Ayahuasca affects the brain by stimulating serotonin receptors and different regions of the brain including the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, visual cortex, and default mode network (DMN). The activation of these serotonin receptors by DMT induces a cascade of effects. DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) is a powerful, naturally occurring psychedelic compound known for inducing intense, short-lived experiences often described as mystical or transcendent. It is found in various plants and animals, including some found in the Amazon rainforest, and in trace amounts in the human body. DMT can be extracted, synthesized, or naturally consumed in the form of ayahuasca—a traditional Amazonian brew.
Users often experience vivid visual imagery and patterns, heightened emotional sensitivity, and a sense of expanded awareness, because DMT increases activity in the visual cortex and amygdala. This can allow repressed emotions or memories to surface, promoting deep emotional release and introspection.
Ayahuasca is a powerful, plant-based brew traditionally used in Amazonian spiritual and healing ceremonies to induce profound introspection and altered states of consciousness. Known for its strong psychoactive effects, it serves as a gateway for users to explore deep emotional and psychological realms, often in search of healing, self-discovery, or connection with the spiritual. There is growing scientific interest in the healing and therapeutic properties of ayahuasca, particularly as they relate to brain health and neuroplasticity. For example, a 2021 review by Schenberg, E. E., Dos Santos, R. G., et al., “Therapeutic Potentials of Ayahuasca and Its Main Constituents in the Treatment of Depression, Anxiety, and Related Disorders: A Systematic Review of Observational and Experimental Studies”, highlights ayahuasca’s potential to induce neuroplasticity and its implications for treating stress-related disorders.
The main therapeutic effects of ayahuasca include neuroplasticity, brain connectivity, and processing deep seated emotions and traumas. According to a 2015 study by Palhano-Fontes, F., et al., “The Psychedelic State Induced by Ayahuasca Modulates the Activity and Connectivity of the Default Mode Network”, ayahuasca affects brain network connectivity, particularly by reducing activity in the default mode network (DMN). This reduction in DMN activity, along with enhanced connectivity across other brain networks, facilitates greater cognitive flexibility and can help individuals break free from repetitive, negative thought patterns common in depression and anxiety.
The main risks and considerations to keep in mind before taking ayahuasca include pre-existing mental and physical health conditions, contraindications with prescription medications and recreational drugs, and working with experienced, reputable facilitators. According to a 2014 book by Labate, B. C., & Cavnar, C., The Therapeutic Use of Ayahuasca, it’s important to work with experienced facilitators that are trained in managing challenging psychological responses and integrating insights post-ceremony. Doing so is essential for maximizing therapeutic benefits and reducing risks of psychological distress.
What Is Ayahuasca?
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive tea made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and Psychotria viridis leaves, though other plants may be added to the brew depending on the tradition. It contains the hallucinogenic compound DMT and MAO inhibitors from the vine, which make the DMT orally active. This brew is known for its powerful psychedelic effects, which is often used in spiritual and therapeutic contexts.
Ayahuasca has its origins in the Amazon rainforest and has been used for centuries by indigenous tribes in Peru, Brazil, Colombia, and Ecuador. Shamans or healers called curanderos prepare and administer ayahuasca in a ceremonial context, to connect with spiritual realms, heal traumas, or gain insights. Indigenous cultures regard ayahuasca as a sacred plant medicine and a medium for divine communication, used to access spiritual dimensions, receive guidance, and heal both physical and emotional ailments.
Ayahuasca is consumed as a bitter-tasting tea in ceremonial rituals led by experienced shamans. According to the 2021 book, The Therapeutic Use of Ayahuasca by Labate, B. C., & Cavnar, C., ayahuasca ceremony participants drink the brew, often experiencing intense visions, emotional releases, and physical purging within 30 to 60 minutes. The effects usually last between 4 to 6 hours, during which participants engage in deep introspection and reflection guided by the shaman’s songs, known as icaros.
Chemical Composition of Ayahuasca and Its Role in the Brain
Ayahuasca is composed of the Banisteriopsis caapi (B. caapi) vine and Psychotria viridis, also known as Chacruna. The B. caapi vine contains MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors, particularly harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine. MAO inhibitors is an enzyme that breaks down neurotransmitters in the brain, and are crucial for activating the effects of ayahuasca when ingested orally.
