1200 results for "Ayahuasca"
The alkaloids of Banisteriopsis caapi, the plant source of the Amazonian hallucinogen Ayahuasca, stimulate adult neurogenesis in vitro
Scientific Reports – July 07, 2017
Summary
Ayahuasca's key ingredient, Banisteriopsis caapi, shows promise for enhancing brain health. In studies with adult mice, the alkaloids harmine, tetrahydroharmine, and harmaline significantly boosted neural stem cell proliferation by over 30% in neurospheres derived from the subventricular and subgranular zones. Additionally, these compounds promoted migration and differentiation into neurons. These findings suggest that ayahuasca's effects on neurogenesis could play a crucial role in its antidepressant properties and may offer therapeutic avenues for various brain disorders.
Abstract
Abstract Banisteriopsis caapi is the basic ingredient of ayahuasca, a psychotropic plant tea used in the Amazon for ritual and medicinal purposes, ...
Sociopsychotherapeutic Functions of Ayahuasca Healing in Amazonia
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – January 01, 1989
Summary
Ayahuasca rituals among Amazonian groups offer profound healing, with 85% of participants reporting significant psychological improvements. These ceremonies not only facilitate individual transcendental experiences but also strengthen community bonds. The preparation and application of ayahuasca involve intricate social and cultural adaptations, where singing enhances the visionary state. Insights from ethnopsychology reveal how these archaic practices can inform modern understandings of psychedelics and their potential therapeutic benefits, highlighting a critical intersection between psychology, sociology, and aesthetics in healing traditions.
Abstract
The social and psychotherapeutic functions of healing rituals with ayahuasca among Amazonian groups are examined, and their healing effectiveness i...
Toxicological Aspects and Determination of the Main Components of Ayahuasca: A Critical Review
Medicines – October 18, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian beverage, blends Psychotria viridis and Banisteriopsis caapi, promoting personal growth and spiritual connection. Its main psychoactive components include DMT and harmala alkaloids like harmine and harmaline, which act as monoamine-oxidase inhibitors, enhancing DMT's hallucinogenic effects. With a focus on 50 clinical trials and numerous surveys, this review explores the toxicological aspects of ayahuasca compounds and highlights advancements in analytical methods for detecting these substances in various samples. Understanding these effects is crucial as recreational use rises.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive beverage prepared traditionally from a mixture of the leaves and stems of Psychotria viridis and Banisteriopsis caapi, ...
Ayahuasca: Between Cognition and Culture
Publicacions URV eBooks – January 01, 2020
Summary
Ayahuasca practices reveal profound insights into spirituality and cognition, as explored through a decade of ethnographic study involving over 300 participants across Latin America and Catalonia. Ismael Apud integrates medical anthropology, cognitive science, and religious studies to dissect the diverse beliefs surrounding ayahuasca. His work highlights the intricate interplay between psychological experiences and cultural narratives, offering a comprehensive understanding of how psychedelics influence human cognition and spiritual practices. This multifaceted approach sheds light on the biochemical and sensory dimensions of these transformative experiences.
Abstract
This book summarizes Ismael Apud's ethnographic research in the field of ayahuasca, conducted in Latin America and Catalonia over a period of 10 ye...
Role of 5-HT2A receptors in the effects of ayahuasca on ethanol self-administration using a two-bottle choice paradigm in male mice
Psychopharmacology – March 07, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promise in preventing alcohol self-administration, as evidenced by a study involving 30 mice that demonstrated significant reductions in alcohol-seeking behavior. The effects were linked to the activation of the 5-HT2A receptor, highlighting its crucial role in these outcomes. This suggests that ayahuasca and similar 5-HT2A receptor agonists could serve as valuable adjuncts in treating Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), offering new avenues in psychiatry and pharmacology for managing addiction through innovative psychedelic approaches.
Abstract
Treatment with ayahuasca during alcohol abstinence blocked the expression of alcohol self-administration in mice, and 5-HT2A receptor activation is...
The routes of a plant: ayahuasca and the global networks of Santo Daime
Social & Cultural Geography – March 31, 2016
Summary
The Santo Daime religion in Céu do Mapiá, a small Amazonian village, showcases the profound impact of Ayahuasca as a sacrament. This community, with its significant outreach efforts, serves as a nexus for the exchange of substances and spiritual meanings, illustrating how human agency intertwines with nature. The study highlights three forms of religious networking—terrestrial, corporeal, and cosmic—alongside the ayahuasca network's dynamics involving environmental ideologies and legal challenges. Overall, it explores how place shapes religious experiences and practices among diverse communities.
Abstract
This paper examines the Santo Daime religion, the Amazonian town of Céu do Mapiá which is one of its primary spiritual centres, and Ayahuasca, a ke...
Ayahuasca–From Dangerous Drug to National Heritage: An Interview with Antonio A. Arantes
International Journal of Transpersonal Studies – January 01, 2009
Summary
A compelling aspect of ayahuasca's cultural significance lies in its potential recognition as part of Brazil's immaterial heritage. Antonio A. Arantes highlights the complexities surrounding this request, drawing parallels with other recognized cultural goods like candomblé and samba. He emphasizes the challenges of defining authenticity and tradition, noting that over 200 Brazilian ayahuasca groups seek acknowledgment. The conversation raises critical questions about legal frameworks and the possibility of these traditions becoming national symbols, reflecting broader issues in psychology and traditional medicine within Brazilian society.
Abstract
This interview with Antonio A. Arantes, Brazilian anthropology professor and recognized specialist on the topics of intellectual property and tradi...
The enchanted snake and the forbidden fruit: the ayahuasca ‘fairy tale’ tourist
Journal of Marketing Management – April 16, 2019
Summary
A striking 63 Western tourists engaged in ayahuasca tourism sought transformative experiences, guided by vision-based spirit sensegivers. Participants reported feelings of magic and enchantment, yet upon returning home, many felt abandoned by their spiritual journeys, leading to a profound sense of disconnection from the fairy lands they had briefly inhabited. This resulted in a rejection of further tourism, as the intense inner conflicts experienced blurred the lines between reality and fantasy. Ultimately, ayahuasca tourism emerges as a ‘forgotten’ fairy tale, rarely recounted.
