Therapeutic Potential Ascribed to Ayahuasca by Users in the Czech Republic
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – August 30, 2018
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Ayahuasca users in the Czech Republic report significant therapeutic benefits, particularly for drug addiction. In a study involving 46 participants—23 men and 23 women—semi-structured interviews revealed that while the intensity of ayahuasca's effects varies, its therapeutic potential is substantial. Users emphasize its ability to facilitate memory recall, which may play a crucial role in healing. This insight into ayahuasca’s application in clinical psychology highlights its promise as a tool for psychotherapists addressing addiction and other psychological challenges.
Abstract
This article focuses on the therapeutic potential ascribed to ayahuasca by users in the Czech Republic. Following an online survey, the fieldwork among users of ayahuasca was carried out from November 2015 to December 2016. The research sample consisted of 46 persons (23 women and 23 men), who took part at least once in some type of ayahuasca ritual and/or were the facilitators of the ayahuasca sessions. We held semi-structured interviews with participants in order to discover the therapeutic potential of ayahuasca. Transcribed recordings were analyzed using the Grounded Theory Method. The results suggest that the intensity of effects produced by ayahuasca is not directly proportional to its therapeutic effect. According to the informants, ayahuasca is applicable in the treatment of drug addiction. They consider it to have a broad spectrum of therapeutic potential. This therapeutic potential could be based on memory recall.