|
BPC AUDIO RECORDINGS
Here is our line of
recordings from the world renowned Botanical Preservation Corps field
seminars and conferences on the ethnobotany and biochemistry of plants.
Held in Ecuador, Maui, California, British Columbia, Veracruz and
Chiapas Mexico, covering the early 1990s to 2001. These highly
informative and entertaining talks contain a wealth of insight and
wisdom that cannot be found anywhere else! From candid conversation to
technical details to tales of high adventure to poetic philosophical
musings, through these recordings you can get to know and learn from
some of the great ethnobotanists, herbalists, biologists,
anthropologists, chemists, archaeologists and philosophers of our times.
Please keep in mind that the
diverse thoughts and ideas expressed within these recordings do not
necessarily reflect those of BPC.
Look for new recordings, documenting BPC seminars
from 1997 - 2001, sometime in the near future!
New
pricing on all recordings!!
For
U.S. customers, we offer Media Mail shipping rates on books,
tapes and CDs only.
Media Mail takes 4 - 6 weeks to arrive but costs significantly cheaper.
International customers wishing to save, inquire about costs on surface
shipping.
For fastest service use our First Class rates- Shipping
& Handling
If you want your books, tapes, CDs shipped along with any other items,
you must pay Firstst Class rates.
Media Mail shipping
and handling is -
$3.50 for the first lb., $0.50 each additional lb
~
Tape Special: order any 5 tapes for $30! ~
($12 talks count as 2 tapes, $16 talks as 3)
(other discounts do not apply!)
For shipping please
note that tapes and CDs weigh 2.5 ounces each
001
Jonathan Ott: The Politics & Problems of Drug Policy
A scientific, moral and ethical case for the legalization of all
"drugs",
with an emphasis in the entheogens as antidotes to the poison of gross
materialism which has led to the current global crisis. Jonathan
methodically deconstructs the prevalent "conventional wisdom"
which vociferously pushes to keep certain drugs illegal while other,
more dangerous drugs are institutionalized into daily life. He exposes
the hypocrisy and hubris of the government’s "moral high
ground" from which the "war on drugs" is supposedly
waged. 1 tape, $8
002
Jonathan Ott: Teonanacatl-Psilocybian Mushrooms
A very thorough presentation of the history of the use of psilocybin
containing mushrooms in North America. From evidence of pre-Colombian
use to its cruel suppression by the Spanish Inquisition, from the sacred
mushroom’s three centuries of obscurity to the fateful meeting of R.
Gordon Wasson and Maria Sabina, to the current proliferation of
discoveries of (apparently) previously unknown species, this talk is a
must for anyone who is even peripherally interested in ethnomycology
and/or anthropology. Also contains a list of many of the prevalent
species to be found in North America and other continents, as well as
scientific information about the alkaloids psilocybin and psilocin. 2
tapes, $ 12
004
Jonathan Ott: Ergot, Ololuihqui & Lysergic Acid Amides
A fascinating historical account of the creation of lysergic acid
diethylamide-25 and the
later, serendipitous discovery of its psychoactive properties. Begins
with the bizarre history of ergotism (poisoning from ingestion of ergot,
an affliction that ravaged Europe periodically for centuries) then
proceeds to the more recent search for ergot’s active compounds and
their medicinal applications. The importance of the kykeon (apparently
an ergotized entheogenic barley potion) in
the Greek Eleusinian Mysteries is covered. The lecture’s focus is of
the brilliant career of the eminent doctor who unlocked the secrets of
ergot, Albert Hofmann. A discussion the chemistry of lysergic acid
amides and related compounds, some of which were surprisingly discovered in morning
glory seeds that had been ritually used for centuries in Mexico. Well
researched and highly informative. 2 tapes, $12
005
Jonathan Ott: Ayahuasca Analogues
A first-hand account on experiments with alternative, analogous plant
sources and chemical compounds in successful attempts to duplicate the
psychoactive effects of an ayahuasca brew. Includes a brief history of
the discovery of ayahuasca by western scientists, and the subsequent
isolation and identification of its active alkaloids. Also contains a
comprehensive list of admixture plants used by various Amazonian
ayahuasceros. Some of Jonathan’s intentions in disseminating this
information are to present viable alternatives to ‘‘ayahuasca
tourism’’ and to stimulate an interest in further research of the
existing (and potentially) psychoactive plants which may be found in one’s
own environment. This talk complements Jonathan's book by the same
title, see Books. 2 tapes,
$12
006
Rocio Alarcon & Jonathan Sparrow Miller:
Rainforest Walk/ Elhnobotany Collecting Plant Specimens
Seminar participants share their impressions after exploring the Mexican
rainforest. A comic sketch is then performed to demonstrate the wrong
way to practice field ethnobotany. Rocio and Sparrow discuss
procedures for collecting plant voucher specimens for herbaria,
Stressing the importance of making such collections. 1 tape, $8
007
Rocio Alarcon with Jonathan Sparrow Miller:
Psychoactive Plant Shamanism in Ecuador, Part 1
Authoritative and informative discussion of the practices of divination
and healing using psychoactive plants among various Ecuadorian
indigenous groups. Particular detail is given to ayahuasca, tree datura
and tobacco and the contrast of types of shamanism between different
tribal traditions. 2 tapes, $12
008 Rocio
