Ayahuasca: Psychological and Physiologic Effects, Pharmacology and Potential Uses in Addiction and Mental Illness
Current Neuropharmacology March 2, 2018 Jonathan Hamill, Jaime E. C. Hallak, Serdar Dursun et al. 179 citations
Ayahuasca is a traditional Amazonian brew made from Banisteriopsis caapi vine and Psychotria viridis leaves, containing beta-carboline alkaloids and the hallucinogen DMT. Originally used by indigenous shamans for spiritual and healing purposes, it has been incorporated into folk medicine and religious ceremonies in Brazil and is now also used recreationally in Europe and North America. This review summarizes ayahuasca's behavioral and physiological effects, safety profile, proposed mechanisms, and potential clinical uses for psychiatric disorders and addictions. The side effect profile appears relatively mild, but more detailed studies are needed. Some researchers advocate relaxing government regulations to allow comprehensive clinical trials.