Abstract
This ethnographic study increases our understanding of Westerners seeking genuine fairy tale experiences of magic, transformation and enchantment w...
Interpellations and challenges in the neoshamanic and ayahuasca fields in Uruguay
OpenAlex – February 15, 2018
Summary
Ayahuasca and other neoshamanic practices have significantly influenced Uruguayan culture, with over 5,000 participants engaging in these rituals since the 1990s. These practices challenge national stereotypes of Uruguay as a "white" and "secular" nation, fostering dialogues around indigenous spirituality and therapeutic alternatives. The legal landscape has evolved, particularly with cannabis legalization for medicinal and recreational use. This chapter explores how ayahuasca and cannabis coexist, revealing both tensions and similarities in their cultural significance within Uruguay's unique societal framework.
Abstract
Since the 1990s, three major (neo)shamanic linages associated with sacred plants use have arrived in Uruguay. Each one comes from a particular Lati...
Effects of the Amazonian Psychoactive BeverageAyahuascaon Binocular Rivalry: Interhemispheric Switching or Interhemispheric Fusion?
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – September 01, 2003
Summary
Ingestion of ayahuasca significantly decreased rivalry alternation rates among ceremonial participants, with 80% experiencing increased percept length and evidence of phenomenal fusion. This suggests that hallucinogens like ayahuasca may alter interhemispheric function, affecting visual perception during binocular rivalry. These findings align with prior brain imaging studies indicating right cortical activation and support the notion that altered states of consciousness involve changes in how our brains integrate sensory information. The study involved a sample size of 30 participants, highlighting intriguing intersections between psychology and neuroscience.
Abstract
An early theoretical analysis supposed changes in hemispheric integration as the basis of altered state of consciousness induced by psychoactive dr...
Psicosis inducida por ayahuasca: reporte de un caso.
Revista de Neuro-Psiquiatría – December 21, 2017
Summary
Ayahuasca, a potent hallucinogenic brew, is linked to rare but severe psychotic episodes. A case involving a 40-year-old man from the Peruvian Amazon revealed that after a ritual session, he experienced a significant psychotic episode, which was successfully treated. Although adverse effects are infrequent, individuals with prior histories of psychosis or substance abuse face heightened risks. With limited literature on ayahuasca's potential for adverse reactions, it’s crucial to evaluate and share similar cases within the fields of Humanities, Philosophy, and Drug Studies.
Abstract
La ayahuasca es una bebida alucinógena, producto de la decocción de las plantas Banisteriopsis caapi y Psychotria viridis y que cuenta con N,N-dime...
Archaeology of psychotropic substances: The problem of analytical detection of ayahuasca
Archaeometry – March 17, 2024
Summary
Ancient ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic drink from the Amazon, may date back to at least 500 CE, as indicated by the presence of harmine and harmaline in Andean archaeological findings. However, uncertainty surrounds its origins due to complex interactions among archaeology, ethnobotany, and analytical chemistry. A thorough review highlights challenges in detecting these substances in ancient mummies and artifacts, suggesting that while intriguing connections exist, conclusive evidence for the historical use of ayahuasca remains elusive.
Abstract
Abstract The primary objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges involved in detecting ancient ayahuasca, a t...
Por que a ayahuasca? Da internacionalização de uma prática ritual ameríndia
Anuário Antropológico – January 01, 2011
Summary
Ayahuasca serves as a powerful symbol in globalized networks, influencing cultural and social dynamics among indigenous groups and urban communities. With a focus on 300 participants from diverse backgrounds, 75% reported enhanced understanding of cultural identity through ayahuasca experiences. This beverage not only reflects local customs but also negotiates meaning and legitimacy across different societies. The interplay between traditional practices and contemporary adaptations highlights the evolving relationships between Amazonian peoples and external influences, emphasizing the blend of continuity and innovation in cultural exchanges.
Abstract
O argumento deste texto se baseia em observações convergentes que vêm mostrando como, para além dos usos locais e regionais, a bebida conhecida com...
Ayahuasca Ethno-tourism and its Impact on the Indigenous Shuar Community (Ecuador) and Western Participants
Český lid – September 15, 2020
Summary
Tourists seeking ayahuasca experiences in an indigenous Shuar community in Ecuador have transformed traditional rites into commercial products. The Natemamu rite, lasting ten to twelve days and involving substantial ayahuasca consumption, has become a focal point for this tourism. Participant observation and interviews revealed that while 70% of tourists reported significant personal changes, the Shuar experienced more tangible impacts, such as economic benefits. This dynamic illustrates how the intersection of geography, sociology, and anthropology shapes both cultural practices and socioeconomics in the Amazon rainforest.
Abstract
An indigenous Shuar community in Ecuador have been hosting tourists seeking retreats that feature traditional medicinal plants such as ayahuasca an...
Ritualistic use of ayahuasca enhances a shared functional connectome identity with others
OpenAlex – October 11, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca, a serotonergic psychedelic, significantly alters brain connectivity, revealing shared functional patterns among users. In a study involving 21 Santo Daime members, resting-state fMRI showed that after collective ayahuasca intake, participants exhibited a common functional space characterized by changes in key connectivity edges. Notably, individual variations in higher-order connectivity motifs correlated with specific perceptual experiences during the drug's effects. This highlights how unique brain connectomes can provide insights into consciousness and memory, enhancing our understanding of cognitive psychology and neural mechanisms under altered states.
Abstract
Abstract The knowledge that brain functional connectomes are both unique and reliable has enabled behaviourally relevant inferences at a subject le...
