Camalonga (Thevetia peruviana)

Camalonga (Thevetia peruviana) is a tropical tree in the Apocynaceae family, yellow oleander; English names include 'be still tree'. Characteristic funnel-shaped yellow flowers; green fruits with a single seed. Seeds and other parts contain cardenolides (cardiac glycosides) similar in mechanism to digoxin. Native to American tropics; widely cultivated as ornamental.

In tradition camalonga is famous for its ability to reflect negativity: in dieta an invisible filter is said to form around the person — others' projections, envy, evil intentions bounce back. So camalonga is often dieted by healers who face others' negativity or 'black magic'. Seeds are used as a spiritual and protective remedy; internal use in folk practice is dangerous due to toxicity.

Dieta with camalonga aims to strengthen boundaries and reflect harmful influences without taking them in. The plant is considered a strict teacher of protection. Duration and form of intake are determined only by the maestro; self-administered use of seeds or extracts is not acceptable.

All parts of Thevetia peruviana are poisonous: cardenolides (thevetin A and B, peruvoside, etc.) cause severe cardiac, neurological, and gastrointestinal effects; death is possible. Seeds are most toxic. Drying and heating do not inactivate the poison. Never ingest without guidance of a traditional healer who knows this lineage; contraindicated in pregnancy and heart disease.