USO DA AYAHUASCA NO BRASIL: UMA ANÁLISE DE UMA DÉCADA
Revista Multidisciplinar do Nordeste Mineiro December 28, 2025 Marcos Lorran Paranhos Leão, Estácio Amaro Da Silva Júnior
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive beverage of Amazonian origin, traditionally used by Indigenous peoples and Brazilian religions, combining plants rich in N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and β-carboline alkaloids. Recent scientific interest has focused on its potential therapeutic effects in mental health, as well as its risks, ethical implications, and regulatory aspects. This integrative review analyzed 46 articles published between 2015 and 2025. Preliminary evidence suggests rapid antidepressant effects, possible benefits for substance use disorders, and neurobiological changes involving modulation of brain networks. However, physical and psychological risks, significant methodological limitations, and knowledge gaps were also identified. The authors conclude that ayahuasca shows therapeutic potential but requires caution, scientific rigor, and consideration of sociocultural and ethical contexts.