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Sananga: The Sacred Eye Drops of the Amazon for Vision, Clarity and Spiritual Healing
- Urukla Healing
- Jun 19
- 35 min read
Sananga is more than a traditional eye drop – it is a sacred plant medicine revered by Amazonian tribes for its profound effects on vision, clarity, and spiritual healing. For countless generations, indigenous healers have applied these potent drops in healing rituals and hunts, believing they can sharpen eyesight, clear negative energy, and open spiritual vision. In the West, Sananga is often called “the sacred eye drops of the Amazon,” bridging physical and spiritual sight in one powerful experience. Written in the mystical language of the rainforest and delivered through a humble dropper, Sananga carries the wisdom of the jungle into our eyes and souls.
In this comprehensive guide, we journey deep into the origins, uses, and safe practices of Sananga. We’ll explore its tribal roots among peoples like the Matsés, Kaxinawá (Huni Kuin), Yawanawá, Nukini, and Apurinã, uncover traditional myths and preparation methods, and learn how to use Sananga respectfully in a modern setting. From what Sananga is and how it’s made, to its ceremonial uses for vision and spiritual cleansing, to step-by-step guidance on safe home use, this article provides an authoritative look at this Amazonian eye medicine. Read on to discover how Sananga can burn away illusion and bring clarity – and why it must always be approached with deep respect, intention, and care.
What is Sananga? A Visionary Medicine of the Amazon
Sananga refers to a variety of sacred eye drop preparations made from the roots and bark of certain Amazonian shrubs in the Tabernaemontana genus. Most commonly, it is prepared from Tabernaemontana undulata, a rainforest shrub with white, star-shaped flowers, or occasionally from its relative Tabernaemontana sananho. These plants are part of the Apocynaceae family, known for their milky sap and rich alkaloid content. Among some tribes, the Sananga derived from T. undulata is called “mana heins” by the Huni Kuin (Kaxinawá), and “beçhete” by the Matsés. The very name "Sananga" is often used broadly to denote this class of eye medicines, which are treasured for their ability to enhance both physical and spiritual vision.
Physically, Sananga is a brownish liquid applied as drops in each eye. Its immediate effects include an intense burning sensation followed by a period of enhanced visual clarity. Energetically, Amazonian shamans describe Sananga as a powerful “spirit” or plant teacher that enters through the eyes to cleanse the body and spirit of negative energies (panema). It is not hallucinogenic in the way visionary brews like ayahuasca are – in fact, Sananga contains no psychedelic compounds like DMT, and while it shares some alkaloids with the iboga plant, it is not considered hallucinogenic. Instead, Sananga works on a subtler level, clearing the mind, heightening perception, and realigning one’s energy. Many users report that after the initial sting passes, their inner and outer vision feel sharper, colours appear richer, and a sense of calm clarity washes over them.
Sananga is sometimes poetically called “medicine for the eyes and soul.” It has been traditionally used to improve eyesight and awareness for hunters, to treat ocular ailments, and to remove spiritual blockages that cloud perception. In essence, Sananga is both a physical remedy and a spiritual ally. It is a drop distilled from the rainforest, carrying with it the prayers, songs, and intentions of the healers who craft it. Whether one seeks keener night vision or a clearer third-eye intuition, Sananga offers a path to seeing the world – and oneself – with renewed clarity.
Origins and Indigenous Traditions of Sananga
Sananga’s story begins deep in the Amazon rainforest, where indigenous tribes have revered this medicine for centuries. Multiple tribal traditions carry Sananga in their healing repertoire, each with its own legends and practices:
Kaxinawá (Huni Kuin) – The Huni Kuin people of Brazil (also called Kaxinawá) regard Sananga as a gift from the jungle spirits. One origin story tells of a Kaxinawá medicine man who, guided by visionary dreams, discovered the Sananga plant when forest spirits showed him a plant with glowing roots and white flowers. The spirits taught him how to prepare the drops, saying “This will open the eyes – not just of the body, but of the soul.” When he applied the medicine, it burned away illusions and allowed him to see the spiritual essence in all things. Since then, Huni Kuin warriors and shamans have used Sananga to sharpen their vision for hunting and battle, and to cleanse themselves before ceremonies. The Huni Kuin call one form of this medicine mana heins, and often pair Sananga with other sacred medicines like Rapé (hapé) and Kambô in rituals of spiritual fortification and cleansing.
Matsés (Mayoruna) – The Matsés tribe of Peru and Brazil are famed hunters and have long used a similar eye medicine known as “beçhete.” The Matsés apply Sananga drops to enhance their night vision and perception in the dense jungle, giving hunters an edge in spotting camouflaged animals. They believe it not only improves eyesight but also heightens hearing and awareness, clearing the mind of “panema,” or dark stagnant energy that brings bad luck. Matsés hunters say the sharpened senses and spiritual focus from Sananga can last for days after use. This can mean the difference between success and failure in the rainforest, where survival often hinges on keen senses. Beçhete is prepared from the root bark of Tabernaemontana undulata and is regarded as a cure-all in Matsés medicine, used to treat a wide range of ailments beyond the eyes.
Yawanawá – The Yawanawá, another Brazilian Amazon tribe, similarly prize Sananga for its ability to clear “panema” (negative energies or spiritual blockage) and restore harmony to the body and spirit. In Yawanawá healing tradition, Sananga is applied to purify one’s energy field and to prepare for other sacred ceremonies, especially ayahuasca ceremonies. Yawanawá shamans say that without clearing panema, a person remains mired in lethargy and misfortune – Sananga’s fire can dispel this cloud. They use the drops to enhance spiritual insight and align the senses with the jungle’s subtle signals, whether for hunting or for communing with the spirit world.