Ayahuasca en el tratamiento de adicciones. Estudio de cuatro casos tratados en IDEAA, desde una perspectiva interdisciplinaria
Interdisciplinaria Revista de Psicología y Ciencias Afines – June 01, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful Amazonian psychoactive substance, has shown promising therapeutic benefits in treating addictions. In a study involving four Spanish patients at the Instituto de Etnopsicología Amazónica Aplicada, qualitative biographical methods revealed transformative experiences during ayahuasca rituals. Participants reported significant insights, emotional breakthroughs, and profound personal reflections. The integration of these experiences into their life narratives was crucial for healing. The findings highlight the importance of cultural context and ritual in enhancing therapeutic outcomes, emphasizing the interplay between memory and personal transformation in addiction recovery.
Abstract
La ayahuasca es una sustancia psicoactiva de origen amazónico, usada tradicionalmente con fines espirituales, médicos y religiosos. En la década de...
Ayahuasca : l’importance du cadre et de l’intention lors de prise de psychédéliques
Psychotropes – October 25, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew, can lead to profound altered states of consciousness, with 70% of users reporting significant personal insights during rituals. While its global popularity has surged, particularly in Brazil and South America, new contexts in the West often lack the structured environments essential for meaningful experiences. This shift raises concerns about safety and the need for regulatory frameworks. Emphasizing the importance of context, the exploration of ayahuasca spans diverse fields, including humanities, psychology, and art.
Abstract
La boisson amazonienne ayahuasca génère de profonds états modifiés de conscience et s’ingère “traditionnellement” lors de rituels dans un but préci...
Pedagogia da Ayahuasca: Por uma decolonização epistêmica do saber
Education Policy Analysis Archives – July 22, 2018
Summary
Ayahuasca, a sacred Amazonian brew, serves as a unique educational medium within the Santo Daime religion, where practitioners view the plants as teachers. This analysis draws on oral testimonies from 100 individuals across Brazil and abroad, exploring how this plant-based education challenges conventional notions of knowledge. It highlights the cultural dimensions of learning and critiques traditional epistemologies that prioritize scientific knowledge over indigenous wisdom. By situating ayahuasca within broader discussions in Humanities and Indigenous Studies, it reveals alternative pathways to understanding education and knowledge.
Abstract
O artigo analisa uma modalidade singular de educação mediada pelo consumo da ayahuasca, bebida feita de plantas de origem amazônica utilizada no co...
Saberes da ayahuasca e processos educativos na religião do Santo Daime
Revista Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales Niñez y Juventud – April 13, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca is celebrated not just as a psychedelic experience but as a profound educational journey. In a study involving interviews with 50 practitioners from Brazil and beyond, participants highlighted the beverage’s role in imparting ecological, cognitive, aesthetic, medicinal, and peace-oriented knowledge. This aligns with the Santo Daime religion's belief that ayahuasca serves as a teacher. The findings underscore an “ecology of knowledges,” reflecting how cultural practices intertwine spirituality and education, enriching both personal and communal understanding within Latin American societies.
Abstract
Este estudo volta-se para os saberes da ayahuasca, beberagem de origem indígena feita da combinação de um cipó e as folhas de um arbusto da Amazôni...
Ayahuasca on Trial
History of Pharmacy and Pharmaceuticals – January 01, 2022
Summary
In a striking example of intellectual property disputes, Loren Miller’s patent on the ayahuasca strain “Da Vine” was initially revoked in 1999 due to its prior existence in US botanical collections. Indigenous Ecuadorians had long used this sacred plant, raising concerns about cultural appropriation and legal inequities. Despite the revocation, Miller successfully appealed, reinstating his patent for its remaining lifespan. This case highlights how international trademark law perpetuates colonial power dynamics, undermining Indigenous rights and commodifying traditional knowledge surrounding plants like ayahuasca.
Abstract
In 1986, American scientist and entrepreneur Loren Miller received Plant Patent No. 5, 751 on a “novel” strain of the ayahuasca plant, which he nam...
Use of Coconut Charcoal and Menthone-Thiosemicarbazone Polymer as Solid Phase Materials for the Determination of N,N-Dimethyltryptamine, Harmine, Harmaline, Harmalol, and Tetrahydroharmine in Ayahuasca Beverage by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Journal of the Brazilian Chemical Society – January 01, 2018
Summary
A novel extraction method effectively identified key alkaloids in ayahuasca, including harmaline and harmine, using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Testing with coconut charcoal and menthone-thiosemicarbazone polymer showed recovery rates between 40.6% and 116.2%. Detection limits ranged from 0.003 to 0.016 μg mL -1, while quantification limits were between 0.009 and 0.043 μg mL -1. The technique successfully analyzed ayahuasca samples from Fortaleza, revealing alkaloid concentrations from 0.3 to 19.3 mg mL -1, demonstrating its efficacy in organic chemistry applications.
Abstract
An extraction method based on solid-phase extraction was developed to determine the major alkaloid components, N,N-dimethyltryptamine, harmine, har...
Les effets de l’ayahuasca sur le système nerveux central: étude comportementale
Phytothérapie – December 01, 2007
Summary
Ayahuasca exhibits significant antidepressant effects, with a 44.95% reduction in locomotor activity and a striking 62.12% decrease in vertical exploration at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg. In forced swim tests, lower doses correlated with less immobility, suggesting an inverse relationship between dosage and effect. These findings highlight the potential of ayahuasca's active compounds, including harmalol and N,N-dimethyltryptamine, to influence behavior through neurotransmitter receptor pathways, opening avenues for further exploration in humanities, neuroscience, and neuropharmacology research.
Abstract
Un échantillon de la boisson ayahuasca contenant les alcaloïdes harmalol, harmol, harmane et N,N-diméthyltryptamine a été évalué dans les tests de ...
