Ayahuasca revisited. Case studies & observations
June 9, 2025 preprint DOI: 10.31234/osf.io/pefct_v1 via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThis book explores ayahuasca's therapeutic potential across diverse contexts, including case studies of its use for bipolar disorder with psychotic features and chronic childhood sexual abuse within religious communities, as well as the adaptation of Indigenous ceremonies in Europe. It also examines 'spiritual attacks' during ceremonies and frames the clinical trial as a ritual. The work argues for a nuanced understanding of ayahuasca's effects beyond biochemical models, emphasizing cultural, psychological, and ritual dimensions.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Topics | Ayahuasca |
| Key finding | Ayahuasca's therapeutic applications and cultural contexts require an integrated approach that considers ritual, psychological, and social factors alongside biochemical effects. |
Abstract
Full book as a PDF. Contents: 1. Introduction2. Ayahuasca in the treatment of bipolar disorder with psychotic features3. Ayahuasca in the treatment of chronic childhood sexual abuse in a religious community4. Indigenous ayahuasca ceremonies in the European context5. Touch and play — ’spiritual attacks’ in ayahuasca ceremonies6. The clinical trial as a ritual