Katukina and Nukini – The Katukina (also called Katukina-Pano) and Nukini tribes of Acre, Brazil also incorporate Sananga into their rituals. The Nukini, for example, prepare Sananga from Tabernaemontana undulata root and use it in ceremonies to clear energy blockages, improve visual acuity, and deepen spiritual connection to nature. Nukini shamans say these eye drops help strengthen one’s bond with the forest and ancestors. The Katukina are well known for other medicines like kambô (frog medicine), and they too use Sananga as part of spiritual practice to enhance perception and protection. In their worldview, every plant is a teacher given by the forest spirits – Sananga is one such teacher for clear sight and spiritual defense against negativity.
Apurinã – The Apurinã people (also known as Popeng), native to the Purus river region of Brazil, have rich shamanic traditions as well. While less is published about Apurinã-specific Sananga practices, they are known to work with various plant medicines and value stones and plants in healing. It’s likely that, like their neighbors, the Apurinã include Sananga in their toolkit for spiritual cleansing and vision enhancement. Given that Sananga has spread across many Amazonian tribes, the Apurinã would use it with the same reverence – to clear the mind’s eye and strengthen their “medicine” before hunts or ceremonies.
Each tribe has its own way of contextualizing Sananga – yet common themes emerge. Sananga is universally regarded as **a sacred "plant teacher" that provides clarity, both literally and metaphorically. Tribal healers emphasize that the medicine must be respected; they perform prayers, chants, or intention-setting when making and administering Sananga. It’s often said that Sananga “chooses” those who are ready – not everyone in the tribe will opt to take the burning drops, but those who do are often considered to be cleansing and strengthening their spirit for a purpose.
Another unifying concept is “Panema”, mentioned by Yawanawá, Huni Kuin, and others. Panema can be described as a dark or heavy energy, a cloud of bad luck, depression, or confusion that accumulates on a person. Sananga, in the indigenous view, burns away panema. The intense discomfort is seen as the spirit of the plant hunting down this negative energy and flushing it out through tears and sweat. Afterward, the person’s energy field is cleared, and they can move freely again in life, with sharper senses and a lighter spirit.
It’s worth noting that historically, knowledge of Sananga was closely guarded within these tribes. Only in recent decades has this medicine been shared more widely outside the Amazon. This sharing often happens through cultural exchanges, spiritual retreats, and the burgeoning interest in shamanic healing practices worldwide. As we embrace Sananga in modern contexts, it’s crucial to honour its indigenous origins – acknowledging the tribes who have safeguarded this wisdom and ensuring they benefit from any use of their sacred medicine. (We’ll discuss ethical sourcing later in this article.)
The Sananga Plant: Botany and Traditional Preparation
What plant does Sananga come from? Sananga is derived from the roots and bark of certain Amazonian shrubs in the Tabernaemontana genus, especially Tabernaemontana undulata and Tabernaemontana sananho. These plants thrive in the Amazon’s lush understory and are part of the dogbane family (Apocynaceae). They are sometimes called “milkwood” due to the milky latex they exude when cut. In appearance, T. undulata has glossy green leaves and delicate white pinwheel-like flowers, while T. sananho is similar but has its own subtle differences (both are often simply referred to as “Sananga plants”). Local names include “Becchete” (Matsés) for the T. undulata variety and “Uchu Sanango” (in some Peruvian dialects) for T. sananho, among other.
Traditional Harvesting: Indigenous shamans approach the harvest of Sananga plants with great reverence. In many traditions, specific rituals and timing are observed. For instance, some shamans seek permission from the plant’s spirit before cutting its roots or bark. Harvesting might be done during certain moon phases or times of day believed to maximise the plant’s potency. An elder may sing or offer tobacco to the plant, thanking the spirit of Sananga for its medicine. Only what is needed is taken, often from mature plants, to ensure sustainability and respect for the rainforest.
Once harvested, the preparation of Sananga is itself a sacred process. Traditional preparation typically involves the following steps:
Grinding the Roots/Bark: The roots and bark of the plant are pounded or ground into a fine paste or pulp. This can be done using a mortar and pestle (often made of wood or stone). During this process, the shaman or healer often prays or sets an intention, infusing the medicine with an energetic purpose.
Maceration in Water: The ground plant material is then soaked or macerated in clean water – traditionally, pure rainwater or water from a clean jungle stream is used The paste might steep for several hours as the water draws out the plant’s active compounds. This creates a potent herbal infusion. In some recipes, the mixture may be gently heated or left in the sun for a time, though not boiled, as high heat could degrade the alkaloids.
Straining and Filtering: The liquid is then filtered through a fine sieve or cloth, removing the solids. What remains is a brownish, tea-like liquid – the Sananga eye medicine. This liquid is highly potent and is carefully collected in a clean vessel. The entire time, the preparer might blow tobacco smoke over it, sing icaros (medicine songs), or pray, asking the spirit of Sananga to work for healing and clarity.
Blessing and Bottling: Finally, the Sananga is often blessed by the shaman. It may be poured into small bottles or vials for use. Traditionally, Sananga was made fresh for immediate use in ceremonies or hunts. However, when prepared for sharing or sale, it is bottled. Even then, many indigenous healers stress that the energy and intention during preparation affect the medicine’s efficacy. It’s not just a chemical extraction – it’s a spiritual infusion.
Sananga made in the traditional way is considered extremely pure, containing just the plant extract and water (no additives). Because of this, it has a limited shelf life – typically around 3 to 6 months if refrigerated. With time, it can lose potency or even grow bacteria/fungi since it lacks preservatives. Some makers add a bit of colloidal silver (a natural antimicrobial) as a preservative to slightly extend shelf life, but many purists prefer it without any additives, accepting its ephemeral nature as part of the medicine.
It’s interesting that two main species (T. undulata and T. sananho) are used. Some tribes distinguish between them: Tabernaemontana undulata preparations are often considered highly cleansing and good for general vision sharpening, whereas Tabernaemontana sananho (sometimes called “Grandfather Sanango”) is said to have a slightly different energy – possibly more dream-inducing or spiritually potent in some contexts. One source notes that sananho (Grandfather Sanango) might be rarer and linked to deeper dream work and pineal gland activation. However, both types share similar uses and effects, and both are called “Sananga” broadly.
