Ayahuasca
Common Names: WAHS-kuh, Yag, Of, DMT-containing, MAOI
Psychoactive Effects
Positive Effects
- Euphoria
- Energy
Neutral Effects
- Visual hallucinations
- Time distortion
- Synesthesia
- Altered thought patterns
- Enhanced sensory perception
- Ego dissolution
Negative Effects
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Depression
Dosage Guidelines
| Route | Threshold | Light | Common | Strong | Heavy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oral | 50-100 ml | 100-200 ml | 200-400 ml | 400-600 ml | 600+ ml |
Duration
| Phase | Duration |
|---|---|
| Onset | 30-60 minutes |
| Peak | 2-4 hours |
| Total | 4-8 hours |
| After effects | 2-4 hours |
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action: Ayahuasca contains DMT (5-HT2A agonist) and MAO inhibitors (harmine, harmaline, tetrahydroharmine) that prevent DMT breakdown, allowing oral activity.
Metabolism: DMT is rapidly metabolized by MAO-A, but MAO inhibitors in the brew prevent this breakdown. Harmine and harmaline are metabolized by CYP2D6.
Half-life: Approximately 2-3 hours for DMT effects, with total experience lasting 4-8 hours.
Bioavailability: ~70% when taken orally due to MAO inhibition, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 1-2 hours.
Risks and Harm Reduction
⚠️ Important: Always practice harm reduction. Start with low doses, test your substances, and ensure a safe set and setting. Never use alone.
Legal Status
Disclaimer: Legal status varies by jurisdiction and may change. This information is for educational purposes only.
References
- • McKenna, D. J., et al. (1984). Monoamine oxidase inhibitors in South American hallucinogenic plants: tryptamine and β-carboline constituents of ayahuasca. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 10(2), 195-223.
- • Riba, J., et al. (2003). Human pharmacology of ayahuasca: subjective and cardiovascular effects, monoamine metabolite excretion, and pharmacokinetics. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 306(1), 73-83.
- • Information compiled from PsychonautWiki