Ayahuasca

New research reveals how ayahuasca alters brain waves to induce vivid, spontaneous thoughts. A simple brain recording before consumption can even predict how intensely a person will experience the brew's physical and emotional effects.

A study in European Neuropsychopharmacology finds that ayahuasca helps rats learn that a previously dangerous environment is safe. This effect appears to rely on BDNF signaling within the infralimbic cortex, suggesting a potential biological pathway for treating trauma.

A new clinical analysis reveals that 5-MeO-DMT produces an intense, short-acting psychedelic experience that peaks between 8 and 15 minutes. Unlike similar compounds, it induces strong emotional shifts with minimal visual hallucinations.

People who regularly use ayahuasca in ceremonial settings may develop more resilient psychological traits and altered emotional brain activity, according to new research exploring how long-term use of this psychedelic affects the mind and brain.

A groundbreaking study has revealed that classical psychedelics affect far more than just serotonin. By mapping how 41 compounds interact with brain receptors, researchers challenge long-held assumptions and open new directions for psychedelic science and therapeutic development.

A new study comparing near-death experiences with high-dose DMT trips finds striking similarities — and surprising differences — in what people see and feel. The research sheds light on how the brain might shape extraordinary states of consciousness.

Are challenging ayahuasca experiences always harmful? Not necessarily, finds a new global survey. While some effects predict poorer mental health, others like visual distortions are linked to positive outcomes, highlighting the crucial role of context and individual vulnerability.

A recent study found that a DMT/harmine formulation blurs the brain’s distinction between self and other faces, disrupting self-referential processing while preserving recognition of familiar faces, suggesting a neural basis for psychedelic-induced ego dissolution.

A new study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs suggests that while awe can be transformative during ayahuasca retreats, there’s a limit. Experiences marked by excessive vastness were linked to lower well-being, challenging assumptions about awe’s universal benefits.

A new study suggests that vivid encounters with perceived entities during ayahuasca experiences are associated with reduced atheism and increased spirituality, particularly among men. Before the experience, men were less religious—but gender differences disappeared afterward.

Vaporized DMT produced fast and lasting improvements in depression symptoms and suicidal ideation, according to a new phase 2a trial, highlighting its potential as a scalable, non-invasive alternative to conventional and long-acting psychedelic treatments for severe depression.

Recent findings suggest that ayahuasca improves detailed memory recall among experienced users without altering overall familiarity.

A study found that harmine, a key component of ayahuasca, has no significant psychoactive effects at doses up to 500 mg. While some participants experienced drowsiness and mild side effects, harmine did not induce hallucinations or major mental status changes.

Frequent ayahuasca use is linked to improved mental health, lower psychological distress, and enhanced wellbeing, especially when paired with strong community support, mystical experiences, and personal insights. However, challenges like fear and integration difficulties can negatively impact outcomes.