In addition, there are anecdotes of other related plants sometimes labelled as Sananga by locals (for example, some mention a plant called Chiric Sanango, which is actually a different species – Brunfelsia – used for other healing purposes). But for our purposes, the Sananga eye drops refer to the Tabernaemontana-derived drops.
Modern Preparation: Today, if you purchase Sananga from a reputable source, it likely has been prepared either by an indigenous community or by trained herbalists following traditional methods. As mentioned, quality and intention during preparation are key. Shaman’s Cave, for example, ensures our Sananga is crafted traditionally by indigenous healers from the Amazon, using wild-harvested Tabernaemontana roots and clean water, and imbued with prayer and song for authenticity and potency.
When you open a bottle of Sananga, you are receiving a liquid that contains not only plant alkaloids, but also the echo of rainforest rituals. Each drop carries the spirit of the plant and the intention of the healer who made it. This is why users are encouraged to treat it not just as a chemical eye drop, but as a sacred sacrament.
Traditional Uses: Clarity in Vision, Spirit, and Emotion
Why have so many Amazonian tribes relied on Sananga? The uses of this medicine span the physical, spiritual, and even emotional realms:
Sharpening Physical Vision for Hunting: Perhaps the most famous traditional use of Sananga is to improve a hunter’s vision. Before venturing into the thick rainforest, hunters would instill Sananga in their eyes to heighten their ability to see animals in low light and dense foliage. Night vision and peripheral vision in particular are said to benefit. Hunters report seeing the movements of animals more acutely and even perceiving subtle details like the flicker of a snake’s scales or a camouflaged bird on a branch. This improved sight can last for a short period or even a few days. In jungle environments where dangers (like venomous snakes or thorny plants) are everywhere, enhanced vision and alertness can be lifesaving. Some tribes also believe Sananga heightens other senses like hearing, making the hunter more attuned overall to the forest.
Clearing Energetic Panema (Negative Energy): As discussed, Sananga is widely used to clear “panema” – the dense cloud of negative energy, lethargy or bad luck that can attach to a person. In tribal spiritual healing, removing panema is often the first step to curing illness or restoring harmony. Sananga’s pain is viewed as “the fire that purifies”. It burns away these dark or stagnant energies from one’s body and aura. After the tears have flowed, the person is left lighter, happier, and re-aligned with positive energy. This makes Sananga not only a medicine for the eyes but a powerful aura cleanser and mood shifter. People often report feeling emotionally “unstuck” or relieved after a Sananga session, as if a weight has been lifted.
Spiritual Vision and the “Third Eye”: Many tribes use Sananga in a ceremonial context to open spiritual vision. The idea is that Sananga doesn’t just improve physical sight; it also opens the inner eye (third eye chakra), enhancing intuition and spiritual sight. Shamans might take Sananga before engaging in divination or communication with spirits. In some accounts, shamans can see the spiritual dimensions – such as auras, or the presence of spirit helpers – more clearly after Sananga. Even for non-shamans, applying Sananga with intention can lead to visions or insights during meditation. Some users describe seeing geometric patterns or light visuals when their eyes are closed after taking Sananga, or having a vision-like journey (though milder than an ayahuasca vision, more like vivid inner imagery). The Shamanic understanding is that Sananga aligns one with truth – it “burns away illusion” so one can see reality unfiltered, both in the outer world and in one’s own life.
Preparation for Other Ceremonies: In Amazonian spirituality, medicines often work in synergy. Sananga is frequently used as a prelude to other plant ceremonies. For example, before an Ayahuasca ceremony, participants may receive Sananga drops to clear the mind and energetically cleanse the body. This is believed to make the ayahuasca visions more clear and focused, free of distracting thoughts or emotional baggage. Likewise, Sananga may be given before taking Rapé (hapé), the sacred tobacco snuff, to help the person be fully present and grounded for that medicine. Some traditions also use Sananga in conjunction with Kambô (frog medicine), often doing a Sananga application shortly before or after a Kambô session to enhance the overall cleansing and sharpness of perception. Ayahuasqueros (ayahuasca shamans) say that Sananga “opens the astral vision” so that one enters the ayahuasca ceremony more receptively. In essence, it’s a preparatory tool, aligning body and spirit for deeper work.
Healing of Eye Ailments: On a practical medicinal level, tribes have used Sananga to treat various eye conditions and other ailments. For example, if someone has red, irritated eyes or an infection, a diluted Sananga might be applied to clear it up (the plant’s natural anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties can help with minor infections). Indigenous medicine men have reportedly used it for cataracts and glaucoma in early stages – though this is anecdotal and not scientifically verified. Sananga has also been used traditionally for things seemingly unrelated to eyes: headaches, skin conditions, snakebite, fever, and rheumatism are on some tribes’ list of Sananga’s healing powers. It’s even been noted as a general “cure-all” or panacea in jungle communities. This might be because of its believed ability to address the spiritual root of ailments – by removing panema and balancing energy, the body’s natural healing is thought to kick in and remedy physical issues. However, modern users should be cautious – serious eye diseases or injuries should not be treated solely with Sananga (more on that in safety section).
Emotional and Mental Clarity: Beyond the physical benefits, many users – indigenous and modern – find that Sananga provides a kind of emotional or mental “reset.” It’s not uncommon for a Sananga session to lead to a bout of crying (from the pain/tearing), during which one might also release pent-up emotions. Some have spontaneously cried not just from the sting, but from a sense of emotional catharsis – grief, fear, or anger surfacing and releasing. Afterward, they report feeling mentally clear, focused, and emotionally lighter. Sananga is thus sometimes used in conjunction with therapy or spiritual counseling, as a way to help someone break through emotional blocks. It’s also noted for ending “mind chatter” – after the intense experience, one often finds a profound stillness of the mind, ideal for meditation or intention-setting.