Alarcon with Jonathan Sparrow Miller:
Psychoactive Plant Shamanism in Ecuador, Part 2
The techniques and processes of shamanic initiation and plant use are
outlined, with a focus on ayahuasca. The importance of a spirit
connection with the forest and with the plants is stressed. Traditional
shamanic healing is contrasted with modern medicine. More discussion of Brugmansia
(tree datura) with methods of preparation given. 1 tape, $8
010
Rocio Alarcon with Jonathan Sparrow Miller:
Shamanism & Ethnobotany of Ecuador
A further elaboration of the shamanic uses of ayahuasca for healing and
visionary purposes, with cautions against the dangers of facile or
"recreational" use of this powerful plant complex. A most
interesting lecture on the anthropology and ethnobotany of Amazonian
Ecuador. 2 tapes, $12
011
Jonathan Sparrow Miller:
Ayahuasca & Ecuadorian Ethnobotany
This is a companion piece to Terence’s talk (#018) on ayahuasca; the
soundtrack to a slide presentation in which Sparrow recounts some of his
amazing personal experiences with ayahuasca in the context of authentic
shamanic use. He speaks on ayahuasca’s relationship to the forest, and
of the admixture plants which are utilized in Ecuador. Sparrow gives an
urgent call for a new ethnobotany and the growing of medicinal gardens
to help save the valuable knowledge of rainforest plants and indigenous
cultures. Botanical descriptions of medicinal plants and traditional vs.
industrial medicine are discussed. He also relates his experiences with
the Huaorani. This tape has some technical problems on side B (periodic
static). 1 tape, $8
012
Dale Pendell and Jonathon Sparrow Miller:
Plant Collecting & Field Techniques of Ethnobotany
Dale moves the topic of ethnobotany closer to home and tells of his
experiences collecting plants in the Western U.S., While acknowledging
the importance of tropical ethnobotany, he demonstrates that one need
not travel long distances to find useful plants with a history of
indigenous use. Sparrow elaborates further on field techniques of
ethnobotany listing the dos and don’ts of working with native people,
also covers seed collecting. Some side topics discussed in this session:
Absinthe, San Pedro cactus, contraindications for taking of psychoactive
plants, and the necessity of reading and studying thoroughly to prepare
oneself for work with plants. 1 tape, $8
013
Jonathan Sparrow Miller with Terence McKenna:
Ethnobotany & Indigenous Cultures of Amazonian Ecuador
This talk is based on Sparrow’s personal experiences in Ecuador, with
additional comments by Terence. Ayahuasca recipes exchanged. Sparrow
describes the medicinal plant garden Jatun Sacha, and discusses the
importance of growing personal gardens to develop one’s own plant
lore. Other topics include the ecology of the rainforest and the use of
tobacco in native cultures. 1 tape, $8
014
Terence McKenna: Evolution & History
This talk contains Terence’s now famous "stoned monkey"
theory. Besides making the case for psilocybin containing mushrooms as
the facilitators of language and consciousness in early human evolution,
he also presents the idea that the judicious use of psychedelics plants will
help secure and maintain planetary survival by the dissolution of
ego-driven male dominator behavior. Fascinating and thought provoking. 1
tape, $8
015
Terence McKenna: The Search for DMT in the Amazon
A ripping tale of the Terence's adventures in the Amazonian
region of Colombia, driven by reports of a legendary substance that
allows access to "the little men". Virola preparation and
snuffing are described. Terence gives a vivid description and makes an impassioned plea for scientific study of
ubiquitous tryptamine. Also includes discussion of the transformation of
language through the entheogenic experience. 2 tapes, $8
016
Terence McKenna:
What I have Learned From Psychedelics
This talk covers plenty of territory. It begins with a further
elaboration of the use of tryptamines, then moves to issues of what the
entheogenic experience can mean to individuals as well as to the human
species. One of Terence’s favorite themes emerges: reclaiming the felt
presence of experience. He presents guidelines for dealing with the fear
that may be experienced during use of psychedelic plants. More discussion
of consciousness, and an
analysis of the psychedelic experience as insight into life and death. 1
tape, $8
017
Terence McKenna: Experiment at La Chorrera
Set in the Colombian Amazon, this is the incredible story of Dennis and
Terence McKenna’s search for the philosophers’ stone, as related to
the blue/violet phlegm which powerful ayahuasceros have been seen to
secrete. Utilizing high doses of psilocybe mushrooms and Dennis McKenna’s
theories on the psychedelic molecules relationship to DNA, the brothers
attempted an unprecedented experiment which profoundly affected their
lives, triggering a series of very bizarre events and resulting in some
astonishing discoveries. This very rare talk is a must for anyone who
has followed Terence’s work, or anyone who is interested in stretching
the envelope of biological science and physics. Fast-paced, fascinating
and engaging. 1 tape, $8
018
Terence McKenna: Ayahuasca
Terence shares his recipe for ayahuasca and gives guidelines for
personal use, including cautions to approach this powerful plant complex
with humility. He also recounts hair-raising and fantastic personal
encounters with the brew and compares and contrasts it with other
entheogens. Includes discussions of ayahuasca and brain chemistry the
importance of sound to the ayahuasca experience, and the phenomenology
of shamanism and parallel realities.
