Frequently Asked Questions
Honest answers. Straight to the point. Here you will find answers to the questions most frequently asked about rapé, Kambo, Sananga, ceremonies and orders at Purity Healing. Is your question not listed? Send Kevin a message.
Rapé: the basics
What exactly is rapé?
Rapé (pronounced "ha-pé") is a ceremonial plant powder from the Amazon. It is a fine powder made from ground plants and the ash of trees or herbs. You inhale it through your nose using a kuripe (a V-shaped applicator with which you administer rapé to yourself). The Huni Kuin make our rapé. They have traditionally used it to ground themselves, to calm down and to connect with the higher realms. Read more in "What is rapé?"
Is rapé legal in the Netherlands?
Yes. Rapé is legal to buy in the Netherlands. Rapé is not suitable for people under the age of 18.
How do you pronounce rapé?
"Ha-pé." In Portuguese, the R at the beginning of a word sounds like an H. In the Netherlands, you sometimes hear "rapé" pronounced with a Dutch R. That is not entirely correct, but everyone understands what you mean.
How often can I use rapé?
You use rapé consciously, not out of habit. Are you just starting? Then take it at most once a week. Do you have more experience? Then you can gradually increase the frequency, depending on the type. Strong types are used rarely. Do you notice that you take it out of habit, or to suppress stress? Then take a break. Are you unsure? Send Kevin a message.
Which rapé is suitable for beginners?
Tsunu, Rosa and Murici are all good options for beginners, each with its own character. Rosa is the mildest (strength 3 out of 7). Tsunu is stronger (5 out of 7), but is also suitable for beginners. Would you like to explore first? Then check out the Four Rapéh's sample set or use the selection guide.
How long does a rapé session last?
Many people experience the first 3 to 15 minutes as the most intense. After that, a calm, clear presence often remains. Sometimes for half an hour, sometimes for a few hours. It varies from person to person and from session to session.
How do I store rapé?
In a cool, dark place at room temperature. Do not store it in the refrigerator, as moisture is rapé's greatest enemy. Always close the bottle tightly. Our rapé comes in a dark bottle that blocks UV light.
Is your rapé fresh?
Yes. A new shipment arrives almost every month, in small batches containing all the types. Immediately upon arrival, the rapé is placed in the dark bottle. This keeps it fresh. The rapé comes directly from the Huni Kuin, without any intermediaries.
Usage
How do I use a kuripe?
A kuripe is a V-shaped applicator. The short end goes in your mouth, and the long end is placed at your nostril. Put a small amount of rapé inside, about the size of a pea. First, exhale completely. Then blow forcefully and steadily. Next, inhale through your mouth and close your eyes. Wait a moment and then use the other nostril. Read more in "Using rapé safely"
Why do you use both nostrils, starting with the left and then the right?
In the tradition, the two nostrils represent two sides of yourself. The left for letting go, the right for receiving. That is why you use both nostrils, starting with the left and then the right. This keeps the ritual in balance.
How much rapé do I take the first time?
Start small. Really small. About the size of a pea per nostril. That is less than you think. You can always take more, but never less.
What do I do if I experience mucus, tears or nausea?
Let it happen. Mucus, tears or nausea are part of the rapé experience. In the tradition, this is called the purge: letting go. Do you need to gag or vomit? Do not fight it. Lean forward, do not hold it back and breathe through your mouth. Many people feel lighter and calmer afterwards. This varies from person to person.
Can I combine rapé with alcohol?
No. Alcohol makes the experience unpredictable and you need to be fully present. Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours before your rapé session.
Can I combine rapé with other plants or ceremonies?
Rapé has traditionally been used in ceremonies, alongside meditation and breathwork. We advise against combining it with drugs, alcohol or antidepressants. Are you unsure about a combination? Ask Kevin.
What do I do if I feel overwhelmed at home during a rapé session?
Breathe. Inhale for four counts, exhale for six. Place both hands on the ground and feel the weight of your body. Say out loud: "I am safe. This will pass." Stay seated and breathe through it. The intensity will always rise and fall again. Do you not feel well afterwards? Get in touch. Kevin is available.
Kambo
What is Kambo?
Kambo is the secretion of the giant leaf frog (Phyllomedusa bicolor) from the Amazon. Indigenous peoples have traditionally used it in ceremonies. A Kambo ceremony is intense and physical. Many people experience it as a deep cleansing, both physically and energetically. At Purity Healing, you always start with an intake and screening. Purity Healing is not therapy or medical treatment.
How intense is Kambo?
The points on your skin feel like a brief, intense heat. The ceremony itself is intense: your heart beats faster, you may feel nauseous, sweat and vomit. It lasts about 20 to 40 minutes. Many people say afterwards: it was intense, and it was worth it.
Do I need to fast before Kambo?
Yes. Fast for at least 4 hours, preferably 8 to 12 hours. Do not drink alcohol for at least a week beforehand. On the morning of the ceremony, drink water as instructed by Kevin. This is part of the protocol.
How many ceremonies are needed?
That depends on your intention. One ceremony can already set a lot in motion. This varies from person to person. The classic Huni Kuin cycle consists of three ceremonies within three months: one per 28-day lunar cycle. Kevin will discuss what is right for you during the intake.
Can I do Kambo if I am taking medication?
Some medications are compatible with Kambo, others are not. Antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, blood pressure medication and heart medication always require consultation with your doctor before the ceremony. Please indicate this when you sign up. Kevin will look into it with you. Safety comes first.
What is the "frog face" I sometimes see in photos?
