Hallucinogenic plant use and related indigenous belief systems in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

Plant hallucinogens, particularly ayahuasca made from Banisteriopsis species, remain in use among contemporary Indigenous peoples of Ecuador. Archaeological evidence suggests prehistoric ayahuasca use. The Jibaro and other tribal groups maintain detailed belief systems and practices around major hallucinogenic plants. Coastal and Inter-Andean Indigenous drug use is also surveyed. Aboriginal belief systems, folk medicine, and worldviews are closely intertwined with the ingestion of plant hallucinogens.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This review article focuses on the on-going use of plant hallucinogens, especially various Banisteriopsis species, among contemporary aboriginal populations of Ecuador. It surveys the evidence of prehistoric ayahuasca use by interpretations of Ecuadorian archaeological remains, and surveys in detail the use and belief systems connected to major plant hallucinogenic use among the Jibaro Indians and other tribal groups. A secondary theme includes coastal and Inter-Adnean aboriginal drug use. The article stresses the interrelatedness of aboriginal belief systems, folk medicine and world view linked to plant hallucinogenic ingestion.