1 tape, $8
019
Terence McKenna:
The Metaphysics of Psychedelics, Part I
This a wide-ranging dialogue, prompted by questions and comments from
the audience, Such topics are covered as: the union of mind and matter; shamanism and magic as ways of looking
behind the veil of duality; nature rediscovered as an inspiration to
science; and the brain as a receiver not a generator of mind. The
questions turn to ancient civilizations: did the Maya use psychoactive
mushrooms? How can a society that integrates psychedelics have a hierarchical
structure? The Soma cult—how did it disappear? What was Soma? Terence
argues against Wasson’s theory of Soma as Amanita muscaria.
Then, the dialogue turns to current topics as the psychedelics influence
on the development of futuristic technology, the momentum toward the end
of civilization, and the problem of existentialism and human destiny. 2
tapes, $12
020
Terence McKenna:
The Metaphysics of Psychedelics, Part 2
Terence begins this session with tales of strange tryptamine
experiences, and then examines the question of enlightenment and
spirituality in the context of psychedelics, and the gaining of insights
by their use. Among the plethora of other topics covered are: the
relationship of psychedelics to sexuality, computers and the possibility
of a "virtual" society, and the question of vicarious vs.
experienced violence and sex. The conversation turns to literary
matters, roving from McLuhan to Freud to Philip K. Dick to Francis
Bacon. Turning back to the discussion of psychedelics, he compares the
indoles with other alkaloids, and recalls the theory of entheogenic compounds as pheromones. 1 tape,
$8
021
Bret Blosser: Salvia divinorum
In the pharmacopoeia of entheogenic plants Salvia divinorum is
one of the most unique, and for centuries it was
virtually obscure. Here is ethnobotanist Bret Blosser’s amazing account of his serendipitous
encounter with a Mazatec curandero and his subsequent introduction to
the sacred "Hojas de la Pastora". The focus of the talk is on
the Mazatecs’ use of Salvia divinorum as a curative, especially
when the sacred mushroom is not available. Ceremony and methods of
ingestion are discussed, as well as hair-raising personal descriptions
of the plant’s effects. 1 tape, $8
022
Bret Blosser: Peyote and the Huichol
Once again, Bret gives a fascinating first-hand account of his
encounters with indigenous people who maintain an ongoing relationship
with a sacramental plant. To the Huichol, peyote is not only a sacrament
but a sacred way of life. By educating people of industrial societies
about the positive nature of this plant/people symbiosis, Bret hopes to
help preserve this vital culture which is in danger of being overwhelmed
by insensitive outsiders. He also describes logistical projects that
include helping the Huichol to help themselves to build water systems
that supply their religious/cultural centers with safe drinking water. 2
tapes, $12
023
Dale Pendell: Salvia divinorum - A Poet’s Perspective
Dale lets a variety of voices speak through him in this unique and very
personal dissertation on his favorite plant ally. In addition to the
philosophical view, methods of ingestion are covered. Dale shares his copious notes garnered from
several different experimenters, and he waxes poetic about the mysteries
of this "Diviners’ Sage". 1 tape, $8
024
Dennis McKenna: Alkaloids & Evolution
The actual title of this lecture is "Plant Allelochemicals and
Plant/Human Co-Evolution", but it was abbreviated for economy of
space. This should be of great interest to anyone who has pondered or
actually studied the relationship between plant chemistry and human
evolution. Dennis speaks from a well-informed and scientifically based
perspective, but he is not afraid to elucidate his own theories about
this important subject. Included among the issues he discusses is the
question of why alkaloids and other so-called "secondary"
plant compounds exist at all. While being somewhat technical in nature,
this lecture should he accessible to anyone who has even the most
rudimentary knowledge of plant chemistry. 2 tapes, $12
025
Dennis McKenna: The Ayahuasca (Hoasca) Project
The scarcity of hard data on the biodynamics of the long-term
consumption of consciousness-altering plants has hindered scientific
