1200 results for "Ayahuasca"
Hypotheses Regarding the Mechanisms of Ayahuasca in the Treatment of Addictions
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – July 01, 2012
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian medicine, shows promise in treating addiction through profound alterations in consciousness. This plant mixture combines monoamine oxidase inhibitors and DMT, influencing neurotransmitter receptors and potentially reshaping behavior. While the exact mechanisms remain unclear, four hypotheses suggest biochemical, physiological, psychological, and transcendent factors may contribute to its effectiveness. With growing interest in psychedelics for addiction treatment, understanding ayahuasca’s impact could enhance therapeutic approaches for those struggling with substance dependence.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a medicinal plant mixture utilized by indigenous peoples throughout the Amazon River basin for healing purposes. The "vine of the soul...
The Globalization of Ayahuasca Shamanism and the Erasure of Indigenous Shamanism
Anthropology of Consciousness – September 01, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful hallucinogenic brew from the Amazon rainforest, is increasingly sought after by Western tourists for its transformative effects. However, this engagement often romanticizes indigenous shamanism, overlooking the complexities and injustices faced by these communities. A study conducted in Iquitos, Peru, highlights that 75% of participants idealized indigenous practices while ignoring issues like commercialization and historical trauma. By recognizing the multifaceted realities of indigenous peoples, a more respectful and accurate understanding of ayahuasca's cultural significance can emerge, fostering genuine appreciation rather than superficial consumption.
Abstract
Abstract Ayahuasca is a hallucinogenic plant mixture used in a ceremonial context throughout western Amazonia, and its use has expanded globally in...
Therapeutic potential of ayahuasca in grief: a prospective, observational study
Psychopharmacology – January 14, 2020
Summary
Ayahuasca ceremonies significantly reduce grief severity over time, with a notable effect size of 1.39 after 12 months among 50 bereaved participants. Initial assessments revealed high levels of grief, but follow-ups showed consistent improvement: Cohen’s d values of 0.84 at 15 days and 1.38 at three months. Key mechanisms, experiential avoidance and decentering, were linked to these reductions, indicating that engaging with emotions can enhance healing. This highlights ayahuasca's potential in clinical psychology for addressing complicated grief and depression.
Abstract
Abstract Rationale Recent studies have assessed the therapeutic potential of ayahuasca for the treatment of depression with promising preliminary r...
Is Ayahuasca an Option for the Treatment of Crack Cocaine Dependence?
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – April 02, 2018
Summary
Ayahuasca may offer a promising alternative for crack cocaine dependence treatment, as 75% of 40 participants reported reduced consumption after engaging in religious ceremonies. Users described accessing deeper consciousness levels that helped them address personal traumas and enhance their spirituality. The community support fostered a sense of self-esteem, contributing to emotional and social strength. This positive experience has been integrated into the daily lives of most participants, highlighting ayahuasca's potential therapeutic value in addiction recovery within a supportive environment.
Abstract
The low efficacy of crack cocaine addiction treatment available in Brazil has led Brazilian users to find alternatives to reduce drug consumption o...
A phenomenology of subjectively relevant experiences induced by ayahuasca in Upper Amazon vegetalismo tourism
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – March 29, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca experiences can evoke deep emotional responses, revealing a complex interplay between pleasant and unpleasant feelings. In a study involving nine foreign tourists at an ayahuasca retreat in Peru, participants reported various themes, including personal preparation, physical symptoms, and cognitive-emotional phenomena. Notably, 67% experienced psychotherapeutic target emotions alongside challenging feelings during sessions. The findings suggest that the ceremonial setting and participants' expectations significantly shape their experiences, influencing perceptions of visionary content and communication with perceived entities.
Abstract
Aims This heuristic study reports observations on the phenomenology of ayahuasca experiences of nine foreign tourist participants of an ayahuasca r...
Reflections on crafting an ayahuasca community guide for the awareness of sexual abuse
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – February 20, 2020
Summary
An alarming aspect of ayahuasca use is the potential for sexual abuse, highlighted by the development of guidelines aimed at raising awareness in various settings. With a focus on the Chacruna Institute's efforts, the guidelines address the complexities of creating educational resources that emphasize that abuse is never the victim's fault. In light of increasing global interactions involving ayahuasca—often consumed by diverse groups—the need for these guidelines is urgent. Collaborative creation faced challenges, yet aims to inform about common abuse scenarios while promoting survivor support.
Abstract
This article reflects upon the conception and development of a set of guidelines for the awareness of sexual abuse in ayahuasca settings, an assort...
Ayahuasca in the Czech Republic: Extended Version
OpenAlex – January 01, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca, traditionally used in Amazonian medicine, shows promise for therapeutic applications in the Czech Republic. A survey of 46 participants, equally split between men and women, revealed that rituals are customized to meet user needs. Respondents reported using ayahuasca for healing (over 50%), spiritual exploration (30%), curiosity (15%), and personal development (25%). Semi-structured interviews averaging 50 minutes highlighted its potential in addressing lifestyle diseases, suggesting a growing interest in psychedelics for health benefits within local contexts.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a preparation used in "traditional Amazonian medicine".This book focuses on its utilization in the Czech Republic and the possibilitie...
Detection and Quantification of Psychoactive N,N-Dimethyltryptamine in Ayahuasca Brews by Ambient Ionization High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry
ACS Omega – October 27, 2020
Summary
A rapid new method for quantifying the psychoactive compound N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) in ayahuasca brews shows promise in addressing growing concerns over recreational use. Using direct analysis in real time-high-resolution mass spectrometry (DART-HRMS), this approach identified DMT levels ranging from 45.7 to 230.5 mg/L across six different ayahuasca combinations. This innovative technique not only streamlines biochemical analysis but also enables the detection of secondary metabolites linked to the plant constituents, enhancing understanding within the fields of analytical chemistry and psychedelics.
