Explore Ayahuasca & Plant Dieta at Melodías Arbóreas
Ayahuasca: Definition, uses, and purposes
Ayahuasca is a decoction prepared from the bark and stems of a vine from the Banisteriopsis genus and a powerful natural psychotropic substance, DMT (from the chacruna leaf, Psychotria viridis).
The term ayahuasca comes from Quechua and is formed from the combination of aya and huaska, which is commonly translated as “vine of the spirits,” “vine of the dead,” or “vine of the souls.”
The Plant Dieta: Purpose, Rationale, and Practice
It is often said that ayahuasca can heal various psychological, emotional, and even physical ailments. However, in my view, this is a false belief. Ayahuasca does not heal; rather, it opens vision. It allows us to “see,” but it does not cure. The Indigenous peoples of the Peruvian Amazon understand this well, particularly the Shipibo-Konibo (Ucayali and Loreto regions), who traditionally heal themselves through what they call the “diet.” Those who are ill traditionally go to a shaman, who prescribes plants to be “dieted” in order to treat ailments that are both physical and non-physical. This is why we recommend the practice of the “diet” in our center, so that therapeutic care can be optimal.
How does an ayahuasca ceremony take place
The ritual takes place at night, in darkness. Each participant takes their place on a mattress on the floor. A pillow, blankets, toilet paper, and a bucket for vomiting are provided for each participant.
What is the role of the Healer
The healer’s role is to guide both the dietas and the ayahuasca rituals. In both cases, her work is primarily informed by intuition and heightened sensitivity, which she has developed throughout her apprenticeship. These abilities enable her to rapidly identify the issues that require attention.
ANTHROPOLOGY · PERU
SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS · PERU
Meet Doriane Slaghenauffi
Doriane is a French anthropologist based in Peru, an associate researcher at IFEA, and the practitioner guiding the work at Melodías Arbóreas. Her background brings together long-term field experience, academic research on Shipibo-Konibo society and years of engagement with plant dieta practices.
PERU SINCE 2005
PHD · ANTHROPOLOGY
IFEA · ASSOCIATE RESEARCHER
“By heightening sensitivity, the “diet” also aims to broaden our sense of connection with what surrounds us—the elements, the universe, the divine—while fostering subtle forms of intuitive communication, especially with those close to us.”
Doriane
PREPARATION · SAFETY · INFORMED CHOICE
Preparation matters before an ayahuasca retreat.
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive preparation and may not be appropriate for everyone. Scientific reviews describe possible adverse events and potential interactions with certain medications. Before deciding to participate, prospective guests should review current medications and relevant physical or mental-health history with a qualified medical professional and inform Melodías Arbóreas of anything that may affect participation.
Review your health context
Consider current medications, relevant medical conditions and mental-health history before participating. When in doubt, seek individualized advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Share relevant information
Before booking, tell Melodías Arbóreas about information that could affect participation. Transparent communication supports a more informed decision about whether a retreat is appropriate.
Keep expectations grounded
Ayahuasca retreats and plant dietas are not a substitute for medical or mental-health care. Individual experiences vary, and no therapeutic outcome can be guaranteed.
For background reading, see peer-reviewed reviews on ayahuasca safety and adverse events and pharmacology, safety and therapeutic evidence.
GUEST EXPERIENCES
What guests say about their time at Melodías Arbóreas
“I felt safe throughout the experience.”
CHRISTELLE G · MONTREAL, CANADA
“She supported me with great attention and care, adapting to my needs.”
RAPHAËLLE TB · LILLE, FRANCE
“Life has become much better.”
MARIANNE C · FRANCE
Have questions? Want to book a retreat?
Please feel free to contact me by phone or email. Or alternatively fill in the form below, and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
