Uchu Sanango (Tabernaemontana sananho) – Shredded Wood from Peru

Botanical Information

Uchu Sanango is a member of the Apocynaceae family and shares similarities with other species of the Tabernaemontana genus. It is a perennial shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters in height. The plant has glossy, dark green leaves and produces small, white, star-shaped flowers. Its fruit is a distinctive greenish-yellow berry.

Traditional Use

In traditional Peruvian medicine, Uchu Sanango has a long history of use among indigenous tribes, particularly the Shipibo-Conibo and Ashaninka peoples. It is revered as a powerful medicinal plant with a wide range of therapeutic properties. Uchu Sanango is traditionally prepared as a decoction or tincture and used to treat various ailments, including rheumatism, arthritis, muscular pain, fever, and digestive issues. Additionally, it is believed to have psychoactive properties and is used in spiritual ceremonies to induce visions, enhance intuition, and facilitate healing on a deeper level.

Medicinal Properties

Uchu Sanango contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which are believed to contribute to its medicinal effects. Some of the alkaloids found in Uchu Sanango, such as voacangine and ibogaine, are known for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and psychoactive properties. These compounds may play a role in the plant’s ability to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and induce altered states of consciousness.

Modern Applications

In recent years, Uchu Sanango has garnered attention from researchers and herbalists interested in its potential therapeutic benefits. While scientific research on Uchu Sanango is limited, preliminary studies suggest that it may have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Additionally, some individuals report using Uchu Sanango as a natural remedy for chronic pain, inflammation, and mood disorders, although more research is needed to substantiate these claims.

Cultural Significance

Uchu Sanango holds a sacred place in the spiritual and cultural traditions of indigenous Amazonian tribes. It is often regarded as a teacher plant or master plant spirit, revered for its ability to heal both the body and the soul. Shamans and traditional healers work with Uchu Sanango in healing ceremonies and rituals, where it is used to cleanse the energy field, awaken spiritual insight, and facilitate profound inner transformation.