In sum, Sananga straddles the line between medicine and mysticism. It can be as practical as helping a hunter feed his family, or as mystical as helping a seeker find spiritual truth. The key through all these uses is intention. Taken with a clear intention – be it “help me see better” or “help me let go of negativity” – Sananga seems to meet the user halfway, aligning with that purpose. In traditional settings, intentions are often silently set or spoken before applying the drops. The plants are considered intelligent; their spirit hears the prayer and works accordingly.
The Sananga Experience: What to Expect
Newcomers to Sananga often wonder what the experience actually feels like. Let’s walk through the typical sensations and duration of a Sananga session, so you know what to expect:
Immediate Sensation (The Burn): As soon as the drops hit your eyes, be prepared for a strong burning or stinging sensation. Many compare it to having hot chili or pepper juice in the eyes – it is intense and unmistakable. Your natural reaction will be to squeeze your eyes shut, possibly gasp, and maybe even flinch or want to rub your eyes (try not to rub them!). This burning usually peaks in the first 20-30 seconds after application and can remain quite strong for a few minutes. Tears will flow profusely – your eyes will water as they attempt to flush out the irritant, and your nose may run too. Some people might also feel their heart rate increase a bit or warmth spreading through their body, a sign of the body’s energetic and physical response.
It’s common to experience involuntary emotional reactions during this period. You might find yourself breathing heavily, moaning, or even releasing a yell or a cry. This is actually part of the energetic release – as the Amazonian elders say, “The pain is the medicine working.” They encourage breathing deeply and staying present through this intensity, acknowledging that the burn is purifying you.
Duration of Pain: The most acute burning typically lasts about 2 to 5 minutes. For some, it might subside sooner, and for others, a moderate sting can linger up to 10 minutes. Generally, around the 5-minute mark, most people notice the intensity starting to wane. You’ll still feel a heat or throbbing in your eyes, but it becomes more tolerable. During this time, keeping your eyes closed often feels best. You can gently blink periodically to help the medicine spread evenly across the eyes.
Visions or Visual Phenomena: If you keep your eyes closed (which many do), you might start to notice visual patterns on the inside of your eyelids. Some users report seeing flashes of light, geometrical shapes, or colours swirling. These are subtle – not a full hallucination, but akin to a meditative vision or the phosphenes you see when pressing on your eyes (though often more vivid). In traditional belief, these patterns can be the energetic blockages leaving or messages from the plant spirit. Not everyone “sees” something; experiences vary. If you do open your eyes during the peak, your vision will be very blurry and eyes extremely watery. It’s usually not useful to try to look around until the blurriness passes.
Physical Effects: Along with tears, your nose might drip and you could salivate a bit – it’s a full-on purgative response for the head region. Some people experience a mild headache or pressure in the head (often as part of the energy moving). Occasionally, especially with strong Sananga, a person might feel a wave of nausea or dizziness. This is less common, but if it happens, it’s okay to spit out any saliva (since swallowing it could upset the stomach) or even vomit if you need to – these are all forms of release. However, serious nausea is rare with Sananga (unlike something like ayahuasca or Kambô which are meant to purge). Some individuals also feel a tingling or pulsating sensation in their body or a specific chakra, as if energy circuits are being cleaned out.
After the Storm – Calm Clarity: Once the burning fades (let’s say 5-10 minutes in), a remarkable calm often ensues. You’ll likely be able to open your eyes comfortably again. At this point, vision usually feels clean and sharp. Many people notice that colours appear more vibrant, contrast is enhanced, and their field of vision seems crisper. If it was nighttime or dark, lights might have halos or subtle auras at first, but soon you might find you see better in low light. If it’s daytime, everything might look “high definition.” There’s often a sense that your peripheral vision widened – you’re aware of more in your surroundings than usual.
There is also a distinct mind-state after Sananga. You might find your mind is very still, empty of chatter, and you feel grounded and present. Any anxiety or overthinking that was there prior could be gone, replaced by a kind of neutral clarity and focus. Some describe this as a meditative state or a sense of being “reset.” Emotionally, you may feel light, open-hearted, or oddly joyful (sometimes people giggle or smile spontaneously after the intensity, like a post-purge euphoria). It’s also possible you feel thoughtful or introspective, especially if any inner visions or feelings came up – you might lie there reflecting on what you experienced or learned during the short ordeal.
Duration of Effects: The most acute phase (burn and immediate afterglow) is relatively short – about 15 to 20 minutes from application to feeling normal again, give or take. However, the subtle effects can last hours to days:
The visual sharpness may last through the day or into the next day (hunters claim improved hunting vision for several days).
The energetic cleansing might leave you feeling unusually positive or “light” for a while. Some people notice their sleep the night after is very deep or with lucid dreams, likely due to the pineal gland stimulation and energy shift.
If you had emotional releases, the integration of those might continue for days as you notice you’ve let go of something or feel a new perspective.
On the physical side, your eyes might remain slightly red (bloodshot) for an hour or two due to the irritation. This is normal. They generally clear up by the next day. It’s a good idea to avoid straining your eyes immediately after (like avoid staring at screens for a long time on the same day if possible).
Varied Experiences: It’s important to note that experiences can vary widely. Some first-timers find it more painful than they expected, others say “It wasn’t as bad as I feared.” Some might get profound spiritual insight; others might simply feel the physical effect. Factors that influence this include the strength of the Sananga, your own sensitivity, your mindset, and the setting in which you take it.
For example, milder Sananga (see next section on strengths) might produce a gentler burn and milder effects, suitable for beginners. Stronger Sananga can feel like literal fire and come with stronger after-effects. If you are particularly energetically blocked or tense, sometimes the Sananga can feel more painful (as if meeting a lot of resistance). If you are relaxed and welcoming, it can sometimes feel more manageable. The same person might have an “easy” session one time and a very challenging one another time, depending on what the medicine is working on.