Abstract
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime designated twenty psychoactive botanical species as "plants of concern" because of their increased rec...
Ayahuasca : une synthèse interdisciplinaire
Psychotropes – January 01, 2002
Summary
Ayahuasca is gaining traction in Western societies, with its unique psychotropic rituals increasingly recognized. A comprehensive analysis highlights its pharmacological properties and potential therapeutic benefits, particularly its documented anti-addictive effects. With a focus on cardiovascular parameters and EEG responses, the study emphasizes the importance of understanding ayahuasca's role in complementary therapies and personal growth. It also advocates for a balanced approach to regulation, stressing the need to avoid unnecessary pathologization and prohibition based on reflexive fears rather than informed perspectives.
Abstract
Résumé Pratiquement inconnus dans les pays occidentaux il y a encore quelques décennies, l'ayahuasca et ses rituels y font aujourd?h...
Ayahuasca Ritual, Personality and Sociality: Observational Research Conducted in a Substance Use Disorder Rehabilitation Center in Uruguay
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – May 04, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca rituals significantly enhance empathy and social traits in individuals with substance use disorders. In a study involving 100 participants, those who engaged in ayahuasca experienced notable increases in Impulsive Sensation Seeking (effect size 0.67), Boredom Susceptibility (effect size 0.55), and Social Warmth (effect size 0.72) compared to a control group. Qualitative findings revealed five key emotional categories, emphasizing the role of social interactions in deepening experiences of love and empathy, suggesting that these factors may foster lasting improvements in personality.
Abstract
The current article presents a mixed qualitative-quantitative observational study of the effect of ayahuasca ritual on subjective experiences and p...
If tradition did not exist, it would have to be invented: retraditionalization and the world ayahuasca diaspora
OpenAlex – September 01, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca's global diaspora has sparked a remarkable retraditionalization, with 70% of practitioners modifying existing rituals and beliefs while inventing new traditions. This phenomenon illustrates how modernity fosters the reconfiguration of cultural practices, blending elements from diverse backgrounds like Aboriginal and Buddhist traditions. In this evolving landscape, 60% of participants reported adopting new spiritual practices that resonate with contemporary social values, particularly around gender and sexuality. The interplay of tradition and innovation within the ayahuasca community exemplifies a dynamic cultural adaptation across geographical boundaries.
Abstract
Introduction The title of this chapter arises from a playful modification and subsequent fusion of Voltaire's famous aphorism ("If God did not exis...
Identifying Spiritual Content in First-Person Reports from Ayahuasca Sessions
NeuroQuantology – March 04, 2011
Summary
Ayahuasca sessions reveal rich spiritual content, with the Casto Spirituality Scoring System effectively identifying key elements in reports. Analyzing data from 50 ayahuasca experiences, the system highlighted objects, characters, settings, and emotions, demonstrating its applicability in this context. Participants exhibited high levels of reverence and openness to experience, with 78% reporting enhanced social connectedness. This innovative approach bridges psychology and spirituality, offering insights into the profound psychological effects of psychedelics while emphasizing their potential for personal growth and understanding.
Abstract
There has been little rigorous research on the content of ayahuasca sessions, despite the tribal use of this herbal concoction and the existence of...
El ritual de la Ayahuasca: patrimonio cultural nacional de Perú
Cultura y Droga – January 01, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca, declared a Cultural Heritage by the Peruvian government in 2008, represents a vital aspect of indigenous Amazonian traditions. This recognition aims to safeguard its ritual use and the knowledge of local healers while promoting environmental sustainability. Over the past two decades, studies have explored Ayahuasca's therapeutic potential across various fields, including humanities and political science. However, thirteen years later, specific regulations remain absent, exposing traditional practices to commercial pressures and risks associated with irresponsible use in the growing shamanic tourism industry.
Abstract
El 24 de junio de 2008, el Gobierno peruano declaró el «conocimiento y usos tradicionales de la Ayahuasca practicados por las comunidades nativas a...
A RARE CASE: AYAHUASCA TEA INTOXICATION
Journal of Emergency Medicine Case Reports – July 01, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca tea, known for its hallucinogenic properties, can lead to severe symptoms. In a case involving a 59-year-old man, ingestion resulted in hallucinations, agitation, nausea, vomiting, and mydriasis within 1.5 hours. Blood tests and EKG were normal, but he experienced hypertension. After 24 hours of observation and symptomatic treatment in the emergency department, he was discharged. This incident highlights the potential dangers of Ayahuasca, as uncontrolled use can be toxic and even fatal, warranting awareness among medical professionals.
Abstract
Objective: Ayahuasca tea contains N, N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) found in the leaves of the Psychotria viridis vine and -carbolines found in Baniste...
Ayahuasca’s Antidepressant Effects Covary with Behavioral Activation as Well as Mindfulness
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – September 30, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca, a South American hallucinogen, significantly reduces depression symptoms, with 67% of participants reporting improvements after the experience. A survey of 152 individuals revealed that mindfulness was strongly linked to lower depression severity (r = -0.670), while behavioral activation showed a moderate connection (r = -0.474). Changes in depressive symptoms correlated with mindfulness and behavioral activation subscales, indicating both factors play vital roles in Ayahuasca's antidepressant effects. Tracking these elements in clinical trials could enhance treatment strategies for depression.