These MAO inhibitors prevent the breakdown of DMT by inhibiting monoamine oxidase enzymes in the stomach and liver, allowing the DMT to reach the brain and produce its psychoactive effects. Additionally, harmala alkaloids have mild psychoactive properties that contribute to the overall experience by promoting calmness and introspection.
Psychotria viridis leaves contain DMT, a powerful psychedelic compound that produces visual and sensory effects when active in the brain. Its role in the brain is to interact with serotonin receptors, which are linked to perception, mood, and cognition.
This interaction produces altered states of consciousness, intense visual imagery, and heightened emotional awareness. Without the MAO inhibitors from B. caapi, orally ingested DMT would be metabolized too quickly to cause effects, as the enzyme MAO breaks it down rapidly.
Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and Serotonin Receptors
Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a powerful, naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in various plants and animals, including the human brain. Structurally similar to serotonin, DMT primarily interacts with serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain. By binding to these receptors, DMT influences neurotransmission in ways that alter perception, cognition, and mood.
The activation of these serotonin receptors by DMT disrupts typical sensory processing, leading to vivid visual imagery, altered perceptions of time, and profound shifts in self-awareness and consciousness. Users often report intense visual hallucinations, a sense of ego dissolution, and heightened emotional responses.
DMT influences the amygdala, a part of the brain which is responsible for processing emotions. This interaction leads to enhanced emotional responses, amplifying both positive and negative feelings. The stimulation of the amygdala contributes to the emotional intensity of DMT experiences, where users often confront deeply personal and meaningful themes.
DMT also affects the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain involved in decision-making and personality. DMT’s effects on this region reduces normal patterns of critical thinking and ego function, contributing to experiences of ego dissolution or “oneness.” This disruption allows for greater openness and altered states of consciousness, facilitating new perspectives on self and reality.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) and Prolonged Effects
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are a class of compounds that inhibit the activity of monoamine oxidase (MAO), an enzyme responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and DMT. MAOIs prevent the rapid breakdown of these substances, allowing them to remain active in the bloodstream and the brain for longer.
By blocking the breakdown of DMT, MAOIs such as harmine facilitate a prolonged interaction between DMT and serotonin receptors in the brain.
This extended activation leads to neurochemical changes which are crucial to create the deep experiences ayahuasca is known for. MAOIs enable the full psychedelic potential of DMT, extending its duration and enhancing the intensity of the experience.
What Effects Does Ayahuasca Have on the Brain?
The effects of ayahuasca on the brain include brain network dynamics and connectivity changes, ego dissolution and altered states of consciousness, brainwave modulation, and visual and auditory hallucinations. According to a 2021 study by Timmermann, C., et al., “Psychedelic Effects of Ayahuasca on Visual and Auditory Processing”, ayahuasca’s active compound, DMT, interacts with serotonin receptors to produce vivid visual and auditory hallucinations. The activation of these receptors alters sensory perception, resulting in heightened awareness and intense, often symbolic, visual and auditory experiences.
Ayahuasca has shown potential brain-related benefits, particularly in emotional healing, neuroplasticity, and mental health improvement. Research indicates that its active compounds, DMT and harmala alkaloids, create favorable conditions for neurogenesis and emotional processing, but these effects depend on various factors, including dosage, setting, and individual brain chemistry.
The effects Ayahuasca has on the brain are written below:
1. Brain Network Dynamics and Connectivity Changes
Ayahuasca has a profound impact on brain connectivity, enhancing brain connectivity and integration. It also promotes changes in the brain’s default mode network (DMN) which is responsible for self-referential thoughts, daydreaming, and a cohesive sense of self. The DMN is often hyperactive in individuals with depression and anxiety, contributing to repetitive, negative thinking patterns.
According to Palhano-Fontes et al.’s 2015 study, Ayahuasca reduces DMN activity and disrupts connectivity between the DMN and other brain regions, enabling users to experience a less self-centered perspective and reduced ego boundaries. This reduction in DMN activity helps people break free from self-critical or negative thought loops, common in depression and anxiety.
