Sinicuichi (Heimia salicifolia) Foliage

Description

Sinicuichi (Heimia salicifolia) is a flowering shrub that grows from Mexico to Argentina and is widely cultivated through its range. Hemia salicifolia has a Shamanic tradition dating to the Aztecs. The leaves were crushed, mixed with water and allowed to ferment for a few days, making a nice-tasting tea called Sinicuichi.

The effect of the Sinicuichi tea was a euphoriant and a brightening/yellowing of vision, hence the name “Sun Opener.” Sinicuichi is also thought to give the ability to recall past events with great clarity and has the unusual characteristic of being an auditory hallucinogen.

Traditional & Modern Use:
The Heimia salicifolia plant commonly called “Sun Opener” has been identified as psychoactive by many and some do not notice any clear effects. Scientific studies have been inconclusive but the majority of individuals claim to hear voices coming from far off in the distance, yellow glowing light surrounding objects and subtle bell-like sounds indicate that there are definitely some hallucinogenic effects to sinicuichi, but what causes these occurrences is still a mystery and that’s what makes this beautiful plant so fascinating!