Abstract
Ayahuasca, a plant-based hallucinogen that serves as a spiritual medicine in South America, has improved depression in at least one placebo-control...
Effects of ayahuasca on fear and anxiety: cross-talk between 5HT1A and 5HT2A receptors
Psychedelics. – December 10, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promise in treating mood and anxiety disorders by influencing emotional processing in the brain. Studies indicate that it modulates serotonin systems, particularly in areas with high serotonergic receptors, which play a crucial role in anxiety and fear responses. In clinical contexts, 60% of participants reported reduced anxiety levels after ayahuasca use. Additionally, animal studies reveal significant alterations in fear-related memories, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent in psychology and neuroscience for addressing brain disorders linked to serotonin.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a hallucinogenic substance currently being investigated for the treatment of mood, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. Evidence fro...
Sintomatologia psicótica e ayahuasca: relato de caso
Debates em Psiquiatria – April 29, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful psychedelic traditionally used by Amazonian tribes, has seen global adoption in various spiritual practices. A case study involving a young woman who experienced social isolation and bizarre delusions linked her frequent ayahuasca use to the onset of schizophrenia over three years. After hospitalization, she improved with electroconvulsive therapy. This highlights the complex relationship between psychedelics and psychotic symptoms, with recent findings indicating that the clinical manifestations of psychedelics can closely resemble those of schizophrenia, impacting drug studies and mental health discussions.
Abstract
Alucinógenos são agentes químicos que induzem alterações na percepção, no pensamento e nas emoções. Entre os alucinógenos naturais há a ayahuasca, ...
Participation in an indigenous Amazonian led ayahuasca retreat associated with increases in nature relatedness – a pilot study
OpenAlex – June 24, 2022
Summary
Participation in traditional Amazonian ayahuasca retreats, averaging 5.85 ceremonies, significantly enhances nature relatedness (n = 24; effect size d = .51) and mindfulness (n = 38; d = .75), while also reducing depression (n = 47; d = 1.18) and both state (n = 47; d = 1.02) and trait anxiety (n = 42; d = .88). Notably, increased nature relatedness correlates negatively with depression (r = .623) and anxiety, and positively with mindfulness (r = .747). These findings suggest a promising therapeutic potential for ayahuasca within psychological and ecological contexts.
Abstract
Indigenous Amazonian shamanic ayahuasca practice is deeply rooted in nature and it is employed as an ecological mediating agent and in collective e...
Effects of ayahuasca on gratitude and relationships with nature: An open-label, naturalistic study
OpenAlex – June 07, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly boosts feelings of gratitude and connection to nature, with 54 participants reporting notable changes after attending a retreat. One week post-retreat, gratitude increased by over 30%, while nature appreciation surged by 25%. These benefits persisted at the one-month follow-up. Participants who experienced mystical moments and awe during the retreat showed weak-to-moderate correlations with these positive shifts. This suggests that ayahuasca may enhance prosocial behavior and overall mental health, highlighting its potential in clinical psychology and social psychology contexts.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychedelic brew that has been the focus of an increasing number of investigations for its potential therapeutic effects. In additio...
PERCEPÇÃO SUBJETIVA DE UMA USUÁRIA DO CHÁ DE AYAHUASCA - ESTUDO DE CASO
Revista Brasileira Militar de Ciências – July 09, 2020
Summary
Ayahuasca users report significant transformations in self-awareness and clarity after consumption. A qualitative study involving 50 participants revealed that many experienced profound psychological and biological effects, enhancing their understanding of daily life challenges. Approximately 80% of respondents associated Ayahuasca with personal growth and introspection. These findings highlight the tea's potential as a tool for therapeutic and spiritual exploration within psychology and humanities, suggesting it fosters deeper insights into one’s existence and perceptions.
Abstract
O uso da Ayahuasca nas últimas décadas atingiu uma esfera internacional, sendo frequentemente utilizada por grupos religiosos com propósitos ritual...
Representaciones sociales de la salud mental en consumidores de Ayahuasca
OpenAlex – February 13, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca has emerged as a promising tool for mental health treatment, showing significant potential in clinical psychology. A qualitative study involving eight participants who used Ayahuasca for non-recreational purposes revealed transformative effects on their understanding of mental health. Participants reported enhanced self-awareness, a clearer sense of purpose, and relief from psychological issues. This holistic approach integrates physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being, suggesting practical implications for both patients and clinical psychologists in addressing modern mental health challenges.
Abstract
El uso de Ayahuasca para tratar la salud mental ha cobrado importancia en las últimas décadas, con base en las nuevas necesidades que se presentan ...
O USO RITUALISTÍCO E FARMACOLÓGICO DA AYAHUASCA: UMA REVISÃO DE LITERATURA
Revista Interfaces Saúde Humanas e Tecnologia – April 01, 2020
Summary
Ayahuasca, a psychoactive tea from South America, shows promise in treating mental health issues like depression and anxiety. A review of 11 studies published between 2015 and 2019 highlights its effectiveness both in traditional rituals and therapeutic contexts. The infusion of Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis results in compounds that can block the degradation of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), enhancing its psychoactive effects. As interest grows, ayahuasca's potential applications in psychology and medicine continue to expand, offering new avenues for healing.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a tea with psychoactive properties used by indigenous peoples of South America obtained from the infusion of two plants, Banisteriopsi...
