Mimosa hostilis – Jurema Preta (Mimosa tenuiflora)
Mimosa hostilis is a psychoactive plant that has been used by humans for centuries. It grows in the wild but can also be cultivated at home. The effects of this substance are not yet fully understood, and there are risks associated with its recreational or medicinal use. Mimosa hostilis contains chemicals that affect the central nervous system. One of these substances is called DMT (N-Dimethyltryptamine). This chemical occurs naturally in mammals and other animals, including humans, but its concentration varies from species to species.
We import the Mimosa hostilis we offer directly from Brazil several times a year to ensure freshness and quality. This product is offered as an ethnobotanical specimen. Please review our disclaimer and company information before ordering.
Please note: this product is intended exclusively for individuals 18 years of age and older. Not intended for human consumption. The use of psychoactive plants carries serious risks; see the harm reduction section at the bottom of this page.
Jurema Preta
Mimosa hostilis is a tree that grows in the South American rainforest. A shaman uses the inner bark to make a psychoactive tea, which has been used in shamanic rituals for centuries. In the region where this tree grows, it is known as Jurema Preta, Mimosa Tenuiflora, or Vinho de Jurema. The name Mimosa hostilis is obsolete; nowadays, the scientific term Mimosa tenuiflora is also used, but they are otherwise identical.
Mimosa hostilis is a densely growing shrub found primarily in the rainforests of South America, particularly in Brazil and Mexico. The plant contains active alkaloids, giving it certain psychedelic properties similar to those of other hallucinogens. It is usually used in a mixture with other plants native to the tropical forests of nearby regions, a mixture also known as ayahuasca or anahuasca. The resulting brews were consumed in ceremonies for a wide range of purposes.
More background on the use of ayahuasca plants can be found in our knowledge base: ayahuasca information.
Chemical properties of Mimosa hostilis (inner) root bark
The chemical constituents of the inner root bark of Mimosa hostilis are a subject of scientific interest, particularly due to the presence of N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT). DMT is a potent psychoactive substance found not only in Mimosa hostilis but also naturally in a variety of plants and animals. The inner root bark of Mimosa hostilis is known for its significant concentrations of this substance.
The DMT content in the dried root bark of the Mexican Mimosa tenuiflora has been quantitatively estimated at approximately 1–1.7%, compared to only about 0.03% in the stem bark.1 This difference underscores the importance of the plant part used when assessing psychoactive potential. In addition to DMT, the root bark also contains tannins, saponins, tryptamines, and other alkaloids, which collectively determine the pharmacological profile.
The psychoactive properties of Mimosa hostilis are largely attributed to DMT, which stands out as the primary active compound in the inner part of the root. The combination of all these compounds ultimately determines the potency and effects when the plant is used in various cultural practices.
Cultural Context: Mimosa Hostilis in Shamanic Rituals
Mimosa Hostilis, also known as Jurema, occupies a central place in the religious traditions of Northeast Brazil. Indigenous tribes and religious groups such as the Umbanda and Candomblé value Jurema for its purported ability to facilitate spiritual communication. Its consumption takes a ritual form as a brew known as "Vinho da Jurema," ingested during ceremonies to invoke a connection with the divine.
Shamans, who act as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual worlds, use plants such as Mimosa Hostilis for their psychoactive properties, particularly due to their DMT content. In some shamanic practices, Mimosa Hostilis is combined with other plants to prepare ayahuasca. The shaman guides the participants during their inner journeys.
What is the significance of DMT in shamanic experiences?
While the human body naturally produces DMT, it actively blocks its passage through the blood-brain barrier. When DMT is introduced into the body through the consumption of Vinho de Jurema, prepared from Jurema bark, it can exert its psychoactive effects. Participants in shamanic rituals do not describe these experiences as mere hallucinations, but as a means of profound communication with the spirit world. The use of Jurema in shamanic rituals is closely linked to the quest for healing from emotional and physical ailments.
Comparing Mimosa Hostilis to Other Psychoactive Plants
Traditional ayahuasca preparation typically involves a combination of Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis. Mimosa hostilis, which contains significant amounts of DMT, is sometimes used as a substitute for Psychotria viridis, resulting in an alternative mixture known as “anahuasca.” The phytochemistry of Mimosa hostilis differs from that of Psychotria viridis, altering its pharmacological profile and experiential effects. Those seeking the ayahuasca experience through anahuasca may encounter variations in intensity, duration, and visionary content.
What role do MAO inhibitors play in enhancing the effects of DMT?
Normally, DMT is rapidly metabolized by the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO) in the digestive tract, making it orally inactive. When combined with MAO inhibitors, such as those found in Banisteriopsis caapi, this metabolism is inhibited and DMT becomes orally active. This allows the DMT to cross the blood-brain barrier and exert its psychoactive effects.
Warning: MAO inhibitors can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure when combined with certain foods, medications, or other tryptamines. Careful dietary and pharmacological management is required. See the harm reduction section below.
Are similar plants used in other cultures?
The Yanomami people of South America provide a compelling example of the cross-cultural use of DMT-containing plants. They use the resin of Virola theidora (or elongata), processed into a powder known as “nyakwána.” Here too, the psychoactive effects are primarily attributed to DMT, pointing to cross-cultural parallels in the use of entheogenic plants as a bridge between the material and spiritual worlds.
Other uses of Mimosa hostilis
Mimosa tenuiflora is also used as a source of timber. It is a sturdy, fast-growing tree that is resistant to rot and termites, making it popular for construction in tropical climates. Furthermore, a solution made from the leaves or bark can be used to wash animals to prevent parasites. During the dry season, the tree is an important source of shade for fauna and flora.
Geographical and Ecological Background
The Brazilian rainforest plays a crucial role in the cultivation and quality of Mimosa hostilis. Dutch-Smart has adopted fair and sustainable trade practices to protect the ecological balance of the rainforest and support the communities involved in harvesting.
In addition to the rainforest, Mimosa hostilis also thrives in semi-arid climates. Consistent sunlight levels and limited rainfall contribute to optimal growth and promote the biosynthesis of valuable phytochemicals. Soil quality, specifically well-drained soil with sufficient organic matter, also influences the concentration of secondary metabolites in the plant.
Additional Information and Research
The herbs are intended as ethnobotanical herbs. It is not our objective to offer these herbs for human use. Please consult our disclaimer before ordering this product.
This product is not sold or intended for human consumption. This is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest, and is delivered with no expressed or implied application or purpose.
Harm reduction – Mimosa hostilis and DMT-containing plants
The use of DMT-containing plants carries serious risks. The information below is intended for harm reduction, not as usage advice.
- MAO inhibitors and food: Combining MAO inhibitors with tyramine-rich foods (aged cheese, red wine, smoked meat) can cause a life-threatening hypertensive crisis.
- Drug interactions: Never use in combination with SSRIs, SNRIs, lithium, tramadol, or other serotonergic agents. Risk of serotonin syndrome.
- Psychiatric disorders: Do not use if there is a (family) history of psychosis, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: use is strongly discouraged; safety data are lacking.
- Set & setting: psychological state and environment have a major influence on the experience. Never use alone.
- 18+: This product is intended exclusively for adults.
Comprehensive information on the safe use of ayahuasca plants can be found in our knowledge base: ayahuasca information.
Sources
- Meckes-Lozoya, M. et al. (1990). N,N-dimethyltryptamine alkaloid in Mimosa tenuiflora bark. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 29(3), 305–309.
- Ott, J. (1994). Ayahuasca Analogues: Pangæan Entheogens. Natural Products Company.
- Schultes, R.E. & Hofmann, A. (1979). Plants of the Gods. McGraw-Hill.
