Breu Resin

This resin comes from the tropical Protium tree of the Amazon, where it is also called almécega. It is used in medicine as a painkiller and anti-inflammatory for digestive and joint problems, and is being studied for cholesterol-lowering properties.

Ritually, it is used on its own and as part of the Ayahuasca ceremony, as an incense during the practice, and sometimes even combined with the Ayahuasca herbs on the coals. Within the ritual, it protects the participants from negative spirits and harmful energy.

It is not very aromatic at room temperature, but when heated or burned, it has a bright, camphoraceous note that is very cleansing energetically, supported by a deep musky forest note that adds a grounding quality. It has become one of my favourites to burn, being as cleansing and banishing as Copal, but with a calming quality as well.

The Initiatic of Breu goes to the heart and the Shen energy there, anchoring it and creating a feeling of solidity and power which is comforting but not too heavy. As it moves out from there, it brings a feeling of protection, as if one is above the chaos of the world, held in cool silver light that all negativity just slides off.

The image I was given in meditation was of being an old, round stone in a swift river, water sheeting over me and rounding my edges but not carrying me away. This connects with studies that have shown it to have significant anti-anxiety effects, in a way that reminds me of Amber, but inward.

Breu’s flowing energy can be drawn into the energy body and circulated very easily, either through the meridians, chakras, surface or deep structures, and in all directions.

For dreamwork or visioning, Breu combines well with our Clary Sage Magistery, and it synergizes beautifully with all our Ayahuasca-related Spagyrics.