There has been promising evidence of safety and effectiveness for ayahuasca macrodosing to treat depression! B. caapi contains the following harmala alkaloids: Harmine, Harmaline and Tetrahydroharmine.These alkaloids of the beta-carboline class act as monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOIs).

 

MAOI’s help the brain release dopamine and act as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). The effects of this process is neurogenesis! New nerve cells and neurological connections emerge. This makes B. caapi a natural antidepressant, reducing anxiety and tension contributing to a feeling of well-being.

 

Shamans and healers believe that B. caapi heals mind, body and spirit (energetic body). They teach that it can be purifying, healing and rebalancing. According to Amazonian Shamans Ayahuasca Vine is one of the most sacred, protective and nourishing “master teacher plants” on the planet. 

​

Check out our research section to learn about the studies that are proving what Indigenous Shamans have known for centuries.

​

​

​

​

​

Ayahuasca is very safe, however when combined with certain foods or drugs there can be side effects. Ayahuasca can interact dangerously with medications, including antidepressants, psychiatric medications, cough medicines, appetite suppressants, amphetemines like MDMA and more. Ayahuasca could also worsen the symptoms of psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia. Those with a history of these disorders should avoid Ayahuasca vine.

​

There could potentially be some risk of serotonin toxicity when combining them with medications that also increase synaptic serotonin. Signs and symptoms of serotonin toxicity include muscle twitching, exaggerated muscle reflexes, tremor, incoordination, diarrhea, sweating, shivering, fever, along with mental status changes like confusion and agitation. If you experience these symptoms consult your doctor.

 

Ayahuasca can also increase heart rate and blood pressure. If you have a heart condition, this could result in dangerous side effects. Some foods can be dangerous in combination with MAOIs and dietary precautions are advised. Avoid aged cheeses, cured meats, soy sauce, fermented foods (like tofu), pickled vegetables, spicy foods, alcohol in general (especially red wine), aspartame, and large amounts of dark chocolate.

​

​