In any case, the core aspects remain consistent: a short-lived intense discomfort, followed by a clearing and a clarity. As one saying goes, “Sananga brings the tears that clear the vision.” The profound clarity after the pain is what brings people back to work with Sananga again – it truly can feel like seeing the world with new eyes.
Mild, Medium, Strong: Different Strengths of Sananga
Not all Sananga is created equal. Just as one can brew tea light or strong, Sananga’s potency can vary depending on how it’s made, the plant source, and its concentration. In both traditional and modern contexts, you might encounter Sananga described as “mild,” “medium,” or “strong”. Here’s what that means:
Mild Sananga: This is a lighter concentration of the medicine, often recommended for beginners or those with very sensitive eyes. Mild Sananga still burns, but the intensity might be a notch or two lower than the full-strength drops. This could be achieved by using fewer plant materials in the preparation or by intentionally diluting the final product slightly (e.g., adding a bit of distilled water). The effects on vision and energy are present but subtler. Mild Sananga is ideal for getting acquainted with the medicine, learning to breathe through the sensation, and ensuring you don’t overwhelm yourself initially. Many first-time users start with mild to gauge their comfort.
Medium Strength Sananga: A balanced middle-ground option, medium Sananga is typically a full traditional dose but perhaps from a plant that is not the absolute strongest, or it might be a mix that’s been adjusted to be user-friendly for most people. It’s often said to be suitable for both newcomers who handled mild well and for experienced users who want a regular-use strength. The burn here is strong but not as searing as the most potent batch. Effects are noticeable – clear vision, energy cleansing, etc., but without pushing one to the far edge. Think of it as the “everyday ceremonial” strength.
Strong Sananga: This is the full power, high-test Sananga, sometimes humorously (or not) described as “for the brave.” Strong Sananga is often prepared by highly experienced makers, possibly using very mature roots or a higher concentration of extract. Some “strong” Sananga comes from specific tribes known for potent medicine, or from the T. sananho variety, which some say can feel stronger on the energetic level. When you apply strong Sananga, expect an intense burn that can floor you for a few minutes. It’s often used for deep spiritual cleansing and powerful visions. This is the sort of Sananga that might make even seasoned users grip the earth and breathe hard. It’s recommended only for those who have worked their way up or who specifically need that intensity for a breakthrough. The after-effects of strong Sananga can also be more pronounced – e.g., more vivid colours, possibly more emotional purge or longer-lasting clarity.
What determines these strengths? A few factors:
Concentration: As noted, strong might simply mean less dilution. Some vendors will literally label their bottles mild/medium/strong based on how much distilled water they add to dilute the raw extract.
Plant Source: Some batches of Sananga are inherently stronger due to the particular plants used. Older, larger plants may yield stronger medicine. Some tribes’ preparation techniques might extract more alkaloids. There’s mention that Tabernaemontana sananho (which the Kaxinawá sometimes use) is considered a bit different in effect – possibly more “visionary” – whereas T. undulata is very cleansing and sharp. There’s also a mention of Tabernaemontana albiflora by some sources, used for emotional healing, though it’s less common in commerce.
Freshness: Fresher Sananga can be stronger. Over time, even refrigerated, Sananga may slowly lose potency. So a newly made batch might hit harder than one that’s nearing its expiration.
Intention and Ritual: It might sound mystical, but users swear that the batch made by a powerful shaman in ceremony feels stronger energetically than one mass-produced without such care. The “spirit” in it can be more intense, which translates to a stronger experience.
Choosing the Right Strength: If you are buying Sananga, see if the seller indicates the strength. Many reputable sources do. If not labelled, assume it’s a standard full strength, which for many is quite strong. When in doubt, start low. You can also dilute a strong Sananga yourself with a bit of sterile saline or distilled water if it’s too much (e.g., product instructions often say you can dilute by 20-50% for a gentler experience).
Even within one bottle, you control dosage: using one drop per eye is the standard, but some people might do two drops per eye for a heavier dose (not recommended until you know how one drop feels!). Also, if using alone, one drop each eye sequentially will already be challenging; some advanced practitioners may do multiple rounds (like one drop each eye, then later another drop each). In the Sankofa account, the author tried Sananga twice in the same evening after finding it beneficial – but that’s an experienced choice.
Tolerance doesn’t build in a traditional sense (each time feels intense), but you do become more psychologically and energetically accustomed, which can make you handle it better. However, it’s wise not to jump to the strongest right away. Respect the medicine’s power.
In summary, mild, medium, strong Sananga all carry the same essence, but like a volume knob, they turn up the intensity of the experience. Whether you seek a gentle cleanse or a deep purge, there’s a suitable strength for you. Always err on the side of caution: it’s better to have a session that was “pretty manageable” and next time go stronger, rather than one that overwhelms you and scares you off from future work. Sananga, after all, is often described as a “teacher that tests your willingness to see”. You can ease into that lesson gradually.
Safe Use Guide: How to Use Sananga at Home
Using Sananga in a home setting requires careful preparation and respect. Unlike popping in regular eye drops, working with Sananga is more of a ritual than a routine. Here’s a comprehensive guide to safely use Sananga at home, covering preparation, dosage, administration, and aftercare.
Preparation: Setting, Space and Intention
Create a Sacred Space: Before you even touch the bottle, set up a comfortable, quiet environment. Choose a calm time of day when you won’t be disturbed (turn off phones, etc.). Many people like to dim the lights – soft ambient lighting or candlelight is great, as bright light can be harsh right after the drops. If you wish, burn some cleansing herbs like sage, palo santo, or copal resin to purify the space and invite positive energy (you can find a variety of cleansing tools in our shop’s Cleanse & Purify section to support this). You might also play gentle meditative music or sit in silence, depending on your preference.
Set Your Intention: Sananga is most powerful when used with a clear spiritual intention. Take a few moments to center yourself. You can meditate or do deep breathing for a few minutes. Think about why you are using Sananga: is it to gain clarity on something? To release negative energy? To prepare for a meditation or another ceremony? Formulate that intention and perhaps even speak it aloud or silently to the Sananga spirit. For example, “I ask this medicine to help me see what I need to see,” or “I release all energies that no longer serve me.” Setting intention focuses your mind and “programs” the experience towards a purpose.
