The DEA report on ayahuasca risks: “Science” in service of prohibition?
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – June 09, 2023
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Ayahuasca's therapeutic potential is often overshadowed by exaggerated risks, as highlighted in a recent analysis of a DEA report. The report, which claimed significant dangers associated with ayahuasca use, omitted crucial data on its safety and benefits. Specifically, the findings challenge the DEA’s conclusions by revealing that numerous studies indicate a substantial therapeutic profile for ayahuasca. With over 2,000 participants in related research demonstrating positive outcomes, this analysis underscores the need for a balanced understanding of ayahuasca within the context of economic justice and law enforcement.
Abstract
Abstract On February 2023, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) released a document to the legal team representing the Church of the Eagle and the Condor (“CEC”). This disclosure came two years after the church, in conjunction with Chacruna Institute, submitted two FOIA requests to the DEA and the Department of Justice requesting all records pertaining to ayahuasca. This report, titled “Ayahuasca: Risks to Public Health and Safety,” was issued in July 2020. In the present article, we challenge a number of claims made in the DEA report and highlight significant factual omissions, theoretical biases, and misinterpretations of existing data. We will demonstrate that the DEA report severely downplays the safety profile and therapeutic potential of ayahuasca and overemphasizes the risks. It also fails to include current research on ayahuasca demonstrating its potential benefits.