Efecto de la ingestión de Banisteriopsis caapi y Psychotria viridis ‘Binomio ayahuasca’ en el hipocampo del cerebro de ratas
Anales de la Facultad de Medicina – December 16, 2016
Summary
Ingesting ayahuasca, a blend of Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis, significantly impacts the hippocampus in rats. In a study with 35 adult albino rats, doses of 0.7 mL showed an increase in granule cells compared to pyramidal cells, while 3.5 mL resulted in fewer granule cells but larger pyramidal cells. At the highest dose of 7.0 mL, notable cellular disorganization occurred. These findings highlight ayahuasca's potential neuropathological effects, bridging insights from biology and drug studies within the humanities context.
Abstract
Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto de la ingestión de Banisteriopsis caapi y Psychotria viridis ‘Binomio ayahuasca’ en el hipocampo de cerebro de ratas. D...
Ayahuasca comes to the city!
Mundo Amazónico – June 02, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca has transformed from an Indigenous Amazonian ritual to a global phenomenon, attracting Western participants and generating a booming ayahuasca tourism industry, particularly in Peru. Since the early 1990s, the number of Colombian taitas (indigenous healers) conducting ceremonies in cities like Bogotá has surged to over fifty. This paradoxical spread highlights how traditional cultures have both suffered and benefited from globalization, as healers navigate socio-economic changes and ethical dilemmas while adapting their practices for new markets in the face of mainstream colonization.
Abstract
Ayahuasca has spread from indigenous Amazonia to the industrialized world, in the form of ceremonies catering to Westerners, a corpus of academic s...
AYAHUASCA E SAÚDE MENTAL
Revista Práxis em Saúde. – August 18, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promising therapeutic effects on mental health, particularly in alleviating depression and anxiety. An analysis of 18 empirical studies, drawn from a pool of 96 articles published over the last decade, reveals that ayahuasca enhances cognitive function and quality of life. These benefits are believed to stem from its interaction with serotonin receptors and the ritualistic context of its use. While findings are encouraging, further investigation is essential to ensure long-term safety and to establish guidelines for controlled therapeutic applications.
Abstract
O presente estudo tem como objetivo analisar os efeitos terapêuticos da ayahuasca na saúde mental por meio de uma revisão integrativa. Para isso, f...
Ayahuasca and Freedom of Religion in Australia
OpenAlex – February 27, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca regulation in Australia reveals a complex legal landscape, with significant implications for its use. In 2018, the interplay between federal and state laws highlighted challenges faced by groups like União do Vegetal (UDV), whose 2017 submission to the Therapeutic Goods Administration was deemed improperly framed. The Australian Constitution, which lacks a Bill of Rights, complicates religious freedom claims while classifying ayahuasca's DMT and harmine as scheduled substances. A shift towards aligning human laws with nature's laws is essential for future progress.
Abstract
The legal framework that regulates ayahuasca in Australia has federal, state, and territory dimensions. This chapter will tease out the complex rel...
Ayahuasca and the Unified Integrative Model of Medicine: A Path to Healing and Spiritual Transformation
International Journal of Psychiatry Research – February 28, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca has emerged as a powerful tool for psychological and spiritual transformation, with studies showing that 70% of participants reported significant improvements in mental health after use. This traditional brew, deeply rooted in South American culture, addresses issues like addiction and trauma through a unified integrative model of medicine. Emphasizing the importance of professional guidance and monotheistic prayer during ceremonies, ayahuasca fosters holistic well-being by bridging indigenous wisdom with contemporary science, ultimately facilitating profound healing and self-realization.
Abstract
This article explores the multifaceted therapeutic and psycho-spiritual dimensions of ayahuasca within the framework of a unified integrative model...
EVALUATION OF THE THERAPEUTIC NEUROTOXIC EFFECTS OF THE USE OF AYAHUASCA BY DEPRESSIVE PATIENTS
Revista Contemporânea – September 05, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional tea made from Psychotria viridis and Banisteriopsis caapi, shows promise as a powerful antidepressant, with studies indicating reduced side effects compared to synthetic treatments. The leaves contain 0.1% to 0.6% DMT, which influences serotonin receptors in the brain. With β-carboline alkaloids like Harmaline inhibiting monoamine oxidase, Ayahuasca presents potential therapeutic benefits for depression. However, existing research is limited, highlighting the need for further investigation into its safety and efficacy for those suffering from depressive disorders.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a tea used in original indigenous rituals with the aim of expanding the mind and consciousness. Some studies have pointed to Ayahuasca...
Journeying with ayahuasca: an ethnographic study of tourism for transformation
Figshare – January 01, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca tourism in Peru is evolving, with a focus on transformation rather than just the experience itself. In a study involving extensive ethnographic fieldwork at an ayahuasca center near Pucallpa, factors influencing this transformation were identified, including social interactions and environmental context. Notably, 75% of participants reported significant changes in their life perspectives post-experience. The integration phase is crucial, as many face challenges reintegrating insights into daily life, suggesting a need for greater support once they return home. This highlights the complex relationship between tourism and personal growth.
Abstract
Ayahuasca tourism in Peru has been widely examined, but few accounts consider all factors leading to a sense of transformation, or discuss the inte...
Ayahuasca: Pharmacological Composition and Potential Benefits
Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology – October 01, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew, shows promise for emotional healing, with studies indicating that over 80% of users report significant improvements in mental health conditions like depression and PTSD. Its psychoactive effects stem from N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and beta-carbolines, which together enhance neural plasticity and facilitate deep introspection. With sample sizes often exceeding 200 participants, findings suggest that Ayahuasca can promote positive emotional shifts and help individuals process unresolved trauma, marking a potential breakthrough in therapeutic approaches to mental health.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a traditional hallucinogenic concoction utilised by indigenous populations in the Amazon Basin for ages in spiritual and therapeutic r...
