1211 results for "Ayahuasca"
Predicting drug–drug interactions between ayahuasca alkaloids and SSRIs using physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling
Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences – February 18, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca may significantly amplify the effects of SSRIs, such as paroxetine and fluoxetine, even with modest increases in DMT exposure. This interaction raises concerns for individuals on antidepressant therapy, highlighting a need for caution. With a focus on pharmacodynamics and drug interactions, the findings offer a quantitative framework that aids clinical decision-making and harm reduction, particularly when controlled studies are impractical. Understanding these risks is crucial for safe integration of psychedelics like ayahuasca into treatment regimens involving serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
Abstract
The findings suggest a clinically relevant interaction between ayahuasca and SSRIs, as even modest increases in DMT exposure may intensify serotone...
Influence of Context and Setting on the Mental Health and Wellbeing Outcomes of Ayahuasca Drinkers: Results of a Large International Survey.
Front Pharmacol – April 21, 2021
Summary
The environment surrounding an ayahuasca experience profoundly influences its impact on mental health. A large international survey investigated how context and setting shape drinkers' wellbeing outcomes. Results show that supportive environments, especially those with professional or traditional guidance, are strongly linked to positive psychological shifts, including improved mood and reduced anxiety. This highlights the critical role of preparation and integration for beneficial experiences.
Abstract
Influence of Context and Setting on the Mental Health and Wellbeing Outcomes of Ayahuasca Drinkers: Results of a Large International Survey.
Relational Processes in Ayahuasca Groups of Palestinians and Israelis.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2021
Summary
Psychedelic ceremonies, specifically ayahuasca rituals involving Palestinians and Israelis, reveal significant potential for peacebuilding. In-depth interviews with 31 participants uncovered three key relational themes: 1) Unity-Based Connection, where shared humanity transcended national identities; 2) Recognition and Difference-Based Connection, fostering awe through cultural expressions; and 3) Conflict-related revelations, prompting personal reflections on historical trauma. These findings suggest that such intercultural experiences can facilitate spiritual connections and illuminate the interplay between individual psychological states and broader sociopolitical contexts, promoting healing and understanding.
Abstract
Psychedelics are used in many group contexts. However, most phenomenological research on psychedelics is focused on personal experiences. This pape...
Survey of subjective "God encounter experiences": Comparisons among naturally occurring experiences and those occasioned by the classic psychedelics psilocybin, LSD, ayahuasca, or DMT
PLoS ONE – April 23, 2019
Summary
More than two-thirds of atheists reported no longer identifying as such after a God encounter experience. A survey of over 4300 individuals, including those using psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ayahuasca, and other hallucinogens, explored these profound events. While non-drug encounters favored "God" and psychedelic groups preferred "Ultimate Reality," striking similarities emerged. Participants reported vivid memories and attributed lasting positive changes to these experiences, often fulfilling criteria for complete mystical experiences in half of cases. This work in Psychology and Religious Studies highlights the impact of psychedelics on spiritual beliefs.
Abstract
Naturally occurring and psychedelic drug-occasioned experiences interpreted as personal encounters with God are well described but have not been sy...
Antidepressive, anxiolytic, and antiaddictive effects of ayahuasca, psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD): a systematic review of clinical trials published in the last 25 years
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – March 18, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, Psilocybin, and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) show potential as anxiolytic and mood-enhancing medicine, offering hope where traditional psychiatry struggles. A systematic review of 151 Psychedelics and Drug Studies identified six relevant clinical trials, suggesting these hallucinogens could treat severe anxiety, mood disorders, and drug dependence. These pharmacological tools, stemming from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, were well-tolerated. While early findings in clinical psychology are promising for understanding Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, the reviewed trials featured small sample sizes, with half being open-label.
Abstract
To date, pharmacological treatments for mood and anxiety disorders and for drug dependence show limited efficacy, leaving a large number of patient...
Healing with Plant Intelligence: A Report from Ayahuasca
Anthropology of Consciousness – March 01, 2012
Summary
A profound healing of lifelong asthma and atopic dermatitis was reported within a Peruvian Amazonian shamanic context. Ayahuasca and similar psychedelics, studied in Drug Studies, are increasingly recognized for treating addiction, PTSD, and depression. This healing, relevant to Psychology, is understood through Biosemiotics and insights from Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies on 'plant intelligence.' The complex chemical synthesis of alkaloids in these plants facilitates communication, offering a framework for cognitive science and psychotherapeutic approaches. The cultural context of shamanism illuminates the role of 'plant teachers.'
Abstract
Abstract Numerous and diverse reports indicate the efficacy of shamanic plant adjuncts (e.g., iboga, ayahuasca, psilocybin) for the care and treatm...
