Sinicuichi (Heimia Salicifolia)

Sinicuichi (Heimia salicifolia) is also called Sinicuiche, Abre-o-sol (sun opener) or Herva da Vida (life herb). It is a species of plant in the loosestrife family (Lythraceae). It is found predominantly in Central and South America and the West Indies. Mayans and Aztecs used it for memory rituals and other ceremonies because of its hallucinogenic and memory-opening effects (especially acoustically). Even today, its consumption is popular due to its intoxicating effects.

The quinolizidine alkaloid cryogenine (= vertine) is the central active ingredient of the Sinicuichi herb. Secondary alkaloids are abresoline, anelesine, cryofoline, dehydrodecodine, demethyllasubine I and II, epidemethocyabresoline, heimin, lyfoline, lythridine, sinine, and vesolidine. However, these active substances are contained exclusively in the herb. In addition, the herb, and in particular the leaves, contains tannin, resins and bitter substances.

The ritual use of Heimia salicifolia is not very well researched. However, it is known that the plant was sacred to the Aztecs and was also known as the „sun opener“ because of the yellow vision it can induce. Mexican Indians usually took the plant in the form of the so-called „Elixir of the Sun“, which during fermentation absorbs the knowledge of the sun. This is said to have the ability to bring back to consciousness distant, sometimes even prenatal events and forgotten memories.

The leaves are also very suitable for incense in combination with other plants and are traditionally used (often together with sage) as incense. The dried and crushed herb is traditionally used as a protective agent against the evil eye. When burned, it spreads a delicate and woodsy fragrance.