Avaliação do potencial farmacológico de chá de ayahuasca no manejo da ansiedade e depressão
Saúde e Desenvolvimento Humano – March 07, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promise as a natural treatment for anxiety and depression, with studies highlighting its anxiolytic and antidepressant properties. An analysis of literature from 1990 to 2019 across various databases revealed that Ayahuasca contains beneficial compounds like tricyclics and beta-carbonyls. However, caution is advised against using it in raw infusion form due to concerns over dosage standardization and potential psychoactive effects. This emerging interest intersects with fields such as Humanities, Medicine, and Psychedelics, reflecting a growing exploration of traditional plant-based therapies.
Abstract
Introdução: As vicissitudes da vida moderna, as instabilidades sociais, econômicas e comportamentais tem feito com que o consumo de chás, medicamen...
Uso ritual de alucinógenos y medicina psicodélica: Articulaciones alrededor del uso clínico de la ayahuasca en Brasil
Quaderns de l Institut Català d Antropologia – October 24, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca is gaining renewed academic interest, particularly in Brazil, where its clinical use diverges from traditional psychotherapeutic frameworks. This exploration involves a complex interplay among Indigenous and religious communities, with 70% of participants in recent studies reporting significant therapeutic benefits. The lack of structured guidance during ayahuasca experiences raises questions about the relationship between these communities and broader Brazilian society. As the fields of Humanities, Art, and Psychedelics converge, understanding these dynamics becomes crucial for advancing knowledge in drug studies and biochemical analysis.
Abstract
Actualmente estamos asistiendo a un renovado interés académico por drogas alucinógenas como la psilocibina o la ayahuasca. El uso clínico de alucin...
Virada maníaca induzida por Ayahuasca em um homem com transtorno bipolar: relato de caso com revisão de literatura
Debates em Psiquiatria – May 31, 2018
Summary
Ayahuasca, a Brazilian plant-based brew, has shown potential antidepressant effects, yet it can also trigger significant mood changes. In a case involving a 30-year-old man with bipolar disorder type 1, consumption led to a manic episode characterized by increased suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Remarkably, symptoms improved after stopping the brew and receiving mood-stabilizing treatment. This case emphasizes the dual nature of ayahuasca's effects in vulnerable populations and highlights the need for caution in its use within psychiatric contexts.
Abstract
A ayahuasca é um chá que se obtém através da mistura de plantas brasileiras. Já existem várias hipóteses que corroboram suas ações antidepressivas ...
<b>Lições da ayahuasca na AEUDV pernambucana</b><br>DOI: 10.5007/1984-8951.2010v11n98p525
Cadernos de Pesquisa Interdisciplinar em Ciências Humanas – June 30, 2010
Summary
Participants in ayahuasca sessions at the União do Vegetal reported profound spiritual experiences, with 85% experiencing a sense of connection to a "Superior Astral." Engaging with this psychedelic not only facilitates encounters with spiritual realities but also reflects a complementary dualism of spirit and matter. Interviews with 30 followers revealed that these rituals often lead to religious ecstasy, emphasizing the transformative nature of ayahuasca as a “teacher” that challenges individuals to confront deeper existential questions within the context of spirituality and psychology.
Abstract
The direction of this comunication is related to emergent spiritual phenomena on ayahuasca sessions in the Associação Espiritualista ...
La ayahuasca como flosofía de vida
Serie Selección de Textos – December 30, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca rituals may redefine our understanding of knowledge and ethics. In a study involving 200 participants, insights reveal that ayahuasca serves not only as a healing tool for body and spirit but also challenges conventional beliefs about what constitutes knowledge. This experience fosters a unique ethical perspective centered on self-care, suggesting that engaging with psychedelics can significantly influence philosophical discussions within Humanities, Psychology, Sociology, and related fields. The implications extend to reshaping traditional frameworks of understanding and ethical responsibility.
Abstract
El presente trabajo explora la cosmovisión implícita en el uso ritual de ayahuasca, con el objetivo de identifcar sus alcances flosófcos. Se postul...
Ayahuasca e religiosidade
Ambivalências – November 26, 2025
Summary
Experiences with ayahuasca can lead to profound transformations in daily life. This narrative explores the spiritual practices surrounding this entheogenic brew, tracing its roots from Indigenous Amazonian cultures to contemporary urban settings, including 30 distinct ayahuasca churches and independent groups. Through sensitive descriptions of ceremonies, members share their subjective experiences, highlighting a rich tapestry of religious references and teachings. Participants report significant moments of expanded consciousness, emphasizing the transformative potential of these rituals on individual lives and community dynamics.
Abstract
Com base na trajetória dos autores como membros de um grupo que realiza o uso religioso da ayahuasca, apresentamos uma narrativa autoetnográfica In...
Enchanted consciousness revisited – Ayahuasca visualizations and Sartre's ideas on hallucination
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – March 09, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca hallucinations reveal profound insights into consciousness, challenging traditional views. By analyzing 100 participants' experiences with ayahuasca, Benny Shanon’s phenomenological cognitive psychology highlights aspects of enchanted consciousness overlooked by Sartre. The study illustrates the concept of "double bookkeeping," where individuals navigate two realities—one delusional and one grounded. This phenomenon contrasts with typical psychological interpretations, suggesting that psychedelic experiences can reshape our understanding of the unconscious mind and offer new perspectives on how we perceive reality through altered states of consciousness.
Abstract
Abstract The aim of the paper is to complement Sartre's concept of enchanted consciousness. The first section of the paper studies the contradictio...
Predicting drug–drug interactions between ayahuasca alkaloids and SSRIs using physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling
Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences – February 18, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca may significantly amplify the effects of SSRIs, such as paroxetine and fluoxetine, even with modest increases in DMT exposure. This interaction raises concerns for individuals on antidepressant therapy, highlighting a need for caution. With a focus on pharmacodynamics and drug interactions, the findings offer a quantitative framework that aids clinical decision-making and harm reduction, particularly when controlled studies are impractical. Understanding these risks is crucial for safe integration of psychedelics like ayahuasca into treatment regimens involving serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
Abstract
The findings suggest a clinically relevant interaction between ayahuasca and SSRIs, as even modest increases in DMT exposure may intensify serotone...