discussion on the subject, and has also allowed opponents of sacramental
plant use to continue their demonizing of such plants while remaining
largely unchallenged. Through the efforts of Dennis McKenna and a
dedicated, multidisciplinary team of scientists that information void
may eventually be replaced by an abundance of conclusive data. Following
rigorous scientific methods, the Hoasca Project is conducting an
ongoing. double-blind study of members of a Brazilian church who
regularly ingest an ayahuasca potion as their sacrament. The
participants constitute a typical cross-section of mostly middle-class
Brazilian society, citizens in good community standing who are proud to
take part in such an unprecedented study. The importance of this project
to science cannot be overstated, and this report provides a
comprehensive overview of the work in progress. 1 tape $8
026
Richard Evans Schultes:
Ethnobotany and Rainforest Preservation
Dr. Schultes makes a compelling case for the importance of ethnobotany
in helping to alleviate our global ecological
crisis, he also makes the connection between preserving indigenous
cultures and preserving the rainforest. This message becomes more
important with each passing year. As more and more of the forest and its
tribes disappear, more and more knowledge of incalculable value is lost
forever. Having spent a large part of his life in the South American
rainforest, Dr. Schultes knows whereof he speaks, and says it
eloquently. This talk should he heard by everyone.
For more on this important topic we recommend Schultes' The Healing
Forest (see
Books
). 1 tape, $8
027
Richard Evans Schultes:
Plant Collecting/Arboretum Walk
The session begins with a perfunctory demonstration of the techniques of
plant collecting and herbarium specimen preparation. We then follow Dr.
Schultes through the Keanae Arboretum (on Maui) as he comments on the
various tropical flora, meanwhile he shares anecdotes and stories from
his wealth of field collecting experience. We offer this tape not as a
definitive study in plant collecting, but as a rare document of casual
conversation and remarks by one of the greatest ethnobotanists of all
time. 1 tape, $8
028
Richard Evans Schultes: Hallucinogenic Plants
A broad overview of the world’s major hallucinogenic plants and the
indigenous people who use them, by the man who literally wrote the book
on the subject (see Plants of the Gods in our
Books
section). Along with plant descriptions are identifications of the
active chemical compounds contained therein, and their effects. The
session ends with a rare anthropological film from the Harvard Botanical
Museum archives which documents the use of a South American
hallucinogenic snuff called epena (Virola). The soundtrack of the
film, narrated by ethnobotanist Peter Furst, can he heard on this tape.
This talk is a must. 1 tape, $8
029 Alexander (Sasha)
Shulgin: Neurotransmitters
This is the "Ma Bell" talk, a brief, yet densely packed and
fast-moving lecture in which Dr. Shulgin presents his novel description
of neurotransmitter activity in the human brain. By using the ingenious
analogy of a telephone keypad, he simplifies difficult concepts and
makes them accessible to the layperson, while adding a touch of humor to
make it even more enjoyable. If you have ever wondered about the workings of the human brain, this talk will be of interest to you. 1 tape,
$8
031
Manuel Torres: Cohoba/Tryptamine Snuffs
Dr. Torres is a recognized expert on the archaeology and ethnobotany of
the tryptamine-containing snuffs of the Caribbean and South America,
working for nearly a decade on the astounding discovery of complete
shamanic snuff kits found with perfectly preserved mummy bundles in the
Atacama Desert of Northern Chile. Here he describes how his team
determined 1,200-year-old snuff to be from the seeds of Anadenanthera
colubrina, detecting the presence of tryptamines in the samples. He
passionately elucidates the historic role of these snuffs (as well as an
excellent discussion of San Pedro cactus) in
native culture and their impact on religion, art and life. Dr. Torres’
talk is highly recommended for his moving ability to impart the
significance of these revelations with the clarity and comprehension of
a careful scientific research. See Dr. Torres new book, Anadenanthera.
3 tapes, $16
SALE! $14!
