Hemia salicifolia
is a flowering shrub that grows from Mexico to Argentina and
is widely cultivated through its range. Hemia salicifolia
has a Shamanic tradition dating to the Aztecs. The leaves
were said to be crushed, mixed with water and allowed to ferment
for a few days, making a nice-tasting tea called Sinicuichi.
The effect of the Sinicuichi tea was said to be a extreme
mood enhancer and provide visual stimulation, hence the name
"Sun Opener." Sinicuichi is also thought to give
the ability to recall past events with great clarity and has
the unusual characteristic of being an auditory stimulant.
When smoked Sinicuichi is believed to give the same, or more
potent effects than the tea, and is now becoming one of the
most popular legal herbal smoking products sold.