Effects of ayahuasca on mental health and quality of life in naïve users: A longitudinal and cross-sectional study combination
Scientific Reports March 5, 2020 José Carlos Bouso, Daniel Jiménez‐garrido, María de Lourdes Gómez-sousa et al. 111 citations
Ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic decoction used in traditional Amazonian medicine, may have therapeutic benefits for psychiatric disorders. In a study of 40 first-time users, nearly half (45%) initially met criteria for a psychiatric disorder; after ayahuasca use, more than 80% of those showed clinical improvements that persisted at 6 months. Questionnaires indicated significant reductions in depression and psychopathology. Long-term users (n=23) had lower depression scores and higher self-transcendence and quality of life compared to first-time users. The authors suggest further controlled and observational studies are warranted to assess risks and benefits.