During Kambo, your face may temporarily swell: your lips, eyes and ears. In the tradition, this is called being "kissed by the frog". It is a well-known, temporary reaction of the body to Kambo. Not everyone experiences it to the same extent.
Is the frog harmed during the harvest?
No. The frog remains intact. It is gently held, its secretion is collected on a stick, and then it is released into its natural environment. The Huni Kuin consider the frog sacred.
Sananga
What is Sananga?
Sananga are eye drops from the Amazon, made from the root of a plant used in the tradition. They are dropped into the eyes and cause an intense, temporary burning sensation for 2 to 5 minutes. In the Amazon, Sananga has traditionally been used in rituals, for example before hunting and before a ceremony.
Does Sananga hurt a lot?
It burns. We say that honestly. The burning sensation is intense for the first 2 to 5 minutes and then disappears. Most people describe it afterwards as a meaningful experience. Breathing calmly helps during the burning phase.
How do I use Sananga mindfully?
Our Sananga is freshly prepared, without additives or preservatives. Use one or two drops per eye. Never use it with an eye infection or after recent eye surgery. Do you wear contact lenses? Take them out first. Sananga is not a substitute for medical eye care. Are you unsure? Consult Kevin.
How long does the Sananga experience last?
The burning phase lasts 2 to 5 minutes. Afterwards, many people experience a period of silence and calm. This can last from one to several hours. In a ceremony, it works more deeply and for longer.
Ceremonies at Purity Healing
How do I book a ceremony?
Send a message via WhatsApp or use the contact form. Kevin will contact you personally. An intake follows. The ceremony is only scheduled after the intake.
Why is an intake mandatory?
Because Kambo is powerful and is not suitable for everyone at all times. The intake protects you. Kevin looks at your health, your intention and whether now is the right time. If now is not the right time, Kevin will tell you honestly.
Can a ceremony take place at my home?
This can be arranged. Private sessions take place in Nuenen and Eindhoven, or at another location you choose together with Kevin. Ask about the possibilities and any travel costs.
How long does a ceremony last?
Plan for half a day. The ceremony itself lasts several hours. Including arrival, preparation and debriefing, half a day is realistic. Do not plan anything else afterwards.
What do I do after a ceremony?
Rest. As much as possible. Many people sleep for a few more hours that afternoon. Eat light: soup, fruit, vegetables. No alcohol, no screens, no crowds. Spend the following days paying attention to what arises. Writing helps. Moving in nature helps.
Can I combine a ceremony with other guidance?
In principle, yes. Kambo and rapé complement body-oriented work, breathwork and meditation. Always indicate what other guidance or treatments you are following. Then Kevin can tailor the ceremony accordingly.
Ordering and shipping
How quickly will my order be shipped?
Every order is packed by hand and with care. This takes time. Within the Netherlands, delivery usually takes 1 to 7 business days. During busy periods, it may take slightly longer. We will let you know. See also Shipping and returns.
How much does shipping cost?
In the Netherlands, you pay €4.95. From €35.00, shipping within the Netherlands is free. To other European countries, including Belgium, it costs €12.00.
Do you also ship internationally?
Yes, to most European countries. You can find the list on the Shipping and returns page. Are you unsure about your country? Send a message.
What if I don't know which product to choose?
Use the selection guide or send Kevin a message. He will help you choose personally, based on your experience and what you are looking for. Not a sales pitch, but honest advice.
Can I return rapé?
Rapé is a fresh natural product. Therefore, you cannot return it if the seal has been broken. Is there something wrong with your order? Then contact us immediately. We will solve it together. Also read our right of withdrawal policy.
Safety
Who is Kambo not suitable for?
Kambo is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, for serious heart or vascular problems, unstable high blood pressure, active psychiatric conditions (such as psychosis, schizophrenia or severe bipolar disorder), epilepsy, the use of antidepressants or MAO inhibitors without consulting your doctor, and for people under the age of 18. Are you unsure? Always ask.
Is rapé dangerous?
Rapé is powerful. It is not a toy. Use it only as a healthy adult (18+), consciously and in moderation. Be careful, or do not use it, in case of heart or vascular problems, an excessive amount, or in combination with alcohol or drugs. Start small. Build up slowly. Are you unsure? Ask Kevin for advice.
Can I use rapé or Kambo if I am taking antidepressants?
This always requires consultation with your doctor and with Kevin. Some combinations can be dangerous. Always indicate this when you sign up or place an order.
Kevin and Purity Healing
Who is Kevin Lorenzini?
Kevin is a ceremonial leader and the founder of Purity Healing. He guides Kambo and Sananga ceremonies in Nuenen and Eindhoven, and Dip & Breathe together with Erik from Studio Purana. For about eight years now, he has had daily contact with a Huni Kuin village in Acre. Read his full story on the About Kevin page.
Is Kevin certified?
No, Kevin does not have a certificate from an organization such as the IAKP. He will tell you that directly, because honesty is the foundation of his work. What he has is almost 30 years of self-study and a long-standing connection with the Huni Kuin. Do you have questions or doubts? Feel free to ask them. Kevin answers without beating around the bush.
What do the Huni Kuin receive for their rapé?
They receive the price they ask. In addition, a portion of the proceeds goes back to the village. Kevin never takes a cut.
How can I contact Kevin?
Via WhatsApp, as that is the fastest way. Also via the contact form or by email at info@purityhealing.nl. Kevin answers personally.
Also read: Book a Kambo ceremony · prepare for Kambo · more about Sananga · rapé for beginners
