Frequently asked questions.

  • Psychedelic-assisted therapy refers to using psychedelic substances that alter consciousness, combined with psychotherapy proving a client with the opportunity to address difficult psychological issues, supported by a therapist.

    PAP typically involves a talk therapy session conducted within 12-72 hours after taking psychedelic medicine. These sessions are guided by a trained psychedelic therapist.

    The medicine, in combination with talk therapy, allows the client to experience a deeper and more effective form of talk therapy.

    The substance is believed to enhance the person's ability to explore their emotions, memories, and inner experiences, and to gain new perspectives on their life and challenges.

    PAP has shown promise in the treatment of various mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addiction. Clinical trials are showing that the use of psychedelic medicine in a therapeutic setting can help to reduce symptoms, improve mood and well-being, and increase the sense of connection and meaning in life.

    It is important to note that PAP is a highly specialized form of therapy that should only be administered by a trained therapist in a controlled setting. The use of psychedelic substances outside of a therapeutic context can be potentially harmful.

  • The benefits of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAP) versus recreational psychedelic use are significant, and it is important to understand the differences between the two.

    Therapeutic Intent: PAP is administered with the goal of facilitating psychological healing and growth, while recreational psychedelic use is typically done for recreational or escapism purposes.

    Professional Guidance: PAP is administered by trained therapists and a medicine facilitator who provide guidance, support, and integration strategies to help individuals navigate their experiences. Recreational psychedelic use is often done without the guidance of a trained therapist and can be unpredictable.

    Safe Environment: PAP is typically administered in a safe and controlled environment, while recreational psychedelic use can be done in a variety of settings, some of which may be unsafe or unpredictable.

    Targeted Treatment: PAP is tailored to the individual's specific needs and goals, while recreational psychedelic use is not targeted toward any particular goal or condition.

    Legal Status: PAP is conducted legally in certain countries under strict supervision, while recreational psychedelic use is often illegal. Clinical trials in the US are completed for MDMA and mid-study for other medicines. Plant and animal psychedelics are not currently available outside of a clinical study in the US.

    In summary, PAP is a highly specialized form of therapy that is administered by a trained therapist in a safe and controlled environment with the goal of facilitating psychological healing and growth. Recreational psychedelic use, on the other hand, is often done without professional guidance, can be unpredictable and potentially psychologically damaging, and is typically not targeted toward any particular goal or condition.

  • In the short term (1-8 hours), you may feel somewhat dissociated (or ‘spaced out’ where your mind feels separate from your body).

    Psychedelics can induce intense and sometimes overwhelming psychological experiences that can be difficult to manage. In some cases, these experiences can lead to anxiety, paranoia, or other adverse psychological outcomes. A therapist will always support you to help manage potentially difficult psychological experiences.

    Psychedelics can also have physical effects, such as nausea, increased heart rate, and changes in blood pressure. In some cases, these physical effects can be severe or even life-threatening. Clients with uncontrolled blood pressure, uncontrolled thyroid disorders, or certain heart conditions would not be good candidates for PAP.

    Clients currently taking psychotropic medications are at risk for potentially fatal interaction with plant or animal psychedelics. Please review carefully the list of medications to not take before your PAP session. You will need to work with your medical provider to taper off these drugs to undergo PAP safely.

    It is important to note that the risks of PAP can be minimized through careful screening, preparation, and guidance by a trained therapist in a controlled setting. However, PAP should only be undertaken with a thorough understanding of the potential risks and benefits and under the guidance of a trained professional.

  • Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy (PAP) can be safe when conducted under the appropriate conditions, with proper screening, preparation, and guidance by a trained and experienced therapist.

    We have never had a client have an adverse fatal experience, due to proper selection and preparation of clients and medicines utilized.

    Studies have shown that PAP can be effective in treating certain mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction.

    The safety of PAP depends on several factors, including the individual's physical and mental health history, the specific psychedelic substance used, the dose, the setting, and the guidance and support provided by the therapist. It is important to work with a qualified therapist who has experience with psychedelic therapy and to undergo a thorough screening process to ensure that PAP is appropriate and safe for the individual.

    It is also important to note that PAP should only be conducted in a controlled setting with proper safety measures in place to minimize risks. The use of psychedelics outside of a therapeutic setting can be dangerous and potentially harmful.

    In summary, PAP can be safe when conducted under appropriate conditions with proper screening, preparation, and guidance by a trained and experienced therapist. However, it is important to carefully consider the risks and benefits before undergoing this type of therapy.

  • Jennie Marie interviewed and sought out an experienced a well-trained indigenous medicine provider. She traveled throughout Mexico and interviewed over 17 medicine providers, until she found a medicine provider who had a holistic background and extensively trained under a lineage of indigenous medicine providers (Shamans).

    Jennie Marie completed a 1 year fellowship and certification training with the prestigious Integrative Psychiatric Institute (IPI) , one of the premier and clinically recognized programs in the World.

    All plant and animal medicine is ethically and sustainable sourced from indigenous regions. No synthetic substances are used.

  • If you are taking any medications, you will need to work with a medical provider to stop all medicines before the retreat. The following is a guideline:

    Stop 10 days prior for non-Ayahuasca Retreats or 20 days prior for Ayahuasca Retreats:

    MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors), SSRI/SNRIs (any selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), Anxiety Medications (any benzodiazepines or anxiolytics), Antipsychotics, Atypical Antipsychotics, Barbiturates, Cannabis, or Alcohol.

    Stop 5 days prior prior for non-Ayahuasca Retreats or 20 days prior for Ayahuasca Retreats:

    Appetite suppressants (diet pills)

    Vasodilators

    Medicine for asthma, bronchitis, or other breathing problems

    Antihistamines, medicines for colds, sinus problems, hay fever, or allergies (Actifed DM, Benadryl, Benylin, Chlor-Trimeton, Compoz, Bromarest-DM or -DX, Dimetane-DX cough syrup, Dristan Cold & Flu, Phenergan with extromethorphan, Robitussin-DM, Vicks Formula 44-D, several Tylenol cold, cough, and flu preparations, and many others; any drug containing dextromethorphan (DXM) or with DM, DX or Tuss in its name).

  • We recommend eating Vegan for 72 hours before non-Ayahuasca retreats and 2 weeks before Ayahuasca retreats.

  • Cannabis and Nicotine can block some of the effectiveness of the medicines.

    Please do not vape or smoke Cannabis or Nicotine products for 21 days, preferably 42 days prior. This is important so your lungs can take in the Bufo medicine, which is smoked.

    Please, no cannabis edibles one weeks prior.

    Please, no nicotine for two weeks prior, including nicotine patches or gum.

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  • Bufo 5-MeO-DMT, also known as Bufo alvarius or Bufo toad venom, is a potent psychedelic substance that contains the chemical 5-methoxy-N, N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT). It is extracted from the secretions of the Sonora River Toad (Bufo alvarius) and is typically smoked or vaporized for its psychedelic effects. This substance induces intense psychedelic experiences and has been used for centuries by the Seri people, an indigenous tribe in Sonora, Mexico.

    When smoked, the effects of 5-MeO-DMT are rapid and include intense physical sensations, altered perception of time and space, altered states of consciousness., enlightened understanding, decrease in anxiety or depression, relief from addiction, and profound enlightened understanding. It is known to produce intense, short-lived experiences (10-30 minutes) that can be awe-inspiring. Many people report feeling a sense of unity with the universe, a dissolution of the ego and mental suffering, and a deep sense of peace.

    The mechanism of action of Bufo is on the serotonin system. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in regulating mood, and many antidepressant medications work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Recent studies have identified that Bufo has been shown to increase serotonin release in certain areas of the brain, and some researchers believe that this could be a potential mechanism for its antidepressant effects.

    It's important to note that the use of 5-MeO-DMT can also come with risks, particularly if it is not used in a controlled environment with proper preparation. It can be dangerous and fatal to lick the Toad. Proper harvesting and drying of Venom are necessary. Working with a trained practitioner is essential.

Bufo 5-Meo-DMT Psychedelic Animal Medicine

We source our Bufo 5-MeO-DMT directly from the Seri people. The Sonora River toad is a protected species, and harvesting its venom is illegal other than by the Seri Tribe.

  • Kambo is an Amazonian medicine made from the secretions of the Giant Monkey Frog. While Kambo is not a classic psychedelic, it is known to produce a cleansing of the body and mind to assist with healing properties of psychedelic medicines. A Kamboo cleansing can be an intense purging experience, clients can experience GI upset, which is believed part of the process of the body purging toxins. A Kamboo ceremony can help prepare the mindy/body for intense mental effects and assist with creating powerful psychedelic experiences. Many people report feeling a sense of emotional release after taking Kambo. It is said to have a purifying effect on the mind.