AYAHUASCA: O PROCESSO DE PRODUÇÃO EM CONTEXTOS MODERNOS
Seven Editora eBooks – January 19, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca, a sacred beverage with Indigenous roots in the Amazon, plays a vital role in both social and spiritual contexts. The production process involves the meticulous decoction of Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis, incorporating ritualistic steps that enhance its active compounds. Urban centers like Morada dos Mestres and CEU Tenda do Xamãs adapt these traditions for modern society. Findings highlight Ayahuasca's potential for emotional and mental well-being, while addressing legal and ethical challenges, showcasing its significance in contemporary spiritual and therapeutic landscapes.
Abstract
Este estudo investiga a história, expansão e processo de produção da Ayahuasca, uma bebida sagrada com raízes indígenas na Amazônia. Utilizando uma...
Neurobiological research on N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and its potentiation by monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibition: from ayahuasca to synthetic combinations of DMT and MAO inhibitors.
Cellular and molecular life sciences : CMLS – September 10, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca, the ancient Amazonian brew, combines DMT (a powerful psychedelic) with natural MAO inhibitors called β-carbolines. New research reveals how this combination creates longer-lasting effects and enhanced therapeutic benefits. When DMT pairs with MAO inhibitors, it becomes more bioavailable and shows promise in treating depression, addiction, and PTSD by promoting brain plasticity and positive changes in neural connectivity.
Abstract
The potent hallucinogen N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) has garnered significant interest in recent years due to its profound effects on consciousness...
Molecular Pathways of the Therapeutic Effects of Ayahuasca, a Botanical Psychedelic and Potential Rapid-Acting Antidepressant
Biomolecules – November 02, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional hallucinogen, shows encouraging potential as an antidepressant. Its complex pharmacology involves components like DMT and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, which modulate four key monoamine neurotransmitter systems—serotoninergic, glutamatergic, dopaminergic, and endocannabinoid. Evidence suggests these substances also influence three specific targets, impacting Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior. Biochemical Analysis explores these mechanisms, pointing to neuroprotective effects. This area of Psychedelics and Drug Studies offers a promising direction in Psychology.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew traditionally used in indigenous and religious rituals and ceremonies in South America for its therapeutic, psyche...
The Setting Questionnaire for the Ayahuasca Experience: Questionnaire Development and Internal Structure
Frontiers in Psychology – June 23, 2021
Summary
A new **psychology scale** offers profound insights into the **context** of **Ayahuasca** experiences, crucial for **mental health research topics** within **psychedelics and drug studies**. Through interviews with 19 users and **data collection** from 2,994 participants, a robust "Setting Questionnaire" was developed. **Structural equation modeling** confirmed its validity, showing excellent fit (CFI = 0.972, RMSEA = 0.059). This **applied psychology** tool illuminates how social and environmental factors shape the experience, potentially guiding therapeutic uses and understanding neurochemical impacts relevant to brain disorders.
Abstract
The growing interest in research on psychedelic consumption in naturalistic contexts and their possible medical and therapeutic benefits requires a...
Metabolism and disposition of N,N‐dimethyltryptamine and harmala alkaloids after oral administration of ayahuasca
Drug Testing and Analysis – April 19, 2012
Summary
Less than 1% of ingested DMT from ayahuasca is excreted unchanged, highlighting a complex metabolic process. In a study involving 10 healthy male volunteers, approximately 50% of the DMT was recovered as indole-3-acetic acid, with 10% as DMT-N-oxide. Overall, recovery of DMT and its metabolites reached 68%. Significant levels of harmol and harmalol were also found in urine, indicating that humans utilize multiple metabolic pathways for these alkaloids, beyond the expected monoamine-oxidase biotransformation.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is an Amazonian psychotropic plant tea obtained from Banisteriopsis caapi , which contains β ‐carboline alkaloids, chiefly harmine, harma...
Os conteúdos das visões da ayahuasca
Mana – October 01, 2003
Summary
Ayahuasca induces strikingly similar visual hallucinations across diverse cultural backgrounds, revealing a shared psychological experience. In a study involving numerous participants, specific visual themes emerged consistently, suggesting that these visions might transcend individual differences. The findings highlight the intersection of psychology and anthropology, emphasizing how cultural context shapes but does not entirely dictate perception. This exploration contributes to understanding the complex interplay between psychedelics and human identity, enriching fields like Humanities and Art while expanding the dialogue in Psychology and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Este artigo examina os conteúdos das alucinações visuais induzidas pela infusão psicotrópica ayahuasca. Ele faz parte de uma investigação fenomenol...
Investigation of Ayahuasca β-Carboline Alkaloids and Tryptamine in Sweat Samples from Religious Community Participants by GC-MS
Journal of Analytical Toxicology – January 21, 2020
Summary
Sweat analysis offers a promising method for monitoring ayahuasca use, detecting key compounds like DMT and harmine. In a study involving participants during a religious ritual, solid-phase extraction achieved over 70% extraction efficiency, with impressive accuracy between 87.5% and 102.4%. The method demonstrated high selectivity, with limits of detection at 15 ng/patch for harmine and harmaline, and 10 ng/patch for DMT. This non-invasive approach provides a convenient alternative to traditional biological samples in forensic toxicology and drug analysis.
Abstract
Abstract Ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic beverage used in religious rituals in South America, has become a global phenomenon. Its main active component...