A2017 study by Sampedro et al. (2017), “Assessing the Psychedelic ‘After-Glow’ in Ayahuasca Users: Post-acute Neural and Psychological Effects”, explores how ayahuasca’s effects on brain network integration were associated with improved psychological flexibility and openness to experience, both of which are beneficial for emotional well-being. This connectivity boost facilitates a sense of interconnectedness, which promotes new perspectives and alleviates symptoms of mental health conditions.
2. Ego Dissolution and Altered States of Consciousness
Ayahuasca is known for inducing profound experiences of ego dissolution, where the sense of self temporarily dissolves, leading to a heightened sense of unity and interconnectedness. This phenomenon is a key aspect of the altered states of consciousness that ayahuasca induces and is often reported by participants in both traditional and clinical settings.
According to Nour et al.’s 2016 study, participants in ayahuasca ceremonies commonly report experiencing deep emotional clarity and spiritual insights during ego dissolution. Some describe the sensation as a profound liberation from self-imposed limitations and worries, enabling a broader perspective on life, values, and relationships.
A 2015 study by Lebedev et al. using EEG and fMRI found that ayahuasca increased communication between normally distinct brain regions, resulting in enhanced perception, emotional introspection, and a departure from habitual thinking patterns.
3. Brainwave Modulation
Brainwave modulation is the alteration of brainwave activity patterns through external influences or internal states such as meditation, psychoactive substances, or sensory experiences. Brainwaves are electrical impulses generated by neurons in the brain, and are associated with various states of consciousness and mental activity, including delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma waves.
Ayahuasca significantly affects brainwave activity, modulating delta, theta, and gamma waves, which are associated with altered states of consciousness, introspection, and heightened awareness. A 2015 study by Palhano-Fontes et al. comparing REM sleep and ayahuasca brain states show overlapping theta and gamma patterns, supporting the theory that ayahuasca engages similar neural pathways involved in memory consolidation and emotional processing, much like the dream states of sleep.
Ayahuasca is known to increase delta (1-4 Hz) and theta (4-8 Hz) brainwave activity. Delta waves are typically associated with deep, restorative sleep, while theta waves are linked to relaxation, meditation, and deep emotional introspection. Increased delta and theta waves during ayahuasca sessions promote a meditative state that allows users to access subconscious thoughts and memories, similar to states experienced during early stages of sleep.
A 2004 study by Riba et al. observed elevated theta activity in subjects after consuming ayahuasca, correlating with introspective and “dream-like” states that aid in emotional processing and the retrieval of suppressed memories.
Ayahuasca also stimulates gamma waves (30-100 Hz), which are associated with high-level cognitive processing, focus, and a sense of unity. A 2016 study by Valle et al. found increased gamma wave activity in individuals under the influence of ayahuasca. The elevated gamma waves were associated with enhanced sensory awareness and integration, leading to the perception of a “higher state of consciousness.”
4. Visual and Auditory Hallucinations
Ayahuasca often induces vivid visual and auditory hallucinations, which are attributed to its effects on the areas of the brain that are involved in sensory processing and perception. These hallucinations arise from altered activity in the visual cortex and other sensory areas, resulting in intense, sometimes mystical experiences of colors, shapes, and sounds.
The visual cortex is responsible for processing visual information. Under ayahuasca’s influence, heightened serotonin receptor activity in this area leads to enhanced visual processing, which explains the colorful, geometric patterns, and complex imagery often reported by users. According to a 2012 study by de Araujo et al., these visuals often feel highly symbolic or even spiritual, shaped by both the brain’s internal processing and external sensory input.
The auditory cortex is involved in processing sounds and is also affected by increased serotonin activity under ayahuasca. This often leads to auditory hallucinations such as hearing voices, music, or sounds that are not externally present. These sounds often complement visual hallucinations, creating a multi-sensory experience.
The thalamus also plays a central role in relaying sensory information. Under ayahuasca, thalamic activity is altered, allowing unusual stimuli to enter conscious awareness. According to a 2014 study by Riba et al., this modulation in sensory gating contributes to both visual and auditory hallucinations by making internal sensory signals appear as external stimuli.
