This paper compares two forms of traditional Amazonian medicine: the cult of yajé and the use of ayahuasca within vegetalismo, using Gow's ideas as a guide. These ideas are exposed, and a comparative historical approach is adopted to analyze the similarities and differences between both cultural manifestations. Thus, the colonial processes of the mission and the rubber industry are examined in both areas, and a comparative ethnographic perspective is also adopted to complete the contrast between both forms.