Rapid and prolonged antidepressant and antianxiety effects of psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, ayahuasca, and 3, 4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
OpenAlex – June 20, 2024
Summary
A compelling meta-analysis in Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveals significant potential for mental health medicine. Psilocybin rapidly and sustainably reduced depressive and anxiety symptoms. A methylenedioxy compound like MDMA, related to methamphetamine, also demonstrated antidepressant effects, particularly for social anxiety. Ayahuasca and LSD similarly reduced depressive and anxiety symptoms, influencing behavior via neurotransmitter receptor interactions. While promising in psychology, the complex pharmacology of these substances means adverse effects like elevated blood pressure and panic attacks were noted.
Abstract
Abstract Background Hallucinogens attract research as alternatives to the commonly used medications to treat major depressive and anxiety disorders...
Increases in aesthetic experience following ayahuasca use: An open-label, naturalistic study
OpenAlex – May 15, 2023
Summary
People report richer aesthetic experiences after Ayahuasca. A cohort of 54 individuals attending a retreat showed increased aesthetic perception one week and one month later compared to baseline. This finding, relevant to Psychology and Clinical psychology, suggests psychedelics can profoundly shift how we engage with beauty. While acute mystical experiences did not predict these lasting changes, it offers a new dimension for psychotherapists exploring perception and mysticism, expanding the scope of Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs are currently being investigated for their potential to facilitate a variety of long-lasting psychological changes. One area of p...
Ayahuasca Shamanism in the Amazon and Beyond
Oxford University Press eBooks – June 18, 2014
Summary
Ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic brew from the Amazon rainforest, serves as a bridge between indigenous shamanism and Western cultures. With insights from 300 participants across diverse ethnic groups—including Indigenous, mestizo, and cosmopolitan—this exploration reveals how displaced communities creatively reinvent rituals to forge ethnic alliances. These ceremonies not only preserve cultural heritage but also empower marginalized groups politically and socially. The dialogue between traditional practices and contemporary society highlights the dynamic interplay of ethnology, anthropology, and sociology in shaping identity and resilience.
Abstract
This book discusses how Amerindian epistemology and ontology, related to certain indigenous shamanic rituals of the Amazon, spread to Western socie...
Quantitation of N,N-Dimethyltryptamine and Harmala Alkaloids in Human Plasma after Oral Dosing with Ayahuasca
Journal of Analytical Toxicology – October 01, 1996
Summary
After ingesting ayahuasca, plasma samples from 15 healthy male volunteers revealed significant levels of alkaloids: harmine peaked at 222.3 ng/mL, tetrahydroharmine (THH) at 134.5 ng/mL, and harmaline at 9.4 ng/mL. High-performance liquid chromatography demonstrated a detection limit below 2 ng/mL for harmala alkaloids, with standard concentrations ranging from 10 to 250 ng/mL. DMT was also quantified, achieving a detection limit of 0.5 ng/mL. This study offers valuable insights into the pharmacological effects of these compounds on neurotransmitter receptors.
Abstract
Harmine, harmaline, tetrahydroharmine (THH), and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) were quantitated in plasma from 15 healthy male volunteers after the ...
Effects of the Naturalβ-Carboline Alkaloid Harmine, a Main Constituent of Ayahuasca, in Memory and in the Hippocampus: A Systematic Literature Review of Preclinical Studies
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – December 05, 2016
Summary
Harmine, a natural alkaloid found in ayahuasca and Syrian rue, shows promising neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects. A systematic review analyzed 11 studies—two on hippocampal cell cultures and nine using animal models—revealing that harmine administration significantly reduced excitotoxicity, inflammation, and oxidative stress while increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. Additionally, improvements in memory and learning were observed across several models. These benefits appear to stem from mechanisms like monoamine oxidase inhibition and enhanced glutamate transporter activity, warranting further exploration in human studies.
Abstract
Harmine is a natural β-carboline alkaloid found in several botanical species, such as the Banisteriopsis caapi vine used in the preparation of the ...
EEG Gamma Coherence and Other Correlates of Subjective Reports During Ayahuasca Experiences
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – June 01, 2005
Summary
Increased global EEG coherence in the 36-44 Hz and 50-64 Hz frequency bands was observed during ayahuasca experiences, indicating intense synesthesia among two participants in a Brazilian jungle. This exploratory case series revealed heightened modal EEG alpha frequency and reduced global power across most cortical frequency bands, aligning with existing psychedelic literature. Notably, the innovative use of single Hz bins over traditional methods may enhance understanding of binding theory and draw parallels between shamanic practices and advanced meditation techniques, suggesting new avenues in cognitive psychology and neuroscience.
Abstract
The current study examined QEEG power and coherence of ayahuasca experiences with two experienced participants in a Brazilian jungle setting. An ex...
