Rapé
Starter kit

The common use of rapé by indigenous groups of South America happens in two ways. Traditionally, it is pictured with two people. With the help of a long pipe (traditionally: bamboo or a hollowed bone), an approximately pea-sized portion of the powdery tobacco is blown by one person into the nostrils of the ritual partner. Self application is also possible with a V-shaped pipe (Kuripe), which connects mouth and nose. Within shamanic practices, an experienced member of the tribe or a shaman takes on the role of 'giver'. They believe that through the ritual not only the rapé but also the spirit of the person sending it is blown into the nose. In this way, the sender passes on his or her own energy to the receiving person, who is said to be strengthened by it. The natives additionally invoke the energies of power animals and spirits for the ritual, which are supposed to support the ritual. Special importance is given to the power of the breath (Soplada). The method and the knowledge of blowing rapé is of great importance here.

For inexperienced users, the ritual may be easier together with a partner. The experienced natives report that already the application on the first nostril can be overwhelming. However, for an energetic balance it is important that both nostrils are filled. While the left nostril traditionally represents death, the right side represents rebirth.

The effect of rapé depends largely on the particular mixture. According to the indigenous people, it can basically open the mind and solve diseases on a physical, emotional and spiritual level. Traditionally, at the beginning of a rapé ritual, the person receiving it sets an intention and selects a suitable variety accordingly. Other important factors are the respectful handling of the plants contained in the ritual and a quiet, undisturbed environment in which the ritual is performed. With the help of incense and relaxing sounds, a pleasant meditative atmosphere can be created.

On a physical level, rapé is said to have a cleansing effect and help eliminate toxins from the body. In some sources, the detoxifying function is also associated with the pineal gland. This organ in the middle of the brain is said to be related to non-physical perception and to enable visions.

Mentally, the tobacco can be stimulating and even psychoactive. The stimulating effect is due to the high nicotine content. This ingredient releases hormones such as adrenaline and dopamine. While adrenaline provides clarity and attention, dopamine helps to let go of negative thoughts and gain positivity.

On the latter, spiritual level, according to the indigenous people the mixture of (healing) plants should be primarily effective. Thus, users should be able to make profound experiences in the ceremonial context. Rapé is said to help to release an entrenched mentality, to free the energy body from foreign energies and to open and harmonize the chakras. Especially on the level of the heart chakra, blockages should be released and users should be freed from listlessness.

As mentioned above, the exact nature and intensity of the effect depends on the exact ingredients. In summary, Rapé is said to have a clearing and harmonizing effect on a physical, mental and spiritual level. It is said that the energy flow of the chakras is supported and the connection with the higher self and the universe is strengthened.