Potential therapeutic use of ayahuasca: A literature review

Ayahuasca, a psychoactive brew traditionally used in Amazonian indigenous cultures, is typically made from Psychotria viridis and Banisteriopsis caapi. Its effects stem from N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) acting on serotonin receptors, combined with β-carbolines that inhibit monoamine oxidase A. This review of literature from 2012 to 2022 found evidence for therapeutic effects on depression, anxiety, chemical dependency, alcoholism, and Parkinson's disease, along with neuropsychological effects and possible toxic effects on reproduction and embryonic development. Most publications addressed depression and anxiety. Further research is needed on ayahuasca's mechanisms and safety.

Study at a glance

Abstract

ABSTRACT Ayahuasca is a psychoactive decoction originally used in indigenous Amazonian culture. It consists of a dense brown liquid that most frequently results from the decoction of two plants native to the Amazon rainforest, Psychotria viridis (Rubiaceae) and Banisteriopsis caapi (Malpighiaceae). The composition of the decoction is variable, as several plant species can be used in its preparation. Its psychoactive effect occurs due to the presence of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), an agonist at serotonergic receptors (5-HT1A/2A/2C) that is metabolized by the enzyme monoamine oxidase type A (MAO-A), and also the presence of β-carbolines, which are reversible MAO-A inhibitors. This joint interaction promotes a sequence of psychedelic neurochemical effects. Due to the current expansion of research on psychedelic substances and the growing public interest in the benefits of ayahuasca beyond its traditional use in the Amazon, academic research on its therapeutic capacity has been increasing. This study aimed to carry out a literature review on the scientific evidence for the therapeutic potential of ingesting ayahuasca. The review covered the period 2012-2022, and resulted in evidence on the therapeutic effects of ayahuasca on depression/anxiety, chemical dependency/alcoholism and Parkinson’s disease, as well as neuropsychological effects, and possible toxic effects on reproduction/embryonic development, among other adverse effects. The highest number of publications in the searched period dealt with the effects of ayahuasca on depression and anxiety. Further studies need to address the detailed mechanism of action of ayahuasca, as well as its potential toxicity, in order to demonstrate its safety.