Rainforest Medicine

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Chronicling the practices and wisdom of the upper Amazon's indigenous peoples, this book reveals their approach to living harmoniously with nature. It features in-depth essays on plant-based medicine and indigenous science from four distinct Amazonian societies, illustrated with unique botanical and cultural drawings by Secoya elder Agustin Payaguaje, horticulturalist Thomas Y. Wang, and the author. Payaguaje offers insights into the spiritual life of the Secoya, while illustrations include petroglyphs from the sacred valley of Cotundo, traditional ayahuasca symbols, and indigenous origin myths. Two color sections showcase photographs and previously unpublished paintings by Peruvian artist Pablo Cesar Amaringo, known for his vibrant depictions of visions from ayahuasca. As the rainforest faces threats from resource extraction, the traditional sustainable practices of its peoples are at risk. Author Jonathon Miller Weisberger, with over 20 years of experience in environmental and cultural conservation, emphasizes the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge, particularly regarding ayahuasca, a sacred vine popularized by Western travelers. He aims to provide essential information on its traditional uses for healing and spiritual growth, weaving personal narratives with anthropological insights to honor the legacy of ayahuasca and the forest that nurtures it. The book features voices from Amazonian shamans, highlighting the