Ojé

Ojé is a powerful and revered tree known for its strong, illuminating medicine. Its primary role is purification—cleansing both the mind and body of residual contaminants left behind by drug use and deep-rooted addictions.

This majestic tree grows to approximately 20–30 meters in height, with a trunk diameter of 40–50 centimeters when fully mature. Ojé produces fruit that is highly favored by fish, though it is not edible for humans.

Within traditional Shipibo medicinal practice, the resin of Ojé is regarded as the primary—and often only—medicine used to purify the body of substances from all forms of drugs, whether prescription or recreational. For individuals recovering from addiction or with a history of substance use, Ojé is dieted to deeply cleanse the nervous system, digestive system, blood, brain, mind, and cellular structure—addressing every layer impacted by drug exposure.

To prepare Ojé medicine, the sap—often referred to as the tree’s “milk”—is carefully extracted by making a small incision in the trunk. This liquid is then preserved by mixing it with 95–96% pure alcohol (typically a small spoonful per bottle) and unrefined sugar, preventing fermentation and maintaining the medicine’s integrity. Pure Ojé resin cannot be consumed directly from the tree and must first be properly prepared in this traditional manner.

Ojé is also a powerful purgative, traditionally used to induce vomiting and cleanse the stomach. At Reshin Nika, most new arrivals take part in a welcome vomitivo, prepared with Ojé and Azucena—an onion-like plant. Together, these medicines help clear and prepare the digestive system so the body can receive the ayahuasca medicine more effectively.

When dieting Ojé, the dietero enters into a connection with the spiritual world of Ojé and its guiding plant spirits. This medicine world is often described as one of pure white light, reflecting the white color of Ojé’s resin. For deep purification—especially for those healing from strong or long-term addictions—a dieta of at least one month is traditionally recommended, though shorter diets are also possible depending on individual needs.

Dieta Overview

Type: Healing diet
Minimum Duration: 11 days
Recommended Duration: 1 month
Best Suited For: Cleansing and healing the body from drugs and other strong addictions