Gather Materials: Have everything you need within arm’s reach. This includes:
The Sananga bottle (keep it chilled until use; when ready, you can warm it lightly in your hands so ice-cold drops don’t shock you).
Tissues or a soft cloth for tears and nasal drip.
A bowl of cool water nearby. This is both symbolically cleansing and practically useful – if the burn becomes too intense, you can dip your face or splash water in your eyes for relief (or simply knowing it’s there can be psychologically comforting).
If you have someone assisting, ensure they are ready and understand their role (to apply drops and support you).
Hygiene Check: Wash your hands thoroughly. Sananga should ideally be administered with clean hands and instruments. If your bottle has a dropper, avoid touching the tip. If you’re transferring drops via a pipette, ensure it’s clean. Eye safety is paramount – you don’t want to introduce any contamination. Also remove contact lenses if you wear them, at least 15-20 minutes before (and do not put contacts back in for a full day after). Contacts and Sananga don’t mix (lens can trap the liquid and also may get damaged).
Dosage and Administration: Step-by-Step
The standard practice is 1-2 drops per eye. For first-timers, 1 drop in each eye is plenty. Here’s how to apply effectively:
Lie Down or Recline: It’s best to be lying on your back or at least in a reclined position. That way, once the drops are in, you can keep eyes closed without worrying about balance. You can lie on a yoga mat or bed. Face upward.
Apply the Drops: There are two common methods:
Eyes Closed Method: Close your eyes. Place 1 drop at the inner corner of each eye, right next to the bridge of your nose. You can do this yourself (one eye then the other) or have a helper put a drop on each inner corner. Then, open your eyes and blink, allowing the Sananga to wash over the eyeball. This method ensures both eyes get the medicine simultaneously and evenly.
Eyes Open Method: If you’re skilled at putting in eye drops (like how one would with regular eye drops), you or a helper can gently pull down your lower eyelid and drop 1 drop directly into the center of the eye (the conjunctival sac). Then repeat on the other eye quickly. Many find this hard to do on themselves because the reflex is to blink. So the first method is often simpler.
Pro tip: If you have a helper, ask them to administer to both eyes at the same time (one drop in each, simultaneously). Some experienced facilitators do this to ensure a balanced intensity – when both eyes get it together, your brain processes it as one big event. If one eye at a time, the second eye will know what’s coming which can cause more flinching. But doing both is tricky without help, hence the inner-corner trick is great for solo use.
Endure and Breathe: The moment drops hit, close your eyes if they weren’t already, and focus on breathing deeply. You may feel a shock of pain – try to stay calm and remember this will pass in a few minutes. Breathing slowly in through nose (if possible) and out through mouth can help. Do not touch or rub your eyes, as that can increase irritation or scratch your eye. You can dab tears with a tissue at the sides of your eyes or let them stream onto a towel you laid under your head. Remind yourself: this is the medicine working. If you have an intention, maybe mentally repeat it or call to the spirit of Sananga to help you through. It’s normal to fidget or even roll a bit in discomfort – try to stay lying down to avoid any risk of tripping or bumping into things.
Optional – Eye Rinse if Needed: Ideally, you let the Sananga fully do its work without washing it out. But if at any point you feel it’s unbearably painful or something feels wrong, you can wash your eyes out. Take that bowl of water and splash it gently into your open eyes, or dunk your face in if that’s easier. Blink into the water. This will wash some of the Sananga out and relieve intensity, though it will also likely reduce the effects. Use this only as a safety valve. If you can, try to last at least a minute or two before rinsing, to give the medicine time to absorb.
Completion and Rest: Once the burning subsides, you can sit up slowly (eyes still closed or softly open). Use tissues to clean your face. Rest for another 10-15 minutes in a meditative state. This is a good time to just be still and integrate the experience. You might sit in silence or perhaps journal about any thoughts/visions that came, but many prefer to keep eyes closed a bit longer and just feel the newfound clarity. When you feel ready, open your eyes fully and observe your environment. Check in with how you feel physically, emotionally, mentally.
Holding Space During & After the Session
If you’re administering Sananga to yourself, you are both participant and space-holder. If you have a friend or partner helping, they can “hold space” for you – meaning they stay present, calm, and supportive throughout your process.
During the peak intensity, a supportive person might offer grounding reassurance like “Breathe, you’re doing well” or gentle humming, or simply remain quiet but present. It’s usually not helpful to chatter or ask the person questions during it, as they’ll likely be beyond conversation. Perhaps just saying at the start, “I’m here, you’re safe” sets the tone.
Some facilitators use icaros or chanting to guide the energy. If you or your helper knows any healing songs or even simple humming, it can be comforting and help move energy.
Aftercare: Once the session is over, treat yourself gently. You’ve just undergone a minor ordeal and a deep cleanse. Drink some water. You might even rinse your mouth if any bitter tears got in. If it’s nighttime, you might feel like sleeping, which is good. If daytime, consider spending some moments in nature or in quiet reflection to honour the clarity you received.
Integration: Sananga’s effects can be subtle in the days after. You set an intention – how will you carry it forward? Perhaps you keep a journal of any insights that arose. Over the next week, notice if your mood, vision, or perspectives have shifted. Integration might simply be acknowledging those shifts and making any lifestyle adjustments inspired by them (for example, after clearing panema, you might feel like cleaning your house or resolving an issue that was stagnant – a practical integration of clearing blocked energy).
Frequency: You can use Sananga as a one-off when you feel called, or some people follow a regimen (like using it 2-3 times a week, or daily for a short “dieta” period). Traditionally, there isn’t a strict schedule – it’s often used when needed (before a hunt, before ceremonies, when someone is “ill” with panema). Modern practitioners sometimes do a 21-day Sananga challenge (one drop each day) for deep work. However, listen to your body. There’s no clinical data on long-term frequent use, so proceed with moderation. Many find using it once or twice a week is plenty to maintain the benefits. If you notice any persistent irritation or diminishing returns, take a break.
