Willow-leaf Heimia
Heimia salicifolia
Loosestrife family (Lythraceae)
Yellow hallucination
The willow-leaf heimia from Mexico was used by the Aztecs during rituals and is still used by Mexican shamans to contact the gods today. In the Netherlands willow-leaf hazel is sold as a psychedelic drug. It induces a pleasant euphoria and enables the user to recall clear memories to mind. Other effects include drowsiness, relaxation of both the mind and body, auditory hallucinations, and induces a general yellow colouration to vision - hence the nickname 'Sun Opener’.
The leaf of the willow-leaf heimia is reminiscent of the leaf of the willow and hence the species name, salicifolia. Heimia salicifolia prefers a sunny site and flowers in summer with small, yellow flowers.
Themes
Crown jewel in the Overzee Botanic Garden.
Used in traditional medicine as a tonic given to remedy a variety of illnesses or symptoms.
In Central America and Mexico fresh leaves in a bowl of cold water placed in the sun for at least 24 hours led to the belief that the wisdom of the sun would be caught in the elixir.
Gebruikt als psychedelicum.
Details
Description: | Shrub, 1.20 - 3 m tall. |
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Distributions: | From texas (usa) to argentina |
Habitat: | In rough, damp habitats with shrubs and bushes. |
Year cycle: | Perennial (polycarpic decidous) |
Hardiness: | 5 - 14 f (hardy - cold winter) |
Flowering period: | Augustus - september |
Flower color: | Yellow |
At its best: | Augustus - september |