Ayahuasca – potential therapeutic properties in psychiatry. Research review
Psychiatria Polska April 30, 2020 Aleksandra Barabasz-Gembczyk, Krzysztof Kucia 4 citations
Ayahuasca, also called the 'vine of the soul,' is a ritual psychedelic traditionally used by Indigenous peoples of South America and increasingly in other regions over the last 25 years. Its biological activity comes from N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a non-selective serotonin receptor agonist, and beta-carboline alkaloids that act as potent, short-acting monoamine oxidase A inhibitors (MAOI-A). Reports indicate both anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects, as well as potential for treating addiction. Particularly promising are results in treatment-resistant depression, with some authors comparing its efficacy to that of ketamine. The article examines ayahuasca's complex action profile, potential benefits, and risks of interactions and adverse effects, important given the variability of plant species used.