a subtle yet powerful entheogemic substance. When consumed intentionally, it reveals the intricate tapestries of the local floral landscape and can help to connect one to the natural environment. It also increases oxygen levels within the body and is full of nutrients and antioxidants. As a tantric practice, a drop of honey upon the tongue is a sensual delight, especially when one is in deep meditation and attuned to subtle sensations.
MASTER PLANT/ANIMAL/FUNGI MEDICINE
Blue lotus (Nymphaea caerulea)
A waterlily endemic to Egypt and Asia, it has been used historically in many cultures as a highly sacred plant used as a medicinal tea, essential oil, and smoking blend. Beneficial for calming anxiety, insomnia, and is an aphrodisiac, it is thought to produce a mild euphoric effect. Considered a psychotropic entheogenic plant, it is thought to support in spiritual health. Although labeled poisonous by the FDA, it is legal in most places. Check local regulations and with your healthcare provider.
marijuana/santa maria (Cannabis Spp.)
Marijuana goes by many names and is one of the most widely used psychotropic plant medicines in existence. Usually smoked, vaped, put into edibles, hashish or concentrates, it is known for bringing on a state of relaxed euphoria. It also offers pain relief, increased appetite, and increased creativity. Concentrated extracts of the active alkaloids have been proven to treat cancer. It can cause anxiety and paranoia in some. Used for thousands of years, it was illegalized in the early 20th century due to corporate interest lobbyists trying to remove their main competitor in the textile market, the non psychotropic and equally important plant ally, hemp. Cultural shifts then stigmatized this powerful plant medicine for several generations. Laws are currently changing regarding its consumption and cultivation. An incredible tool for the expansion of consciousness, it can also lead to addiction, abuse, forgetfulness, and lack of focus and motivation. This is a powerful plant ally and must be treated with utmost respect. When paired carefully with meditaiton, it can help to quiet the mind and allow the practitioner to drop deeper into a meditative state. Use caution, as one does not want to become dependent on this tool for their spiritual practice. Best used for inspiration and not as a crutch. Be careful that you are consuming quality product. Mold, chemicals, and improper curing practices can cause health problems. Use caution and do not operate heavy machinery when consuming this medicine. For ages 18 and above ONLY, as premature use can cause long-term memory, brain development, and cognitive issues (I speak from first-hand experience here).
sananga (Tabernaemontana undulata)
Sananga is a bush from the Amazon rainforest, and its roots and branches have been turned into eye drops and used by indigenous hunters to help increase eyesight and focus, to clear the spiritual fog or "panema" from the body mind. It has antiviral, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. It causes a strong and powerful burning sensation in the eyes that causes a flush of warmth through the sinus and the energetic body. Often used before ayahuasca ceremony, this ordeal medicine helps one find inner balance by overriding the natural aversion to pain and seeking pleasure tendency. Breathing and surrendering into this painful sensation can inspire euphoria and can help us to awaken our spiritual awareness and practice equanimity. The pain lasts around 5-15 min depending on your sensitivity. Use caution that you have a reputable source and that is stored properly. It lasts longer if kept in refrigeration and can mold.
coca leaf (Erythroxylum coca)
Coca grows naturally in the mountain of Peru and South America and has been used for thousands of years as a mild stimulant to boost energy, decrease pain, increase focus and concentration, decrease appetite, and support in altitude sickness and headaches. The dried leaves are stuffed into the cheek with an alkalizing activator. The dried leaves are legal in most places in Peru and are legal in many other countries. However, when the leaves are soaked and then the liquid is evaporated and processed, the natural psychotropic alkaloid is concentrated into what we know as cocaine. Illegal in most countries, cocaine stimulates dopamine production in the body and its use often leads to extreme addiction and abuse. In small doses it causes euphoria and mental clarity and heightened sensitivity to touch. In higher doses it can cause egomania, irritability, anxiety, paranoia, malnutrition, liver and kidney damage. Coca leaf has been a powerful ally for me in transitioning away from caffeine; however, cocaine is rarely if ever supportive for entheogemic connection. We highly recommend eliminating this concentrated plant medicine from your habits before attending this course.
ayahuasca
(banisteriopsis caapi & Psychotria viridis)
Ayahuasca, meaning "vine of the soul" in Quechua, is a plant medicine from the Amazon rainforest that is a combination brew from both a vine, Banisteriopsis caapi containing harmine, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), and a bush called chacruna or Psychotria viridis, which contains di-methyl tryptamine or DMT. This powerful plant medicine can have profound benefits for those suffering with depression and PTSD. This brew brings on powerful inner visions and is considered an ego death practice entheogenic substance. Ayahuasca is a master plant teacher and must be treated with ultimate respect. It should only be consumed under the direction of a trained and intiated plant medicine facilitator. Proper preparation, set and setting, and integration are essential. Combining this plant medicine with prescription medications for depression, such as MAOIs and SSRIs can cause seratonin syndrome, which can be fatal. Prohibited in many countries.
