Sananga

Sananga is a powerful sacred medicine made from the roots and bark of the Tabernaemontana undulata plant, known as sananho in the Amazon. It is used by numerous Amazonian peoples — most notably the Huni Kuin and Yawanapi — as a vision-clearing medicine applied directly to the eyes in the form of drops.

The experience is brief but intense. The drops produce a sharp burning sensation that lasts anywhere from 2 to 10 minutes, followed by a profound sense of clarity, stillness, and expanded visual acuity. Many people describe it as a reset — as if a film has been removed from their eyes and, by extension, from their perception of reality.

Energetically, sananga is used to clear "panema" — the Amazonian concept of heavy, stagnant energy that clouds one's clarity and luck. It is often used in preparation for ayahuasca ceremonies to open the vision and clear the energetic field before entering deeper work. It can also be used as a standalone practice for those seeking mental clarity, emotional release, or energetic cleansing.

Physically, sananga has been researched for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Traditional healers have used it to treat eye infections, improve night vision, and support the health of the visual system. At Mariri, sananga is offered as part of ceremonial preparation and as a standalone session.