Ayahuasca therapy is a method that has recently come into existence as a result of the fusion of the ancient knowledge of the Amazonian peoples with methodologies from various modern psychological approaches, particularly humanistic, existential, and transpersonal psychotherapy as well as psychedelic therapy.
The term currently in use to describe an ancient activity of the original Amazonian inhabitants is "ayahuasca ceremony." It is a rite that the shamans or healers of the Amazon jungle execute.
The word Ayahuasca is derived from the Quechua language, and it is unquestionably the name that this beverage adopted throughout the Inca civilisation. It is also the name by which the majority of people throughout the world are familiar with this beverage.
In the Quechua languages, aya means "spirit, soul", or "corpse, dead body", and waska means "rope" or "woody vine", "liana".[11] The word ayahuasca has been variously translated as "liana of the soul", "liana of the dead", and "spirit liana".[12] It is also referred to as "la purge" due to the belief that it cures the soul, offering a deep introspective journey that allows the user to examine their emotions and ways of thinking.
What is Ayahuasca made of?
Ayahuasca is often referred to as a sacred plant, but it's actually a combination of two different plants—the ayahuasca vine (Banisteriopsis caapi) and the leaves of a shrub called Psychotria viridis. It is the combination of these two plants that gives ayahuasca its hallucinogenic properties.
The ayahuasca vine itself contains compounds known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). These MAOIs play a crucial role in the ayahuasca brew by inhibiting the activity of enzymes called monoamine oxidases in our bodies. These enzymes are responsible for breaking down certain neurotransmitters, including DMT (dimethyltryptamine), which is the primary hallucinogenic compound in ayahuasca.
The leaves of the Psychotria viridis shrub, on the other hand, contain a significant amount of DMT. DMT is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound that is known for its potent hallucinogenic effects. However, when consumed orally on its own, DMT is rapidly metabolized and deactivated by the enzymes in our gut, preventing it from reaching the bloodstream and inducing its hallucinogenic effects.
By combining the ayahuasca vine (which contains MAOIs) with the leaves of Psychotria viridis (which contain DMT), the brew allows the DMT to be orally active. The MAOIs in the vine inhibit the enzymes that would normally break down the DMT in the gut, allowing it to be absorbed into the bloodstream and reach the brain, where it can induce powerful psychedelic experiences.
Therefore, the traditional ayahuasca brew is prepared as a tea by brewing together the ayahuasca vine and the leaves of Psychotria viridis. This combination creates a synergistic effect, enabling the DMT to be active when ingested, leading to the profound and transformative experiences often associated with ayahuasca ceremonies.
"Human clinical studies showed that ayahuasca can alter the number and distribution of blood immune cells in a way that can increase the antiviral and anti-tumor immunity of the consumer." (reviewed in Frecska et al., 2013).
What to expect at a Ayahuasca Ceremony ?
Ayahuasca ceremonies typically follow a structured series of steps to create a sacred and supportive space for participants. The exact sequence may vary depending on the traditions and practices of the facilitators, but there are common elements observed in many ceremonies.
The ceremony begins with an opening ritual, often involving songs called icaros, and the invocation of spiritual energies for protection and guidance. Participants then gather in a circle, where the facilitator shares instructions, guidelines, and provides an opportunity for individuals to express their intentions for the ceremony.
After the initial preparation, participants consume the Ayahuasca brew. The ceremony enters into a period of introspection and inner exploration, facilitated by the effects of the plant medicine. During this time, participants may experience a range of physical sensations, emotional releases, and profound visions. Facilitators are present to offer support, guidance, and maintain the safety of the participants. The ceremony usually includes periods of silence, allowing individuals to fully immerse themselves in their internal experiences. The duration of the ceremony can vary, lasting several hours into the night.
Once the effects of Ayahuasca start to subside, the facilitator leads a closing ritual, expressing gratitude, and providing space for participants to share their experiences if they wish. Integration practices may be offered afterward to help individuals process and integrate their insights and emotions. The steps taken in an Ayahuasca ceremony are designed to create a sacred container for deep inner exploration and spiritual connection, guided by experienced facilitators and supported by the healing properties of the Ayahuasca brew.
"Ayahuasca-induced changes in many areas of the brain involved in feelings, memories, vision, and consciousness allowed for amplified introspection and problem-solving related to past and current life stressors, and for powerful envisioning and strategizing of solutions for a more hopeful future."
How to prepare for an Ayahuasca Ceremony ?
Research and choose a reputable and experienced shaman or facilitator.
Follow a specific diet before the ceremony, avoiding alcohol, recreational drugs, caffeine, spicy foods, and certain medications.
Engage in practices that promote mental and emotional well-being, such as meditation, yoga, and journaling.
Cultivate a mindset of openness, respect, and surrender.
Set clear intentions for the ceremony to guide the journey towards personal growth and healing.
Prepare for the intensity and unpredictability of the experience by grounding oneself mentally and emotionally.
Inform loved ones about participation and arrange for post-ceremony support.
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