Ayahuasca (Banisteriopsis caapi (Spruce ex Griseb.) Morton Malpighiaceae)
Comprehensive Guide to Hallucinogenic Plants March 12, 2025
Banisteriopsis caapi, a vine native to South America, is a primary ingredient in ayahuasca, a psychoactive beverage also containing Psychotria viridis. Historically used by ethnic groups for ceremonial, therapeutic, and recreational purposes, ayahuasca has spread to religious groups in the United States and Europe in the past decade. The beverage contains beta-carbolines and the hallucinogenic tryptamine DMT, with approximately 80 mg of DMT per 100 ml infusion. Harmine and harmaline act as reversible monoamine oxidase inhibitors, while tetrahydroharmine impedes serotonin reuptake. Adverse effects include anxiety, perspiration, vertigo, and visual hallucinations.