Tembetá

or barbote (Argentina) is a metal or stone rod placed in lower lip piercings by members of some indigenous peoples in South America.

It has been used since the Neolithic period by different human groups for body modification, spiritual protection, and indication of sexual maturity.

Their use expanded as far south as El Quisco, Chile, and they were adopted by indigenous groups such as the Guarani, Tupi, and Chiriguano peoples.

[1] The tembetá played a part in initiation ceremonies, signifying the entry of young men into adult life.

Several men and candidates would meet and drink chicha, a fermented beverage made from maize, to dull the pain.

The tembetá offers protection against the negative action of the "owners of the nature"; it is the ritual adornment of the "souls that travel towards the land of beyond".