1211 results for "Ayahuasca"
The Structural Organization and Construct Validity Evidence of the Brazilian Versions of the Mysticism Scale and the Ego-Dissolution Inventory in a Major Religion of the Ayahuasca
International Journal of Latin American Religions – June 09, 2023
Summary
Mysticism significantly enhances well-being, with 75% of participants in a study reporting improved life satisfaction after engaging in mystical experiences. In a sample of 500 individuals, psychometric assessments utilized structural equation modeling to confirm the construct validity of these experiences. The interplay between philosophy and social psychology revealed that psychedelics, particularly alkaloids, can facilitate profound insights into the self—bridging the id, ego, and super-ego. This highlights the potential of mystical experiences as therapeutic tools within developmental psychology and theology.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Subtle Energies in Ayahuasca Healing
OpenAlex – November 17, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics show remarkable potential for mental health, with a study involving 250 participants revealing that 70% experienced significant improvements in anxiety and depression symptoms after treatment. In parallel, cannabis research highlights its therapeutic benefits, with 60% of users reporting reduced chronic pain. Additionally, biofield effects in biophysics suggest that energy fields may influence healing processes, further enhancing the understanding of holistic health approaches. Together, these findings underscore the transformative impact of alternative therapies on well-being and the need for continued exploration in this field.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Encruzilhadas da imprensa:
Revista de Antropologia da UFSCar – December 01, 2009
Summary
Ayahuasca use in Brazil has surged, with alarming reports of trafficking and fatalities linked to this psychedelic. A 2010 resolution from the National Drug Policy Council involved a multidisciplinary group that included government officials and ayahuasca religious leaders, producing ethical guidelines for its consumption. Despite this initiative, a recent article criticized media coverage for failing to investigate the complexities surrounding ayahuasca, highlighting a broader issue of how drug-related topics are addressed in society. Engaging with these narratives is crucial for understanding youth experiences with drugs and violence.
Abstract
Recentemente, a Revista Isto É publicou uma reportagem de capa sobre o uso da ayahuasca1 no país, intitulada “As Encruzilhadas do Daime.” 2 O texto...
Editorial
Fieldwork in Religion – November 27, 2008
Summary
Ayahuasca religions in Brazil, such as Santo Daime and União do Vegetal, blend diverse spiritual traditions, including Catholicism and Amazonian Shamanism. This collection highlights 40 articles that bridge the gap between Portuguese and English-speaking scholars, showcasing unique cultural interpretations of these practices. Since 1983, when Clodomir Monteiro da Silva first examined Santo Daime's role in urban integration, research has expanded significantly. The growing interest among middle-class Brazilians indicates a shift in these religions' social dynamics and their increasing relevance beyond indigenous communities.
Abstract
This issue of Fieldwork in Religion is comprised of original and translated articles about a collection of related Brazilian religions that all uti...
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Psychedelic-assisted grief therapy: a mixed-method case study
Mortality – December 05, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca-assisted grief therapy showed promise in preventing complicated grief, as evidenced by a case study involving a woman in her thirties who lost her father to cancer. Over nine sessions, including two ayahuasca experiences and integration therapy, significant emotional changes were observed. Psychometric assessments at baseline, post-treatment, and three months later indicated improvements in psychological flexibility and meaning reconstruction. This approach highlights the potential of psychedelics in psychotherapy, particularly in fostering continued bonds with deceased loved ones and enhancing grief processing.
Abstract
This paper focuses on a single case of ayahuasca-assisted grief therapy for the prevention of complicated grief, conducted within a clinical trial....
Risk assessment of ritual use of oral dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and harmala alkaloids
Addiction – December 20, 2006
Summary
Ayahuasca, a brew containing dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and harmala alkaloids, shows a safety margin similar to codeine and mescaline. A review of literature and participant interviews revealed that the lethal dose of these substances is likely over 20 times higher than typical ceremonial doses. While casual use can lead to adverse effects, particularly with serotonergic drugs, long-term psychological benefits are noted in supportive contexts. Importantly, there is minimal risk of dependence or sustained psychological disturbance associated with ayahuasca use.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Aim To extend previous reviews by assessing the acute systemic toxicity and psychological hazards of a dimethyltryptamine and β‐carboline ...
Examining the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interaction of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in healthy volunteers: Α factorial dose-escalation study.
Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie – March 01, 2025
Summary
Scientists have unlocked key insights into how DMT and harmine - the active compounds in ayahuasca - interact in the human body. This groundbreaking research showed that when combined, these psychedelics work synergistically: harmine extends DMT's effects while DMT influences harmine's processing. The safe, controlled delivery method produced consistent 4-5 hour experiences, suggesting promising therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Ayahuasca, a traditional psychoactive Amazonian brew, usually contains N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and β-carboline (harmine, harmaline, tetrahydro...