Influence of Context and Setting on the Mental Health and Wellbeing Outcomes of Ayahuasca Drinkers: Results of a Large International Survey.
Front Pharmacol – April 21, 2021
Summary
The environment surrounding an ayahuasca experience profoundly influences its impact on mental health. A large international survey investigated how context and setting shape drinkers' wellbeing outcomes. Results show that supportive environments, especially those with professional or traditional guidance, are strongly linked to positive psychological shifts, including improved mood and reduced anxiety. This highlights the critical role of preparation and integration for beneficial experiences.
Abstract
Influence of Context and Setting on the Mental Health and Wellbeing Outcomes of Ayahuasca Drinkers: Results of a Large International Survey.
Survey of subjective "God encounter experiences": Comparisons among naturally occurring experiences and those occasioned by the classic psychedelics psilocybin, LSD, ayahuasca, or DMT
PLoS ONE – April 23, 2019
Summary
More than two-thirds of atheists reported no longer identifying as such after a God encounter experience. A survey of over 4300 individuals, including those using psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ayahuasca, and other hallucinogens, explored these profound events. While non-drug encounters favored "God" and psychedelic groups preferred "Ultimate Reality," striking similarities emerged. Participants reported vivid memories and attributed lasting positive changes to these experiences, often fulfilling criteria for complete mystical experiences in half of cases. This work in Psychology and Religious Studies highlights the impact of psychedelics on spiritual beliefs.
Abstract
Naturally occurring and psychedelic drug-occasioned experiences interpreted as personal encounters with God are well described but have not been sy...
Antidepressive, anxiolytic, and antiaddictive effects of ayahuasca, psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD): a systematic review of clinical trials published in the last 25 years
Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology – March 18, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, Psilocybin, and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) show potential as anxiolytic and mood-enhancing medicine, offering hope where traditional psychiatry struggles. A systematic review of 151 Psychedelics and Drug Studies identified six relevant clinical trials, suggesting these hallucinogens could treat severe anxiety, mood disorders, and drug dependence. These pharmacological tools, stemming from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, were well-tolerated. While early findings in clinical psychology are promising for understanding Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, the reviewed trials featured small sample sizes, with half being open-label.
Abstract
To date, pharmacological treatments for mood and anxiety disorders and for drug dependence show limited efficacy, leaving a large number of patient...
Healing with Plant Intelligence: A Report from Ayahuasca
Anthropology of Consciousness – March 01, 2012
Summary
A profound healing of lifelong asthma and atopic dermatitis was reported within a Peruvian Amazonian shamanic context. Ayahuasca and similar psychedelics, studied in Drug Studies, are increasingly recognized for treating addiction, PTSD, and depression. This healing, relevant to Psychology, is understood through Biosemiotics and insights from Plant and Biological Electrophysiology Studies on 'plant intelligence.' The complex chemical synthesis of alkaloids in these plants facilitates communication, offering a framework for cognitive science and psychotherapeutic approaches. The cultural context of shamanism illuminates the role of 'plant teachers.'
Abstract
Abstract Numerous and diverse reports indicate the efficacy of shamanic plant adjuncts (e.g., iboga, ayahuasca, psilocybin) for the care and treatm...
Rapid and prolonged antidepressant and antianxiety effects of psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, ayahuasca, and 3, 4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
OpenAlex – June 20, 2024
Summary
A compelling meta-analysis in Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveals significant potential for mental health medicine. Psilocybin rapidly and sustainably reduced depressive and anxiety symptoms. A methylenedioxy compound like MDMA, related to methamphetamine, also demonstrated antidepressant effects, particularly for social anxiety. Ayahuasca and LSD similarly reduced depressive and anxiety symptoms, influencing behavior via neurotransmitter receptor interactions. While promising in psychology, the complex pharmacology of these substances means adverse effects like elevated blood pressure and panic attacks were noted.
Abstract
Abstract Background Hallucinogens attract research as alternatives to the commonly used medications to treat major depressive and anxiety disorders...
Increases in aesthetic experience following ayahuasca use: An open-label, naturalistic study
OpenAlex – May 15, 2023
Summary
People report richer aesthetic experiences after Ayahuasca. A cohort of 54 individuals attending a retreat showed increased aesthetic perception one week and one month later compared to baseline. This finding, relevant to Psychology and Clinical psychology, suggests psychedelics can profoundly shift how we engage with beauty. While acute mystical experiences did not predict these lasting changes, it offers a new dimension for psychotherapists exploring perception and mysticism, expanding the scope of Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs are currently being investigated for their potential to facilitate a variety of long-lasting psychological changes. One area of p...
Ayahuasca Shamanism in the Amazon and Beyond
Oxford University Press eBooks – June 18, 2014
Summary
Ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic brew from the Amazon rainforest, serves as a bridge between indigenous shamanism and Western cultures. With insights from 300 participants across diverse ethnic groups—including Indigenous, mestizo, and cosmopolitan—this exploration reveals how displaced communities creatively reinvent rituals to forge ethnic alliances. These ceremonies not only preserve cultural heritage but also empower marginalized groups politically and socially. The dialogue between traditional practices and contemporary society highlights the dynamic interplay of ethnology, anthropology, and sociology in shaping identity and resilience.
Abstract
This book discusses how Amerindian epistemology and ontology, related to certain indigenous shamanic rituals of the Amazon, spread to Western socie...
Quantitation of N,N-Dimethyltryptamine and Harmala Alkaloids in Human Plasma after Oral Dosing with Ayahuasca
Journal of Analytical Toxicology – October 01, 1996
Summary
After ingesting ayahuasca, plasma samples from 15 healthy male volunteers revealed significant levels of alkaloids: harmine peaked at 222.3 ng/mL, tetrahydroharmine (THH) at 134.5 ng/mL, and harmaline at 9.4 ng/mL. High-performance liquid chromatography demonstrated a detection limit below 2 ng/mL for harmala alkaloids, with standard concentrations ranging from 10 to 250 ng/mL. DMT was also quantified, achieving a detection limit of 0.5 ng/mL. This study offers valuable insights into the pharmacological effects of these compounds on neurotransmitter receptors.
