Ayahuasca
Origin, Chief characteristics, Therapeutic potential, and Side effects
Ayahuasca, meaning ‘wine of spirits,’ is a psychoactive brew made from various Amazonian plants used in various sacraments, communes, and healing ceremonies. The origin of this drink is traced back to the 16th century, and its plants are grown natively in jungle regions of Peru, Brazil, Colombia, and Ecuador. During the last two decades, Ayahuasca has gained popularity. It is a central element in ritual ceremonies and is quite common in mestizo populations of the Upper Amazon. The main components of this hallucination-inducing drug are β-carboline and tryptamine derivatives. DMT (dimethyltryptamine) is its active ingredient, which induces intense visual and auditory hallucinogenic experience.
Ayahuasca is a decoction created mainly by the combination of leaves of Psychotria Viridis, which contain DMT, and the vines of Banisteriopsis Caapi contain β-carbolines also known as monoamine oxidases inhibitors. Some might even add some tobacco and Florida water into it, depending on the person preparing the concoction. The mixture is boiled for a prolonged time until it turns reddish-brown and has a very strong odor and taste. These two plants work together by affecting the central nervous system, leading to an altered state of consciousness.
The brew’s effects are felt after half an hour of consumption, with hallucinations peaking after one hour and subsiding within four to six hours. The drug effects vary from person to person, as some people report it as extremely euphoric, and others find it a little stimulating. Brain scans have shown that using this drug can decrease the activity in certain brain areas connected to anxiety, social phobia, and depression. Hence, many people think that its consumption might be beneficial for such disorders. Aside from that, some side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and panic, which can be distressing and make this drug controversial.
AYAHUASCA CEREMONY
An ayahuasca ceremony is a process to seek spiritual treatment and healing. The brew of Ayahuasca is usually taken in ceremonies at night, led by a healer, also called a Shaman. A week before the ceremony, the participant is strictly advised to abstain from consuming sugar, salt, caffeine, alcohol, and red meat. Some shamans also give certain medicines meant to cleanse the body a few days before the ceremony. The Ayahuasca ceremony begins as the Shaman calls each participant to take a cup of the brew and sit in meditation. For individuals consuming Ayahuasca for the first time, the Shaman might navigate the dosage of the drink to be given so that it doesn’t show any adverse effects. As the brew kicks in after almost half an hour, the Shaman starts singing. The healers or the shamans use songs called “icaros” to heal the participants. The Shaman communicates and invites the spirit through these songs to perform healings. These icaros also act as a tool to raise and lower the intensity of the experience. The most common healing style includes singing an icaro to each person according to his liking and affliction.
During this time, some people experience pain and trauma by remembering stressful events of the past and present, but most people feel at ease and accept their thoughts by the end of the process.
The ceremony also includes the use of special tobacco known as ‘mapacho’, which the Shaman uses to direct smoke towards the patient to cleanse his spirit and eradicate negative energy.
At the end of the ceremony, lights are lit, and the Shaman provides people with spiritual protection before they leave the ceremony. A typical Ayahuasca journey lasts for five to six hours, and most people feel clearer and more aware of their purpose when they return.
Potential benefits
Ayahuasca may offer multiple health benefits, most of which are connected to emotional well- being. Some of the positive effects are mentioned below.
Two main components of Ayahuasca are DMT and beta-carboline, which have neuroprotective qualities. DMT can lead to a high level of production of anti-stress proteins, while beta-carboline reduces inflammation in the body and boosts memory. Research also indicates that high levels of beta-carboline aid in the survival of nerve cells. These two compounds also protect and restore different parts of the brain.
People who have PTSD (Post-traumatic Stress Disorder) can benefit from the anti-depressant properties of Ayahuasca. The leaves of Banisteriopsis Caapi contain the active compound harmine, which is a proven anti-depressant. Another study has shown that Ayahuasca treats depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ayahuasca might lead a person to become more mindful, as well as improve overall mental well-being. Some studies have also shown that this brew can regulate emotions and improve mood. A study conducted on 20 people showed that taking ayahuasca trips once a week for four weeks was as beneficial as what people experience after taking mindfulness programs for eight weeks
Side effects and risks
Although there have been promising findings related to the health benefits of Ayahuasca, it can also lead to serious and life-threatening side effects. During an ayahuasca trip, side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, panic, and paranoia are experienced, which are temporary and are considered normal. Apart from that, it may cause an increase in heartbeat and blood pressure in heart patients. Moreover, people with psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia should avoid Ayahuasca, as it can worsen the condition. Additionally, Ayahuasca can interact with many medications, including psychiatric drugs, anti-depressants, cough medications, methadone, and weight loss pills. Hence, patients taking such drugs should also avoid Ayahuasca to prevent the risks.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