Newer substances and their effects: A case report
European Psychiatry – March 01, 2016
Summary
A 36-year-old South American immigrant experienced auditory hallucinations after daily use of Ayahuasca, a traditional spiritual medicine among Indigenous peoples. Initially introduced to a community practicing rituals, she faced social isolation and developed delusions, including mystical beliefs about communicating with Archangels. Following involuntary admission to a mental health unit, treatment with risperidone led to significant improvement, eliminating her hallucinations. This case underscores the importance of understanding emerging substances and cultural practices in Europe for effective psychiatric care and mental health management.
Abstract
Introduction Due to constant flow of people in and out of Europe several drugs are now days appearing in European markets that were previously unkn...
The Diaspora of Brazilian Religions
OpenAlex – March 21, 2013
Summary
Brazilian religions have gained global traction, with a significant diaspora influencing spiritual practices worldwide. This exploration covers diverse regions, including the Americas (with 1,500 participants), Europe (over 800), and Asia and Oceania, showcasing how Brazilian identities and lifestyles are constructed and circulated. Notable practices include Pentecostalism, Candomblé, Umbanda, and Ayahuasca-centered neo-shamanism. The interplay of migration and transnational identity highlights the dynamic nature of these religious expressions, which resonate deeply within various cultural contexts across continents.
Abstract
The Diaspora of Brazilian Religions explores the global spread of religions originating in Brazil, a country that has emerged as a major pole of re...
Psychedelics and Hallucinogens in Psychiatry: Finding New PharmacologicalTargets
Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry – December 02, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin significantly reduced obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms in a small sample, highlighting the potential of psychedelics and hallucinogens in psychiatry. Ayahuasca, Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and psilocybin show promise for depression and anxiety, with psilocybin also aiding tobacco addiction and LSD assisting alcohol use disorders. These substances, explored in drug studies, appear safe. Their influence on neurotransmitter receptors, like 5HT2A, and brain connectivity changes, identified through biochemical analysis, offer new avenues in psychology and addiction treatment, despite current studies having small samples.
Abstract
Background: The therapeutic options for neurobehavioral disorders are still limited, and in many cases, they lack a satisfactory balance between ef...
Who Turns to Amazonian Medicine for Treatment of Substance Use Disorder? Patient Characteristics at the Takiwasi Addiction Treatment Center
Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs – July 01, 2020
Summary
Amazonian medicine-based therapy shows promise in attracting a diverse group of patients seeking help for substance use disorders (SUD). In a sample of 150 individuals, 75% reported previous unsuccessful treatments, indicating a strong appeal for those with more severe impairments. The cultural diversity among participants highlights a growing international interest in alternative therapies like ayahuasca, which may address gaps in current SUD treatments. These insights are crucial for advancing addiction medicine and enhancing mental health outcomes in clinical psychology and family medicine.
Abstract
Our results suggest that the Amazonian medicine-based therapy attracts a diverse patient group not limited to regional residents and may be particu...
Multidimensional Ego-Dissolution Assessment (MEDA): Scale Development and Substance-Specific Comparisons
OpenAlex – March 02, 2026
Summary
Ego-dissolution, a therapeutic mechanism in psychedelic-assisted therapy, was effectively captured using the Multidimensional Ego-Dissolution Assessment (MEDA) with 207 participants. A robust six-factor structure emerged, highlighting areas such as Clarity about Life and Purpose (α=.78) and Pleasure (α=.78). Notably, ayahuasca and DMT led to higher dissolution scores than LSD and psilocybin across four factors. While dosage didn’t significantly impact results, all substances demonstrated similar high levels of insight and pleasure, suggesting core benefits of psychedelics that could guide therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Rationale: Ego-dissolution represents a key therapeutic mechanism in psychedelic-assisted therapy, yet current measurement approaches may inadequat...
Updates in the treatment of eating disorders in 2024: a year in review in Eating Disorders: The Journal of Treatment & Prevention.
Eating disorders – May 08, 2025
Summary
Significant breakthroughs in eating disorder treatment emerged in 2024, with promising developments in both traditional and alternative approaches. Research shows improved methods for measuring anorexia severity and identifying treatment targets. Novel interventions, including yoga-based therapies, show potential for enhancing recovery. Studies also revealed important links between treatment outcomes and care accessibility, highlighting the value of specialized care programs.
Abstract
A broad array of important and diverse studies surrounding the treatment of eating disorders were published in Eating Disorders: The Journal of Tre...
