Behavioural and neurotoxic effects of ayahuasca infusion (Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis) in female Wistar rat
Behavioural Processes June 6, 2015 Aline Pic‐taylor, Luciana Gueiros Da Motta, Juliana Alves de Morais et al. 99 citations
Ayahuasca, a psychoactive beverage containing DMT and β-carboline alkaloids, was administered to female Wistar rats at doses 15X, 30X, and 50X the typical ritual dose. The lethal oral dose exceeded 50X (15.1 mg/kg DMT). At 30X, ayahuasca reduced locomotion in open field and elevated plus-maze tests and increased swimming in the forced swimming test, suggesting antidepressant-like effects. Neuronal activation increased in serotonin-related brain areas, with some brain injury but no permanent damage. These findings indicate antidepressant properties at high doses, warranting further study.