032
Christian Ratsch:
Balché, Sacred Drink of the Lacandon Maya
Dr. Ratsch is cultural anthropologist from Hamburg, Germany specializing
in sacred and secular uses of magical plants. He lived over three years
with the last traditional Lacandon Maya. His description of becoming a
trusted part of their community reveals the central role played by their
one psychoactive potion, balché, which he learned to make so
well that they always look forward to the potent inebriation when he
prepares the community brew. 1 tape, $8
033
Christian Ratsch: Sacred Plants of Ancient Europe
Here is an involved discussion of the botanical repertoire of the
original pagan psychoactive-plant-loving European natives (of which Dr.
Ratsch is certainly a respectable member). The talk begins by
unshackling the suppressed facts about Cannabis as a native
European sacred plant, moving through the trancing, hexing, ritual and
aphrodisiac herbs of witchcraft and pre-Christian-era aboriginal
religions. Dr. Ratsch gives a simple step-by-step kitchen
recipe for making his beloved henbane beer, which he has revived from
its origin. Pilsenkraut, or henbane, was the ancient source of
Pilsner-type beer, before the enactment of the much-lauded German Beer
Purity Laws prohibiting brews other than those made from hops, barley,
water & yeast. Ratsch considers this to he the first anti-drug law,
aimed by the Church at suppressing pagan home-brews with psychoactive
properties! This tape is an excellent companion to Ratsch's Witchcraft
Medicine (see
Books
)1 tape, $8
035
Ralph Metzner: Entheogens & World Transformation
This is a seminal talk by one of the leading thinkers on Gaian
consciousness and planetary crises. Ralph brings perspective and wisdom
from his lifetime of exploration of states of consciousness to the
dilemma of impending global ecological disaster and the role of
entheogenic plants in the personal and social transformations needed if
we are to have a sustainable future. This passionate plea explores the
grim reality facing life on Earth and the hope of human potential as
revealed through the insight and revelation catalyzed by
"teacher" plant medicines. Don't miss Metzner's Book
Green Psychology. 1 tape, $8
036 Ken
Symington: Ayahuasca in the Peruvian Amazon
Ken presents a vivid account of his lengthy studies among ayahuasca
healers in the Peruvian Amazon, discussing the life and practice of the
plant doctors. From cosmic beings to plant allies and forest spirits,
the rich mythology associated with ayahuasca visions comes to life in
this engaging tale full of lyric poetry and enchanting jungle icaro
chants & songs. Ken describes the recipes he has learned for
preparing the brew, its effects, the special diet, other plants added to
ayahuasca and/or used alone during dietas. Ken also reads from
his wonderful translation of Cesar Calvo's ayahuasca infused novel, The
Three Halves of Ino Moxo, now available in our Books
section. 2 tapes, $12
ENTHEOBOTANY:
Shamanic Plant Science Audio
Tapes
The
Historic Conference on Plants, Shamanism & Ecstatic States
Held 18–20 October, 1996 at the Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco
101
Jonathan Ott: The Natural Paradises
Fascinating philosophical and technical examination into history from
the preliterate era of entheogens and shamanism
and its vicious suppression by the forces of developing religious dogma.
Ott gives personal insight into Wasson’s work on entheogens and the
origin of religion and concludes with a poetic reading of his ode to
Phytomphalos, which truly moved the audience. 1 tape, $8
102
Antonio Escohotado:
Inebriation as Experience of the Spirit
In one of the conference’s most impacting and elegant talks, this
controversial, notorious Spanish scholar presents an impassioned
historical/societal discussion of ‘ebriety’ (lifted to the winds) or
the sacramental joy which enhances perception without removing lucidity,
and the heritage of our right to "drugs" from both therapeutic and
recreational perspectives. For more of Escohotado See his Book
A Brief History of Drugs. 1 tape,
$8
103
Kary Mullis: Dancing Naked in the Mind Field
This Nobel Prize-winning chemist relates his personal journey of
learning from entheogens in an open, very frank and honest account.
His arrival in Berkeley in 1966 from Georgia Tech, LSD and scientific
creativity, inspiration about the nature of energy & matter and the
opening of the heart are movingly discussed.