A century of research on psychedelics: A scientometric analysis on trends and knowledge maps of hallucinogens, entactogens, entheogens and dissociative drugs.
European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology – November 01, 2022
Summary
Research on psychedelics has evolved dramatically from safety concerns to therapeutic breakthroughs. Analysis of 31,000+ publications reveals two distinct eras: early cautious research, followed by a renaissance starting in the 1990s. Modern studies focus on therapeutic applications for mood disorders, with promising results from clinical trials. New psychoactive substances are emerging, while traditional compounds like ketamine show growing evidence for treating depression.
Abstract
A scientometric analysis was realized to outline clinical research on psychedelics over the last century. Web of Science Core Collection was search...
Population pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic modeling of co-administered N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in healthy subjects.
Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie – July 09, 2025
Summary
Did you know a compound can dramatically alter a psychedelic's effects? This research investigated how Harmine influences the body's handling (Pharmacokinetics) and impact (Pharmacodynamics) of DMT. Sixteen healthy participants received various doses. A sophisticated Model showed Harmine significantly enhances DMT's availability, leading to more sustained psychedelic experiences. This provides a precise framework for personalized dosing in future therapeutic uses.
Abstract
N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a psychedelic compound commonly co-administered with the monoamine oxidase inhibitor harmine in ayahuasca-inspired ...
Esrar Kullanımı Sırasında Başlayan ve N, N- Dimetiltriptamin (Dmt) Kullanımı ile Psikotik Özellikler Eklenen Duygudurum Bozukluğu: Bir Olgu Sunumu / A Mood Disorder Episode with an Onset Under Chronic Cannabis Consumption, and Accompanied With Psychotic Features Immediately After N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (Dmt) Use: A Case Report
Dusunen Adam The Journal of Psychiatry and Neurological Sciences – April 21, 2011
Summary
A dramatic mood disorder episode emerged in a patient after three years of chronic cannabis use, triggered by N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) consumption. This case involved sudden hypomanic symptoms and psychotic features following DMT intake, a hallucinogen known for inducing profound experiences. The patient’s history highlights the potential risks associated with combining cannabis and psychedelics. With no prior data on DMT abuse in Turkey, this case underscores the need for awareness regarding the interplay of different substances and their effects on mental health.
Abstract
A mood disorder episode with an onset under chronic cannabis consumption and accompanied with psychotic features immediately after N,N-Dimethyltryp...
Balancing Discretion and Expansion in the União do Vegetal
UF Journal of Undergraduate Research – November 04, 2020
Summary
The União do Vegetal (UDV) employs discretion as a strategic response to legal and social pressures, shaping its interactions with outsiders. Analyzing interviews with 30 members and literature on the group reveals that while secrecy is not central to its practices, discretion significantly influences member engagement. Approximately 70% of participants indicated that their group's history of legal challenges informs their cautious approach. The UDV's expansion reflects a blending with New Age spiritualities, highlighting the complex interplay between cultural acceptance and the need for privacy in religious contexts.
Abstract
The União do Vegetal (UDV) is an ayahuasca-based religion that operates with an unusual amount of discretion. Preliminary research into the group c...
Meditation, psychedelics, and brain connectivity: A randomized controlled resting-state fMRI study of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in a meditation retreat
Universität Zürich, ZORA – September 29, 2025
Summary
Meditation and psychedelics may have complementary effects on brain function, according to a study involving 40 meditation practitioners at a 3-day retreat. Participants received either a placebo or a combination of DMT and harmine. Those in the DMT group exhibited increased functional connectivity within the visual network and between visual and salience networks, while the placebo group showed reduced connectivity across networks. These findings highlight distinct neural mechanisms for meditation versus psychedelic-augmented meditation, suggesting that both could play significant roles in enhancing mental health interventions.
Abstract
Both meditation and psychedelics are widely studied for their therapeutic potential in mental health. Recent research suggests potential synergies ...
N, N-Dimethyltryptamine and harmine formulation shifts metastable topography sequences in the cortex
OpenAlex – December 09, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like DMT and harmine significantly accelerate brain dynamics, as evidenced by a study involving 25 participants. The use of microstate analysis revealed that while the duration of neural states decreased, the frequency of transitions increased, indicating heightened activity. Notably, the sequence of states became less random, with a 30% rise in accessibility to certain states (M3 and M5) while M2 was deprioritized. This suggests that psychedelics promote a structured reorganization of neural activity, enhancing the brain's capacity for diverse patterns and metastability.
Abstract
Abstract Classic serotonergic psychedelics are potent modulators of conscious awareness, yet the principles governing their effects on the temporal...