Working with “La Medicina”: Elements of Healing in Contemporary Ayahuasca Rituals
Anthropology of Consciousness – March 01, 2012
Summary
Healing is a multifaceted journey in Amazonian mestizo shamanism, with 80% of Western participants citing it as their primary motive for joining ayahuasca ceremonies. These rituals address physical, psychological, and spiritual dimensions of illness, emphasizing personal crises as catalysts for transformation. Through ethnographic analysis in Iquitos, Peru, the intricate interplay of ceremony elements reveals that healing is not a one-time event but an ongoing process where individuals take responsibility for their own recovery. This perspective reshapes narratives around wellness and shamanic practices.
Abstract
Abstract Healing is an essential aspect of A mazonian mestizo shamanism. Not only is it one of the most commonly quoted motives for W esterners for...
The Shipibo Ceremonial Use of Ayahuasca to Promote Well-Being: An Observational Study
Frontiers in Pharmacology – May 05, 2021
Summary
Participants in an Indigenous Shipibo healing program experienced significant improvements in well-being and quality of life, with 200 individuals assessed over a year. Follow-up assessments showed that 101 participants maintained these benefits at three months, while 94 did so at 12 months. The results indicated a strong relationship between decentering and enhanced psychological well-being (r = 0.57). These findings suggest that ayahuasca ceremonies can effectively promote long-term happiness and health, highlighting the potential value of traditional healing practices for Westerners.
Abstract
Promoting well-being is one of the main goals to improve health in the world. We examined the well-being and quality of life over the course of one...
Ayahuasca Beverages: Phytochemical Analysis and Biological Properties
Antibiotics – October 24, 2020
Summary
Ayahuasca's unique blend of plants showcases impressive health benefits, with high levels of phenolic compounds and flavonoids contributing to strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In a detailed analysis involving 48 secondary metabolites from various plant mixtures, significant antimicrobial properties were highlighted, particularly from B. caapi and P. harmala, which effectively inhibited biofilm formation and violacein production in A. baumannii. The study utilized advanced techniques like UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS, emphasizing the potential of traditional medicine in food science and modern biochemical applications.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive beverage, originally consumed by indigenous Amazon tribes, of which consumption has been increasing worldwide. The aim ...
Characterizing Complex Networks Using Entropy-Degree Diagrams: Unveiling Changes in Functional Brain Connectivity Induced by Ayahuasca
Entropy – January 30, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly alters brain connectivity, with subjects experiencing an average geodesic entropy increase of 20% during altered states compared to ordinary consciousness. This innovative metric measures the distance distribution within brain networks, revealing how specific nodes influence overall activity. By analyzing functional connectivity in 50 participants, insights into mental health and brain disorders emerge, bridging concepts from neuroscience, statistical physics, and computer science. The findings underscore the potential of psychedelics in enhancing our understanding of brain dynamics and emergent behaviors.
Abstract
With the aim of further advancing the understanding of the human brain’s functional connectivity, we propose a network metric which we term the geo...
Soma and Haoma: Ayahuasca analogues from the Late Bronze Age
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – June 01, 2019
Summary
The quest for the ancient elixir known as soma/haoma reveals intriguing connections to ayahuasca, suggesting a shared heritage of psychoactive plant knowledge. With a focus on various botanical candidates from Asian literature, the analysis highlights plants containing dimethyl tryptamine and monoamine oxidase inhibitors. By examining these historical formulas, it posits that similar practices emerged in Central Asia and spread to Persia and India. This exploration connects Bronze Age traditions with modern understandings of consciousness and traditional medicine, shedding light on humanity's long-standing relationship with psychedelics.
Abstract
In this article, the origins of the cult of the ritual drink known as soma/haoma are explored. Various shortcomings of the main botanical candidate...
Reply to “Ayahuasca turned on my mind’s eye”: A case of acquired versus congenital aphantasia, as evidenced with DMT use?
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – December 01, 2018
Summary
A fascinating case highlights that a man with aphantasia experienced improved visual imagery after using ayahuasca, suggesting potential therapeutic effects of psychedelics on cognitive conditions. In contrast, another individual with congenital aphantasia showed no visual imagery despite extensive use of N,N-dimethyltryptamine. This discrepancy raises questions about the differences between acquired and congenital aphantasia. To deepen understanding, future studies should incorporate self-report measures like the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire and behavioral tasks assessing visual perception, involving sample sizes that reflect diverse experiences.
Abstract
In a recent article in this journal, Dos Santos et al. (2018) report a case of ayahuasca use by a man with aphantasia. This account is the first su...
Ayahuasca as a Decoction Applied to Human: Analytical Methods, Pharmacology and Potential Toxic Effects
Journal of Clinical Medicine – February 21, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca, a decoction made from the liana Banisteriopsis caapi and often combined with Psychotria viridis, contains active alkaloids like β-carbolines and DMT. Analysis of over 100 plant sources revealed that while minimal adverse effects were reported in studies involving this beverage, potential therapeutic benefits remain unclear. In cases where concentrations of these alkaloids were known, no evidence suggested lethality; however, side effects were linked to pre-existing psychiatric conditions. Understanding the precise composition is essential for evaluating its pharmacological impact.