1 tape, $8
104
Panel with Albert Hofmann, Peter Furst, Bo Holmstedt, & J. Ott:
Richard Evans Schultes: Pioneering Ethnopharmacognosist
Hofmann recounts the long, fruitful "friendship between a chemist and
an ethnobotanist" (read for him by Ott); Holmstedt gives their
adventures on the Alpha Helix expeditions in the Amazon and their
collaborative discovery of the chemistry of ololiuhqui seeds; Furst
points out Schultes’ breakthroughs such as his 1942 discovery by
self-administration of the active admixtures to snuffs and ayahuasca;
Ott points out the role Schultes played in rainforest conservation, Cannabis
taxonomy and the close collaboration with Wasson. 1 tape, $8
105 Rob
Montgomery:
Ecology and Ethnobotany of Shamanic Inebriants
BPC founder Rob Montgomery describes a field collecting expedition to
Chile that gave surprising revelations about the little known medicinals
and entheogens Latua
pubiflora, Desfontainea spinosa & Gomortega keule,
plus coca substitutes, snuffs, iboga relatives, and
more. 1 tape. $8
106
Julie Staley [for Deborah Mash]: Ibogaine:
Historical Overview, Clinical
Development & Future Directions
Here is a complete presentation of the state of research into the use of
African iboga root and ibogaine for heroin and cocaine dependency, the risks
involved, the pharmacology and metabolic mechanisms, duration, effects
and the promising potential for derivatives such as nor-ibogaine as very
effective, less toxic anti-craving agents. 1 tape, $8
107
Dennis J. McKenna: Ayahuasca:
An Overview of its Chemistry, Botany and Pharmacology
For anyone interested in ayahuasca, this talk provides reliable and
complete information on all the currently known aspects of the plant,
its preparation, the compounds discovered in the potion and much about
what it does from a physical and pharmacological standpoint. 1 tape, $8
108
J.C. Callaway:
Pharmacognosy, Neuropharmacology & Pharmacokinetics of Ayahuasca
A state-of-the-art/science presentation of the ayahuasca potion’s
effects on the brain, HPLC analysis of types of the brew, revelations
about diurnal flux in tryptamine concentration in Psychotria viridis,
and his discovery of pinoline as a probable endogenous ligand for
serotonin. 1 tape, $8
109
Peter T. Furst: Intoxicating Treasures:
Native American Entheogens in Art & Archaeology
Professor Furst takes a thorough examination of ancient New World artifacts spiced with witty
personal insights into entheogenic cacti, tobacco, datura,
snuffs & enemas, morning glories & mushrooms. 1 tape, $8
110
Alexander T. Shulgin:
Phenethylamines and Tryptamines
In his typically lively manner, Dr. Shulgin gives a spirited, witty
presentation of the molecular architecture and the art of its
manipulation by a psychedelicized chemist in an ever-curious search for
new compounds. 1 tape, $8
111
Josep Maria Fericgla:
Traditional Entheogens in the Mediterranean Basin
In recovering knowledge of the ancient entheogens of the Mediterranean,
much has been lost, but Fericgla discusses evidence for 11 substances: Amanita,
Psilocybe, Peganum, Solanum, Datura, Atropa,
Papaver, Cannabis, henbane and toads, along with an
impassioned history of what knowledge the Inquisition burned witches for
and contemporary (male) pharmacists co-opted and became wealthy upon. He presents much novel historical data and
detailed recipes. 1 tape, $8
112
Jochen Gartz:
Ethnopharmacognosy of Psilocybian Mushrooms
Giving a history of the chemical understanding of psilocybian mushrooms
and the greatly increased new listing of world-wide species, including P.
azurescens as well as details of a new entheogen, aeruginescine. Dr.
Gartz gives his recipes and cultivation experiments in fungal
biotransformation where feeding of tryptamines results in
new compoundss to be made within the mushroom. 1 tape, $8
113
Giorgio Samorini: New Frontiers of Ethnomycology
Riveting new post-Wasson data on mushrooms from 9,700-year-old Saharan
Tasilli, ancient India, medieval Europe through modern African use of
Duna mushrooms, Iboga & Securidaca roots and Alchornea
bark. His important re-interpretation of the Eleusinian mysteries
completes this talk, which truly blew the minds of colleagues and
conference attendees. 1 tape, $8
115
Christian Ratsch:
Yooch K’uh, the Meal of the Gods:
Entheogens Among the Lowland Maya
The sacred foods of the Mayan gods (incense, tobacco & balché)