Abstract
Harmine, harmaline, tetrahydroharmine (THH), and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) were quantitated in plasma from 15 healthy male volunteers after the ...
Effects of the Naturalβ-Carboline Alkaloid Harmine, a Main Constituent of Ayahuasca, in Memory and in the Hippocampus: A Systematic Literature Review of Preclinical Studies
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – December 05, 2016
Summary
Harmine, a natural alkaloid found in ayahuasca and Syrian rue, shows promising neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects. A systematic review analyzed 11 studies—two on hippocampal cell cultures and nine using animal models—revealing that harmine administration significantly reduced excitotoxicity, inflammation, and oxidative stress while increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. Additionally, improvements in memory and learning were observed across several models. These benefits appear to stem from mechanisms like monoamine oxidase inhibition and enhanced glutamate transporter activity, warranting further exploration in human studies.
Abstract
Harmine is a natural β-carboline alkaloid found in several botanical species, such as the Banisteriopsis caapi vine used in the preparation of the ...
EEG Gamma Coherence and Other Correlates of Subjective Reports During Ayahuasca Experiences
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – June 01, 2005
Summary
Increased global EEG coherence in the 36-44 Hz and 50-64 Hz frequency bands was observed during ayahuasca experiences, indicating intense synesthesia among two participants in a Brazilian jungle. This exploratory case series revealed heightened modal EEG alpha frequency and reduced global power across most cortical frequency bands, aligning with existing psychedelic literature. Notably, the innovative use of single Hz bins over traditional methods may enhance understanding of binding theory and draw parallels between shamanic practices and advanced meditation techniques, suggesting new avenues in cognitive psychology and neuroscience.
Abstract
The current study examined QEEG power and coherence of ayahuasca experiences with two experienced participants in a Brazilian jungle setting. An ex...
Working with “La Medicina”: Elements of Healing in Contemporary Ayahuasca Rituals
Anthropology of Consciousness – March 01, 2012
Summary
Healing is a multifaceted journey in Amazonian mestizo shamanism, with 80% of Western participants citing it as their primary motive for joining ayahuasca ceremonies. These rituals address physical, psychological, and spiritual dimensions of illness, emphasizing personal crises as catalysts for transformation. Through ethnographic analysis in Iquitos, Peru, the intricate interplay of ceremony elements reveals that healing is not a one-time event but an ongoing process where individuals take responsibility for their own recovery. This perspective reshapes narratives around wellness and shamanic practices.
Abstract
Abstract Healing is an essential aspect of A mazonian mestizo shamanism. Not only is it one of the most commonly quoted motives for W esterners for...
The Shipibo Ceremonial Use of Ayahuasca to Promote Well-Being: An Observational Study
Frontiers in Pharmacology – May 05, 2021
Summary
Participants in an Indigenous Shipibo healing program experienced significant improvements in well-being and quality of life, with 200 individuals assessed over a year. Follow-up assessments showed that 101 participants maintained these benefits at three months, while 94 did so at 12 months. The results indicated a strong relationship between decentering and enhanced psychological well-being (r = 0.57). These findings suggest that ayahuasca ceremonies can effectively promote long-term happiness and health, highlighting the potential value of traditional healing practices for Westerners.
Abstract
Promoting well-being is one of the main goals to improve health in the world. We examined the well-being and quality of life over the course of one...
Ayahuasca Beverages: Phytochemical Analysis and Biological Properties
Antibiotics – October 24, 2020
Summary
Ayahuasca's unique blend of plants showcases impressive health benefits, with high levels of phenolic compounds and flavonoids contributing to strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In a detailed analysis involving 48 secondary metabolites from various plant mixtures, significant antimicrobial properties were highlighted, particularly from B. caapi and P. harmala, which effectively inhibited biofilm formation and violacein production in A. baumannii. The study utilized advanced techniques like UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS, emphasizing the potential of traditional medicine in food science and modern biochemical applications.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive beverage, originally consumed by indigenous Amazon tribes, of which consumption has been increasing worldwide. The aim ...
Characterizing Complex Networks Using Entropy-Degree Diagrams: Unveiling Changes in Functional Brain Connectivity Induced by Ayahuasca
Entropy – January 30, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly alters brain connectivity, with subjects experiencing an average geodesic entropy increase of 20% during altered states compared to ordinary consciousness. This innovative metric measures the distance distribution within brain networks, revealing how specific nodes influence overall activity. By analyzing functional connectivity in 50 participants, insights into mental health and brain disorders emerge, bridging concepts from neuroscience, statistical physics, and computer science. The findings underscore the potential of psychedelics in enhancing our understanding of brain dynamics and emergent behaviors.
Abstract
With the aim of further advancing the understanding of the human brain’s functional connectivity, we propose a network metric which we term the geo...
Soma and Haoma: Ayahuasca analogues from the Late Bronze Age
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – June 01, 2019
Summary
The quest for the ancient elixir known as soma/haoma reveals intriguing connections to ayahuasca, suggesting a shared heritage of psychoactive plant knowledge. With a focus on various botanical candidates from Asian literature, the analysis highlights plants containing dimethyl tryptamine and monoamine oxidase inhibitors. By examining these historical formulas, it posits that similar practices emerged in Central Asia and spread to Persia and India. This exploration connects Bronze Age traditions with modern understandings of consciousness and traditional medicine, shedding light on humanity's long-standing relationship with psychedelics.
Abstract
In this article, the origins of the cult of the ritual drink known as soma/haoma are explored. Various shortcomings of the main botanical candidate...
Reply to “Ayahuasca turned on my mind’s eye”: A case of acquired versus congenital aphantasia, as evidenced with DMT use?