    Kambo is administered by applying the frog secretions to small burns on the skin. The secretions contain bioactive compounds. Burn marks are made by heating a stick (Amazonian vine) over a flame. Once the stick is hot enough, the practitioner will quickly touch it to the skin, creating a small, circular burn. The burns are typically made on the upper arm and arranged in a specific pattern based on the practitioner's tradition. The marks facilitate absorption and are an important part of the ceremony.

    While Kambo has been used safely by indigenous peoples for centuries, it can have risks if not administered properly. It should only be taken under the guidance of a trained practitioner in a controlled environment. People with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, may be advised to avoid Kambo.

Kambo Psychedelic Animal Medicine

Amazonian Kambo is applied to the upper arm into small burn marks made by a stick depending on the customizes of the local area.

  • Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic substance found in certain species of mushrooms, commonly referred to as "magic mushrooms". When ingested, psilocybin is converted into psilocin, which interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to altered perceptions, mood, and cognition.

    The effects of psilocybin can vary depending on factors such as dosage, set and setting, and individual physiology. Common effects include sensory changes (e.g. visual and auditory distortions), changes in thought patterns, and emotional experiences ranging from euphoria to anxiety. Psilocybin has been studied in recent psilocybin clinical trials and found to be effective in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions.

    Common ways to take psilocybin 1) Eating psilocybin-containing mushrooms either raw or dried. It can be difficult to determine the potency of mushrooms, and consuming too much can result in adverse effects. 2) Some people prefer to brew psilocybin-containing mushrooms into tea. The tea is made by boiling mushrooms in water for 15 minutes and then straining the liquid. This can produce a milder and quicker onset of effects compared to eating mushrooms. 3) Psilocybin can also be taken in the form of capsules, allowing for more precise dosing and eliminating the need to consume the mushrooms, which can have an unpleasant taste. 4) Some individuals may choose to take small doses on a regular basis, known as microdosing. Microdosing involves taking a small fraction of a dose, with intention of enhancing mood and creativity.

    Hope Psychedelic Retreats utilizes a psilocybin that is designed to enhance deep processing. Unlike other psilocybin our psilocybin does not create intense hallucinations, it creates deep contemplative states, enhances mood, increases in creativities, and decreases psychological suffering.

Psilocybin Psychedelic Plant Medicine

Psilocybe cubensis is native to Central America and contains both psilocybin and psilocin providing an intense psychedelic healing experience.

  • Rapé (pronounced ha-peh) is a traditional medicine used by indigenous tribes in the Amazon basin, particularly in Brazil and Peru. It is made by grinding various herbs, plants, and tree barks into a fine powder and mixed with tobacco. The mixture is then blown or snorted through the nose using a special pipe (bamboo tube) called a kuripe or tepi. It is believed to have various healing properties and is often used for clearing the mind, emotional healing, mental healing, grounding, and providing a sense of clarity and focus.

    The commercialization and appropriation of these sacred practices have raised ethical concerns. It is important to note that these practices should only be undertaken under the guidance and supervision of a trained practitioner, and with the utmost respect for the culture and traditions to support ethical sourcing and use of these sacred medicines.

Psychedelic Plant Medicine

IXCA Gold Amazonian Rapé is served at the retreat with the honor of the sacred culture.

  • Ayahuasca is a powerful psychedelic brew that has been traditionally used for centuries by indigenous people in the Amazon Basin of South America for spiritual and medicinal purposes. The brew is made from the Ayahuasca vine (Banisteriopsis caapi) and the leaves of the Chacruna plant (Psychotria viridis) or other DMT-containing plants. The Ayahuasca vine contains MAO inhibitors, which allow the DMT in the Chacruna leaves to be orally active and produce a psychedelic experience that can last several hours. It can also produce physical effects such as nausea, vomiting, and increased heart rate.

    Ayahuasca is known for producing profound introspective experiences, as well as intense mental and emotional effects. It is often used as a tool for personal growth, healing, and relief of mental health suffering. The use of Ayahuasca has become increasingly popular in the West in recent years, with many people seeking it out for therapeutic purposes for alleviating trauma, depression, and anxiety. Numerous studies have reported that single dose of Ayahuasca led to rapid and significant improvements in depressive symptoms, decrease in anxiety, and decrease in sense of hopelessness. It should only be taken under the guidance of an experienced facilitator, as it can be dangerous when used improperly.