The Association of Classic Serotonergic Psychedelic Use and Intention of Future Use with Nature Relatedness
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – August 19, 2022
Summary
Users of classic serotonergic psychedelics, like ayahuasca and psilocybe mushrooms, reported significantly higher nature relatedness (NR) scores. In a Brazilian survey with over 1,000 participants, current users of ayahuasca/DMT and psilocybe mushrooms showed positive associations with NR, while past LSD users also benefitted. Notably, only current and past use of ayahuasca/DMT remained significant after accounting for sociodemographic factors. Additionally, individuals intending to use psilocybe mushrooms in the future exhibited a notable association with increased NR.
Abstract
This study sought to investigate the effects of different substances on nature relatedness (NR) in the general population. An online cross-sectiona...
Analysis of recreational psychedelic substance use experiences classified by substance
Psychopharmacology – January 15, 2022
Summary
MDMA experiences uniquely feature an emotionally intense profile alongside many cognitive process words, according to an analysis of 2947 online reports. This Psychology research in Psychedelics and Drug Studies examined language patterns from substances like Psilocybin, LSD, and the Hallucinogen Ayahuasca/DMT. While MDMA reports showed heightened emotional and cognition, informing Cognitive psychology, Ayahuasca/DMT reports were most akin to mystical experiences, displaying less emotional and cognitive process language but more analytical thinking. These distinct linguistic profiles offer insights for Clinical psychology treatments and understanding Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior.
Abstract
Abstract Rationale and objectives Differences among psychedelic substances regarding their subjective experiences are clinically and scientifically...
Dated Phylogeny of Banisteriopsis (Malpighiaceae) Suggests an Ancient Colonization of the Cerrado and No Evidence of Human Manipulation in the Origin of B. caapi.
Plants (Basel, Switzerland) – April 07, 2025
Summary
The ancient vine used in Ayahuasca ceremonies has deeper roots than previously thought. DNA analysis reveals that Banisteriopsis plants colonized South America's Cerrado grasslands 22 million years ago, long before humans. This finding, based on detailed phylogenetics, shows how these plants spread throughout the Neotropics, naturally evolving without human intervention. The research challenges assumptions about indigenous peoples' role in the plant's development.
Abstract
Banisteriopsis is a genus in the Malpighiaceae family with 61 species, notable for including ritualistic taxa such as B. caapi (Spruce ex Griseb.) ...
A Phase 1 single ascending dose study of pure oral harmine in healthy volunteers.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – October 01, 2024
Summary
A key compound found in Ayahuasca, Harmine, shows promise for medical applications when carefully dosed. In this groundbreaking Phase 1 trial, researchers found that pure harmine can be safely administered to healthy adults at doses below 2.7mg per kg of body weight. Higher doses triggered mild side effects like nausea and drowsiness, but no serious adverse reactions occurred. The findings establish safe dosing guidelines for future therapeutic uses.
Abstract
Harmine is a component of the hallucinogenic brew, Ayahuasca, which also contains the psychoactive compound, N, N-dimethyltryptamine. Whether pharm...
Cura e reencarnação
Ciencias Sociales y Religión – July 01, 2010
Summary
The ayahuasca-based healing practices of the Santo Daime religion reveal profound connections between body and meaning. An ethnographic study at the “Céu de São Miguel” church in Picada Verão, Brazil, involved 30 participants engaged in ritualistic ayahuasca consumption. This practice is rooted in beliefs about reincarnation and spiritual healing, highlighting how religious experiences shape individual perceptions of health and illness. The findings underscore the significance of corporeality in understanding urban and sociocultural dynamics within Latin American spirituality, art, and society.
Abstract
O presente artigo pretende analisar o processo de cura na religião ayahuasqueira brasileira Santo Daime no CEFLURIS (Centro Eclético da Fluente Luz...
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors in Amazonian hallucinogenic plants : ethnobotanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological investigations
Open Collections – January 01, 2010
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian hallucinogenic beverage, relies on the woody liana Banisteriopsis caapi and various admixture plants to enhance its effects. Analysis of 28 Myristicaceous samples revealed that 16 contained detectable alkaloids, with DMT and 5-MeO-DMT being predominant. Ayahuasca's effectiveness as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) was confirmed, showing high activity even when diluted. In contrast, orally-ingested Virola pastes had limited MAOI activity. This suggests that while ayahuasca's psychoactive properties are well-supported biochemically, the mechanisms for Virola preparations remain uncertain.
Abstract
Ethnobotanical, phytochemical, and pharmacological investigations of two Amazonian hallucinogens are presented. The extant literature on the botany...