giant monkey frog/Kambo (Phyllomedusa bicolor)
The giant monkey frog, also known as the kambo frog, is a frog from the Amazon rainforest. Considered to be nature's first vaccine, the poisonous secretions are collected from live frogs. Small holes are then burned into human skin, and the secretion is then placed onto the open wounds. A powerful cleanse and lymphatic purge then occurs, causing flushes of heat, vomiting and diarrhea. This practice is known to boost immunity, treat depression, addiction, Lyme's disease, herpes simples, chronic fatigue, chronic pain, migraines, and many other ailments. An extreme ordeal medicine, this process can be extremely unpleasant, but the long-term benefits can outweigh the temporary discomfort. However, serious adverse reactions can occur, such as swelling, extreme vomiting, fainting, and allergic reaction. Proceed with caution, and always utilize an experienced facilitator. Concern for the well-being and respectful treatment of the toad grows as popularity increases. Kambo is currently legal in most countries although unregulated by the FDA. It is a powerful ally in the entheogemic apothecary.
sonoran desert toad (incillius Alvarius) & 5-MEO-DMT (5-methoxy-dimethyl tryptamine)
The Sonoran Desert Toad (recently renamed from Bufo alvarius to Incillius alvarius) lives underground for 9 months each year and comes up during the rainy season to frolick, fornicate, and feed. This toad produces a toxic secretion in its perotid gland that contains a powerful psychotropic substance that can be smoked, containing naturally occuring 5-dimethyl-tryptamine, (5-MEO-DMT) along with other psychotropic compounds such as bufotenine. This molecule is one of the most powerful entheogemic medicines known to man and can bring on a full ego death experience and kundalini awakening. Those who work with this powerful ally report an experience of feeling permanently connected to all that is and no longer being afraid of death. Many consider it similar to a near death experience that can allow users to experience a glimpse of Samadhi, or enlightenment. It can also inspire profound terror, usually when the intention is not aligned with personal transformation. Recent studies show its efficacy in treating depression, PTSD, addiction, and neurosis. Increased popularity among entheogenic explorers is causing the toads to be exploited and mistreated. However, 5-MEO-DMT, also called The God Molecule, can be synthesized in a lab, both removing the toxic components of the secretion and protecting the sovereignty of the toad. Recently made illegal in many countries around the world, it is still legal in Mexico, Canada, and some places in Europe. Researchers hope to prove its benefit to consciousness and psychological health, in order to change its legal status for the benefit of humanity. Use extreme caution, employ a qualified entheogenic guide, and never consume this substance alone. Although the molecule itself is safe, serious injury or death can occur while the ego is temporarily offline. Severely contraindicated with MAOIs and SSRIs for depression. This is a master teacher and needs to be treated with the utmost respect and care. This medicine can be the most profound teacher of one's life, and paired with extended periods of silent meditation, can greatly accelerate one's spiritual growth. BE VERY AWARE and CHOOSE WISELY if you are ready for this profund entheogemic practice.
San Pedro Cactus/Huachuma (Echinopsis pachanoi)
San Pedro, also known as Huachuma, is a columnar cactus native to the Andes of Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia. Revered for thousands of years in Indigenous traditions, it has been used ceremonially for healing, divination, prayer, and connection with the natural world. San Pedro contains mescaline and other alkaloids that can evoke expanded states of awareness, emotional insight, heightened sensory perception, and profound experiences of connection. Many describe Huachuma as a heart-centered teacher that encourages compassion, authenticity, and relationship with the living world. Effects can be physically demanding and may include nausea, changes in perception, and emotional intensity. When approached with respect, preparation, and proper guidance, San Pedro can be a powerful ally in the entheogemic apothecary.
sassafras (Sassafras albidum) & MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine )
Sassafras is a deciduous tree native to eastern North America and has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine. The aromatic root bark was historically used in teas and tonics to support circulation, digestion, and general vitality. Sassafras contains safrole, a naturally occurring compound that later became known as a precursor in the synthesis of MDMA and other substances. While this association has contributed to its modern notoriety, the tree itself has a much older history as a botanical ally. Traditional preparations were valued for their warming, stimulating, and cleansing qualities, though excessive consumption may carry health risks. Sassafras invites reflection on the complex relationship between plants, chemistry, culture, and medicine within the entheogemic apothecary.
mimosa/wattle/desert acacia (Acacia spp)
Various species of desert acacia grow throughout arid regions of Australia, Africa, and the Americas. These resilient trees have been valued by Indigenous cultures for food, medicine, tools, dyes, and ceremonial purposes. Certain species contain naturally occurring tryptamines, including N,N-DMT, which has contributed to their interest within contemporary entheogenic communities. Beyond their chemical constituents, acacias are often regarded as symbols of endurance, adaptation, and relationship with harsh environments. Not all species contain the same compounds, and many have no known psychoactive use. As with all botanical allies, respectful identification, ecological stewardship, and cultural awareness are essential. Desert acacia reminds us that the medicine of a plant often extends far beyond its chemistry.