Ayahuasca Psychedelic Plant Medicine

We utilize a traditional Peruvian Ayahuasca drink preparation for administration.

  • CHANGA (Xanga) is a type of smokable herbal blend that contains a combination of DMT (N-Dimethyltryptamine), one of the most potent naturally occurring psychedelics, along with herbs such as mint or lavender, or other plants which could include Ayahuasca or Psilocybin. The result is a longer-lasting and more gentle experience compared to smoking pure DMT crystals or ingesting Ayahuasca.

    CHANGA (Xanga) is typically smoked in a pipe or rolled into a joint, and the effects are usually felt within a few seconds of inhalation. The experience can be intense and profound, with users reporting vivid visual and auditory hallucinations, altered perceptions of time and space, the release of mental and traumatic suffering, and a deeper sense of connection or belonging. As with all psychedelics, the effects can vary widely depending on the individual and the setting in which it is used. It should always be used with caution and in a safe and supportive environment.

Changa or Xanga

A smokable blend of herbs containing psychedelic substances of Plant DMT, may include Ayahuasca and/or Psilocybin.

  • San Pedro is a cactus native to the Andes mountains in South America. It contains the psychedelic compound mescaline, which has been used for thousands of years by indigenous peoples for its psychoactive effects. San Pedro cactus is often used in shamanic ceremonies for healing purposes.

    Mescaline is a naturally occurring psychedelic substance that belongs to the phenethylamine class of drugs. It produces effects similar to those of other psychedelics such as LSD and psilocybin, including alterations in perception, mood, and thought processes. San Pedro can facilitate a shift in perspective, enhance emotional processing, and promote a sense of connectedness and well-being. San Pedro has also been associated with increased creativity and novel problem-solving abilities. Clients report flexible thinking, new perspectives, and the ability to think outside of established patterns. San Pedro can help access deeply rooted emotions, including unresolved traumas. This can lead to emotional healing, increased self-awareness, and personal growth.

    When consumed, San Pedro cactus can cause visual hallucinations, synesthesia, and altered states of consciousness that can last for up to 12 hours. It can also produce physical effects such as nausea, vomiting, and increased heart rate.

San Pedro Mescaline Psychedelic

We ethically source our San Pedro from Peru.

  • A Temazcal is a traditional Mexican sweat lodge that is used for mental, spiritual, and physical purification. The word "Temazcal" means "house of heat". It is a small, dome-shaped structure made of natural materials such as stone, adobe, or brick, and heated by hot stones.

    The Temazcal ceremony involves entering the lodge and sitting in a circle around the hot stones. Water is then poured onto the stones to create steam, which increases the heat and humidity inside the lodge. Participants are typically guided through a series of rituals and chants while herbs and aromatic plants are used to enhance the experience.

    The Temazcal is believed to have numerous health benefits. It is said to promote sweating and detoxification, enhance relaxation, and promote mental well-being. The ceremony is often used as a form of therapy and is believed to have a calming and grounding effect on the mind.

    It is important to note that the Temazcal can be an intense experience, and is not recommended for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, may be advised to avoid the Temazcal due to the heat and humidity. Consult with a healthcare provider before participating in any kind of sweat lodge ceremony.

Temazcal

Actual photo of Temazcal at Retreat Center in Cancun.

  • Set and setting are two important factors that can greatly influence the effects of psychedelic medicine.

    "Set" refers to the mindset, expectations, and intentions of the person taking the medicine. This includes their emotional state, mental health, personality, beliefs, and previous experiences with psychedelics. Set can influence the intensity and type of experience a person has while under the influence of a psychedelic. For example, a person who is anxious or fearful may be more likely to have a negative experience, while a person who is open-minded and relaxed may be more likely to have a positive experience.

    "Setting" refers to the physical environment in which the medicine is taken. This includes factors such as the location, lighting, music, people present, and level of comfort. Setting can also influence the intensity and type of experience a person has while under the influence of psychedelic medicine. For example, a person who is in a safe and comfortable environment with support may be more likely to have a positive experience, while a person who is in a crowded and noisy environment may be more likely to have a negative experience.

    Together, set and setting can greatly influence the outcome of a psychedelic experience, and it is important to consider both factors when using these substances. Proper preparation, guidance, and supervision can help to maximize the benefits of psychedelics while minimizing the risks.

Set and Setting

We help you create a supportive “set” and “setting.”