Shamans prepare yopo snuff from the toasted pulverized seeds of either Anadenanthera colubrina or Anadenanthera peregrina which is then mixed with water and a source of a calcium carbonate. Calcined shells are often used as the source of calcium carbonate. The mixture is kneaded while wet and allowed to sit and react, often overnight. Before use it is toasted again to dry it, and it is again ground to produce a fine powder.
Many anecdotal reports indicate that authentic yopo prepared by skilled shamans in South America has hallucinogenic effects that differ dramatically from those of bufotenine and swear that some reaction must be taking place when the recipe is followed properly.
Clearly the shamans would not do this extended procedure if it did not enhance the effects. By adding calcium carbonate, they are greatly increasing the quantity of material needed for use. The calcium also makes the snuff more alkaline and more irritating to the nasal passages.
Ok, thanks. I just keep getting confused since everybody seems to have differing information on the subject. Why would sodium carbonate be preferable to sodium bicarbonate? Is Na2Co3 more basic than NaHCo3? I could use Sodium carbonate, Sodium bicarbonate, and probably calcium carbonate, as I have them readily available, or can make it in the case of sodium carbonate. Calcium hydroxide would be a pain as id need to order it online.
the aim is to create an alkoxide at the 5-oh group, right? the stronger the base the better, pka of the oh group is probably around 10 (phenolic)