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Lee Gurel

American Psychological Association

1 paper in the library · 69 citations · publishing 2012

Papers

A Study of Ayahuasca Use in North America

Journal of Psychoactive Drugs July 1, 2012 Rachel Harris, Lee Gurel 69 citations

People who use ayahuasca report benefits including reduced alcohol intake, healthier diets, improved mood, greater self-acceptance, and more loving relationships. A comparison of 81 ayahuasca users and 46 Catholic retreat attendees on a spiritual experience questionnaire showed that ayahuasca users scored higher on Joy in Life and Relationship to the Sacred, but the differences were modest, suggesting both groups had similarly authentic spiritual experiences. Seventy-four percent of ayahuasca users said they had a relationship with and received ongoing guidance from the spirit of ayahuasca. The data represent more than 2,267 ayahuasca ceremonies.