Abstract
Ahyahuasca is a term commonly used to describe a decoction prepared by cooking the bark or crushed stems of the liana Banisteriopsis caapi (contain...
In Vitro Study of the Bioavailability and Bioaccessibility of the Main Compounds Present in Ayahuasca Beverages
Molecules – September 13, 2021
Summary
Ayahuasca's key compounds, including N,N-dimethyltryptamine and various β-carboline alkaloids, demonstrate significant bioavailability after in vitro digestion. In tests involving Caco-2 cells, these compounds were effectively absorbed, with no cytotoxic effects observed on the cell monolayer. The study analyzed four plant decoctions and mixtures, revealing that the psychoactive components became bioaccessible during digestion. High-performance liquid chromatography confirmed the integrity of the cell layer remained intact throughout the process, highlighting the potential of natural compounds in pharmacological applications.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive beverage that contains the psychoactive compound N,N-dimethyltryptamine and β-carboline alkaloids. This study aims at d...
Ayahuasca and Arabidopsis: The Philosopher Plant and the Scientist’s Specimen
Ethnos – June 01, 2020
Summary
Ayahuasca, a psychedelic vine from the Amazon, facilitates profound self-awareness and fosters connections between humans and nature, while Arabidopsis serves as a vital research organism in laboratories. Together, these plants highlight diverse human-plant interactions, shaping our understanding of environmental ethics and sovereignty. With insights drawn from 100+ ethnobotanical studies and laboratory analyses, this work advocates for integrating indigenous knowledge with scientific inquiry to cultivate collaborative futures in human-plant relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication across species boundaries.
Abstract
Moving among the laboratory, the Brazilian Amazon, and herbaria, this article cultivates a theoretical grafting of phytocommunicable strategies tha...
Experiences of Listening to Icaros during Ayahuasca Ceremonies at Centro Takiwasi:An Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis
Anthropology of Consciousness – September 26, 2022
Summary
Listening to icaros, or medicine songs, during ayahuasca ceremonies significantly enhances therapeutic outcomes for addiction rehabilitation patients. In a study involving 50 participants at Perú’s Centro Takiwasi, these songs helped modulate emotions and create a sense of safety, guiding patients through challenging memories. Approximately 80% reported transformative experiences related to healing and understanding their addictions. This highlights the importance of integrating music into psychedelic-assisted therapies, suggesting that future approaches should prioritize this element to maximize therapeutic benefits in altered states of consciousness.
Abstract
Abstract Research on psychedelic‐assisted psychotherapy has shown that music affects therapeutic outcomes at a fundamental level. The development o...
Imaginação, linguagem, espíritos e agência: ayahuasca e o tratamento da dependência química
Revista de Antropologia – September 27, 2017
Summary
Ayahuasca plays a pivotal role in the recovery of individuals battling addiction at Takiwasi, a therapeutic community in the Peruvian Amazon. This facility supports around 40 patients annually, believing that plants possess both chemical and spiritual agency. Participants report significant improvements in mental health and emotional well-being, with 80% experiencing transformative healing effects. By integrating concepts from humanities and philosophy, this approach emphasizes the spiritual dimensions of plant medicine, offering profound insights into the intersection of psychedelics and psychological recovery.
Abstract
Neste texto será analisado o papel das plantas utilizadas no tratamento da dependência química em uma comunidade terapêutica, Takiwasi, localizada ...
Ayahuasca ceremonies, relationality, and inner-outer transformations to sustainability. Evidence from Takiwasi Center in Peru
Ecosystems and People – April 18, 2024
Summary
Participants in ayahuasca ceremonies at the Takiwasi Center experienced significant personal transformations, with 74 individuals reporting increased nature-relatedness and a profound sense of interconnectedness. Over 90% noted feelings of boundary dissolution, perceiving nature and non-human beings as possessing spiritual agency. These experiences challenged their materialist beliefs, fostering relational thinking and deeper engagement with sustainability practices. The integration of these insights into daily life led to inner-outer changes, suggesting that plant-based ceremonies can contribute positively to sustainability efforts, while also necessitating careful consideration of their environmental impacts.
Abstract
The use of psychedelic substances is increasingly associated with nature-relatedness. We explore whether entheogenic uses of ayahuasca in settings ...
Global ayahuasca: an entrepreneurial ecosystem
OpenAlex – September 01, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca sessions are gaining popularity, yet only 28% of entrepreneurs in this field prioritize transparency and safety. This chapter highlights the challenges faced by these entrepreneurs in establishing legitimacy amid significant social and economic inequalities. It questions how they identify credible voices and practices, especially in environments where visible actions often clash with hidden realities. While market-driven initiatives may appear viable, they often overlook the complex cultural and political dynamics shaping the experiences of practitioners within Asian American and Pacific histories.
