The Role of Tepi in Ceremony
In the traditional Amazonian healing practice known as Kambo, the Tepi is an essential tool used by shamans and healers. This long pipe is designed for another person to blow sacred snuff into the nostrils of the participant, helping them connect to spiritual realms and prepare for the medicine. The Tepi symbolizes trust between healer and participant, creating a sacred bond before the application of the frog secretion. Through this ritual, the body and mind are prepared to receive the deep cleansing properties of Kambo, opening pathways for release, healing, and transformation.
Kuripe and Self-Connection
While the Tepi is used by a guide, the Kuripe offers a way for individuals to administer sacred snuff themselves during Kambo-related practices. This small V-shaped pipe allows personal connection to the medicine, giving autonomy to the participant and deepening inner awareness. Many consider the Kuripe a spiritual tool of empowerment, enabling self-administered ceremonies that foster responsibility and mindfulness. It not only bridges the gap between human and nature but also reminds individuals of their capacity to engage directly with ancient traditions while honoring their own healing journey.
The Meaning of Tepis and Kuripes
When spoken in plural, Tepis and Kuripes represent the many variations of these sacred pipes used in Amazonian traditions. Different tribes craft them from bamboo, bone, or wood, each design reflecting the unique spiritual lineage of the community. These tools are more than functional objects; they embody ancestral knowledge passed down through generations. Their craftsmanship and use highlight the diversity of Amazonian healing practices, where every detail carries significance. Within Kambo ceremonies, the presence of multiple Tepis and Kuripes represents the inclusivity of healing and the collective wisdom of indigenous cultures.
Hapeh, Rapeh, and the Flow of Spirit
Closely connected to Kambo rituals are Hapeh and Rapeh, sacred plant snuffs prepared with finely ground herbs and ashes. These medicines are often used before or after the frog secretion ceremony to ground the body, cleanse the mind, and invite spiritual protection. Hapeh and Rapeh are considered gateways to clarity, helping participants release stagnant energies and connect to higher consciousness. Through their calming yet powerful effects, they prepare the spirit for the purgative and renewing journey of Kambo healing, creating balance and harmony within the ceremony.
The Plants Behind Kambo Medicine
While the frog secretion itself is known as Kambo medicine, Amazonian healers often complement it with powerful plants such as Angico, Cacao, and Pau Pereira. Angico, a sacred tree, is valued for its grounding and protective qualities. Cacao, long revered as a heart-opening plant, brings warmth, compassion, and emotional release. Pau Pereira, on the other hand, is a traditional remedy for resilience and strength, often used in combination with other medicines. Together, these plants support the holistic nature of Kambo ceremonies, reminding participants that healing is not only physical but also emotional and spiritual.