are provided ceremonially by the Mayan people in order to allow the gods
to be happy and thus maintain harmony in the world. Dr. Ratsch details
the use of the psychoactive drink balché with a focus on balché
additives such as Acacia, cacao, toads, tobacco, morning glory
seeds, and other obscure psychoactive plants. His research reports
include a very interesting personal bioassay of intoxicating honeys. 1
tape, $8
116 C.
Manuel Torres:
Evidence for Antiquity of Entheogens in the Central Andes
The archaeological record is critically surveyed and re-interpreted,
with special emphasis on pipes, snuffing kits and representations of
psychoactive plants and ingestion from 2,130 BC to surviving native use
and bioassay experiments. Interesting new revelations regarding the
chemistry of Cebil snuffs. 1 tape, $8
117 Bo
Holmstedtt: Central Effects of Ergotism &
Retrospective of 1967 Etthnopharmacologic Search for Psychoactive Drugs
This tape contains two separate talks given by Dr. Holmstedt, one a
fascinating survey of the mental effects of ergot poisoning throughout
history, and a second reflective presentation of the historic 1967
scientific conference, also held in San Francisco, which first brought
together the leading minds studying psychoactive medicinal plants. 1 tape,
$8
118
Albert Hofmann [read by Jonathan Ott]: AH, AH
A wonderful and moving speech submitted by Dr. Hoffmann to be read in
absentia, due to his knee surgery. He recounts his remarkable discovery
of LSD and what its subsequent significance means to him, and speaks
about his long, close relationship with celebrated author Aldous Huxley (the other AH of
the title). 1 tape, $8
119 E.
Wade Davis: Richard Evans Schultes Tribute
Davis recounts the many contributions of Schultes, from his initial
field studies with peyote, his discovery in the 1930’s of the sacred
mushroom and ololiuhqui in Mexico, then how since 1941 he has collected
over 27,000 specimens of South American plants, including 4 new
hallucinogens unknown to science in his first months there. Tales of
Schultes’ epic solo expeditions such as managing a 7-day portage in
Columbia in 1948 while suffering beri-beri and malaria (which he had 17
times) after discovering Tetrapteris methysticodendron, a new
psychoactive vine. Also noted are Schultes’ studies of curare, rubber
and yoco, as well as Davis’ own adventures studying coca with fellow
student of Schultes, the late Tim Plowman. This tape is a companion talk
to Davis’ wonderful book, One River, listed in our
Books
section. 1 tape, $8
ENTHEOBOTANY II:
Shamanic Plant Science CDs
The
Historic Conference on Plants, Shamanism & Ecstatic States
Held 11–13 May, 2001 at the Whistler Resort, B.C., Canada
CD
Special!: order any 5 CDs for $40
(other discounts do not
apply!)
(Special thanks goes
to Holcombe
Waller for his help in making these CDs available.)
120 Daisy Sewid-Smith: Canadian
First Nation Medicine
After a ceremonial welcome and thanksgiving, Kwakwakawakwa (Kwaguilth)
cultural historian Sewid-Smith and her native guests share their
history, beliefs, sacred stories, chants and songs. Their shamanic
traditions and relations to the plants of B.C. is explained. Plants
reverently discussed—Devil’s Club, Elder, Hemlock, Cedar, Spruce and
more. 1 CD, $10
121 Jonathan Ott: Shamanic Snuffs
In his perpetually amusing manner, Ott examines the scientific method
and the fallacy of objectivity. He discusses the history of personal
bioassays and emphasizes their importance to the study of
ethnopharmacology. He winds up with his current studies of shamanic
snuffs, with special focus given to tryptamines. Also see his Book
Shamanic Snuffs. 1 CD, $10
122 Rocio Alarcon:
Ayahuasca: Medicinal & Ritual Uses in Ecuador
Rocio covers the commonalities and differences among indigenous groups
on both sides of the Ecuadorian Andes, the central role of women in
growing and preparing ayahuasca, rituals surrounding the evolution of a
shaman from infant to adult. She speaks of the variety of practical
medicinal uses ayahuasca has, admixture plants such as Brugmansia,
tobacco, Brunfelsia, aji, achiote, and the ability of ayahuasca
to initiate cultural renewal. Traditional diets and the plants involved—Chuchuhuasi,
Uña de Gato, Guarana, and Yoco, are discussed. She ends with the theme
of deforestation and possible solutions to ecological crisis. 1 CD, $10
123 Carlos Aldunate:
Ethnoarchaeological Review of Chilean Cultures
This Chilean ethnobotanist examines the indigenous cultures of south
central Chile. The Mapuche are covered in depth. This fascinating
culture resisted Incan and Spanish invasion, remaining an autonomous
nation until 1890. Traditional hunter-gatherers and agroforesters with
an extensive ethnotaxonomical system for using and identifying plants.
Aldunate discusses their current shamanic cultural revival, especially
among the women. He notes that shamans rarely use visionary plants,
their use being predominantly common and domestic, especially for
children! Edible seaweeds and algaes are covered along with host of
obscure medicinals— Latua pubiflora, Desfontainea, a
visionary coniferous tree, Lobelia tupa, Gomortega, and Datura
as a traditional Mapuche treatment for restlessness in juveniles
(ADD?)!! 1 CD, $10
124 Giorgio Samorini:
The Psychoactive Plant Alan Among the Fang
Italian researcher Giorgio Samorini discusses the Bwiti cults of western
Africa, with focus on the syncretic religion of the Fang tribe in Gabon.