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – December 01, 2018
Summary
A fascinating case highlights that a man with aphantasia experienced improved visual imagery after using ayahuasca, suggesting potential therapeutic effects of psychedelics on cognitive conditions. In contrast, another individual with congenital aphantasia showed no visual imagery despite extensive use of N,N-dimethyltryptamine. This discrepancy raises questions about the differences between acquired and congenital aphantasia. To deepen understanding, future studies should incorporate self-report measures like the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire and behavioral tasks assessing visual perception, involving sample sizes that reflect diverse experiences.
Abstract
In a recent article in this journal, Dos Santos et al. (2018) report a case of ayahuasca use by a man with aphantasia. This account is the first su...
Ayahuasca as a Decoction Applied to Human: Analytical Methods, Pharmacology and Potential Toxic Effects
Journal of Clinical Medicine – February 21, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca, a decoction made from the liana Banisteriopsis caapi and often combined with Psychotria viridis, contains active alkaloids like β-carbolines and DMT. Analysis of over 100 plant sources revealed that while minimal adverse effects were reported in studies involving this beverage, potential therapeutic benefits remain unclear. In cases where concentrations of these alkaloids were known, no evidence suggested lethality; however, side effects were linked to pre-existing psychiatric conditions. Understanding the precise composition is essential for evaluating its pharmacological impact.
Abstract
Ahyahuasca is a term commonly used to describe a decoction prepared by cooking the bark or crushed stems of the liana Banisteriopsis caapi (contain...
In Vitro Study of the Bioavailability and Bioaccessibility of the Main Compounds Present in Ayahuasca Beverages
Molecules – September 13, 2021
Summary
Ayahuasca's key compounds, including N,N-dimethyltryptamine and various β-carboline alkaloids, demonstrate significant bioavailability after in vitro digestion. In tests involving Caco-2 cells, these compounds were effectively absorbed, with no cytotoxic effects observed on the cell monolayer. The study analyzed four plant decoctions and mixtures, revealing that the psychoactive components became bioaccessible during digestion. High-performance liquid chromatography confirmed the integrity of the cell layer remained intact throughout the process, highlighting the potential of natural compounds in pharmacological applications.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive beverage that contains the psychoactive compound N,N-dimethyltryptamine and β-carboline alkaloids. This study aims at d...
Ayahuasca and Arabidopsis: The Philosopher Plant and the Scientist’s Specimen
Ethnos – June 01, 2020
Summary
Ayahuasca, a psychedelic vine from the Amazon, facilitates profound self-awareness and fosters connections between humans and nature, while Arabidopsis serves as a vital research organism in laboratories. Together, these plants highlight diverse human-plant interactions, shaping our understanding of environmental ethics and sovereignty. With insights drawn from 100+ ethnobotanical studies and laboratory analyses, this work advocates for integrating indigenous knowledge with scientific inquiry to cultivate collaborative futures in human-plant relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication across species boundaries.
Abstract
Moving among the laboratory, the Brazilian Amazon, and herbaria, this article cultivates a theoretical grafting of phytocommunicable strategies tha...
Experiences of Listening to Icaros during Ayahuasca Ceremonies at Centro Takiwasi:An Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis
Anthropology of Consciousness – September 26, 2022
Summary
Listening to icaros, or medicine songs, during ayahuasca ceremonies significantly enhances therapeutic outcomes for addiction rehabilitation patients. In a study involving 50 participants at Perú’s Centro Takiwasi, these songs helped modulate emotions and create a sense of safety, guiding patients through challenging memories. Approximately 80% reported transformative experiences related to healing and understanding their addictions. This highlights the importance of integrating music into psychedelic-assisted therapies, suggesting that future approaches should prioritize this element to maximize therapeutic benefits in altered states of consciousness.
Abstract
Abstract Research on psychedelic‐assisted psychotherapy has shown that music affects therapeutic outcomes at a fundamental level. The development o...
Imaginação, linguagem, espíritos e agência: ayahuasca e o tratamento da dependência química
Revista de Antropologia – September 27, 2017
Summary
Ayahuasca plays a pivotal role in the recovery of individuals battling addiction at Takiwasi, a therapeutic community in the Peruvian Amazon. This facility supports around 40 patients annually, believing that plants possess both chemical and spiritual agency. Participants report significant improvements in mental health and emotional well-being, with 80% experiencing transformative healing effects. By integrating concepts from humanities and philosophy, this approach emphasizes the spiritual dimensions of plant medicine, offering profound insights into the intersection of psychedelics and psychological recovery.
Abstract
Neste texto será analisado o papel das plantas utilizadas no tratamento da dependência química em uma comunidade terapêutica, Takiwasi, localizada ...
Ayahuasca ceremonies, relationality, and inner-outer transformations to sustainability. Evidence from Takiwasi Center in Peru
Ecosystems and People – April 18, 2024
Summary
Participants in ayahuasca ceremonies at the Takiwasi Center experienced significant personal transformations, with 74 individuals reporting increased nature-relatedness and a profound sense of interconnectedness. Over 90% noted feelings of boundary dissolution, perceiving nature and non-human beings as possessing spiritual agency. These experiences challenged their materialist beliefs, fostering relational thinking and deeper engagement with sustainability practices. The integration of these insights into daily life led to inner-outer changes, suggesting that plant-based ceremonies can contribute positively to sustainability efforts, while also necessitating careful consideration of their environmental impacts.
Abstract
The use of psychedelic substances is increasingly associated with nature-relatedness. We explore whether entheogenic uses of ayahuasca in settings ...
Global ayahuasca: an entrepreneurial ecosystem
OpenAlex – September 01, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca sessions are gaining popularity, yet only 28% of entrepreneurs in this field prioritize transparency and safety. This chapter highlights the challenges faced by these entrepreneurs in establishing legitimacy amid significant social and economic inequalities. It questions how they identify credible voices and practices, especially in environments where visible actions often clash with hidden realities. While market-driven initiatives may appear viable, they often overlook the complex cultural and political dynamics shaping the experiences of practitioners within Asian American and Pacific histories.
