The Therapeutic Use of Ayahuasca edited by Bia Labate and Clancy Cavnar comprises a volume of scientific explorations into the potential range of therapeutic effects of ayahuasca, across a range of putative mechanisms, neurobiological as well as psychological, that facilitate states of psychological and physical healing. They examine the therapeutic potential of ayahuasca in the context of both clinical and ritual use, in light of treatment models for psychiatric conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, refractory mood, and anxiety disorders.
Publisher Summary
“This book presents a series of perspectives on the therapeutic potential of the ritual and clinical use of the Amazonian hallucinogenic brew ayahuasca in the treatment and management of various diseases and ailments, especially its role in psychological well-being and substance dependence. Biomedical and anthropological data on the use of ayahuasca for treating depression, PTSD, and substance dependence in different settings, such as indigenous contexts, neo-shamanic rituals, contemporary therapeutic circles, and in ayahuasca religions, in both South and North America, are presented and critiqued. Though multiple anecdotal reports on the therapeutic use of ayahuasca exist, there has been no systematic and dense reflection on the topic thus far. The book brings the therapeutic use of ayahuasca to a new level of public examination and academic debate. The texts in this volume stimulate discussion on methodological, ethical, and political aspects of research and will enhance the development of this emergent field of studies.”