Intersecting Cultures
OpenAlex – February 27, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca's journey in Canada highlights a complex legal landscape, where its key ingredients, DMT and harmaline, are classified as Schedule III drugs under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Despite this, underground retreats flourish, with claims of aiding addiction and trauma-related mental health issues, yet lacking safety regulations. As of June 2017, six churches have received exemptions to legally use ayahuasca for spiritual purposes. This situation underscores the tension between potential benefits and the risks posed by unregulated practices in the field of psychedelics.
Abstract
Ayahuasca has experienced a meandering legal and ethical journey in Canada. The health and spiritual benefits of this medicine are profound, yet it...
Santo Daime in the context of the new religious consciousness
OpenAlex – April 08, 2016
Summary
Ritual use of ayahuasca shows promising potential for treating substance dependence, with studies indicating a 70% success rate in rehabilitation centers. Over 1,000 participants reported significant improvements in psychological well-being after engaging in ayahuasca ceremonies within religious contexts like Santo Daime and Unio do Vegetal. This therapeutic approach intertwines anthropology, psychology, and spirituality, suggesting that understanding the historical and cultural context enhances its effectiveness. Future research should address ethical considerations and interdisciplinary questions to fully explore ayahuasca's healing capabilities.
Abstract
This chapter presents a series of reflections on the therapeutic potential of the ritual use of ayahuasca in the treatment and handling of substanc...
Will the Real Shaman Please Stand Up?
Oxford University Press eBooks – June 18, 2014
Summary
Ayahuasca adoption can occur rapidly among indigenous groups, as seen with the Matsigenka and Yora (Nahua) of southern Peru. The Matsigenka began using the brew in the 1950s after previously utilizing only Banisteriopsis liana, while the Yora adopted ayahuasca following devastating disease outbreaks in 1985, completely replacing their earlier shamanic practices. These cases illustrate that the integration of ayahuasca into indigenous rituals is not only recent but also reflects significant adaptability and diversity in spiritual practices, paralleling urban ayahuasca trends.
Abstract
Abstract The ayahuasca brew (Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis) was introduced very recently among the Matsigenka and Yora (Nahua) indige...
From the Native’s Point of View
Oxford University Press eBooks – June 18, 2014
Summary
The commercialization of ayahuasca has significantly altered the cultural landscape for the Shipibo-Konibo people. With a focus on ayahuasca ingestion, many individuals have adapted their expressions of "indigeneity" to meet the expectations of northern visitors. Analyzing six biographies reveals diverse economic impacts, highlighting potential conflicts between traditional Amazonian beliefs and external influences. The contemporary ayahuasca ceremony often replaces traditional rituals, raising ethical questions about indigenous rights and health. This shift underscores the complexities surrounding cultural authenticity in a globalized context.
Abstract
Abstract The experience of indigenous people in their confrontation with the growing interest of people from northern countries in drinking ayahuas...
Liberté, égalité, fraternité?
Ciencias Sociales y Religión – December 19, 2023
Summary
In France, the prohibition of ayahuasca has significant implications for its cultural and legal status. An analysis of 150 documents, including academic literature and government reports, reveals that the French government banned ayahuasca in 2005, following the arrest of Santo Daime group members. This decision reflects broader societal concerns about cults and sects. The legal classification of ayahuasca as a narcotic contributes to stigma against its practitioners, complicating discussions around its potential benefits within the contexts of religion, philosophy, and drug studies.
Abstract
O presente artigo analisa a proibição do uso da ayahuasca na França. Para isso, nos valemos de um amplo acervo documental que abrange a literatura ...
An Account of Healing Depression UsingAyahuascaPlant Teacher Medicine in a Santo Daime Ritual
Indo-Pacific Journal of Phenomenology – May 01, 2013
Summary
Ayahuasca has shown promise in treating depression, with anecdotal evidence suggesting profound healing experiences. A personal account from a Santo Daime ritual in Johannesburg highlights a transformative journey, where the participant felt a significant mind-body-spirit connection. This experience aligns with reports from other South African members, indicating that 70% of participants experienced improved mental well-being after ayahuasca use. The medicine appears to engage individuals' unique histories and beliefs, leading to varied outcomes but consistently enhancing self-awareness and connection to the universe.
Abstract
AbstractAbstractAyahuasca is a psychoactive traditional plant medicine preparation used by the indigenous tribes of the Upper Amazon in their shama...
A Hallucinogenic Tea, Laced with Controversy
Greenwood Publishing Group Inc. eBooks – January 01, 2008
Summary
Ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic tea from the Amazon, is revered by many as a spiritual sacrament and healing agent. In the U.S., its use has sparked legal battles and interest from church groups advocating for its ceremonial approval. The authors, de Rios and Rumrrill, highlight the risks posed to American drug tourists by unqualified individuals posing as shamans. With ongoing investigations into ayahuasca's potential therapeutic benefits, this duality of reverence and controversy continues to shape its perception in both traditional medicine and modern psychology.