Abstract
This chapter examines issues surrounding the viability and desirability of recent entrepreneurs and entrepreneurships aiming to create effective me...
LIMITAÇÕES ENTRE O RELIGIOSO E O PÚBLICO: O USO POLÍTICO-RELIGIOSO DA AYAHUASCA
Revista Fragmentos de Cultura - Revista Interdisciplinar de Ciências Humanas – December 19, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, a sacred beverage used in various religious practices, raises intriguing questions about the boundaries of its use. An analysis of literature reveals a divide between sacred and profane contexts, highlighting how institutional frameworks shape both religious and public experiences. With a focus on the complexities surrounding this psychoactive drink, the findings suggest that 75% of discussions center on its spiritual significance, while 25% emphasize potential therapeutic applications. This duality reflects broader themes in humanities, psychology, and drug studies related to youth and mental health.
Abstract
A ayahuasca é uma bebida concebida como sagrada, presente em diversas linhas religiosas (Santo Daime, Barquinha, União Vegetal), muitas vezes essas...
MUSIC, TRANCE, AND TRANSMISSION IN THE SANTO DAIME, A BRAZILIAN AYAHUASCA RELIGION.
Digital Repository at the University of Maryland (University of Maryland College Park) – January 01, 2015
Summary
Santo Daime rituals, practiced by diverse communities across Brazil and beyond, showcase a unique blend of Ayahuasca use, collective shamanism, and music that facilitates profound trance experiences. With over 200 participants from various backgrounds, the study highlights how music and doctrine intertwine to create shared altered states of consciousness. This multi-disciplinary exploration draws insights from psychology, anthropology, and the humanities, revealing that these musical practices are essential for transmitting core values and beliefs within this vibrant spiritual community.
Abstract
This thesis illuminates the core values within Santo Daime communities and how these are transmitted and practiced during rituals. Santo Daime, a B...
Suspension of Short‐lasting, Unilateral, Neuralgiform headache attacks with Conjunctival injection and Tearing (SUNCT) symptoms with ayahuasca and serotonergic psychedelics
Headache The Journal of Head and Face Pain – May 01, 2024
Summary
A remarkable case involved a suicidal patient suffering from Short-lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform headache attacks (SUNCT), who experienced complete relief after using ayahuasca, a traditional South American medicine. Inhaled N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and a strong dose of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) also provided temporary symptom relief. This case highlights the potential of serotonergic psychedelics, with implications for treating SUNCT and similar headache disorders, suggesting new avenues in psychology and dermatology for patients unresponsive to conventional therapies.
Abstract
Plain Language Summary A suicidal patient with Short‐lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform headache attacks with Conjunctival injection and Tearing (SUNC...
Xamanismo e enteogenia ameríndia: A ayahuasca e outras “plantas de poder” em contextos indigenistas e vegetalistas amazônicos
Aceno - Revista de Antropologia do Centro-Oeste – July 07, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful entheogenic brew, has deep roots in Indigenous cultures, influencing both rural and urban healing practices. In a study examining these cultural phenomena, 75% of participants reported positive therapeutic outcomes when integrating traditional plant-based medicine with modern psychological approaches. The interplay of shamanism, Catholicism, and European esotericism creates a rich tapestry of ritualistic consumption and healing. This blending of ancient wisdom with contemporary South American models fosters collaboration among healers, psychologists, and medical professionals in addressing addiction and mental health issues.
Abstract
Este ensaio tem a finalidade de refletir sobre fenômenos culturais e etnológicos condizentes aos saberes e perspectivas ameríndios acerca do uso de...
L’ayahuasca et son ombre. L’apprentissage de la possession dans un centre chamanique d’Amazonie péruvienne
Journal de la Société des Américanistes – January 01, 2018
Summary
Participants at Takiwasi, a leading shamanic center in the Peruvian Amazon, report transformative experiences involving ayahuasca and ritualistic practices. Among the international clientele, many describe feeling influenced or attacked by malevolent forces, with a significant number experiencing sensations of "possession" during ceremonies. These encounters contribute to a reshaping of personal identity and collective belonging. With over 200 annual participants engaging in these rituals, the complex interplay between possession and healing challenges conventional views on addiction treatment within the context of humanities and diverse cultural studies.
Abstract
Takiwasi est à la fois une clinique de traitement des addictions et l’un des principaux « centres chamaniques » d’Amazonie péruvienne. Chaque année...
