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The aim of this article is to extend the point of view that takes into consideration cultural context to the traditional and communalistic use of psychoactive plants. Genuine medical systems have been developed, generally carried out in ritual or ceremonial settings, but these practices have often been vilified as a result of social stigma or drug policies.
Since ayahuasca use is expanding worldwide, the aim of this study was to observe the effects of ayahuasca on psychological and mental health variables in naïve users in order to help medical practitioners to understand possible adverse effects and potential therapeutic uses.
This paper, led by Maja Kohek, ICEERS’ associate researcher, about her field work on the ritual use of cannabis in a self-managed community, presents various examples of non-problematic drug use observed in a community in Catalonia, where a variety of psychoactive substances are used in ritual settings.
Ayahuasca
Technical Report
This 26 page document by 11 world-class experts and researchers highlights the latest research on ayahuasca, its uses, pharmacology, legal status, and therapeutic effects.
Ayahuasca in Spain
An evaluation of ayahuasca ceremony participants based on public health indicators.
Ayahuasca in
The Netherlands
An examination of ayahuasca ceremony participants in Holland based on public health indicators.
While the ayahuasca brew generally contains DMT, it is not the same as the isolated compound. Ayahuasca and DMT have significant differences in pharmacology, methods of administration, legal classifications, and the duration and quality of the experience. There are also important distinctions in their context of use and cultural history.
The first studies relating to the therapeutic benefits of ayahuasca began in the 1980s. Since then, research has uncovered several potential psychotherapeutic benefits related to the pharmacological effects and subjective experience of ayahuasca.
Both animal and human studies have shown ayahuasca is a physically and psychologically safe substance when its constituents have been verified. Research has also validated its safety when the dosage is controlled and it is taken in a supportive environment.
All ICEERS studies have been published in peer-reviewed scientific journals that follow the highest methodological and ethical standards.
Explore our research by topic:
Miguel Ángel Alcázar-Córcoles
Department of Biological & Health Psychology, School of Psychology – Autonomous University, Madrid.
Rafael G. dos Santos
Department of Neurosciences and Behavior, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
Jaime E.C. Hallak
National Institute for Translational Medicine (INCT-TM), CNPq, Riberão Preto (SP), Brazil.
