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BUFO

To realms beyond and beyond.

Bufo Ceremonies at Modern Ancient Sanctuary in Iquitos, Peru

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For centuries, different varieties of toads have been known to produce psychoactive effects. One of these species is the Incilius alvarius, a semi-aquatic amphibian that resides in the Sonoran Desert of Mexico and the Southwestern United States. However, it is commonly referred to as Bufo alvarius or simply bufo. The cutaneous glands of this toad contain more than a dozen tryptamine compounds, including bufotenin and 5-MeO-DMT, which are two powerful psychedelic substances. Notably, they do not contain DMT.

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The native habitat of the Incilius alvarius toad is North America, where it can be found throughout most of the Sonoran Desert in Mexico, and in the southern part of the Arizona desert in the United States. It also inhabits areas surrounding the Colorado River in lower California, New Mexico, Mexico, and southern Arizona. The toad typically resides in the lower regions of the Sonoran Desert, including pastures and oak forests where it hides in rodent burrows.

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As noted, the secretions from the glands of the Bufo toad contain a complex mixture of psychoactive chemicals, including 5-MeO-DMT and bufotenin. When dried and smoked, the secretion produces a powerful, short-lived psychedelic experience that can lead to profound mystical experiences, deep introspection, and ego dissolution.

HISTORY & BACKGROUND

Throughout human history, toads have played a significant role in myths, legends, religions, medical practices, and healing arts. The use of Bufo as a spiritual and medicinal tool can be traced back to pre-Columbian times, when indigenous tribes in Mesoamerica would use the toad's secretion in religious ceremonies and healing practices.

 

The toad was considered sacred and was often depicted in art and iconography, representing its importance to these cultures. There is evidence to suggest that Neanderthals used toad venom for hunting, divination, and intoxication. Toad-related myths and traditions can be found in different parts of the world, including China, Tibet, Nepal, Bolivia, and Europe.

 

The toad holds significant cultural value for the Yaqui people of the Sonoran Desert, and is integral to their traditional customs, including art, storytelling, rituals, and dances. They refer to this medicine as Koarepa.

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As a nocturnal animal, the toad usually stays underground in a state of hibernation during most of the months from September to April. However, it becomes active during the breeding season, which coincides with the rainy season, especially at night. During this period, hundreds of toads can be seen roaming the desert. These toads possess large parotid glands that produce a viscous, milky-colored substance that contains psychoactive alkaloids.

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Today, the use of Bufo as a spiritual tool has gained popularity in recent years, with many people seeking out the toad for its potent psychoactive effects.

 

When 5-MeO-DMT is inhaled through smoking or vaporization, its effects manifest quickly and with great intensity, lasting for less than 20 minutes.

 

The experience is said to be intense and transformative, with reported feelings of unity with the universe, a dissolution of ego boundaries, and a profound sense of interconnectedness.

 

This sense of cosmic unity and access to non-dual consciousness is a deeply awakening process for many, while others compare it to the sensation of dying and accessing states beyond the ego.

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Bufo Ceremonies at Modern Ancient Sanctuary in Iquitos, Peru
Bufo Ceremonies at Modern Ancient Sanctuary in Iquitos, Peru
Bufo Ceremonies at Modern Ancient Sanctuary in Iquitos, Peru

The transformative benefits of Bufo are available to you. 

BENEFITS OF BUFO

The use of Bufo has been reported to offer a range of potential benefits, both in terms of personal growth and spiritual exploration. Here are some of the reported benefits of Bufo:

 

  • Increased sense of connection: Many report a profound sense of connection to the universe and to others, with a dissolution of ego boundaries and a deep sense of interconnectedness.

  • Healing of emotional wounds: Bufo has been reported to facilitate deep emotional healing, helping individuals to process past traumas and move towards greater emotional and psychological health.

  • Reduction of anxiety and depression: Some individuals report a greater sense of peace and calm.

  • Increased creativity: Bufo has been reported to stimulate creativity and imaginative thinking, allowing individuals to access new levels of insight and inspiration.