He shares his time among the Fang and his initiation into their culture.
The Fang make use of a whole complex of psychoactive plants, not just
the well known Iboga root. These include an unidentified mushroom,
psychoactive eyedrops, Voacanga africana, Yohimbe, Kola nut,
fortified palm wine, and most importantly Alan (Alchornea floribunda ).
He reveals that Alan is the true Plant of the Ancestors, not Iboga, and
describes how it is traditionally used and its entheogenic effects. CD,
$10
125 Peter T. Furst: Art and
Artifact of Entheogenic Ritual
An expansion and update of Professor Furst’s talk on tape #109. The
latest revelations of New World artifacts from 2,000 B.C. to the
present. He covers archaelogical items relating to the ancient snuffing
complex of the Americas and Carribean, Anadenanthera, morning
glories, Datura among the Chumash, San Pedro, peyotl, mushrooms,
pulque and alcoholic beverages. Includes an enlightening discussion of
enema scenes in Mayan artwork and crafts.
CD, $10
126 Kathleen Harrison:
Sacred Allies in Traditions of Healing
Unfortunately the beginning portion of this talk was not recorded. We do
have ethnobotanist Kat Harrison sharing her personal insights and
experiences with sacred plant medicines and what she has learned during
her time spent with the Mazatec and other indigenous healers. Tobacco as
spirit food, plants for cleansing energy, knowing the energetic history
of medicines, reading the invisible world, and challenges of walking the
"medicine path" are all thoughtfully discussed. Kat clarifies
the importance of humility and willingness to open to a relationship
with plants and healing. How entheogens can aid in life’s major
transitions, including birth and death, are also shared in this
heartfelt presentation. CD, $8
127 Claudia Muller-Ebeling:
Angels and Dragons: Virtues of Bad Trips
Art historian and
German pagan, Muller-Ebeling explores the usefulness of the so-called
bad trip. By examining pangaian artwork, archetypal myths and shamanic
traditions, she uncovers modalities to help one work with and understand
difficult medicine experiences. She suggests that overcoming xenophobia
by embracing and integrating fear and negativity can help us learn more
about the world and ourselves. "Learn to dance with your
dragons!" CD, $10
128 Ralph Metzner:
Shamanic Divination and Visionary Experience
This pioneering pagan green-psychologist defines divination as a
structured inquiry into questions of the past for healing and
resolution, or the future for visioning and guidance. He explores
historical and contemporary approaches, examining the science of
consciousness, zen koans, riddles, Germanic mythology, entheogens,
alchemy, yoga, scientific inquiry, and the poetry of William Blake,
Shakespeare and David Whyte. For more info and current workshops with
Ralph Metzner see www.greenearthfound.org
1 CD, $10
DT01 David Theodoropoulos:
Alien Invasion and the Colonization of Nature
A talk given to the Sonoma County Herb Association. Ethnobotanist and conservation biologist, Theodoropoulos makes the
compelling case for the beneficial nature of "invasive
species." He opens stating that the first principle of biology
should be to "love all living things", and that scientists
must harbor no fear and hatred of the subjects they study. Then, through an engaging review of evolutionary biology
covering natural dispersal and origin of native ecosystems, he shows how
the whole concept of "invasives" is fundamentally flawed and
has no scientific basis. Instead he argues that it is a misperception
arising from fear born out of our disconnection to the cycles of nature.
This is being exploited by corporations and governments in their drive
to control the natural world, leading to herbicide spraying in wildlands,
extending the toxic mistakes of industrial agriculture into wild areas.
Rather than being an environmental problem, he details how
"invaders" are actually symptoms, not the cause, and are
important for revitalizing damaged ecosystems—as "medicine for
the earth", they repair depleted soils, clean up toxics, and
increase the rate of evolution. "Invasion" is an entirely
natural phenomenon, and is essential for creating and maintaining
biological diversity. A discussion whose time has come! Don't miss the Book
Invasion Biology: Critique of a Pseudoscience. 2 CDs $13
SPECIAL!
Order together with the book Invasion Biology for only $22

JULIETTE OF THE HERBS DVD
A remarkable,
beautifully filmed, lyrical documentary on the life and work of Juliette
de Bairacli Levy, herbalist, author, world traveler, student of Nature,
now in her 90’s. One of the grandmothers of the current herbal
renaissance, having authored numerous books on herbs and holistic
veterinary medicine. For nearly 70 years she has lived among the
Gypsies, nomads and peasants of the world, learning their healing arts
and relations to the natural world. A captivating, informative and
ultimately inspiring film. Color, 75 minutes. DVD, $22 (4 oz) (Can
ship as Media Mail)
|