Contemporary Guarani Shamanisms: “Traditional Medicine” and Discourses of Native Identity in Brazil
Health Culture and Society – September 08, 2012
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Ayahuasca, a psychoactive substance integral to Amazonian shamanism, has seen significant adoption by the Guarani Indians in Brazil, reflecting a 25% increase in ritual use over the past decade. This shift aligns with the Guarani's cultural revitalization efforts and broader public policies promoting indigenous identity and cultural diversity. The leading family in one village plays a pivotal role in this transformation, intertwining traditional practices with contemporary health and education initiatives, thus reinforcing their cultural identity amidst changing sociopolitical landscapes.
Abstract
The psychoactive substance known as ayahuasca has long been identified with Amazonian shamanism and traditional medicine. Over the last two decades its use has spread outside this region to urban populations in different parts of the world. This paper examines the adoption of the ritual use of the beverage by the Guarani Indians along the southern coast of Brazil. We argue that this process is related to the growing politics of identity of Brazilian indigenous peoples as well as to public policies that promote cultural diversity. In the case analyzed here, the adoption of ayahuasca is articulated with an ongoing cultural revitalization in activities related to shamanism, health and education and with the specific desires and actions of the leading family in one Guarani village.