ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the history, forms of use and meaning of the ritual beverage among non-indigenous groups, more specifically the rubber tappers of the Extractivist Reserve of the Upper Juruá. It uses the name ayahuasca throughout this text, although we also mention other names used by rubber tappers to refer to the beverage. The chapter introduces the history of occupation of the Jurua Valley by north-eastern migrants who became its future rubber tappers, and their conflicts with the native populations. It deals with the history of ayahuasca among the rubber-gathering population of the Upper Juruá. The chapter describes the preparation of the brew; and its ritual consumption. The text also includes a statement by one of the authors on his initiation to the use of ayahuasca. The culture of ayahuasca has always spread amongst rubber tappers in the midst of great secrecy. Ayahuasca can also operate as a guide in the conduct of practical life.
