Use of snuff and its main constituents for religious purposes in an alternative community with shamanic practices in the south of Brazil
Journal of Psychedelic Studies September 21, 2022 Thais Guimarães Bourscheid, Leonardo Corrêa Cardoso, Marcelo Henrique Nascimento Santana et al. 3 citations
Snuff is a fine aromatic powder traditionally made from dried leaves, tobacco, roots, peels, and seeds. Its use for indigenous religious purposes dates to pre-Columbian times across the Americas and is considered sacred in indigenous culture. Colonizers trivialized its consumption, leading to industrialization for commerce. Commercial snuff now consists mainly of industrialized tobacco without medicinal plants or spiritual intent, posing health risks. In shamanism, plants serve as vehicles to access other realms, enabling dialogue with spirits and acquisition of knowledge. Plants in shamanic snuff vary by locality; Erythroxylum coca is used in Amazon communities, alongside Chacrona and Mariri in ayahuasca preparation. Distinguishing recreational from shamanic snuff and studying their effects is essential.