N,N‐dimethyltryptamine and Amazonian ayahuasca plant medicine

Ayahuasca and its active compound DMT show potential for treating depression, addictions, PTSD, anxiety, and certain immune system conditions. These substances bind to multiple brain receptors, including serotonergic, glutaminergic, and sigma-1 receptors, and affect BDNF expression and the dopamine system. Subjective effects correspond to increased delta and theta brain waves in the amygdala and hippocampus, decreased alpha waves in the default mode network, and activation of visual brain regions. Although biological and consciousness-based models attempt to explain these effects, evidence remains insufficient for firm conclusions. More research is needed to clarify mechanisms and develop accessible treatments, with recommended collaboration between healthcare researchers and Amazonian practitioners.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Abstract Objective Reports have indicated possible uses of ayahuasca for the treatment of conditions including depression, addictions, post‐traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and specific psychoneuroendocrine immune system pathologies. The article assesses potential ayahuasca and N,N‐dimethyltryptamine (DMT) integration with contemporary healthcare. The review also seeks to provide a summary of selected literature regarding the mechanisms of action of DMT and ayahuasca; and assess to what extent the state of research can explain reports of unusual phenomenology. Design A narrative review. Results Compounds in ayahuasca have been found to bind to serotonergic receptors, glutaminergic receptors, sigma‐1 receptors, trace amine‐associated receptors, and modulate BDNF expression and the dopaminergic system. Subjective effects are associated with increased delta and theta oscillations in amygdala and hippocampal regions, decreased alpha wave activity in the default mode network, and stimulations of vision‐related brain regions particularly in the visual association cortex. Both biological processes and field of consciousness models have been proposed to explain subjective effects of DMT and ayahuasca, however, the evidence supporting the proposed models is not sufficient to make confident conclusions. Ayahuasca plant medicine and DMT represent potentially novel treatment modalities. Conclusions Further research is required to clarify the mechanisms of action and develop treatments which can be made available to the general public. Integration between healthcare research institutions and reputable practitioners in the Amazon is recommended.