  • Spiritual insights and revelations: Many people report profound spiritual experiences and insights during Bufo ceremonies, leading to a greater sense of purpose and meaning in life.

Bufo Ceremonies at Modern Ancient Sanctuary in Iquitos, Peru

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Did you know that working with Kambo and Bufo is a safe and powerful way to

effectively heal? Find out more. 

CEREMONY PREPARATION 

Preparing for a Bufo ceremony requires careful attention both physically and mentally. Below are some considerations.

 

  • Research and educate yourself: Before embarking on a Bufo ceremony, it is important to research the substance and understand its effects and potential risks.

  • Set your intentions: Spend some time reflecting on your reasons for wanting to use Bufo, and set clear intentions for remaining open during the ceremony. 

  • Prepare your body and mind: In the days leading up to the ceremony, abstain from alcohol and other drugs, as well as eat a healthy and balanced diet. Consider incorporating practices such as yoga or meditation to help calm and center your mind.

  • Fasting requirements: Many Bufo ceremonies involve a period of fasting, this typically means abstaining from food and drink for a period of at least 8 hours before the ceremony.

  • Avoid certain foods and drinks: In addition to fasting, it is also advisable to avoid certain foods and drinks in the days leading up to the ceremony. These can include caffeine, sugar, processed foods, and spicy or heavy foods. It is also recommended to avoid meat, dairy, and eggs, as these can be difficult to digest and may interfere with the cleansing process and energy body

  • Hydrate: It is important to stay hydrated leading up to the ceremony. Drink plenty of water, herbal tea, and fresh fruit juice to keep your body hydrated and nourished.

 

Remember that Bufo can be intense and challenging, but trust in the process and allow yourself to surrender to the experience. Know that whatever arises during the ceremony is part of the healing and transformative process, and trust that you are in safe and capable hands.

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Bufo Ceremonies at Modern Ancient Sanctuary in Iquitos, Peru
Bufo Ceremonies at Modern Ancient Sanctuary in Iquitos, Peru

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Bufo, Bufo, creature of the night,
With eyes that gleam in the moon's pale light,
In the shadows you dance and play,
And in your wake, magic holds sway.

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Your skin is like a tapestry,
Of secrets and of mystery,
Each wart and bump a symbol grand,
Of the enchantment of your land.

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You hop about with grace and ease,
A prince among amphibian decrees,
And with each leap, a spell you cast,
That leaves us all in awe and gasp.

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Your croak is like a siren's call,
A song that echoes through the halls,
Of forests deep and caverns wide,
And carries on the midnight tide.

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Oh Bufo, Bufo, you are the key,
To realms beyond our eyes can see,
And with your toxin, you unlock,
The secrets of the mystic flock.

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So here's to you, dear Bufo sprite,
May your magic shine forever bright,
May you keep the ancient ways,
And lead us to enchanted bays.

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                                                                      - I am Timeless by Suya Devi

MEDCINE ART

RECOMMENDED MATERIALS

If you're interested in learning more about Bufo below are some suggested materials. 

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Reading

 

  • "Bufo & You: A Guide to the Bufo Alvarius Toad and Its Venom" by Dr. Octavio Rettig Hinojosa

  • "The Toad and the Jaguar: A Field Report of Underground Research on a Visionary Medicine" by Ralph Metzner

  • "The God Molecule: 5-MeO-DMT and the Spiritual Path to the Divine Light" by Gerardo Ruben Sandoval 

  • "Tryptamine Palace: 5-MeO-DMT and the Sonoran Desert Toad" by James Oroc"

  • The Psychedelic Explorer's Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys" by James Fadiman 

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Documentaries/ Video

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  • "The Toad Prophet" (2020)

  • "Shamans of the Global Village" (2016)

  • "The Spirit Molecule" (2010) 

  • "The Toad Venom Cure" (2018).

  • "Bufo Alvarius: The Underground Secret" (2018)

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