This qualitative interview study (n=46) examined the self-reported therapeutic potential of ayahuasca and found that while many users apply it as a ‘cure-for-all’, others report it to be most applicable to treat addiction. The intensity of subjective effects was not proportional to therapeutic effects, which often entailed the re-activation of forgotten or suppressed memories.
Abstract of Therapeutic Potential Ascribed to Ayahuasca by Users in the Czech Republic
“Introduction: This article focuses on the therapeutic potential ascribed to ayahuasca by users in the Czech Republic.
Methods: Following an online survey, the fieldwork among users of ayahuasca was carried out from November 2015 to December 2016. The research sample consisted of 46 persons (23 women and 23 men), who took part at least once in some type of ayahuasca ritual and/or were the facilitators of the ayahuasca sessions. We held semi-structured interviews with participants in order to discover the therapeutic potential of ayahuasca. Transcribed recordings were analyzed using the Grounded Theory Method.
Results/Discussion: The results suggest that the intensity of effects produced by ayahuasca is not directly proportional to its therapeutic effect. According to the informants, ayahuasca is applicable in the treatment of drug addiction. They consider it to have a broad spectrum of therapeutic potential. This therapeutic potential could be based on memory recall.“
Authors: Miroslav Horák, Lea Hasíková & Nahanga Verter
Summary of Therapeutic Potential Ascribed to Ayahuasca by Users in the Czech Republic
This study examines the therapeutic potential ascribed to ayahuasca by users in the Czech Republic. Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew traditionally prepared from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the leaves of Psychotria viridis, though other plants can be substituted to produce similar effects. The mixture contains beta-carboline alkaloids and dimethyltryptamine (DMT), with DMT inducing altered states of consciousness, while beta-carbolines act as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), preventing the breakdown of DMT in the digestive tract.
Ayahuasca has shown potential antidepressant effects due to its influence on serotonin reuptake and receptor binding. It may also stimulate neurogenesis, the growth of new neural cells, by inhibiting the DYRK1A gene, which is linked to conditions such as Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease. Previous studies have associated ayahuasca use with improved coping strategies, better quality of life, and potential treatment for conditions like chronic pain, depression, and substance dependency.
Despite its therapeutic promise, ayahuasca use is associated with vomiting and diarrhoea, effects considered by many users to be integral to the cleansing process. The brew is traditionally used in indigenous Amazonian ceremonies for healing, divination, and community bonding. Modern adaptations, including use by syncretic churches and neo-shamanic practices, have expanded its use globally, including in the Czech Republic. However, risks exist when rituals are conducted without experienced facilitators or proper preparation, including dietary restrictions.
Sociocultural Characteristics of Ayahuasca
Find this paper
Therapeutic Potential Ascribed to Ayahuasca by Users in the Czech Republic
https://doi.org/10.1080/02791072.2018.1511878
Paywall | Google Scholar | Backup | 🕊
Cite this paper (APA)
Horák, M., Hasíková, L., & Verter, N. (2018). Therapeutic potential ascribed to ayahuasca by users in the Czech Republic. Journal of psychoactive drugs, 50(5), 430-436.