Exploring Ayahuasca Practices & Reported Effects

Abstract

There is increasing evidence that ayahuasca may have therapeutic effects for people with mood, anxiety and substance use disorders, with most studies also indicating that ongoing consumption does not lead to adverse physical or mental health effects. However, to date most research has been undertaken in the ayahuasca churches and it is not clear to what degree benefits and risks may vary across settings. This presentation draws on early data from a global survey of ayahuasca drinking being undertaken to explore practices and reported outcomes and risks in a range of settings. Significant variation is evident in practices associated with ayahuasca drinking across contexts and while the majori..