Sananga Eye Drops: Effects, Traditional Uses and Safety Overview

What are Sananga Eye Drops?

Sananga is a liquid eye drop solution made from the sap of the shrub Tabernaemontana undulata. This shrub is found in the Amazon rainforests of Peru, Colombia, Bolivia and Brazil where it has been used traditionally by indigenous tribes for centuries.

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

In South American tribes like the Matses, Katukina, and Kaxinawá peoples, sananga has long been used ritualistically to clear negative energies, improve concentration and connection, and enhance vision abilities. It is believed to open one's energy field and expand consciousness.

The main active ingredients in sananga are ibogaine and bufotenine - substances that interact with receptors in the brain and can induce altered states. In tribal rituals, sananga may be used alongside other plant medicines like ayahuasca to intensify the effects.

Effects on Vision

One of the main traditional uses of sananga eye drops has been to improve vision. When applied, the drops initially cause a burning sensation in the eyes. Some people also report enhanced visual acuity, improved night vision, and the ability to see more vibrant colors and details.

It’s been speculated that the irritation caused by the drops leads to increased blood flow and a cleansing effect in the fine blood vessels supplying the retina and optic nerve. However, more research is still needed to fully understand sananga's effects on vision.

Using Sananga Medicinally

Outside of indigenous tribes, sananga eye drops have recently started gaining popularity in the West amongst those interested in natural medicines, shamanism, and vision enhancement. It is primarily used for:

Clearing Energetic Blockages

Some people use sananga eye drops to help clear any perceived energetic blockages or negative energy in their mind and body. The irritation and subsequent inflammatory response is believed to essentially give the energy body a "reset".

Increasing Focus and Awareness

Users of sananga often report increased focus, concentration and awareness after using the eye drops. This may be related to the vision enhancing effects but also ties into sananga's use to open one's energy field.

Physical and Spiritual Cleansing

Sananga is thought to provide a deep physical and spiritual cleansing effect. The few minutes of eye pain forces one's awareness inward, essentially distracting the conscious mind temporarily while unconsciously emotional and energetic blockages can be cleared.

Preparation for Other Plant Medicines

Some people use sananga eye drops to prepare themselves energetically before working with plant medicines like ayahuasca or peyote. Since sananga is believed to open up energetic pathways, it can make the following work more effective.

The Sananga Experience: What to Expect

Administration of the Eye Drops

Sananga eye drops are generally administered by a trusted, experienced practitioner rather than self-administered. The person receiving sananga will lie down or sit upright and relax during the process. One to three drops are placed into each eye. Sometimes nasal administration is also part of the treatment.

Effects During Treatment

Almost immediately after sananga administration, a strong burning sensation will occur. This lasts typically for 2 to 5 minutes but can persist up to 15-20 minutes. Some people also report blurred vision, tears, and involuntarily closing their eyes during this timeframe.

Many people find the pain difficult to cope with. Deep breathing, staying relaxed rather than tense, and working through it patiently is key. It is extremely important to not rub the eyes.

After Effects

Following the eye pain, you may feel the need to keep eyes closed for some time as the irritation resides. A period of rest and relaxation is recommended after receiving sananga.

Over the next day or so, enhanced visual clarity, colors and night vision are often reported. Some people feel very positive and energetic thanks to clearing of prior energetic blockages.

Is Sananga Safe?

When administered properly in reasonable dosages by an experienced practitioner, sananga eye drops are considered safe to use for most people.

Side Effects

Besides the strong burning pain in the eyes during administration, some other side effects that may possibly occur include:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Tingling sensations in the body
• Changes in body temperature regulation
• Mood shifts or emotional purging

These side effects tend to be temporary. Calling on spiritual protectors and having an intention for the work you wish to accomplish can minimize difficult effects some feel.

Contraindications

Due to limited research, sananga use is not recommended for:

• Those with eye injuries, diseases or infections
• People taking MAOI medicines
• Those with extremely high blood pressure
• Children under 12 years old
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women

Closing Thoughts

Sananga eye drops represent a unique natural medicine that science is only beginning to understand. More research is still needed on sananga's therapeutic effects and bioactive compounds.

When used respectfully and mindfully, advocates believe sananga holds potential for enhancing vision, increasing focus and awareness, removing energetic blockages, and supercharging other plant spirit work.

FAQs

What does sananga eye drops feel like when applied?

Sananga drops cause a strong burning and irritating sensation in the eyes that lasts around 2-15 minutes. Many people report it being very painful and difficult to endure. Staying relaxed, breathing deeply, and not rubbing your eyes is important.

Are there long term effects from using sananga?

There are no reported long term negative effects of sananga when used properly. Many practitioners report long lasting vision enhancement, concentration, and energetic clearing benefits from working with sananga eye drops.

Can sananga eye drops physically damage eyes?

There are no reports of sananga directly causing damage to eyes when administered properly in reasonable dosages. Blinking, tearing, and eye closure during the burning sensation are the eyes' natural protective mechanisms.

Is sananga safe for everyone to use?

Sananga should be avoided by those with certain medical conditions like eye injuries/infections, high blood pressure, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Outside of these contraindications, most people can safely work with sananga when precautions are taken.