Kuripes & Tepis

Ceremonial Tools - Best Sellers - Katukina.US

About Our Sacred Kuripes & Tepis

Ethically Sourced Ancestral Hapé Applicators

In the sacred traditions of the Amazon, the application of Hapé (Rapé) is a profound ritual of alignment, cleansing, and spiritual connection. To facilitate this practice, we offer authentic, hand-carved Kuripes (self-applicators) and Tepis (partner blowpipes).

Every applicator in our collection is a unique work of sacred art, handcrafted through fair-trade partnerships with indigenous Amazonian tribes—including the Apurinã, Yawanawá, and Katukina—as well as master artisans in Peru, Brazil, and Colombia. Made from traditional bamboo, sustainably harvested wood, and sacred bone, these tools are designed to perfectly channel your breath (soplos) and intentions. Learn each tribes history and shop their offerings

Frequently Asked Questions

A Kuripe is a small, V-shaped single-nostril pipe designed for self-application of sacred Hapé. It allows you to blow the powder into your own nostrils. A Tepi is a much larger, double-ended blowpipe designed for partner application, where one person blows the medicine into another person's nostrils. Both are essential sacred tools (or hape applicators) handcrafted to channel breath (soplos) and intention during ceremonial practices.

If you primarily practice alone, a Kuripe is the ideal self-applicator. If you facilitate ceremonies, work with a partner, or participate in group circles, a Tepi is required. When selecting your applicator, consider the materials and craftsmanship:

  • Bamboo Applicators: Lightweight, traditional, and highly durable.
  • Bone & Wood Applicators: Often intricately carved, offering a heavier, grounded feel.
  • Artisanal Details: Many of our applicators feature sacred stones, feathers, or traditional beadwork crafted by indigenous Amazonian artisans. Choose the one that resonates most with your personal practice and intentions.

Using a Kuripe requires focus, breath control, and respect:

  1. Measure a pea-sized amount of Hapé powder and place it in the palm of your hand.
  2. Use the long end of the Kuripe to scoop up half of the powder.
  3. Place the mouth end (the shorter side) into your mouth and the nose end (the longer side) gently into one nostril.
  4. Take a deep breath, set your intention, and blow the powder into your nostril with a quick, sharp blow (or a long, gentle blow depending on your preference).
  5. Pause, breathe through your mouth, and repeat the process for the other nostril to maintain balance.

To keep your sacred tools clean and hygienically safe:

  • Dry Cleaning: After each use, gently tap the pipe to remove any remaining powder. You can blow through it sharply to clear the airway.
  • Deep Cleaning: Use a thin pipe cleaner or a small brush to clear out any buildup inside the tube.
  • Sanitizing: Wipe the mouth and nose pieces with a tiny amount of high-proof alcohol (like Agua de Florida) on a cotton swab. Avoid soaking wood or bamboo pipes in water, as moisture can cause the natural materials to split or mold.

Yes, absolutely. At Katukina.us, we work strictly as the USA partner of Katukina.com (established in 2000). All of our ceremonial tools and plant allies are ethically sourced through fair-trade partnerships directly with indigenous tribes in the Amazon (including the Apurinã, Yawanawá, and Katukina) as well as skilled artisans in Peru, Brazil, and Colombia. A percentage of all profits is returned directly to these families and communities to support their cultural preservation and sustainable development.

 

Offerings by Tribe