WHAT IS AYAHUASCA?

Ayahuasca is an ancient psychoactive brew traditionally used by the Indigenous peoples of the Amazon basin for thousands of years, primarily for healing, self-discovery, and spiritual guidance. It is made from two primary plants: the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the Psychotria viridis leaf. Together, these plants produce a synergistic effect: the former contains MAO inhibitors, while the latter contains DMT (dimethyltryptamine). Ayahuasca is not merely a drink—it is a sacred medium, a bridge between the visible and invisible worlds, and is revered in many shamanic cultures as a “plant teacher.”2. How does ayahuasca affect the human mind and body?From a biological perspective, DMT is normally broken down in the digestive tract by the MAO enzyme. Banisteriopsis caapi inhibits this enzyme, allowing the DMT to be absorbed and take effect. The effects typically begin within 30–60 minutes and can last 4–6 hours. Participants often experience vivid visions, intense inner journeys, and altered sensory perception, often accompanied by cathartic emotional release. Ayahuasca strongly affects the limbic system and prefrontal cortex, areas involved in emotion and cognition.3. Spiritual significance and symbolismIn many Indigenous traditions, Ayahuasca is seen as a sentient spirit called “La Madre Ayahuasca” or “Mother Ayahuasca.” She is not just a source of knowledge, but a teacher, a mirror, and at times a ruthless revealer of truth. The brew is not considered a "drug," but a sacred conduit deeply embedded in the mythology and belief systems of these cultures. Spiritually, ayahuasca is often associated with themes of death and rebirth, light and shadow, and the symbolic maps of inner worlds.4. Use in healingOne of ayahuasca’s most sought-after properties is its potential for psychospiritual healing. Around the world, participants report breakthroughs in trauma release, deep forgiveness, unresolved grief, and emotional blockages. The brew allows subconscious material—repressed memories and emotional wounds—to resurface, often in vivid or sensory form, offering an opportunity for conscious integration. In some therapeutic centers, ayahuasca is also used in the treatment of addictions, such as alcohol, drugs, or pornography.5. The purification process – La PurgaA core part of the ceremony is the physical purge—many people experience vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, or crying. Indigenous people interpret these not as side effects but as spiritual cleansing, a way to expel emotional, psychological, and energetic toxins from the body. This process, known as “La Purga,” is often seen as essential to the healing process, and participants frequently report a profound sense of relief afterward. According to many accounts, the purge also releases mental burdens, fears, and anxieties.6. Visions and subconscious imageryUnder the influence of ayahuasca, many report complex, vivid, and often dream-like or multidimensional visions. These may include geometric patterns, spirit beings, childhood memories, archetypal symbols, or mythological landscapes. These are not necessarily hallucinations but can be understood as visual expressions of the subconscious, emotional energies, and transpersonal realms. Often, these visions symbolically reflect unresolved inner conflicts or life situations.7. Ego dissolution – surrendering the self-imageA common phenomenon during an ayahuasca experience is ego dissolution—the temporary loss of the constructed sense of self or identity. Questions like “Who am I?” or “What is the meaning of my life?” may arise. This can be terrifying but also liberating, as it allows access to deeper, more universal states of consciousness beyond personal narratives. From a spiritual perspective, ego death is considered the gateway to true transformation—a passage through which one is reborn with a renewed sense of self.8. The role of the ceremony and the shaman/facilitatorAn ayahuasca ceremony is not casual improvisation. The role of the shaman or facilitator is crucial—they hold the energetic, psychological, and spiritual space. The icaros (ritual songs) sung by the guide help navigate the participants’ inner journey, guiding them through difficult phases and supporting their healing process. Musical frequencies, drums, rattles, and incense are all part of the sacred setting. A poorly led ceremony can lead to chaos, psychological harm, or retraumatization.9. The dark night – confronting the shadowMany participants report experiencing a so-called “dark night,” during which intense fear, death experiences, or overwhelming anxiety surface. This is not a failure, but one of the deepest phases of the ceremony, where one confronts their shadow self. In psychological terms, the “shadow” represents all the repressed and unaccepted parts of the psyche. Integrating this shadow is essential for genuine growth. Ayahuasca acts as a mirror to these aspects, and facing them can bring immense personal power.10. Aftereffects, integration, and processingThe ceremony does not end when the effects of the brew wear off. The insights can continue unfolding for days or even weeks. Integration—the conscious processing of the experience—is key. Tools such as journaling, meditation, sharing with others, or working with a therapist can support this. Without integration, the visions remain just images; with proper processing, they can become guiding compasses for life.11. Risks, contraindications, and dangersAyahuasca is not without risk—especially when used inappropriately or by individuals with certain medical or psychological conditions. It is contraindicated for those with acute psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression. Due to its MAO-inhibiting properties, combining it with antidepressants, stimulants, or certain foods can cause severe complications, such as serotonin syndrome or dangerous changes in blood pressure. Thorough medical screening is essential before participating in any ceremony.12. Legal status by countryThe legal status of ayahuasca varies globally. Due to its DMT content, it is classified as a controlled substance in many countries, including Hungary. However, in countries such as Peru, Brazil, and Colombia, it is legally protected for traditional or religious use. In recent years, ayahuasca retreat centers have emerged in Europe and North America, often operating in legal grey zones. It is vital to research the legal framework of the country in question before participating in a ceremony.13. Scientific research and therapeutic applicationScientific interest in ayahuasca is growing rapidly. Clinical studies have shown promising results for treating PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, and increasing long-term empathy, gratitude, and psychological flexibility. Neurological research indicates that ayahuasca increases the complexity of brain connectivity and enhances emotional processing. While the scientific community remains cautious, the outlook for responsible, therapeutic use is promising.14. Cultural respect and appropriationAyahuasca is not a trend or a “hipster drug.” It must be approached as a sacred tradition. Western cultures often appropriate Indigenous practices, commodifying them and eroding their spiritual essence. It is essential that anyone engaging with ayahuasca does so with humility and respect toward the cultures that preserved this wisdom. Commercialized, large-scale ceremonies without trained shamans can have harmful consequences.15. Ayahuasca as an inner gateway – transformationUltimately, ayahuasca is not a magic potion but an inner gateway to one’s true self. It does not replace daily self-work, therapy, meditation, or personal responsibility. However, it can serve as an accelerator of profound internal transformation. Those who approach it with open hearts and clear intentions may discover that they are both student and teacher of their own consciousness.