Plant Toxins
January 1, 2019
E. A. Carlini, Lucas O. Maia
3 citations
This chapter reviews hallucinogens of natural origin, covering indoleamines (e.g., psilocybin, ibogaine), phenylethylamines (mescaline), tropane alkaloids (atropine, scopolamine), cannabinoids (THC), and salvinorin A. It describes representative plants and mushrooms, their psychopharmacological effects, and sociocultural and historical use. The importance of set and setting in shaping consciousness-altering experiences is emphasized. The chapter discusses animal models for predicting hallucinogenic properties and investigating mechanisms of action. It compares hallucinogens to endogenous neurotransmitters, evaluates their ability to produce symptoms resembling mental disorders, and explores their therapeutic potential in psychopathological conditions.
Current Addiction Reports
February 21, 2026
Dráulio B. Araújo, Lucas O. Maia, Tiago Arruda-Sanchez et al.
Preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew containing DMT and β-carbolines, may treat depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use, eating, and personality disorders. Preclinical studies indicate enhanced neuroplasticity, reduced inflammation, and oxidative stress. Human neuroimaging shows decreased default mode network activity, increased functional connectivity and brain entropy, suggesting a flexible neural state and modulation of pathways related to neuroplasticity, inflammation, and stress response. The evidence is mainly observational, with users reporting emotional breakthroughs, increased self-awareness, and mystical experiences tied to therapeutic outcomes. Ayahuasca appears to target core psychological and neurobiological processes across disorders but requires caution in psychotic or bipolar individuals and should be administered with support. Randomized trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety.