Hemia salicifolia is a flowering shrub that grows from Mexico to Argentina and is widely cultivated through its range.

Hemia salicifolia has a Shamanic tradition dating to the Aztecs. The leaves were crushed, mixed with water and allowed to ferment for a few days, making a nice-tasting tea called Sinicuichi. The effect of the Sinicuichi tea was a euphoriant and a brightening/yellowing of vision, hence the name "Sun Opener." Sinicuichi is also thought to give the ability to recall past events with great clarity.