Ayahauasca is a traditional drink widespread among numerous indigenous communities of the Amazon. Prepared with Liana Banisteropsis Caapi and the leaves of Psychotria viridisis known for its psychoactive effects and for the ability to induce altered states of consciousness. In Quechua it literally means “liana of the spirits”: in Amazonic societies its meaning goes beyond the pharmacological dimension: it came and is still considered an instrument of care, communication with the spiritual world and strengthening of community bonds.
How to take Ayahuasca and how the rite takes place
In shamanic rituals, Ayahuasca is taken under the guidance of a shaman, which establishes the doses, leads the participants with specific songs called Icaros And he is responsible for guaranteeing the security of the group. The experiences that derive from it, visions of animals, ancestors or symbolic scenes, are not interpreted as simple hallucinations, but as messages that help to understand personal problems, moments of transition or signs of diseases.
The ceremony, therefore, contains a therapeutic and social meaning in itself: it allows you to face trauma, internal tensions and relational difficulties within a shared space. The intake is not improvised: those who participate in a ritual often follow a preparatory diet that excludes red meat, alcohol, fermented foods and stimulating substances. The goal is to “clean” body and mind to facilitate the work of the plant.
The ceremony takes place at night: the participants drink small quantities of the decoction and await the beginning of the effects, which appear after about half an hour and last several hours. Vomiting and diarrhea are frequent and are interpreted as part of the purification process. The experience, despite being individual, takes place in a collective context and under the supervision of the shaman.
Rules to reduce risks and guidelines for tourists
In the last twenty years Ayahuasca has become a global phenomenon, attracting thousands of tourists in Peru, Brazil and Ecuador. This has prompted some governments to establish rules to reduce risks.
- In particular, in Peru, where Ayahuasca was recognized as an immaterial cultural heritage in 2008, the authorities published guidelines for those who want to participate in ceremonies: choose only shamans or accredited centers, inquire about their experience, be aware of the possible physical and psychological risks, and be wary of offers related to mass tourism.
- Even Chile, subsequently, to elaborate similar recommendations, establishing that the rituals should take place in safe contexts and led by qualified practitioners. The intent is to protect both visitors and local communities, reducing episodes of abuse or improvisation that over the years have raised different controversies.
In fact, the spread of theyahuasca outside the Amazon generated different phenomena and reflections. On the one hand, new religious movements such as the Holy Daime or the Uniāo do Vegetal have integrated it into syncretic practices that mix Christianity, Afro-Brazilian elements and indigenous traditions; on the other, the growing international demand has favored commodification processes, with the risk of reducing a complex cultural practice to a tourist product.
For many indigenous communities this is a sensitive theme: some see an economic opportunity, others fear exploitation and loss of control over their traditions. Below, a reduced list of essential indications to be followed to reduce the risks in the assumption of theyahuasca:
- Check medical suitability: exclude previous psychiatric pathologies (such as psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders) and cardiovascular;
- Check possible pharmacological interactions: to suspend, at least two weeks earlier, the intake of antidepressants and anxiolytics;
- Ascertain the qualification of the conductor of the ritual: to participate only in ceremonies led by shamans or facilitators with documented experience;
- Respect the preparatory diet (Ayahuasquera diet): eliminate alcohol, drugs, red meat, fermented foods and excessively fat at least a week earlier;
- Psychological preparation: be informed about the expected effects (visions, purge, intense emotional introspection);
- Controlled context: Make sure the ceremony takes place in a safe environment, with logistical support in the event of medical emergencies.
