Journal of psychoactive drugs
April 23, 2026
Brayan Jonas Mano-Sousa, Maria Clara Gama Fontes, Ana Clara Anacleto Gonçalves et al.
In people with treatment-resistant depression, ayahuasca—a traditional Amazonian psychedelic—rapidly reduces suicidal thoughts and depressive symptoms. A systematic review of five studies found consistent evidence of these effects, attributed to the synergistic action of β-carbolines and DMT. Neurobiologically, ayahuasca promotes neuroplasticity by upregulating Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and decreasing Default Mode Network activity, enabling profound introspection and emotional processing. Despite promising results, large-scale, rigorous longitudinal studies are needed to establish safe clinical guidelines.
Psychedelics
April 20, 2026
José Carlos Bouso, Óscar Andión, Jordi Cantillo et al.
A 12-month study of 264 Western participants who attended Shipibo-led ayahuasca retreats in the Peruvian Amazon found lasting psychological improvements. Neuroticism and Openness to Experience decreased, while Extraversion increased. Quality of life improved across all measured domains, and decentering capacities increased with moderate to high effect sizes. Most participants (91.7%) reported long-term benefits, primarily in spiritual well-being, mental health, and personal growth. Adverse effects were minimal (2.3%). Higher baseline psychological distress was associated with higher Neuroticism and lower decentering, suggesting that enhancing decentering may serve as a resilience factor. The findings support ethical, non-extractive integration of traditional Amazonian practices into global mental health frameworks.
Psychopharmacology
April 14, 2026
Guilherme Lodetti, Antonio Inserra, Henrique Redivo et al.
A single exposure to ayahuasca reversed behavioral and biochemical changes caused by 14 days of unpredictable chronic stress in adult zebrafish. Stressed fish showed impaired sociability, anxiety-like behavior, hyperactivity, elevated whole-body cortisol, and reduced whole-brain BDNF. Ayahuasca restored sociability, reduced anxiety-like behavior and hyperactivity, normalized cortisol levels, and increased BDNF. These findings suggest ayahuasca can reverse stress-induced behavioral and neuroendocrine alterations, supporting further clinical studies for chronic stress.
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
April 3, 2026
Espinoza Patricio
Psilocybin and ayahuasca show promise as therapeutic agents for major depression and treatment-resistant depression, based on data from over 134 registered clinical trials and key publications in major medical journals. The therapeutic effects appear to involve psychedelic-induced neuroplasticity through BDNF receptor TrkB binding and DMT-regulated adult neurogenesis. Safety evidence comes from systematic reviews and established guidelines. The three-phase model (preparation, experience, integration) documented in leading clinical trials constitutes the minimum professional standard for responsible ceremonial medicine practice. Ethical and cultural considerations for professional practice involving plant-based psychedelic compounds are also addressed.
Revista Políticas Públicas & Cidades
April 2, 2026
Adrian Santos de Souza, Endiamara Magda Segala Shigemori, Celso Ferraz Bett
Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide, and conventional treatments have limitations such as delayed onset and resistance. Hoasca (ayahuasca), an Amazonian infusion containing Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis, shows promise as a rapid and lasting antidepressant. This review of 12 studies from 2016–2024 found that its antidepressant effects stem from the interaction between DMT and β-carboline alkaloids, which inhibit MAO, increase serotonin availability, and stimulate BDNF production. Clinical results indicate significant reductions in depressive and anxiety symptoms, improved mood, and reduced suicidal ideation, with effects appearing within 24 hours and lasting up to 21 days. The ritual context, emotional preparation, and setting also influence therapeutic response. Hoasca appears to be a promising adjunct for depression, but more controlled trials are needed.