Nature is full of surprises and benefits in its most ancient and mysterious plants. Thanks to medical and technological studies, we can now know more than ever about all the properties that the ayahuasca plant has to offer, due to its psychoactive advantages that have proven to be very useful in people with depression or addiction.

What is Ayahuasca?

Before listing the benefits of Ayahuasca, it is necessary to understand that it is a psychotropic drink originating from the indigenous peoples of the Amazon for healing, religious, and spiritual purposes.

In addition to containing the hallucinogen N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT); it is indicated that Banisteriopsis caapi does not have psychedelic effects because it is used to inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO) and thus reduce its strong chemical component of DMT, which is diluted by monoamine oxidase enzymes (MAO) found in the liver and gastrointestinal tract.

Research conducted in Ecuador suggests that this plant has a history of 5000 years and has spread to several countries in Latin America.

Benefits of Banisteriopsis Caapi

Benefits of Banisteriopsis Caapi

  • Hormonal Balance: It has been detected that ayahuasca can balance cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that controls emotional and sapient methods. This hormonal balance can contribute to better stress and anxiety management.
  • Neuroprotective Potential: Banisteriopsis Caapi contains alkaloids such as harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine, which have been studied for their neuroprotective effects. These components could play a role in the prevention or treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Antioxidant Properties: In addition to alkaloids,Banisteriopsis Caapi contains polyphenols such as epicatechin and procyanidin B2, which have antioxidant properties. These compounds can help combat oxidative damage in the body, contributing to overall better health.
  • Post-Traumatic Stress: It also works with post-traumatic stress disorder by helping to identify past episodes for effective treatment.
  • Dependencies: Furthermore, ayahuasca assists in detaching from addictions caused by alcohol, cocaine, and nicotine. It is also attributed with qualities in the spiritual realm, bringing wisdom and prosperity.
  • Mental Health Improvement: Beyond its use in depression and post-traumatic stress, ayahuasca has been studied for its potential to treat other mental disorders, including addiction and certain anxiety disorders, thanks to its ability to provide deep introspection and a renewed perspective.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Preliminary research suggests that components of Banisteriopsis Caapi could have anti-inflammatory effects, beneficial in treating various inflammatory conditions and reducing associated pain.
  • Detoxification and Cleansing: Traditionally, ayahuasca has been used in cleansing and purification rituals, helping to eliminate physical and emotional toxins, and promoting a general

    state of well-being.

Often described as a drug, ayahuasca is not categorized as such because it does not produce toxic effects, create addiction, or harm any body system. It is advisable to consult specialists in the field to obtain appropriate results for individual needs and prevent side effects.

Consequences of Ayahuasca

Experts indicate that due to its characteristics, its contributions outweigh its disadvantages, but it is important to understand that it can be applied for whatever is deemed necessary and used appropriately as advised by a healthcare professional.

What is Ayahuasca

It should be noted that the established ritual can occasionally lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and even paranoia; caused by the serotoninergic effects. It is also contraindicated for people with heart conditions due to its potential to cause alterations in heart rhythm and blood pressure.

Additionally, individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia or psychiatric disorders should not use ayahuasca as it may not provide any benefit and could exacerbate their conditions.

Effects of the Plant

The effects vary from person to person depending on their physical or mental conditions. The plant not only produces hypersensitivity in the senses but also induces hallucinations in the subconscious, making each experience unique and potentially either very rewarding or entirely negative.

It is important to note that ayahuasca does not create dependence; however, its effects (vomiting and diarrhea) often deter repeated use. But its benefits in producing tranquility and stimulating mood encourage people, especially those with depression, to experience it again.

How do the Rituals with this Plant Work?

For the ceremony to be effective, it must be conducted with a plant expert. This ensures proper guidance and positive results. In the session, it is advised to consume ayahuasca every 7 or 14 days, as determined by the tribe’s medic, who will review the individual’s medical history before approving its use.