Master Plants
Discover the plant teachers Maestro Americo works with, and what it means to diet them in the Shipibo tradition.
What is a Master Plant?
In the Shipibo and wider Amazonian traditions, a master plant (planta maestra) is a plant regarded as a teacher and healer, not just a remedy. Each one is understood to carry its own spirit, character and gifts, such as strength, protection, an open heart, or the ability to bring clarity through dreams. Healers learn their craft by building a long, personal relationship with these plants.
What is a Dieta?
A dieta is the traditional way of getting to know a master plant. You take the plant in a prepared form, usually as a tea or juice, while living simply and apart from daily life, with a very plain diet and a set of restrictions. The goal is to become quiet and receptive so the plant can teach, heal and strengthen you. It is a commitment that goes well beyond the days spent with the plant.
Everything on this page is traditional and ethnobotanical information shared for education. It is not medical advice. Some of these plants are toxic or pharmacologically active, so they should never be prepared or taken on your own. Properties and teachings can also vary between lineages. A dieta is done only under the guidance of an experienced maestro, and plants are chosen for each person through consultation with Maestro Americo.