Introduction

Mimosa hostilis (synonym: Mimosa tenuiflora), also known as “Jurema,” is a sacred tree of the Brazilian and Mexican regions, particularly revered by indigenous peoples of the northeast (the Tuxá, Pankararu, Kariri‑Xocó, and others). Its root bark contains N,N‑dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and tannins that give it its characteristic deep red color. Traditionally, it has been used for healing, protection, and spiritual connection. The name “Jurema” refers both to the tree ...

Botanical description

Mimosa hostilis is a perennial shrub or small tree of the legume family (Fabaceae), native to northeastern Brazil and Mexico. It grows 3–8 meters tall, with a thorny trunk, bipinnate leaves, fragrant white flower spikes, and brown pods. The root bark is fibrous and reddish inside — rich in tannins and alkaloids. It grows in dry tropical areas, tolerating both drought and poor soils, which makes it valuable for reforestation and soil stabilization.

Chemical composition

The root bark contains high levels of N,N‑DMT (usually 0.3–1%) along with tannins, flavonoids, and trace amounts of other tryptamines. The bark’s deep red color comes from its tannin content, which has antimicrobial and astringent properties. Other compounds include saponins, lupeol, and sterols that may support skin regeneration.

In pharmacological terms, DMT is a tryptamine that naturally occurs in many plants and even in the human body (in trace amounts). It binds to serotonin receptors and can induce intense visionary and mystical states when made orally active (e.g., with MAO‑inhibitors like Banisteriopsis caapi in ayahuasca).

Traditional and cultural use

In northeastern Brazil, the Jurema cult (Catimbó and Pajelança) has used Mimosa hostilis for centuries in healing and religious ceremonies. A ritual drink called “Vinho da Jurema” is prepared from its root bark — sometimes alone, sometimes mixed with other herbs that activate or complement its effects. These ceremonies invoke ancestral and nature spirits, seeking healing, protection, and divine guidance. The brew produces visions, emotional purification, and a sense of unity with th...

Among the Pankararu and Kariri‑Xocó peoples, Jurema ceremonies often include drumming, songs, and trance dances. The plant is seen as a bridge between human and divine realms, a “teacher tree” similar in function to ayahuasca but with its own identity and lineage.

Today, “Jurema rituals” continue both among indigenous communities and in urban neo‑shamanic groups across Brazil. Modern practitioners treat it as a path of reconnection to nature and ancestral memory.

Modern research

Scientific interest in Mimosa hostilis began in the 20th century with studies of its alkaloid composition. DMT was first identified in the root bark in the 1940s. Since then, research has explored its pharmacology, ethnobotany, and potential applications in medicine and cosmetics.

• Pharmacology: Studies confirm the presence of DMT and tannins with antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. Laboratory tests show extracts inhibit bacterial growth and may promote wound healing by stimulating collagen production.
• Skin regeneration: The bark’s high tannin and saponin content explains its use in natural medicine for burns and wounds — it tightens tissue, reduces infection risk, and accelerates recovery.
• Antioxidant & antimicrobial properties: Several compounds in Mimosa hostilis show activity against free radicals and microorganisms, supporting its use in traditional herbal preparations.

Beyond pharmacology, ethnographic research highlights its cultural and religious significance — linking ancient Jurema cults to contemporary syncretic movements that blend Catholic, African, and indigenous spirituality.

Other uses (medicine, dye, healing)

Natural dye: The bark’s deep red pigment is used to dye textiles, leather, and wood. The dye is light‑resistant and eco‑friendly, making it valuable in sustainable crafts.

Topical medicine: Traditionally, powdered bark or infusions are applied to wounds, burns, and skin infections. Its tannins act as antiseptic and astringent, promoting closure and healing. In Brazil, “Jurema bark powder” is still used in folk medicine as a disinfectant and for treating ulcers.

Cosmetics: Extracts of Mimosa hostilis are used in natural skincare for their soothing, rejuvenating, and antioxidant properties — particularly for sun‑damaged or sensitive skin.

Contraindications & risks

• Toxicity: in traditional doses Mimosa hostilis is considered safe, but concentrated DMT extraction or ingestion without knowledge is dangerous and illegal in most countries.
• Allergic reactions: handling or inhaling bark powder can irritate the skin or respiratory tract.
• Psychoactive effects: if consumed with MAO inhibitors (like in ayahuasca analogues), the DMT becomes orally active, producing intense experiences that should only occur under guidance.
• Legal risks: although the plant itself is often legal, its DMT content places it in a legal gray area — extraction or use as a psychedelic can be prosecuted under controlled substance laws.

Always use Mimosa hostilis with respect, proper knowledge, and only for permitted purposes (e.g., dyeing, cultural study, or botanical research).

Legal status

Mimosa hostilis is not listed in the UN 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, so the plant itself is not internationally prohibited. However, its main alkaloid, DMT, is a Schedule I controlled substance in most countries. This means possession of the pure compound or its concentrated extract is illegal, even if the plant material is not explicitly banned.

Brazil: the plant is legal; extraction and sale of DMT are illegal. Jurema ceremonies are protected as traditional cultural heritage.

USA & Canada: DMT is prohibited federally; possession of the plant may fall under analog laws if intended for ingestion.

EU: the plant is mostly legal for decorative, research, or dye use; DMT extraction is criminalized. Always verify local regulations.

Sustainability & ethics

Growing interest in Mimosa hostilis for dye and psychoactive research has led to unsustainable harvesting in some areas, especially in northeastern Brazil. Removing entire root systems kills the plant and degrades soil. Ethical cultivation means pruning roots or using cultivated sources rather than wild‑harvesting.

Responsible sourcing supports local communities and preserves biodiversity. Sustainable reforestation projects now replant Jurema trees to restore the caatinga ecosystem. Supporting such initiatives ensures the survival of both the tree and the cultural wisdom surrounding it.

Respect for Jurema means reciprocity — honoring the land and the people who have kept this tree alive for generations.