References will be made to present day practices of certain groups, only briefly. In order to understand the true importance and necessity of Shaman, as well as the need for psychedelic plant use in these Native cultures, two things must be further defined. .
First a brief introduction must be given of the universal roles of Shamans in Native American culture, as seen cross-tribally. This will include; Shamanic origins, criteria for position, initiation rituals, as well as Shamanic duties. Next, and lastly, the different types of plants used must be defined, as well as evidence for the practice of Shamanism. The second portion of this paper will give tribe and plant specific evidence of Shamanic practices, including general reasons for the use of psychoactive plants. As the description of the different plants' mind-altering effects is similar, the visionary experience will be explained in the definition of the role of the Shaman. Also the second portion of this paper will delve into different rituals within three tribes where the uses of such plants exist. By examining the role of the Shaman and the ritual consumption of psychoactive plants within two specific tribes (the Dine, and the Ojibway), it should become evident that Native American peoples did, in fact, open a connection with the earth. The Earth's energy was explored through Shamanistic practices by venturing beyond consciousness and into a G-dly realm. The western world has yet to see the benefits of such practices. Although western culture has done the duty of displacing, dishonoring, and demolishing most of our Indigenous Peoples, it is now western culture's duty to forgive itself for the past and try to learn from a People as connected to our life source as they are. Perhaps a reconnection with our Earth's true gifts, and an understanding of a different spiritual realm as gained by Shamanism, creates new opportunities in spiritual and practical plight.