For the previous two days something had been bothering me. My ear had been getting increasingly painful and it was clear to me I had an infection of some kind. This was a concern as infections can become pretty nasty very quickly in the jungle humidity. The only safe preventative action was a course of antibiotics but this would mean no more ayahuasca. It's not safe to mix many pharmaceuticals with this powerful plant medicine, especially antibiotics. I asked Eladio for his advice and he told me it was possible an insect had entered my ear and caused the infection. His suggested I go to the clinic in Iquitos to have it cleaned and assessed. He had previously worked in hospitals as a nurse and I was grateful for his medical training and practical approach. No sacrifices or offerings necessary.
Given that I was meant to be in ajo sacha isolation the last thing I wanted to do was head in to the turmoiil that is Iquitos at Christmas. There are so many people shopping at this time of year they close many side streets to accomodate the extra market stalls. Bumping and swerving our way through the crazy traffic, we arrived at the clinic. I'm happy to report how pleased I was with the clinic. The facilities were clean, I only had to wait a short time, the staff were very professional and it didn't cost an arm and a leg. Just shy of a pony for assessment, cleaning and medication, which included drops, ibuprofen and antibiotics. Mission accomplished, we headed to a restaurant where I had to drink a cup of boldo whilst watching all the centre's staff and volunteers eating sumptuous meals. On my return I was only too happy to be alone in my tambo, readjusting to the soothing sounds of the jungle while the pain spread from my ear into my jaw making even a small boiled carrot a task to consume. Reassured by the presence of the medication I could relax. However, the pills would have to remain untouched until the following day as the time for another ceremony had arrived.
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