How to Take Hapé — What You Need to Make the Most of This Sacred Medicine
Learn how to prepare and administer hapé safely, using tools such as Kuripe and Tepi, as well as understanding the role of the shaman and best practices regarding intention, environment, preparation, and care. These are practical and respectful guidelines to make the most of this traditional medicine.
Understanding Hapé and Its Cultural Context
Hapé, also spelled rapé or rapeh, is a family of sacred snuffs rooted in Amazonian Indigenous practices. Its base is native tobacco, usually Nicotiana rustica, blended with ashes of seeds, bark, and local medicinal plants, creating distinct regional formulas.
Literature describes both its long-standing ceremonial role and its diversity among different peoples. Words and spellings vary by language and region; the same term can designate very different blends among the Yawanawá, Huni Kuin, Kuntanawa, and other traditions. Some combinations are strong and purifying, others mild and aromatic.
Hapé is not a recreational nicotine product, but a ritual medicine embedded in cosmology, language, and reciprocal relationships. Learning about Indigenous traditions and being guided by a trusted shaman or knowledgeable Indigenous practitioner is of great support.
Tools, Ingredients, and Preparation
For self-administration, Kuripe is used, while Tepi is the instrument for application by another person.
The quality of the hapé matters. The powder should be fine and loose. Look for suppliers who maintain fair relationships with Indigenous communities, as we do here at Earth’s Love Snuff.
Some elements are essential for the moment of practice.
Preparing the environment is important.
Beyond the basic tools (Hapé, Kuripe or Tepi), choose a clean and quiet space. Have tissues or clean cloths available, since sneezing and nasal secretions are common. Clean hands and surfaces are also welcome.
Conscious choices—such as starting with small doses and journaling your sensations—help you observe your process and transformations.
Application
For self-application, Kuripe is required.
Place a small amount of hapé (about the size of a grain of rice) into the longer end of the Kuripe. Position the longer end with the hapé into your nostril, inhale through your mouth, and blow into the shorter end. The hapé will flow directly into your nasal passage.
Some discomfort or the urge to sneeze is normal. Try not to expel the hapé; simply wipe away secretions if they occur, without blowing your nose.
Pause, observe the sensations for a few minutes, and repeat if you feel called to. It is recommended that hapé be applied in both nostrils.
In applications with Tepi, another person administers the hapé. When done by a shaman or a knowledgeable Indigenous practitioner in ceremonial settings, they will guide your breathing, determine the right amount, and provide instructions throughout the process.
Avoid hapé during pregnancy, cardiovascular conditions, severe psychiatric disorders, or when combining with certain substances/medications.
To enhance the hapé ceremony experience, consider:
- Hydration: take small sips of water
- Rest: lie down and sleep if needed
- Grounding: keep your feet on the ground and move gently
- Diet: choose light, natural foods when hungry
- Privacy: remain in calm and quiet places
- Monitoring: note any physical or emotional discomfort
- Journaling: record impressions and visions
- Breathing: use long, slow breaths to regulate your nervous system
- Nature: walk or contemplate outdoors if possible
- Creative expression: draw, sing, or dance if your body feels called
- Sharing: talk with trusted people or your shaman about your experience
- Routine: develop daily practices to revisit your insights
When used with respect, knowledge, and proper preparation, hapé can offer grounding, clarity, and support for spiritual work. Always prioritize having a clear intention, a safe environment, and awareness of traditions.
Haux Haux
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