Chá de ayahuasca ; uma revisão bibliográfica sobre o uso da bebida alucinógena na neuropsiquiatria e na neurociência
January 1, 2022 Carolina Martins Cabrera
Ayahuasca, a beverage made from Banisteriopsis caapi vine and Psychotria viridis leaves, contains DMT and beta-carbolines that affect serotonin receptors and monoamine oxidase inhibition. Traditionally used in South American indigenous ceremonies, it is now central to three religions and studied for psychiatric applications. This literature review examined ayahuasca's effects beyond religious use in neuroscience and neuropsychiatry. In neuroscience, it influences physiological mechanisms related to feelings, memory, self-awareness, and mindfulness. In neuropsychiatry, beneficial effects have been shown in studies of depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, drug dependence, and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The review concludes that ayahuasca has positive therapeutic effects and no known adverse effects, but current evidence is insufficient to support its adoption as a pharmacological treatment for nervous system disorders.