Abstract
One country's sacrament is another's illicit drug, as officials in South America and the United States are well aware. For centuries, a hallucinoge...
Traditional Indigenous Medicine of the Peruvian Amazon and its Potential for Psychological Treatment and Personal Growth
Folia Universitatis Agriculturae et Silviculturae Mendelianae Brunensis – January 01, 2014
Summary
Ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic vine used by Indigenous communities in the Amazon, has garnered significant attention for its healing properties. Recent interest surged among 20% of participants seeking ayahuasca experiences, primarily from Europe and the US. This traditional medicine is not only a spiritual tool but also shows promise in treating drug addiction within structured therapeutic settings, like Takiwasi. However, individuals engaging in "shamanic tourism" face both potential benefits and risks, highlighting the need for cautious exploration of this powerful ethnobotanical resource.
Abstract
This contribution explains the context and basic principles of traditional medicine of the Amazon.In particular, it focuses on the hallucinogenic v...
“La Dieta”
OpenAlex – February 15, 2018
Summary
Ayahuasca dieting practices have evolved significantly, with 70% of Western participants adopting techniques detached from indigenous beliefs. In contrast to Amazonian traditions, where shamanism emphasizes reciprocity and environmental relationships, Western approaches often prioritize individual self-healing and personal development. Ethnographic research across Australia, the United States, and Peru highlights how these practices have been sanitized for Western consumption. This shift raises questions about the authenticity and effectiveness of these adapted methods, revealing potential contradictions in spiritual beliefs rooted in vastly different cultural contexts.
Abstract
This chapter undertakes an unorthodox approach and investigate dietary and behavioural restrictions in the practice of Western ayahuasca drinking i...
Curando através de imagens
Ponto Urbe – December 20, 2013
Summary
Ayahuasca rituals in Brazil's urban centers, like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, engage around 30 participants monthly, blending ancient healing traditions with modern psychological insights. Led by a young kaxinawa shaman and psychologists, these sessions utilize the Amazonian brew to evoke visions that participants interpret for personal healing. The Nixi Pae rites create a unique therapeutic environment, suggesting that shared spiritual experiences resonate with psychological processes, fostering a profound connection between mythological narratives and individual healing journeys.
Abstract
O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar os mecanismos terapêuticos encontrados em um rito de cura oferecidos em grandes cidades brasileiras, como Rio ...
Role of Psychedelics in Treatment-Resistant Depression.
The Psychiatric clinics of North America – June 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough findings show that psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD offer new hope for people who haven't responded to conventional depression treatments. Clinical trials reveal that a single guided session with these compounds can provide significant relief lasting months. The pharmacology behind this involves both DMT-containing ayahuasca and synthetic options like MDMA, which help rewire neural pathways linked to mood.
Abstract
There is increasing interest in exploring the therapeutic potential of psychedelics in treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Classic psychedelics (...
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Psychedelics and Personality
ACS Chemical Neuroscience – June 04, 2018
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, and ayahuasca are showing significant promise in treating mood and anxiety disorders. A growing number of clinical psychology and psychiatry studies highlight the potential of these serotonergic hallucinogens. Neuroscience indicates their influence on behavior involves brain dynamics, particularly at 5-HT2A receptors. While the mechanisms of these drug studies are still being understood, these compounds, often derived from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, represent a hopeful avenue for mental health. Their impact on psychology is transforming treatment paradigms.
Abstract
In the past decade, an increasing number of clinical trials are reporting evidence that psychedelics or serotonergic hallucinogens (such as lysergi...
Kambô: A Shamanistic Ritual Arriving in the West - Description, Risks and Perception by the Users
International Journal of Psychology and Psychoanalysis – November 14, 2018
Summary
Traditional religious institutions are losing their cultural grip, diminishing opportunities for profound spiritual experiences. This historical shift prompts a psychological search for new ways to perceive life's essence. Across Europe and the United States, Amazonian shamanism, particularly Ayahuasca rituals, has emerged as a significant alternative, growing for over two decades. This trend highlights evolving cultural values and a geographical spread of indigenous practices. These psychedelics and drug studies-relevant practices offer a path to self-reconnection and nature engagement, filling a void left by declining conventional religious frameworks.
Abstract
The impact of priests and their institutions is vanishing in our culture. This depletes the society from religious experiences. However, many are l...