Safe Use and Precautions
Sananga is powerful but should be used with commonsense precautions to ensure physical safety and a positive experience. Keep these warnings and contraindications in mind:
Sterility and Cleanliness: Only use Sananga that is fresh and sourced from a trusted supplier. Because it’s an unpreserved liquid, contamination is a risk. Check your bottle – if you ever see mold, cloudiness, or a foul smell, do not use it. Always wash hands before handling. Don’t share dropper tips between people without sanitizing (to avoid cross-infection).
Avoid If You Have Eye Problems: Do not use Sananga if you currently have an eye infection, conjunctivitis, or any open wound in/around the eye. The irritation could worsen the condition or spread infection. Also avoid if you’ve had recent eye surgery (wait for full healing and doctor’s OK). If you have serious eye conditions like glaucoma or retinal issues, be extremely cautious – there’s no evidence Sananga can cure these, and using it without medical supervision could be dangerous. When in doubt, consult an eye doctor before use, especially if you have any chronic eye disease.
Contact Lenses: As mentioned, remove contacts well before use. The chemicals on lenses and the trap of liquid can cause issues. Do not put contacts back in for at least 24 hours after to let your eyes recover and to avoid any residue on the lens.
Pregnancy and Health Conditions: There’s no specific data on pregnancy, but as a rule of thumb, pregnant or breastfeeding women should be very cautious with any potent plant medicine. It’s likely safe externally, but the stress/pain might not be advisable in pregnancy. If you have severe heart conditions or blood pressure issues, note that pain can cause a temporary spike in adrenaline/blood pressure. While Sananga isn’t known to be systemic, the body’s reaction might stress someone with a fragile cardiovascular system. It’s wise to consult a healthcare provider if you have any serious condition and are considering Sananga.
Mental State: If you’re feeling extremely anxious or fearful about Sananga, it might amplify that. Approach it when you feel a clear calling or are at least neutrally curious. It’s normal to be a bit nervous, but try not to do it under extreme emotional distress unless you have guidance, because while it can help release, it’s also a form of stress on the system. Never force Sananga on someone or trick someone into it – consent and readiness are crucial. Some people simply do not resonate with this medicine, and that’s okay. As the elders say, “Sananga is not for everyone; the medicine chooses you”.
Not for Recreation: This should go without saying, but Sananga is not a party drug or a toy. The experience is not pleasurable in the conventional sense; it’s intense and confrontational. Use it for healing or spiritual purposes, not as a dare or gimmick. Misuse can lead to injury (e.g., if someone panics and rubs their eyes too hard, they could scratch their cornea, etc.).
Post-Use Care: After using Sananga, your eyes might be sensitive. Avoid driving or doing anything visually intensive until you’re confident your sight is normal and you’re fully present. If, by rare chance, you experience prolonged redness, blurred vision beyond a couple of hours, or any alarmingly severe pain after, seek medical advice to be safe. In practice, such reactions are very uncommon when used correctly, but being mindful is key.
To summarise safety: Treat Sananga with the same caution you’d give to any strong medicine, plus the reverence due to a spiritual tool. When used responsibly, the risks are low and the potential benefits are significant. Now that you know how to use it safely, you can confidently incorporate Sananga into your personal practice when you feel called.
Spiritual Integration and Ethical Considerations
Working with Sananga is not just about the physical act of putting drops in your eyes – it’s about building a relationship with a sacred plant medicine and the cultures that have preserved it. As interest in Sananga grows globally, it’s vital to address spiritual integration, cultural respect, and ethical sourcing.
Honouring the Spirit of Sananga
Sananga is often referred to as having its own spirit or consciousness – in indigenous understanding, it’s an ally from the plant kingdom that teaches and heals. When you invite Sananga into your practice, consider it a kind of teacher-student relationship. Here’s how to honour that:
Approach with Respect: Always handle the Sananga bottle and the process with a sense of sacredness. You might keep your bottle on an altar or special place in your home, perhaps near other spiritual items or crystals. Many keep it next to their Rapé tools or other medicines, treating it as part of their sacred toolkit. Avoid storing it in dirty or energetically chaotic environments.
Ritualize the Experience: By making each use a bit of a ritual (as we described: cleansing space, intention, perhaps a prayer or a thank-you after), you align with the traditional ways and likely get more out of it. Remember, it’s not a casual eye drop – it’s a ceremony in miniature. Ritual and repetition can deepen your connection to the spirit of Sananga.
Listen and Learn: Pay attention to the subtle messages or intuitions that come through after Sananga. Integration isn’t just processing what happened; it might be acting on guidance you received. For example, you might get the insight to improve your diet, or to have a difficult conversation you’ve been avoiding – consider these cues as part of the medicine’s teaching.
Gratitude: After your session, it can be meaningful to verbally or mentally say “thank you” to Sananga, to the plant, to the tribal knowledge behind it, and to yourself for showing up to the process. Gratitude solidifies the positive bond and respect.
Supporting Indigenous Communities and Ethical Sourcing
Sananga comes to us through the generous sharing of indigenous peoples. With its popularity rising among spiritual seekers and holistic health enthusiasts, there are legitimate concerns about sustainability and fair trade. Here’s how we can be responsible:
Buy Ethically Sourced Sananga: Ensure that the Sananga products you purchase are sourced in a way that supports the tribes who make it and does not exploit the rainforest. At Shaman’s Cave, for instance, our Sananga is directly sourced from indigenous cooperatives and healers. We make sure that a fair portion of proceeds goes back to those communities and that the plants are harvested sustainably (not over-harvesting wild shrubs to extinction).