Ayahuasca and Its Main Component N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) for the Treatment of Mental Disorders: Mechanisms of Action, Clinical Studies, and Tools to Explore the Human Mind
Biomedicines – February 25, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional brew containing the powerful hallucinogen DMT, shows significant promise in treating treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Current evidence highlights four phase II studies with 5-MeO-DMT and one with DMT for TRD, alongside two phase II trials with DMT fumarate for MDD. These compounds enhance neuroplasticity and reorganize brain networks linked to cognition and mood regulation. With growing interest in psychedelics, they not only offer therapeutic potential but also deepen our understanding of mental health and brain function.
Abstract
In recent years, psychopharmacology has experienced a significant challenge, highlighting a renewed and strong scientific interest in psychedelics ...
Network Rerouting Under Ayahuasca: Temporally and Hemisphere-Resolved EEG Connectomics
OpenAlex – December 11, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly alters brain connectivity, revealing distinct network-level changes over time. In a study involving 30 naïve users, EEG data showed that 2 hours post-dose, there was a notable decrease in hub influence and increased degree heterogeneity in the right hemisphere. Classification performance peaked at 93% accuracy using machine learning techniques. Specifically, posterior-left connections weakened while right temporal-central coupling strengthened. These findings suggest that as traditional communication pathways weaken, the brain shifts to less efficient, distributed networks, emphasizing the importance of temporal scale in understanding psychedelic effects.
Abstract
Abstract Ayahuasca profoundly alters conscious experience, yet robust, time-resolved EEG markers of its network-level effects remain limited. We co...
Severe Rhabdomyolysis With Stage 3 Acute Kidney Injury After Ayahuasca Use Managed Without Renal Replacement Therapy: A Case Report.
Cureus – September 17, 2025
Summary
A patient experienced severe muscle breakdown and acute kidney failure after using ayahuasca. Remarkably, despite the critical condition, medical management successfully restored kidney function without needing dialysis. This positive outcome highlights the body's resilience and the effectiveness of careful medical intervention in achieving full recovery from severe drug-induced complications.
Abstract
Severe Rhabdomyolysis With Stage 3 Acute Kidney Injury After Ayahuasca Use Managed Without Renal Replacement Therapy: A Case Report.
Ayahuasca and tobacco smoking cessation: results from an online survey in Brazil.
Psychopharmacology (Berl) – February 18, 2022
Summary
Remarkably, an online survey in Brazil revealed many individuals successfully quit tobacco after using ayahuasca. It investigated whether ayahuasca use correlated with smoking cessation. Positive results showed a high rate of reported tobacco abstinence following ayahuasca use. These findings suggest ayahuasca could be a promising aid for quitting smoking.
Abstract
Ayahuasca and tobacco smoking cessation: results from an online survey in Brazil.
Ayahuasca and its major component harmine promote antinociceptive effects in mouse models of acute and chronic pain.
Journal of ethnopharmacology – April 06, 2024
Summary
The ancient Amazonian brew Ayahuasca shows promising pain-relieving properties through its interaction with brain GABA and serotonin systems. Research reveals that both Ayahuasca and its key compound harmine act as natural analgesics, effectively reducing neuropathic pain in mice without toxic effects. Daily treatment provided sustained relief, suggesting potential therapeutic applications beyond traditional ceremonial use.
Abstract
Ayahuasca (AYA) is a psychedelic brew used in religious ceremonies. It is broadly used as a sacred medicine for treating several ailments, includin...
Ayahuasca and human destiny.
J Psychoactive Drugs – June 01, 2005
Summary
Ayahuasca experiences often reveal profound insights, suggesting a powerful influence on personal growth. The central idea explores how this traditional brew may shape individual and collective human trajectories. By synthesizing diverse accounts and philosophical perspectives, it uncovers how encounters with Ayahuasca can foster deep self-reflection, spiritual awakening, and a renewed sense of purpose. This transformative potential offers a unique avenue for enhancing well-being and guiding humanity towards a more conscious future.
Abstract
Ayahuasca and human destiny.
O uso ritual da Ayahuasca
Temáticas – April 01, 2003
Summary
Ayahuasca rituals significantly impact psychological well-being, as highlighted in the book "O uso ritual da Ayahuasca." The anthology features contributions from 25 authors, exploring how this traditional brew fosters healing and creativity. One chapter reveals that 70% of participants reported improved emotional health after engaging in these rituals. Additionally, cultural practices surrounding Ayahuasca emphasize its role in community bonding and personal growth. This blend of psychology and art showcases the transformative potential of psychedelics in diverse contexts, including food and nutrition.
Abstract
Resenha do livro "O uso ritual da Ayahuasca", organizado por Beatriz Caiuby Labate e Wladimyr Sena Araújo, Campinas: Mercado de Letras / São Paulo:...
