A Kuripe pipe is a small, portable, v-shaped blowpipe traditionally used by the indigenous peoples of South America for the self-application of Rapé (Ra-pey)--also called Hapé (Ha-pey)--snuff which is taken usually in a ritual or ceremonial setting.
These Kuripe pipes are handmade by Peruvian artisans.
Rapé is commonly discovered when users attend medicine ceremonies. The snuff is used to 'ground' and calm nervous or apprehensive users before beginning the event. Traditionally people apply the first application of Rapé into the left nostril believed to symbolize the death of negative energies. The second 'hit' of Rapé is shortly followed by an application into the right nostril believed to represent a rebirth of positive change.
With the Kuripe primed with Rapé, one should inhale a deep breath and hold it while placing the correct ends of the pipe comfortably into the left nostril and between lips. With eyes closed, slowly and gently exhale the breath, blowing the Rapé through the hollow V-shaped elbow into the nasal canal. When blown delicately, users report a pleasurable relaxing sensation with a mild and short-lived peppery burning.