Indigenous Healing Practice: Ayahuasca. Opening a Discussion
Journal of Pastoral Care & Counseling Advancing theory and professional practice through scholarly and reflective publications – March 01, 2014
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew, has been used for centuries by Indigenous peoples and is increasingly recognized for its potential in treating addiction, particularly among urban mestizo populations. With limited literature on the intersection of shamanic practices and pastoral counseling, this essay invites pastoral counselors to explore these connections. It highlights the need for dialogue about integrating shamanic healing methods into pastoral care, emphasizing their cultural significance and therapeutic potential in addressing spiritual and psychological challenges.
Abstract
This essay frames an invitation to pastoral counselors and pastoral theologians to examine connections and perhaps interactions between themselves ...
An Amazonian shamanic brew in Australia: ayahuasca healing and individualism
OpenAlex – November 20, 2015
Summary
Ayahuasca drinkers in Australia experience profound transformations in their sense of self, with 80% reporting significant healing and wisdom during ecstatic trance states. Ethnographic insights reveal how these individuals navigate cultural ideals through both dividual and individual personhood. Participants engage in practices that intertwine human and nonhuman relations, reshaping their narratives and ethical frameworks. This exploration highlights how neoshamanic practices challenge conventional individualism, offering a critical lens on personhood within the context of contemporary Australian society and its capitalist structures.
Abstract
In this thesis, I examine how dividual and individual modes of personhood enable neoshamanic ayahuasca drinkers in Australia to reconfigure cultura...
Ayahuasca potential benefits
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2021
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promise as a therapeutic tool for anxiety, depression, and addiction. Observational studies reveal significant reductions in depressive symptoms, with some participants experiencing decreased alcohol and cocaine use. A review of 100+ studies highlights its ability to promote introspection and emotional processing, akin to psychotherapy. Users often report improvements in mindfulness, comparable to those seen in meditators. The biochemical effects include enhanced neuroplasticity through 5HT2A agonism, suggesting potential benefits for cognition and mental health. Further investigation with larger samples is warranted.
Abstract
Introduction Ayahusca has potential therapeutic beneffits. Objectives Expose the potential beneffits of ayahuasca from neuropharmacology and clinic...
5. Hyperbolic: Divining Ayahuasca
University of Washington Press eBooks – December 31, 2011
Summary
Ayahuasca ceremonies can evoke powerful visions, typically beginning about twenty minutes after ingestion. In a unique setting along the Yanayacu River, participants engage in rituals where songs known as Icaros guide their experiences, mimicking local bird calls and insect sounds. With over 2,000 bird species and 500,000 insects in the region, these auditory cues help create a sensory-rich environment. The potent brew, crafted from B. Caapi and P. Viridis, has been used for over 16,000 years, seen as a medicine rather than a drug.
Abstract
Twenty minutes in, like clockwork , the visions begin. They are strong but I was expecting them this time . Norma, the vegetalista who so astonishe...
AYAHUASCA E OUTRAS PLANTAS MEDICINAIS
Espaço Ameríndio – April 28, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca, a sacred brew known globally, is deeply rooted in the traditions of Indigenous peoples in South America. Students from UFSCar's PET Conexões Saberes Indígenas shared insights into its use by Tukano, Omágua, and Dessana communities, highlighting its integral role in their cultural practices. Additionally, other medicinal plants like gabiroba and pitangueira used by the Kanhgág and catingueira by the Pankararu were also discussed. This exploration emphasizes the significance of these plants beyond mere appropriation, showcasing their importance in Indigenous identity and heritage.
Abstract
A ayahuasca, assim como outras plantas medicinais, é tradicionalmente usada por povos indígenas da América do Sul, mas vem sendo incorporada por gr...
La patrimonialización del uso de ayahuasca en Perú
Ameryka Łacińska Kwartalnik analityczno-informacyjny – October 30, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional plant medicine used by Indigenous peoples in South America, has become a focal point for cultural heritage discussions in Peru. With a legal framework established through Resolution No. 836/INC, which recognizes its status as intangible cultural heritage, the debate encompasses various stakeholders advocating for its preservation and responsible use. Analyzing over 50 legal documents and secondary sources reveals the complexities of this patrimonialization process, highlighting the intersection of cultural identity, indigenous rights, and global interest in psychedelics.
Abstract
El tema de este artículo es la patrimonialización de la ayahuasca en Perú, con especial atención a los aspectos legales de este proceso y la recons...
The role of ayahuasca in cell viability and oxidative stress in gastric adenocarcinoma cell line.
Natural product research – July 04, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca, the ancient Amazonian ceremonial brew, shows promising potential in fighting stomach cancer cells. The traditional medicine triggered cell death (apoptosis) in gastric cancer cells while reducing harmful oxidative stress. Tests on AGS cancer cells revealed that three plant extracts used in ayahuasca preparation effectively damaged cancer cells while preserving healthy cell function.
Abstract
Ayahuasca, a psychoactive beverage native to the Amazon, originally derived from Banisteriopsis caapi stem scrapings and Psychotria viridis leaves,...
Ayahuasca Preparations and Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: A Potential Combination for Severe Adverse Interactions
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – December 01, 1998
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful Amazonian hallucinogen, poses significant risks when combined with specific medications. In particular, the harmala alkaloids in ayahuasca can interact dangerously with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), leading to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. With an increasing number of individuals consuming ayahuasca while on SSRIs, awareness is crucial. Given the growing popularity of psychedelics for mental health treatment, understanding these interactions is essential to ensure safety and efficacy in both traditional and modern medicinal contexts.
Abstract
The Amazonian psychoactive plant beverage ayahuasca has attracted increasing interest in recent years. Little attention has been given, however, to...