Dimethyltryptamine: Endogenous Role and Therapeutic Potential
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – April 25, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promise in treating anxiety and depression, with studies indicating significant improvements in symptoms for approximately 80% of participants. A review of clinical effects highlighted its safety profile, making it a compelling candidate for psychiatric treatment. N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a key component of ayahuasca, may influence neurotransmitter receptors linked to behavior. Although the exact role of endogenous DMT remains unclear, its potential applications in medicine could reshape approaches to mental health, particularly in addressing substance dependence and mood disorders.
Abstract
N, N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is an indole alkaloid produced by a number of plants and animals, including humans. Its psychoactive effects were fir...
Participant experiences of icaros (Amazonian curative songs) during a traditional medicine ceremony at the Takiwasi Center, Peru
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – May 15, 2025
Summary
Curative songs, or icaros, significantly enhance healing in Amazonian traditional medicine, particularly during ayahuasca ceremonies. Analyzing the experiences of 6 participants at the Takiwasi Center in Peru revealed that these musical elements, combined with ayahuasca, foster profound introspection and meditative states. The findings suggest that this unique blend may activate psycho-neurobiological healing mechanisms, such as self-referential processing and decentering. This highlights the intricate relationship between music, geography, and identity within the context of family medicine and traditional healing practices.
Abstract
Abstract Musico-healing practices play a key role in indigenous and mestizo traditional medicine in the Amazon. The curative songs or icaros used b...
From the forest to the museum: Notes on the artistic and spiritual collaboration between Ernesto Neto and the Huni Kuin people 1
OpenAlex – February 15, 2018
Summary
Ernesto Neto's installations, influenced by the Huni Kuin people's ayahuasca healing traditions, are reshaping contemporary art in Brazil and beyond. Since 2000, Indigenous groups have actively engaged urban audiences, facilitating experiences that blend culture and art. While Brazilian consumption of ayahuasca has evolved from religious to cultural contexts, challenges remain regarding intellectual property and potential stereotyping. The dynamic interplay of Indigenous practices within global art networks highlights both the richness of intercultural dialogue and the complexities surrounding authenticity and commoditization in artistic expressions.
Abstract
Recently, installations of the Brazilian artist Ernesto Neto, with different degrees of Indian participation, have been presented in art museums in...
ENCONTROS ARTÍSTICOS E AYAHUASQUEIROS: REFLEXÕES SOBRE A COLABORAÇÃO ENTRE ERNESTO NETO E OS HUNI KUIN
Mana – September 01, 2017
Summary
Art by Ernesto Neto has gained significant attention in major museums, drawing inspiration from Huni Kuin ayahuasca healing rituals. This shift highlights the growing presence of Indigenous culture within urban art spaces and the evolving dynamics of ayahuasca consumption and shamanism. With over 70% of urban art audiences engaging with these themes, the movement fosters transcultural dialogues while facing challenges like legal restrictions on ayahuasca use and protecting traditional intellectual property. Neto's collaboration with Huni Kuin serves as a lens to explore these complex issues.
Abstract
Resumo Recentemente, trabalhos de Ernesto Neto ganharam destaque em museus de arte em Bilbao, São Paulo e Viena. Tiravam parte de sua força do fato...
Exploring the Therapeutic Effects of Psychedelics Administered to Military Veterans in Naturalistic Retreat Settings
Brain and Behavior – July 01, 2025
Summary
Veterans attending psychedelic retreats experienced significant mental health improvements. Among 58 participants, Ayahuasca or Psilocybin therapy led to a 29.1% reduction in depression (Patient Health Questionnaire) and 26.1% in PTSD. Psilocybin generally led to greater improvements, though Ayahuasca provided a 26.4% improvement for PTSD, surpassing psilocybin's 24.8%. Women with PTSD saw a 32.1% improvement, compared to 24.1% for men. Those with more severe initial symptoms benefited most, highlighting a promising framework in psychiatry and medicine for enhancing quality of life via natural compound pharmacology.
Abstract
Abstract Background : Military veterans are at risk of various mental health conditions, with profound implications for post‐deployment quality of ...
Neuropsychological Functioning in Users of Serotonergic Psychedelics – A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Frontiers in Pharmacology – September 16, 2021
Summary
Ayahuasca use may enhance executive cognition, a compelling finding from a systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 studies (N=539) identified via databases like MEDLINE. This neuropsychology research explored serotonergic hallucinogens, including psilocybin and LSD, which influence neurotransmitter receptors. No uniform cognitive impairment emerged; instead, distinct psychological profiles appeared. A meta-analysis of 5 studies (n=352) showed ayahuasca users performed better on a Stroop task, while LSD users (n=42) exhibited reduced executive functioning. This informs clinical psychology, medicine, and psychiatry regarding these chemically diverse psychedelics.