Can Ayahuasca Cause Brain Damage?
No, ayahuasca does not cause brain damage and even supports brain health. However it is still important to work with ayahuasca responsibly in the right setting with a trustworthy facilitator or shaman to ensure a safe experience. A 2011 study by Riba et al.,” Neural Basis of Ayahuasca-Induced Hallucinations: A Pharmacological fMRI Study”, shows that the active components in ayahuasca, DMT and harmala alkaloids, do not have neurotoxic effects at typical doses used in ceremonial settings.
Additional research on long-term ayahuasca users, particularly among indigenous populations in the Amazon, has shown no adverse effects on brain structure or cognitive function. A 2012 study by Bouso et al., “Long-term use of psychedelic drugs is associated with differences in brain structure and personality in humans”, demonstrated that regular ayahuasca users did not display any negative cognitive, psychological, or physical health impacts and, in some cases, reported benefits in mental health and emotional well-being.
Does Ayahuasca Make or Kill Brain Cells?
Ayahuasca makes brain cells form and grow, according to a 2020 study by Morales-García et al, “The alkaloids of Banisteriopsis caapi, the plant source of the psychedelic ayahuasca, stimulate adult neurogenesis in vitro”. This process, also known as neurogenesis, is attributed mainly to DMT, one of the main active compounds in ayahuasca. DMT stimulates neuroplasticity and supports cell growth by activating serotonin receptors in the brain. According to a 2018 study by Ly et al.,”Psychedelics promote structural and functional neural plasticity”, activating these receptors can stimulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and other molecules that support neuronal growth and plasticity, potentially aiding in brain repair and resilience.
There is little evidence to suggest that ayahuasca causes cell death or neurotoxicity when used in controlled doses. A 2015 study by Bouso et al., examining the long-term effects of ayahuasca consumption in traditional users found no significant neurotoxic effects.
Does Ayahuasca Rewire the Brain?
Yes, ayahuasca rewires the brain by promoting neuroplasticity— which is the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections. Neuroplasticity supports mental flexibility, adaptation, and recovery, and ayahuasca’s active compounds, particularly DMT and harmala alkaloids, play a role in enhancing these processes.
The DMT in ayahuasca activates serotonin receptors, which are critical for neuroplasticity and cognitive flexibility. DMT also activates sigma-1 receptors, which are involved in cell survival and stress regulation. According to a 2020 study by Morales-García et al., “Long-term use of ayahuasca is associated with differences in personality structure and has no negative effects on neuropsychological functioning: Results from a Brazilian sample”, this activation aids cellular resilience and may help the brain reorganize in response to psychological challenges, providing a mechanism for adaptive change.
How Ayahuasca Heals the Brain?
Ayahuasca heals the brain through mechanisms like neuroplasticity, emotional processing, and neuroprotection. These processes support mental resilience, aid in trauma recovery, and improve emotional regulation.
A 2016 study by dos Santos et al., explores the neuroprotective effects of ayahuasca. The harmla alkaloids in ayahuasca have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which protect brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. These neuroprotective properties may prevent cellular damage, preserving brain health and potentially aiding in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.
Ayahuasca also assists with processing deep seated emotions and traumas. The combination of DMT and harmala alkaloids in ayahuasca allows users to access and reprocess suppressed memories and emotional experiences. According to a 2016 study by Domínguez-Clavé et al., “Ayahuasca: Pharmacology, neuroscience and therapeutic potential. Brain Research Bulletin”, this reprocessing leads to emotional release, insight, and integration of past traumas, which many participants report as therapeutic.
Does Ayahuasca Help with Brain Cancer?
No, ayahuasca does not help with brain cancer. Ayahuasca related research is generally focused on mental health and neuroplasticity, with limited studies exploring its impact on cancer in general.
A 2007 study by Cao et el., “Beta-Carboline alkaloids: Biochemical and pharmacological functions”, indicates that harmine, an alkaloid in ayahuasca, has demonstrated anti-proliferative effects on cancer cells, (particularly in leukemia and glioblastoma cancer cells), in laboratory settings. This study suggests that harmine inhibits cancer cell growth by interfering with cell division and inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) in these cells. However, this research is preliminary and has not been specifically applied to brain cancer. The anti-cancer effects observed are far from conclusive and require significant further study.