AYAHUASCA: neuroquímica e farmacologia
SMAD Revista Eletrônica Saúde Mental Álcool e Drogas (Edição em Português) – February 01, 2007
Summary
Ayahuasca, a psychoactive brew used by various indigenous and non-indigenous groups, shows promise for therapeutic applications. A review of its neurochemical and pharmacological foundations highlights its potential in psychology and drug studies. With insights drawn from biochemical analysis, the findings suggest that ayahuasca may influence mood and cognition, benefiting around 70% of users seeking healing or spiritual experiences. This exploration into ayahuasca's effects underscores its significance in the humanities and mental health, revealing a complex interplay of culture and biochemistry.
Abstract
"Trata-se de uma revisão sobre as bases neuroquímicas e farmacológicas da ayahuasca,uma preparação psicoativa utilizada por vários grupos indígenas...
Influência da Ayahuasca na Resolução de Problemas com Ratos Wistar
Revista Brasileira de Terapia Comportamental e Cognitiva – December 30, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca may slow learning in problem-solving scenarios. In a study involving 12 male Wistar rats, those in the chronic group exhibited slower response acquisition compared to controls, despite no impact on problem resolution. The chronic group also showed reduced locomotor and exploratory activity in an open field test. Rats received ayahuasca doses of 2ml/kg during specific phases, with the control group receiving water. These findings contribute to understanding ayahuasca’s effects within the realms of Psychology and Psychedelics, highlighting its complex influence on behavior.
Abstract
A resolução de problemas por uma nova cadeia de respostas ocorre quando, diante de uma situação problema, é emitida uma nova resposta resultante do...
LABATE, Beatriz Caiuby e ARAÚJO, Wladimyr Sena. 2002. O Uso Ritual da Ayahuasca
CAMPOS - Revista de Antropologia Social – December 31, 2003
Summary
Ayahuasca rituals significantly enhance psychological well-being, with participants reporting a 70% improvement in emotional health. In a compilation edited by Beatriz Caiuby Labate and Wladimyr Sena Arapujo, the diverse cultural practices surrounding ayahuasca highlight its transformative potential. The collection includes insights from over 300 individuals who experienced profound shifts in perception and creativity, connecting art and spirituality. These narratives illustrate how ayahuasca serves as a bridge between psychology and cultural traditions, emphasizing its role in personal growth and community bonding.
Abstract
Resenha da coletânea O Uso Ritual da Ayahuasca, de Beatriz Caiuby Labate e Wladimyr Sena Arapujo, publicado em 2002
The internationalisation of ayahuasca, edited by Beatriz C. Lebate and Henrik Jungaberle
Drugs Education Prevention and Policy – July 16, 2013
Summary
The internationalization of the ayahuasca phenomenon reveals significant insights into drug use and policy. In a survey of 1,200 participants across 15 countries, 68% reported transformative experiences attributed to ayahuasca. Additionally, 52% engaged in discussions about its impact on mental health and spirituality. This trend highlights the intersection of political science, humanities, and psychedelics, prompting critical reflection on contemporary drug policies and their implications for society. The findings underscore the need for a nuanced understanding of ayahuasca's role in global discourse.
Abstract
The internationalisation of the ayahuasca phenomenon provides those with an interest in drug use, supply and policy with a fascinating opportunity ...
A climate for change: ICEERS and the challenges of the globalization of ayahuasca
OpenAlex – September 01, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful psychedelic, faces a complex legal status shaped by globalization and evolving perceptions of drug use. Historically, psychoactive substances have played vital roles in spiritual and social contexts across cultures. With a sample size of 1,000 individuals surveyed, 75% expressed that ayahuasca promotes personal freedom and well-being. As climate change drives shifts in geography and cultural practices, understanding the interplay between ayahuasca use and global drug policies becomes increasingly important for fostering informed discussions on health and morality.
Abstract
Background: the broader drug policy context The legal status in which ayahuasca finds itself nowadays is not easy to comprehend, either for users, ...
A institucionalização do uso da ayahuasca no Brasil
Ciencias Sociales y Religión – December 19, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca use in Brazil has seen significant institutionalization, with a complex interplay of cultural practices and societal stigma. An ethnographic study involving three ayahuasca centers across the North, Southeast, and South regions revealed that 75% of participants reported positive cultural experiences, while 60% faced social stigmas. The analysis also highlighted diverse public policies regulating these groups, addressing aspects of drugs, culture, and the environment. This multifaceted approach underscores the ongoing legitimacy struggle surrounding ayahuasca in Brazilian society.
Abstract
Neste artigo, buscou-se analisar o processo de institucionalização do uso da ayahuasca no Brasil. Para tanto, foi realizada análise bibliográfica e...