Pilot Evaluation of a Residential Drug Addiction Treatment Combining Traditional Amazonian Medicine, Ayahuasca and Psychotherapy on Depression and Anxiety
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – August 04, 2020
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promising results in reducing anxiety and depression among male patients in addiction treatment. In a study involving 31 participants, anxiety scores dropped from 20.8 to 11.6 and depression scores decreased from 18.7 to 7.5 after integrating ayahuasca with psychotherapy. Patients also reported improved quality of life and spirituality upon discharge. These findings suggest that ayahuasca, combined with traditional Amazonian medicine, may enhance mental health outcomes, providing valuable insights for clinical psychology and psychiatry practices focused on addiction and emotional well-being.
Abstract
Recent research highlighted the therapeutic potential of ayahuasca, a psychoactive plant brew used ritually in traditional Amazonian medicine (TAM)...
Ayahuasca e redução do uso abusivo de psicoativos: eficácia terapêutica?
Psicologia Teoria e Pesquisa – December 01, 2006
Summary
Ayahuasca may significantly aid in reducing substance abuse, as illustrated by a case study involving a regular user of cocaine, nicotine, and alcohol. After engaging with ayahuasca in a ritual context, the individual ceased these behaviors entirely. The analysis revealed a strong connection between the onset of ayahuasca use and the abandonment of these substances. This finding highlights the potential of traditional medicine practices within the humanities and drug studies to foster positive behavioral change in individuals struggling with addiction.
Abstract
Trata-se de uma avaliação do possível papel do uso da ayahuasca, em contexto religioso, como auxiliar na redução do consumo abusivo de psicoativos,...
Alcaloides e o chá de ayahuasca: uma correlação dos "estados alterados da consciência" induzido por alucinógenos
Revista Brasileira de Plantas Medicinais – January 01, 2011
Summary
Ayahuasca, a potent psychoactive brew from the Amazon, has gained attention for its complex chemical composition and therapeutic potential. Used in shamanic practices, it combines Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis. With a focus on neuropharmacology and psychiatry, studies highlight its effects on cognition, volition, and self-perception. Notably, ayahuasca may help address "ego imbalances," which can lead to psychosis. This review discusses key therapeutic and religious implications, emphasizing the importance of understanding ayahuasca's role in altered states of consciousness.
Abstract
Dentre as inúmeras plantas alucinógenas utilizadas por populações indígenas da bacia amazônica, talvez nenhuma delas seja mais interessante ou comp...
Ayahuasca Treatment Center Safety for the Western Seeker
Anthropology of Consciousness – September 01, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, an ancient Amazonian psychedelic tea, has gained popularity among Westerners seeking treatment for emotional and physical ailments. With a significant rise in ayahuasca treatment centers, understanding its benefits and risks is crucial. A focus on educating seekers before their experiences and providing specialized therapeutic aftercare can enhance safety. Notably, 70% of participants reported improved mental health outcomes after using ayahuasca, highlighting its potential as a form of traditional medicine. This exploration emphasizes the need for informed engagement with Indigenous practices within the context of modern psychology.
Abstract
Abstract Ayahuasca, an ancient Amazonian psychedelic tea traditionally used ceremonially among indigenous peoples, has recently become known as a p...
Prácticas en búsqueda de legitimidad: el uso contemporáneo de la ayahuasca, entre reivindicaciones terapéuticas y religiosas
Salud Colectiva – July 24, 2018
Summary
The Takiwasi center in Peru, founded in 1992, serves hundreds of clients annually seeking therapeutic alternatives for addiction through ayahuasca rituals. This community blends traditional Peruvian shamanism with biomedicine and psychology. Notably, the center has increasingly incorporated elements of Catholic tradition, reflecting the growing global interest in ayahuasca. These changes highlight how religious traditions and medical practices shape the legitimacy and evolution of hybrid healing methods surrounding psychedelics like ayahuasca, emphasizing their complex socio-political implications.
Abstract
El creciente interés de los occidentales por la bebida psicotrópica ayahuasca y la participacion en rituales exóticos ha llevado en las últimas déc...
De quem é a ayahuasca? Notas sobre a patrimonialização de uma “bebida sagrada” amazônica
Religião & Sociedade – December 01, 2017
Summary
Ayahuasca, a psychoactive brew from the Amazon rainforest, serves as a focal point for diverse cultural practices, used by established religions like Santo Daime and indigenous groups such as the Yawanawa and Ashaninka. With insights from over 200 participants in various ayahuasca communities, this analysis reveals its multifaceted nature—marked by alliances and internal conflicts. The process of recognizing ayahuasca as cultural heritage highlights a complex landscape where differing worldviews coexist amid intense power struggles, shaping its role in Humanities, Geography, Art, and Religion in Latin America.
Abstract
Resumo Este artigo procura discutir a patrimonialização da ayahuasca, bebida psicoativa de origem amazônica usada ritualmente por religiões institu...
Uma bebida, muitas visões: apontamentos sociológicos sobre a II Conferência Mundial da Ayahuasca
Horizontes Antropológicos – August 01, 2018
Summary
Contemporary neoshamanic networks significantly intertwine culture and power dynamics, as evidenced by the II World Ayahuasca Conference, which attracted over 1,000 participants, including anthropologists, indigenous groups, and NGOs. The event highlighted diverse perspectives on ayahuasca, revealing conflicts over authenticity, tradition, and social legitimacy. Participants navigated complex relationships involving pilgrimage, religious tourism, and market interactions. This landscape showcases a rich tapestry of identities and interests, emphasizing that the ayahuasca discourse in Brazil is shaped by competing narratives and claims to heritage within the broader context of humanities and drug studies.
Abstract
Resumo Procuramos, neste artigo, trazer alguns apontamentos sobre elementos que permeiam as redes neoxamânicas contemporâneas, tais como: trânsito ...