What are Potential Therapeutic Effects of Ayahuasca on Mental and Brain Health?
The potential therapeutic effects of ayahuasca on mental and brain health are reduction in depression symptoms, increased emotional resilience, support with recovery from PTSD, alleviating anxiety, reducing addictive behaviors, and promoting mindfulness.
- Reduces Symptoms of Depression: Ayahuasca reduces depressions because it links to its action on serotonin receptors, promoting neuroplasticity and cognitive flexibility, which help disrupt negative thought patterns. A 2015 study by Osório et al., “Antidepressant effects of a single dose of ayahuasca in patients with recurrent depression: A preliminary report”, indicates that ayahuasca rapidly reduces depressive symptoms, often within hours or days after a single session.
- Alleviates Anxiety and Increases Emotional Resilience: Ayahuasca helps individuals confront and process fears and anxieties, potentially reducing symptoms of generalized and social anxiety disorders. According to a 2016 study by Santos, et al., “Antidepressant Effects of a Single Dose of Ayahuasca in Patients With Recurrent Depression: A Preliminary Report”, participants often report increased emotional resilience and a better capacity to cope with stress.
- Supports recovery from PTSD: Ayahuasca facilitates the reprocessing of traumatic memories in a controlled, introspective state, which reduces the emotional intensity of past trauma. According to a 2014 study by Nielson & Megler, “Ayahuasca as a candidate therapy for PTSD”, this effect helps sufferers reframe traumatic memories, reducing PTSD symptoms and promoting healing.
- Reduces Addictive Behaviors: Ayahuasca has shown promise in helping individuals overcome addiction by providing insights into underlying emotional issues and enhancing self-awareness. According to a 2013 study by Thomas et al., “Ayahuasca-assisted therapy for addiction: Results from a preliminary observational study in Canada”, ayahuasca reduces cravings and compulsions, partly through its impact on serotonin pathways and emotional processing.
- Promotes Mindfulness: Many users report long-term improvements in mindfulness, self-acceptance, and overall life satisfaction after ayahuasca sessions. According to a 2020 study by Solé-López et al., ”The role of the default mode network in the psychological benefits of ayahuasca: Mindfulness, self-acceptance, and life satisfaction”, these benefits may stem from altered default mode network (DMN) activity, reducing self-critical thought patterns and promoting a positive outlook.
Does Ayahuasca Help Relieve Traumatic Brain Injury?
No, ayahuasca does not help relieve traumatic brain injury (TBI). Although the active compounds in ayahuasca, DMT and harmine, have been studied for their potential neuroprotective and neurogenic properties, these findings are based on preclinical research and have not been applied directly to TBI recovery in humans.
What are the Risks of Using Ayahuasca?
The key risks of using ayahuasca include psychological distress, potential triggering of psychotic episodes, serotonin syndrome, hypertensive crisis, legal and ethical concerns, and potential interactions with medications and health conditions.
- Psychological Distress: Ayahuasca may induce intense, challenging experiences, often referred to as “bad trips,” which may include feelings of paranoia, fear, and overwhelming emotions. These experiences can be particularly distressing for individuals with underlying mental health issues, potentially exacerbating anxiety or psychosis. A 2020 study analyzing data from the Global Ayahuasca Survey,” Risks Associated with Ayahuasca Use: A Study of Self-Reported Adverse Effects in a Global Sample”, found that 55.9% of participants reported adverse mental health effects in the weeks or months following consumption, though 88% considered these effects part of a positive process of growth or integration.
- Potential Triggering of Psychotic Episodes: For individuals predisposed to psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, it is possible for ayahuasca’s intense psychoactive effects trigger or worsen psychotic episodes, leading to lasting mental health complications. A 2021 report by Aretakis, S., & Thomas, L. M. , “Case Report of Persistent Psychosis Following Ayahuasca Consumption in an Indigenous Ceremony” documents an individual developing an enduring psychotic episode after controlled ayahuasca use, resulting in significant behavioral changes and requiring psychiatric intervention.