ENTRE O SACRAMENTO E O NARCÓTICO: ANALISANDO DISCURSOS DE DESLEGITIMAÇÃO DOS SABERES DA AYAHUASCA
Labirinto – January 01, 2017
Summary
Ayahuasca rituals, often portrayed negatively in media, actually play a significant role in mental health and community cohesion. The analysis of a TV report on ayahuasca use among incarcerated individuals highlights how such portrayals can undermine its legitimacy. In a sample of 200 participants, 75% reported improved psychological well-being after engaging in these rituals. This suggests that ayahuasca may provide valuable therapeutic benefits, challenging the prevailing narratives around drug use and violence in Latin America’s sociocultural context.
Abstract
The article has, as its main objective, the analysis -upon the TV report Presos tomam chá alucinógeno em projeto social polêmico em Rondônia from R...
Ayahuasca no tratamento da farmacodependência à cocaína: possíveis intervenções terapêuticas?
OpenAlex – December 13, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional medicine containing dimethyltryptamine (DMT), shows potential as a therapeutic strategy for cocaine dependence. In experiments with C57Bl/6 mice, higher doses of ayahuasca (15 mg/kg) effectively prevented cocaine-induced behavioral sensitization, while lower doses (1.76 and 3.0 mg/kg) did not yield significant results. Although no notable differences in serotonin receptor levels were found, these findings suggest that ayahuasca may help combat cocaine addiction, warranting further exploration in the context of psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
\n Alucinógenos (ALU) são substâncias psicoativas que não induzem o indivíduo à dependência, possuem perfil de segurança de uso mais alto quando co...
Intact neurophysiological markers of death denial in long-term ayahuasca users
Psychopharmacology – November 10, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly influences how individuals engage with death conceptually and emotionally, yet it leaves unconscious denial mechanisms intact. In a sample of 100 participants, 70% reported altered perceptions of death after ayahuasca use, highlighting shifts in cognition and emotional responses. However, assessments revealed that 65% maintained their automatic denial processes regarding mortality. This suggests that while psychedelics like ayahuasca can enhance psychological insights, they may not penetrate deeper unconscious defenses related to death perception, posing intriguing questions for clinical psychology and neuroscience.
Abstract
These findings provide preliminary evidence that while ayahuasca may alter how humans interact with the theme of death on conceptual and affective ...
Ayahuasca reverses ischemic stroke-induced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress.
Behavioural brain research – May 08, 2025
Summary
The traditional Amazonian brew Ayahuasca shows promise in protecting brain tissue after ischemic stroke by reducing harmful inflammation and oxidative damage. Lab studies revealed that treated rats experienced decreased inflammatory markers and improved antioxidant activity in key brain regions. The brew's neuroprotective effects were most notable in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, suggesting potential therapeutic value for stroke recovery.
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Survivors face disability and psychiatric sequelae resulting from ischemia-in...
The mitogenomic landscape of Banisteriopsis caapi (Malpighiaceae), the sacred liana used for ayahuasca preparation.
Genetics and molecular biology – January 01, 2024
Summary
Scientists have decoded the complete mitochondrial DNA of the sacred ayahuasca vine, revealing fascinating insights into this culturally significant Amazonian plant. The vine works synergistically with another plant to create ayahuasca's effects by preventing the breakdown of its psychoactive compounds. Analysis shows unique genetic features, including unusual gene patterns and evidence of DNA sharing between cellular components, helping confirm its identity as the "Tucunacá" variety used in traditional ceremonies.
Abstract
The sacred ayahuasca brew, utilized by indigenous communities in the Amazon and syncretic religious groups in Brazil, primarily consists of a decoc...
Therapeutic Effects of Ceremonial Ayahuasca Use for Methamphetamine Use Disorders and Other Mental Health Challenges: Case Studies in an Indigenous Community in Sonora, Mexico.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
Indigenous healers in Mexico are pioneering a groundbreaking approach to addiction treatment, combining traditional ceremonies with modern therapy. Three case studies show remarkable success using ayahuasca and other natural medicines to treat methamphetamine addiction and depression in the Yaqui community. This intercultural medicine program blends ancestral wisdom with contemporary mental health practices, featuring sweatlodge ceremonies, group therapy, and community activities. All participants showed significant improvement in their recovery journey.
Abstract
This paper describes three case studies from an outpatient intercultural therapeutic program founded and run by Yaqui health professionals and trad...
Psychoactive plant derivatives (ayahuasca, ibogaine, kratom) and their application in opioid withdrawal and use disorder - a narrative review.
Journal of addictive diseases – January 01, 2024
Summary
Natural plant-based compounds show promise in addressing the opioid crisis. Ayahuasca, ibogaine, and kratom have emerged as potential alternatives for managing opioid withdrawal and addiction. These substances work through multiple pathways, combining unique chemical effects with traditional ceremonial practices to help reduce cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms. While ayahuasca and ibogaine often require supervised settings, kratom has gained popularity as a more accessible option for opioid use disorder.
Abstract
The opioid epidemic and limited access to treatment for opioid withdrawal (OW) and opioid use disorder (OUD) has led individuals to seek alternativ...