Initiation Plants in Drug Addiction Treatment: The Purgahuasca Therapy

Abstract

This article focuses on the utilization of Banisteriopsis caapi in drug addiction treatment. The primary research was carried out in Takiwasi Center for the Rehabilitation of Drug Addicts and Research on Traditional Medicines. A preparation from B. caapi, also known as purgahuasca, that is being used in the center was initially administered during initiation rituals by the Awajún (Aguaruna) people in northern Peru. This paper describes the purgahuasca ritual and its distribution among the Awajún people. Our findings reveal that between 68.2% and 86.5% of respondents recognize the importance of the purgahuasca ritual to their recovery. Appropriate conservation tools must be created to preserve the purgahuasca ritual for future generations, as it represents a useful therapeutic tool and an important part of the intangible cultural heritage of Peru.