poppy (Papaver somniferum)
The opium poppy has been cultivated for thousands of years throughout Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Its latex contains alkaloids that have played a significant role in the development of pain-relieving medicines, including morphine and codeine. Throughout history, poppy preparations have been used to ease pain, induce sleep, and provide comfort during illness and end-of-life care. At the same time, compounds derived from the poppy carry substantial risks of dependence, misuse, and overdose. The history of the poppy reflects both the profound healing potential and the serious challenges associated with powerful medicines. Within the entheogemic apothecary, poppy serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between relief, responsibility, and respect.
ergot fungi (claviceps purpurea) & Lysergic ACID diethylamide (LSD)
Ergot is a fungus that grows on rye and other cereal grains. Throughout history, it has occupied a unique place in medicine, agriculture, and folklore. Ergot contains a variety of alkaloids that influenced the development of several modern pharmaceuticals, including compounds related to the synthesis of LSD. Historically, accidental consumption of ergot-contaminated grain sometimes led to outbreaks of poisoning characterized by hallucinations, convulsions, and severe physical symptoms. At the same time, ergot-derived compounds have contributed to treatments for migraines, childbirth-related bleeding, and other medical conditions. Ergot illustrates the often-surprising ways that fungi have shaped human culture, medicine, and our understanding of consciousness.
diviner's sage (salvia divinorum)
Salvia divinorum, often called Diviner's Sage, is a member of the mint family native to the cloud forests of Oaxaca, Mexico. For generations, Mazatec healers have used the plant in ceremonial and divinatory practices to seek guidance, insight, and healing. Salvia contains salvinorin A, a unique compound that can produce brief but profoundly altered states of awareness unlike those associated with many other entheogenic plants. Experiences may include shifts in perception, identity, and one's sense of reality itself. The intensity and unfamiliar nature of these experiences can be disorienting, making preparation and appropriate context especially important. Salvia invites humility and curiosity in the exploration of consciousness and the mysteries of the mind.
Iboga (Tabernanthe iboga)
Iboga is a shrub native to the rainforests of Central West Africa, particularly Gabon, Cameroon, and the Republic of the Congo. It has been used for centuries within the Bwiti spiritual tradition as a sacrament for initiation, healing, and communion with ancestors and the spiritual world. The root bark contains ibogaine and related alkaloids that can evoke extended visionary experiences, deep introspection, and encounters with personal memories and life patterns. Iboga has also drawn attention for its potential role in addiction treatment, though its use carries significant physical risks and requires careful screening and experienced support. Revered as a powerful teacher, iboga often invites profound self-examination and transformation. It remains one of the most potent and demanding allies in the entheogemic apothecary.
Peyote (Lophophora williamsii) & Mescaline
Peyote is a small, spineless cactus native to the deserts of northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. For thousands of years, it has been used ceremonially by Indigenous peoples for healing, prayer, community bonding, and spiritual connection. Peyote contains mescaline and other alkaloids that may facilitate expanded awareness, emotional insight, and experiences of interconnectedness. Due to overharvesting and habitat loss, peyote populations face increasing ecological pressure, making conservation and ethical stewardship important considerations. Many Indigenous communities regard peyote as a sacred relative rather than simply a psychoactive substance. Within the entheogemic apothecary, peyote invites reverence, reciprocity, and a deeper relationship with the living world.
magic mushrooms (Psilocybin spp.)
Magic mushrooms are a psychotropic fungal medicine, usually eaten, dried and powdered and put into chocolate, or made into tea. Technically, fungi share more DNA in common with humans than they do with plants. Psilocybin mushrooms often grow naturally out of cow dung. However, they are regularly cultivated on brown rice. Wild foraging of psilocybin mushrooms is dangerous. Be certain you know how to identify this mushroom, as many mushrooms are toxic and even fatal. These mushrooms are relatively indistinct brown mushrooms, but their stems distinctly bruise blue. Psilocybin mushrooms can produce euphoric feelings and possibly relieve mental health conditions. Studies show they relieve depression and PTSD better than prescription drugs. Archaeological evidence shows that entheogenic mushrooms have been used in cultures for thousands of years. Although discouraged and illegalized by the Church, their use has continued, and opinions and laws are finally changing that acknowledge the benefits of magic mushrooms. However, these allies can produce powerful visions, some call hallucinations, and augmented reality. These visions can be beautiful or terrifying and can cause anxiety and psychotic breaks when proper set and setting and dosage is not followed. They are mildly toxic and can produce nausea and vomiting. Proceed with caution and care and consult with a healthcare provider and research the federal regulations before proceeding. Intention is essential, especially in higher dosages. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybe