Bay Bean (Canavalia maritima/rosea) is another curious potential entheogen which we were introduced to on one of our trips to Oaxaca, Mexico.  There seem to be many stories around this plant, and it was considered important and sacred enough to be placed in graves in and around the area by the Mazatecs and other tribal groups.  This alone indicates an importance for this plant in ritual that goes beyond decoration, since the dried leaves of Canavalia aren't pretty (but the smell is absolutely intoxicating).

The natives we spoke with report that it has been used both as a potentiator for other herbs, as well as marijuana substitute (which is NOT what we offer this as in any capacity!), similar to the way Wild Dagga has been reportedly used in Africa.  They claim that it fell out of favor a long time ago, but with no thoughts as to why.  We are continuing our search for information about this plant; with such a wide range, there must be knowledge of its use in ritual and a possible entheogen somewhere.  There are only scattered reports on the internet, so we can only rely on feedback from customers that might post what their experience with working with this plant might be like below.

Latin Name:  Canavalia Maritima, Canavalia rosea (Fabaceae family Legume family)

Common Names: Bay Bean, Beach-bean, jackbean, maunaloa, puakauhi, wonderbean, Friol de Playa.

This is a very fast-growing and sturdy vine which can be found all over the coastal regions around the Gulf of Mexico, including the Yucatan, but occurs all over the world in tropical and subtropical coastal locations.  Its wide range makes it even more curious that little is presently known about this plant.  It prefers warmth and can tolerate periods of drought, but definitely likes full sun and the beach!  Bay Bean (Canavalia maritima/rosea) can actually be found snaking its way to the ocean from shrubby shorelines and coastal shrub.  It sets down roots at nodes as it trails across beaches and dunes, the roots forming networks that aid in stabilizing sands.