Hartiakivut

Hartiakivut is a concept within some Indigenous cultures, specifically among the Inupiat people of the Arctic region. The term refers to a traditional subsistence practice that has been observed in Alaska and northern Canada. This practice involves the collection of plant and sometimes animal materials, such as fiber and narcotics, from certain plants. These substances are then ingested in ritual or ceremonial contexts, often alongside other cultural practices.

Hartiakivut is believed to have been a part of Inupiat traditions for centuries, serving a variety of roles within the culture, including in rituals aimed at promoting spiritual growth, healing, and ceremonial practices. It's essential to understand that the context of hartiakivut can vary significantly and depends greatly on the individual Inupiat community. In certain communities, hartiakivut may be used in meditation or individual spiritual practices, while in others, it may serve as part of communal ceremonies.

There have been ongoing research and debates about the potential chemical effects of the substances involved in hartiakivut, including the possibility of inducing hallucinatory states or causing other physiological reactions. However, most such research is based on limited information about the range of substances used and the circumstances of their intake. The understanding of hartiakivut practices, including their validation and exemption from federal enforcement under current law, has undergone significant scrutiny and expansion within recent decades, due to an increasing interest in Indigenous cultural practices and events.