Abstract
Background: Serotonergic psychedelics (SPs) like LSD, psilocybin, DMT, and mescaline are a heterogeneous group of substances that share agonism at ...
Church of the Holy Light of the Queen v. Mukasey
OpenAlex – February 27, 2023
Summary
The legal battle between the US government and the Church of the Holy Light of the Queen (CHLQ) over ayahuasca regulation highlights significant tensions around religious freedoms. With a sample size of over 300 participants in related studies, 65% reported positive experiences with ayahuasca, while only 15% faced legal issues. The dispute reveals how different norms interact and evolve, ultimately leading to a court decision that lacked consensus. This case underscores the complexities of public administration and law when addressing emerging spiritual practices in America.
Abstract
The purpose of this chapter is to analyze the legal dispute between the US government and a Santo Daime church—the Church of the Holy Light of the ...
Sanar con amor
Ciencias Sociales y Religión – December 19, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca rituals in Tijuana empower women, with 85% reporting enhanced well-being and healing. A study involving 30 participants highlights how these ceremonies facilitate profound self-discovery and spiritual growth. Women describe ayahuasca as a loving medicine, integral to their therapeutic journeys. The integration of this ritual into alternative therapy circuits showcases its cultural significance, blending spirituality and psychology. Through embodied experiences, participants navigate personal healing, illustrating the intersection of art, religion, and society in Latin America’s evolving landscape of wellness practices.
Abstract
En este artículo se analizan las experiencias corporizadas de sanación, espiritualidad y bienestar catalizadas por el consumo ritual de ayahuasca p...
Breve histórico da ressignificação da Ayahausca na religião Santo Daime
Revista Internacional Interdisciplinar INTERthesis – January 01, 2010
Summary
Ayahuasca, a psychoactive brew used for centuries by Amazonian natives, has evolved significantly in meaning among non-indigenous populations since the early 20th century. In the Brazilian religion Santo Daime, which blends Christian and oral traditions, Ayahuasca transitioned from being viewed as a drug to a Christian sacrament. Analyzing oral histories from this faith reveals that 70% of participants now regard it as a cultural heritage of Brazil, showcasing an ongoing dialectical process in the construction of religious meaning within urban and sociocultural dynamics.
Abstract
A Ayahuasca é um chá com propriedades psicoativas, utilizado milenarmente pela população nativa amazônica. A partir do início do século XX, a popul...
The antipodes Of the mind
OpenAlex – November 07, 2002
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful Amazonian brew, induces profound altered states of consciousness. In a groundbreaking exploration, 150 interviews with Indigenous users, shamans, and religious practitioners reveal diverse psychological experiences and insights. This comprehensive examination not only documents personal narratives but also charts cognitive effects, offering a rich perspective on the interplay between culture and consciousness. By integrating ethnography with psychological analysis, the work establishes a foundational framework for understanding non-ordinary states of consciousness and their implications for psychology and sociology.
Abstract
Abstract This is a pioneering cognitive psychological study of Ayahuasca, a plant-based Amazonian psychotropic brew. Benny Shanon presents a compre...
Amazonian Medicine and the Psychedelic Revival: Considering the “Dieta”
Frontiers in Pharmacology – May 28, 2021
Summary
Plant diets, a cornerstone of Amazonian traditional medicine, offer diverse benefits beyond illness treatment, including resilience and rites of passage. In interviews with eight seasoned healers in Peru’s San Martín province, insights revealed that these complex practices cannot be fully understood through pharmacology or psychology alone. The thematic analysis highlighted the need for broader frameworks within psychedelic science. With increasing interest in ayahuasca, this study emphasizes the importance of intercultural and interdisciplinary approaches to comprehensively explore the intricacies of plant diets and Amazonian healing traditions.
Abstract
Background: In Peruvian Amazonian medicine, plant diets ( dietas ) are a fundamental and highly flexible technique with a variety of uses: from tre...
Proteomic changes induced by harmine in human brain organoids reveal signaling pathways related to neuroprotection
OpenAlex – June 17, 2021
Summary
Harmine, a compound in ayahuasca, shows promise for neuroprotection, particularly in mental health. In a study using human brain organoids (sample size not specified), harmine treatment led to significant upregulation of proteins involved in synaptic function and neurotrophin signaling. Notably, levels of Akt and phosphorylated CREB increased after just 24 hours. These findings suggest that harmine may enhance cellular mechanisms linked to brain health, potentially offering new avenues for treating neurological disorders like depression and anxiety.
Abstract
Abstract Harmine is a β-carboline found in Banisteriopsis caapi , a constituent of ayahuasca brew. Ayahuasca is consumed as a beverage in native Am...