Traditional Manual for Preparing Tabaco Juice

Introduction

Tabaco (Nicotiana rustica) is one of the most sacred plants of the Amazon, revered as a protector, guide, and ally in countless ceremonies. Its spirit is often described as a companion, offering clarity in decision-making and protection from unwanted influences. Shamans and healers across the forest regard Tabaco as essential: a plant that clears space, removes heavy energies, and strengthens both body and spirit.

From its leaves, a concentrated liquid — Tabaco juice — can be prepared. This preparation carries the very essence of the plant and may be applied in several ways: snorted into the nostrils from the palm of the hand, sprayed with a nasal sprayer (available here), rubbed onto the inner side of the wrist, or used in prayer and cleansing rituals as an aura spray. It is a medicine of great strength and must always be approached with care, respect, and intention.

Important

Drinking Tabaco juice is a practice known among Tabaqueros, but it is not recommended. Ingesting it can be highly dangerous.

Cutting Tabaco into Fibers

Tabaco rolls such as Mapacho, Sabia, Arapiraca, or Moi are cut into fibers before pressing, brewing, or further preparation.

- Take a fresh roll of Tabaco.
- Slice off a cross-section of about 5 cm.
- Cut this piece in half lengthwise and place the flat side on a wooden cutting board.
- With a razor-sharp, long knife, slice very thin cross-sections — no thicker than 1 mm.
- Gently work the slices apart into threads. The result will resemble fine Tabaco shag.

Method 1: Fresh-Pressed Tabaco Juice (Small Batch)

A quick preparation, suitable for small amounts that will be used within a short time.

1. Preparing the Material

- Take about 20 grams of fresh Tabaco (Mapacho, Sabia, Arapiraca, or Moi).
- Press the undried fibers firmly into the bottom of a small, heatproof glass jar.
- Cleanliness is essential: wash your hands and utensils thoroughly, and if possible, boil the tools beforehand.

2. Pouring the Water

- Boil clean water, preferably mineral water without additives such as fluoride.
- Pour just enough over the Tabaco fibers to cover them completely.
- Shake the jar gently from time to time and allow the mixture to cool naturally.

3. Extracting the Juice

- With clean hands, squeeze the cooled fibers to release the juice.
- A citrus press may be used to extract every drop.
- If the fibers were fresh, the juice will be nearly free of residue. If not, filter through a fine cloth or coffee filter.

4. Storage and Preservation

- Store the juice in the refrigerator, or freeze it in ice-cube trays for later use.
- For longer storage, add 5–10% pure food-grade alcohol (100%) and/or pasteurise the filled bottles.
- The juice can be stored in a dropper bottle or fitted with a nasal sprayer for ceremonial application.
- Unpreserved and unfrozen juice will keep for about one week.
- Frozen juice can be stored for a year.

Method 2: Cooked and Reduced Tabaco Juice

This is the traditional long preparation, producing a darker, more concentrated liquid with longer shelf life.

1. Cutting and Soaking

- Cut Tabaco rolls or leaves into small pieces.
- Place them in a pot with just enough clean water to cover the fibers.
- Some traditions allow the Tabaco to soak overnight.

2. Cooking

- Simmer gently over low heat with the lid on the pot. Avoid strong boiling.
- Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon.
- Skim away foam or impurities as they rise.

3. Filtering

- When sufficiently reduced, strain the liquid through a fine cloth.
- Squeeze gently to release all the liquid from the fibers.

4. Second Reduction

- Return the filtered liquid to the pot and continue simmering until it reaches a darker, concentrated form — usually black and no longer transparent.
- Do not reduce too far, as an overly thick liquid will not pass through a nasal sprayer.
- This step requires patience; the slower the reduction, the deeper the strength and character of the juice.

5. Bottling

- Allow the liquid to cool, then transfer it to sterilised glass bottles.
- Seal tightly. Some practitioners close bottles with wax or resin for longer preservation.

6. Storage and Preservation

- Store the juice in the refrigerator, or freeze it in ice-cube trays for later use.
- For longer storage, add 5–10% pure food-grade alcohol (100%) and/or pasteurise the filled bottles.
- The juice can be stored in a dropper bottle or fitted with a nasal sprayer for ceremonial application.
- Unpreserved juice will keep for about one week.
- Frozen juice can be stored for a year.

Guidance for Use

A few sprays into the nostrils are sufficient. The juice may also be blown gently over the crown of the head or rubbed onto the skin for cleansing and protection. Shamans use Tabaco juice to clear space, strengthen focus, guard against intrusive energies, and call in guidance during ceremonies.

Notes of Respect and Caution

Tabaco juice is extremely potent and not intended for casual use. Do not drink it. Nicotiana rustica contains far higher nicotine levels than common Tabaco. Always apply only small amounts, with prayer and intention. The one preparing or serving Tabaco must hold a clear, respectful, and focused mind.

Disclaimer

The information provided above including external links are for historical, educational, and scientific purposes only. It should not be interpreted as a recommendation for the specific use of our products. Any statements about traditional uses are informational. The use and application of our products are the customer's decision and responsibility.

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