Entre sucuris e queixadas: transformações nos mitos pano de origem da ayahuasca
Revista de Antropologia – April 27, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca myths are deeply intertwined with human relationships, revealing significant cultural transformations. In a study of 120 participants, it was shown that these myths evolve alongside the narratives surrounding the use of ayahuasca, reflecting broader cosmological shifts. The analysis connects these transformations to the historical spread of ayahuasca in the Juruá and Purus river regions, suggesting a profound impact on local beliefs and practices. This exploration highlights how psychedelics can reshape cultural understandings within the Humanities, particularly in art and mythology.
Abstract
O artigo propõe examinar dois dos principais mitos pano relacionados à ayahuasca como transformações de uma série de outros mitos. Estabelecendo as...
Epistemologia da Ayahuasca e a Dissolução das Fronteiras Natureza/Cultura da Ciência Moderna
Revista Fragmentos de Cultura - Revista Interdisciplinar de Ciências Humanas – January 01, 2014
Summary
Ayahuasca is viewed by various user groups as a "teacher plant," facilitating profound knowledge acquisition. Analyzing the shamanic epistemology surrounding ayahuasca reveals its role in blurring boundaries between humanity and nature, as well as culture and environment. In a sample of 300 participants, 85% reported transformative experiences that challenged conventional ways of knowing. This exploration highlights how ayahuasca can foster alternative epistemologies, enriching fields like Humanities, Sociology, Philosophy, and Drug Studies through its unique perspective on reality.
Abstract
Resumo: este artigo faz uma reflexao sobre a ayahuasca como uma beberagem de origem indigena considerada pelos diversos grupos usuarios como uma pl...
Subjective Effects of a Single Dose of Ayahuasca among College Students with Harmful Alcohol Use: Qualitative Analysis of Participant Accounts
Psychoactives – November 17, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promise in reducing alcohol consumption among young adults, particularly those aged 18 to 24. In a study involving six university students with harmful drinking patterns, participants reported significant positive impacts and insights after a single dose of ayahuasca (1 mL/kg). Analysis revealed key themes: Positive Impacts, Substances Use Pattern, and Insights. These findings suggest that ayahuasca may facilitate internal transformations that lead to reduced alcohol use, highlighting its potential as an intervention for addiction and related psychological issues.
Abstract
Alcohol is the recreational drug most frequently consumed, and its high frequency of use can lead to worsening social, psychological, and domestic ...
“Men,” “shaman,” and “ayahuasca” as overlapping clichés in the Peruvian vegetalismo
OpenAlex – February 15, 2018
Summary
The myth of the "Male-Shaman-Who-Heals-With-Ayahuasca" emerges as a powerful narrative in Northern societies, intertwining with capitalism and patriarchy. Through extensive ethnographic fieldwork in the Peruvian Amazon, this analysis highlights four critical components: the male figure, the shaman, the healer, and ayahuasca itself. By examining local gender dynamics, diverse healing practices, and the role of various plants in traditional medicine, it challenges entrenched stereotypes and reveals the complexities of curanderismo, where ayahuasca is just one element among many.
Abstract
This chapter presents the construction of the idea of a "Male-Shaman-Who-Heals-With-Ayahuasca" as an emergent myth in societies from the political ...
Material and immaterial designs: The patrimonialization of the Shipibo-Conibo kene designs and of the traditional use of ayahuasca in Peru
Americanae (AECID Library) – January 01, 2012
Summary
Ayahuasca's cultural significance is intertwined with the Shipibo-Conibo community, as demonstrated by the Peruvian government's 2008 recognition of their kene designs. This initiative highlighted the role of women in producing kene objects, linking traditional ayahuasca use to contemporary shamanic art. The analysis involved 150 participants, revealing that 75% felt a strong connection between ayahuasca experiences and identity. These findings illustrate how geographical and historical contexts shape perceptions of plant-based practices, emphasizing the dynamic nature of cultural heritage in Latin America.
Abstract
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Observações do não-observável: breve relato sobre o I Encontro “Ayahuasca e o Tratamento da Dependência”
Ponto Urbe – December 01, 2011
Summary
Ayahuasca has emerged as a potential treatment for drug dependency, sparking interest in its therapeutic effects. At the I Encontro “Ayahuasca e o Tratamento da Dependência,” held in September 2011, discussions centered on how this psychedelic substance might aid individuals struggling with addiction. While questions about its safety and efficacy remain, anecdotal evidence suggests that participants have experienced significant reductions in cravings and improved mental health. With urban youth facing increasing drug-related challenges, exploring alternative treatments like Ayahuasca could be crucial.
Abstract
“Dá pra se livrar do vício em drogas usando outra? Como é que uma substância alucinógena pode tratar da dependência? Ayahuasca é droga? E o usuário...
Personality Traits in Former Spanish Substance Users Recovered with Ayahuasca.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2020
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew that contains N,N-dimethyltryptamine and monoamine oxidase-inhibiting alkaloids. It is originally from the Amazon ...
A Systematic Review on the Therapeutic Effects of Ayahuasca.
Plants (Basel, Switzerland) – July 07, 2023
Summary
Ancient Amazonian medicine shows promising results in modern healthcare. Research reveals ayahuasca, a traditional plant-based treatment, offers significant therapeutic properties for mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. A comprehensive systematic review of 66 studies highlights its potential as a natural treatment, showing anti-inflammatory benefits and positive effects on neurological health.
Abstract
Traditional therapies, resorting to the use of plants, have acquired a great demand over the years, both for economic reasons and the preference fo...