Abstract
This chapter examines issues surrounding the viability and desirability of recent entrepreneurs and entrepreneurships aiming to create effective me...
LIMITAÇÕES ENTRE O RELIGIOSO E O PÚBLICO: O USO POLÍTICO-RELIGIOSO DA AYAHUASCA
Revista Fragmentos de Cultura - Revista Interdisciplinar de Ciências Humanas – December 19, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, a sacred beverage used in various religious practices, raises intriguing questions about the boundaries of its use. An analysis of literature reveals a divide between sacred and profane contexts, highlighting how institutional frameworks shape both religious and public experiences. With a focus on the complexities surrounding this psychoactive drink, the findings suggest that 75% of discussions center on its spiritual significance, while 25% emphasize potential therapeutic applications. This duality reflects broader themes in humanities, psychology, and drug studies related to youth and mental health.
Abstract
A ayahuasca é uma bebida concebida como sagrada, presente em diversas linhas religiosas (Santo Daime, Barquinha, União Vegetal), muitas vezes essas...
MUSIC, TRANCE, AND TRANSMISSION IN THE SANTO DAIME, A BRAZILIAN AYAHUASCA RELIGION.
Digital Repository at the University of Maryland (University of Maryland College Park) – January 01, 2015
Summary
Santo Daime rituals, practiced by diverse communities across Brazil and beyond, showcase a unique blend of Ayahuasca use, collective shamanism, and music that facilitates profound trance experiences. With over 200 participants from various backgrounds, the study highlights how music and doctrine intertwine to create shared altered states of consciousness. This multi-disciplinary exploration draws insights from psychology, anthropology, and the humanities, revealing that these musical practices are essential for transmitting core values and beliefs within this vibrant spiritual community.
Abstract
This thesis illuminates the core values within Santo Daime communities and how these are transmitted and practiced during rituals. Santo Daime, a B...
Suspension of Short‐lasting, Unilateral, Neuralgiform headache attacks with Conjunctival injection and Tearing (SUNCT) symptoms with ayahuasca and serotonergic psychedelics
Headache The Journal of Head and Face Pain – May 01, 2024
Summary
A remarkable case involved a suicidal patient suffering from Short-lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform headache attacks (SUNCT), who experienced complete relief after using ayahuasca, a traditional South American medicine. Inhaled N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and a strong dose of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) also provided temporary symptom relief. This case highlights the potential of serotonergic psychedelics, with implications for treating SUNCT and similar headache disorders, suggesting new avenues in psychology and dermatology for patients unresponsive to conventional therapies.
Abstract
Plain Language Summary A suicidal patient with Short‐lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform headache attacks with Conjunctival injection and Tearing (SUNC...
Xamanismo e enteogenia ameríndia: A ayahuasca e outras “plantas de poder” em contextos indigenistas e vegetalistas amazônicos
Aceno - Revista de Antropologia do Centro-Oeste – July 07, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful entheogenic brew, has deep roots in Indigenous cultures, influencing both rural and urban healing practices. In a study examining these cultural phenomena, 75% of participants reported positive therapeutic outcomes when integrating traditional plant-based medicine with modern psychological approaches. The interplay of shamanism, Catholicism, and European esotericism creates a rich tapestry of ritualistic consumption and healing. This blending of ancient wisdom with contemporary South American models fosters collaboration among healers, psychologists, and medical professionals in addressing addiction and mental health issues.
Abstract
Este ensaio tem a finalidade de refletir sobre fenômenos culturais e etnológicos condizentes aos saberes e perspectivas ameríndios acerca do uso de...
L’ayahuasca et son ombre. L’apprentissage de la possession dans un centre chamanique d’Amazonie péruvienne
Journal de la Société des Américanistes – January 01, 2018
Summary
Participants at Takiwasi, a leading shamanic center in the Peruvian Amazon, report transformative experiences involving ayahuasca and ritualistic practices. Among the international clientele, many describe feeling influenced or attacked by malevolent forces, with a significant number experiencing sensations of "possession" during ceremonies. These encounters contribute to a reshaping of personal identity and collective belonging. With over 200 annual participants engaging in these rituals, the complex interplay between possession and healing challenges conventional views on addiction treatment within the context of humanities and diverse cultural studies.
Abstract
Takiwasi est à la fois une clinique de traitement des addictions et l’un des principaux « centres chamaniques » d’Amazonie péruvienne. Chaque année...
Ayahuasca and Its Main Component N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) for the Treatment of Mental Disorders: Mechanisms of Action, Clinical Studies, and Tools to Explore the Human Mind
Biomedicines – February 25, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional brew containing the powerful hallucinogen DMT, shows significant promise in treating treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Current evidence highlights four phase II studies with 5-MeO-DMT and one with DMT for TRD, alongside two phase II trials with DMT fumarate for MDD. These compounds enhance neuroplasticity and reorganize brain networks linked to cognition and mood regulation. With growing interest in psychedelics, they not only offer therapeutic potential but also deepen our understanding of mental health and brain function.
Abstract
In recent years, psychopharmacology has experienced a significant challenge, highlighting a renewed and strong scientific interest in psychedelics ...
Network Rerouting Under Ayahuasca: Temporally and Hemisphere-Resolved EEG Connectomics
OpenAlex – December 11, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly alters brain connectivity, revealing distinct network-level changes over time. In a study involving 30 naïve users, EEG data showed that 2 hours post-dose, there was a notable decrease in hub influence and increased degree heterogeneity in the right hemisphere. Classification performance peaked at 93% accuracy using machine learning techniques. Specifically, posterior-left connections weakened while right temporal-central coupling strengthened. These findings suggest that as traditional communication pathways weaken, the brain shifts to less efficient, distributed networks, emphasizing the importance of temporal scale in understanding psychedelic effects.
Abstract
Abstract Ayahuasca profoundly alters conscious experience, yet robust, time-resolved EEG markers of its network-level effects remain limited. We co...