Tagetes lucida (Whole Leaf)
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Although the word "narcotic" has taken on a very negative connotation in recent years, Tagetes, in the classical sense of the term, is reputed to be narcotic in many countries. Narcotic, in the past, simply meant "psychoactive" in terms of its effects, and applied to a large number or natural herbs.
In ceremonies, the Huichol Indians from the Sierra Madre Mountains reportedly have visions when smoking the herb in combination with the consumption of fermented Tarragon tea, which is prepared the same way Sinicuichi is prepared. Tagetes lucida has been used since pre-Hispanic times and when smoked, is said to produce everything from euphoria to "closed-eye-images" similar to other herbs that were used used for divination.
Tagetes lucida is a beautiful, bright green perennial herb from the Sierra Mandre Mountains of Mexico. It is used by the local Indians recreationally as well as in the kitchen. It has a very mild anise flavor and a sweet taste. In Mexico, it is used as a tea to calm stomachs, relax nerves and to alleviate the symptoms of a hangover. |