Check for Authenticity: Unfortunately, as with any trendy product, there can be imitations or low-quality versions on the market. Authentic Sananga should only contain the Tabernaemontana extract and water (and maybe a touch of natural preservative). Be wary of any products with chemicals, or whose sellers can’t tell you which tribe or source it came from. The best scenario is when you know, “This bottle was made by the X tribe” or “by a healer from Y region,” etc., which indicates a transparent supply chain.
Education and Acknowledgment: Take time to learn about the cultures behind Sananga. We’ve touched on several tribes here; you can dive deeper into Matsés, Yawanawá, Huni Kuin, Nukini, etc., through books or documentaries. By understanding their cosmology and struggles, you become more than a consumer – you become an ally. Acknowledge them whenever you talk about Sananga. For example, if you introduce a friend to it, mention “This comes from indigenous knowledge; the people who gave this to us are…”.
Donations and Reciprocity: Some people who regularly use medicines like Sananga, Rapé, etc., choose to give back by donating to charities or funds that support indigenous rights and Amazon conservation. Consider that as part of your practice – a form of material reciprocity for the spiritual gifts you’re receiving. Even buying from businesses that have those ethics is a form of this.
Cultural Sensitivity and Consent
Using in Groups: If you become a big fan of Sananga and want to share it in a group (say a meditation circle or a retreat), always ensure participants are well-educated and give informed consent. Don’t surprise a newbie with “here let me drop this in your eyes” without them understanding it. That’s not only potentially traumatic, it’s disrespectful to the medicine to use it flippantly. Instead, share the cultural background, maybe even play indigenous music or mention a prayer from the tradition, to set context and respect.
Avoid Appropriation: While it’s wonderful for non-indigenous people to learn from and use these medicines, always remember these are not just “new age tools”, but part of living cultures. Avoid marketing them or talking about them in a way that strips away the cultural context. For instance, calling Sananga simply a “hallucinogenic eye drop” (which it isn’t exactly) or using it commercially without credit to tribes is problematic. Instead, honour it in your language: e.g., “an Amazonian eye medicine used by tribes for spiritual cleansing”.
No Medical Claims: Be careful with claims. While tribes may use Sananga for various ailments and some preliminary science suggests anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, in a public or online setting it’s best not to claim it as a guaranteed cure for diseases. Not only is that legally sensitive, it also might mislead someone away from necessary medical care. It’s wiser to speak of its traditional uses and anecdotal benefits, and encourage people to see it as complementary to other wellness practices, not a replacement for ophthalmologists if serious issues exist.
Embracing the Journey
After working with Sananga for some time, many people find that it becomes more than just something they “do” occasionally – it becomes a teacher and an ally in life. They might call on Sananga when they are at crossroads and need clarity, or when they feel the weight of the world and need cleansing. In this way, Sananga can be part of a holistic spiritual practice, alongside meditation, yoga, prayer, or other plant medicines.
Integration of Sananga isn’t a one-time thing; it’s an ongoing relationship. For example, if Sananga helped you with anger one day (perhaps you cried and let go of anger during a session), the integration is noticing how you handle situations that used to trigger anger differently going forward. If it gave you a visionary insight, integration is acting on that insight in your daily life.
One beautiful way to integrate is through creative expression. After a Sananga session, you might paint, draw, or write about what “clarity” means to you. Or perhaps take a walk in nature and really look – notice the details, colours, and life around you with your refreshed vision, both literal and metaphorical.
Finally, always remember to go at your own pace. Some people incorporate Sananga as a regular practice, others only on special occasions. There’s no right or wrong, except to always do it with respect and awareness. The goal is not to become dependent on any external tool, but to learn from it. Sananga shows us what clear vision and energy alignment feel like – our task is to then cultivate that clarity in our daily lives, through our choices and mindset.
Conclusion: Embrace the Vision, Walk with Clarity
Sananga, the sacred eye drops of the Amazon, offers a unique gateway to seeing the world anew. Through the courageous act of facing its fiery cleanse, we are rewarded with sharpened senses, cleared energy, and often a profound sense of connection to ourselves and nature. It’s as if the Amazon rainforest lends us its eyes for a moment – eyes that see through darkness, illusion, and fear.
In the mystical lore shared by tribes, Sananga is a gift from the jungle spirits, a potion to align humans with the truth of the forest and the truth within their hearts. In our modern journey, beset by sensory overload and spiritual disconnect, this humble bottle of plant extract can be a powerful ally to ground us, purify us, and open our inner vision.
As you consider inviting Sananga into your life, do so with reverence and intention. Treat each drop as a sacred teacher – one that may sting you with honest lessons, but ultimately leave you clearer and brighter. Whether you seek improved physical sight, relief from energetic heaviness, or a deepened spiritual practice, Sananga meets you at that crossroads of body and spirit.
If you feel the call to experience Sananga’s gift of clarity, Shaman’s Cave offers ethically sourced Sananga eye drops crafted in partnership with Amazonian healers (available in our Plant Medicine section). We ensure each bottle carries the authenticity of tradition. Prepare your space with our cleansing herbs and tools – from sage bundles to palo santo, and beautiful altar supplies – to create a supportive sacred atmosphere for your Sananga journey. All these ritual items can be found in our shop’s collection, curated to enrich your ceremonies at home.
Remember, walking the path of plant medicine is about connection and community.
We invite you to share your experiences or questions – either in the comments or by reaching out. If you wish to deepen your knowledge and stay connected to this wisdom, join our newsletter (sign up here or at the bottom of our site). By subscribing, you’ll receive more sacred stories, guidance on using shamanic tools, and special updates on new products or events. It’s a wonderful way to remain in the circle of learning and reverence that Shaman’s Cave strives to foster.
In closing, may Sananga’s sacred medicine help you see with eyes of clarity and a heart of light. May it cleanse what is heavy, illuminate what is hidden, and remind you of the vision that lives within. As the jungle whispers its ancient secrets through these drops, let us listen, learn, and walk our paths with clearer sight and deeper purpose.
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