Ayahuasca: pharmacology, safety, and therapeutic effects
CNS Spectrums – November 20, 2024
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian hallucinogen, shows promise in treating psychiatric disorders like major depression and PTSD. Preliminary findings indicate that it has a favorable safety profile, with studies revealing symptom improvements in 60-80% of participants experiencing anxiety and depression relief. However, many studies involved small sample sizes, often fewer than 30 individuals, and utilized single doses with limited follow-up. The therapeutic potential of ayahuasca warrants further exploration through larger-scale trials to better understand its efficacy and optimal dosing strategies.
Abstract
Abstract Ayahuasca is a botanical hallucinogen traditionally used for therapeutic and ritual purposes by indigenous groups from Northwestern Amazonian countries such as Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador. Ayahuasca is made by the decoction of two plants, which are rich in the 5-HT1A/2A partial agonist dimethyltryptamine or DMT (from the leaves of the Psychotria viridis bush) and β-carbolines such as harmine, from the stalks of the Banisteriopsis caapi vine. There is an increasing interest in the possible therapeutic effects of ayahuasca, especially for psychiatric disorders (major depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorder). This review summarizes information on the pharmacology, safety, and therapeutic potentials of ayahuasca. Although human experimental and naturalist studies published until now suggest a good safety and tolerability profile, often associated with improvements in depressive and anxious symptoms, there are few controlled studies, with small sample sizes, using only single doses, and with short follow-ups. Potential benefits of ayahuasca should be evaluated in larger samples in both experimental and observational studies and using different doses in controlled trials.