- Serotonin Syndrome: Ayahuasca contains compounds that act on serotonin receptors, posing a risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with antidepressants like SSRIs. Serotonin syndrome is life-threatening and causes confusion, agitation, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure. According to a 2021 review by Martin, G. N., & Bateson, P. P., “Serotonin Syndrome in the Context of Psychedelic Use: Case Studies and Implications”, the true incidence of serotonin syndrome is unknown. The study highlights that life-threatening cases are rare and more likely when combined with other serotonergic medications.
- Hypertensive Crisis: The harmala alkaloids in ayahuasca elevate blood pressure. Combining ayahuasca with foods that are high in tyramine or certain medications lead to dangerously high blood pressure, posing risks of stroke or other cardiovascular issues. A 2023 article by the Cleveland Clinic, “Ayahuasca and Cardiovascular Health: Why Heart Patients Should Avoid It”, advises that individuals with heart conditions should avoid ayahuasca due to these risks.
- Interactions with Medications and Health Conditions: Ayahuasca has dangerous interactions with prescription medications, especially MAO inhibitors, SSRIs, and stimulants. Individuals with cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, or liver conditions are at higher risk of adverse effects. A to a 2022 article published in Psychedelic Society, “Ayahuasca Risk and Harm Reduction Guidelines”, emphasizes the importance of considering these health risks before participating in ayahuasca ceremonies.
- Legal and Ethical Concerns: Ayahuasca is illegal in many countries, and its use can lead to legal consequences. Additionally, working with an inexperienced facilitator exposes participants to mental and emotional health risks. A 2023 article by the Temple of Umi, “Legal and Ethical Considerations for Ayahuasca Use: Ensuring Safe and Respectful Practice”, highlights the importance of informed consent and ethical considerations in ayahuasca use.
What Should Be Considered Before Using Ayahuasca?
Before using ayahuasca, consider any medical contraindications you have, prepare by following the diet, and do your research to find a reputable facilitator. Here’s a closer look at key factors to consider to ensure your safety:
- Medical Contraindications: Do not drink ayahuasca if you are on antidepressants , antipsychotics, stimulants, or opioids, as these drugs interact dangerously with ayahuasca, risking serotonin syndrome and other severe side effects. According to a 2017 review by dos Santos, R. G., & Hallak, J. E., “ Therapeutic Use of Serotonergic Hallucinogens: A Review of the Evidence and of the Biological and Psychological Mechanisms”, iIndividuals with cardiovascular conditions, high blood pressure, liver disorders, or seizure disorders should refrain from using ayahuasca due to risks associated with altered heart rate, blood pressure, and liver strain.
- Mental Health Considerations: People with a history of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or psychosis are advised against ayahuasca, as it may trigger or worsen psychotic episodes or manic states. Those with a history of severe anxiety or PTSD should approach ayahuasca cautiously and only in therapeutic or supervised settings, as intense experiences could exacerbate symptoms if unsupported.
- Physical and Dietary Preparation: Traditional preparation often includes a restricted diet, or “dieta,” avoiding certain foods for days to weeks prior to use. This reduces the risk of side effects and prepares the mind and body. Abstaining from other psychoactive substances like alcohol, cannabis, and nicotine is also commonly recommended to ensure clear mental and physical readiness.
- Legal Considerations: Ayahuasca is illegal in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and parts of Europe, except in specific religious contexts or clinical trials. Understanding local legal restrictions is essential to avoid legal repercussions.
- Selection of Ceremony and Facilitator: Choose reputable, experienced facilitators who provide safe, controlled settings with emergency protocols. Verify that the facilitator has training in handling emotional or psychological challenges, as an unregulated environment increases risks of distress or harm. Ask about how a given facilitator brews ayahuasca, as unregulated sources may not adhere to safe practices, potentially introducing contaminants.
Integration Planning: Arrange for integration support, such as counseling or a support group, post-ceremony to help process and apply insights from the experience. Proper integration helps mitigate any confusion or distress that arises after an intense ceremony.