What is this ?
A hallucinogen? :
In the West, we consider ayahuasca to be a hallucinogen. Hallucinogens are psychoactive substances that can produce changes in perception and
feelings without causing loss of memory or consciousness.
But the term is controversial. For shaman Juan Mutumbajoy Jacanamijoy from Putumayo, Colombia, this plant is a “visualizer,” not a hallucinogen. Because what we see when we take it is not an illusion, but visions of a world that we would not always have access to.
Why is it used? :
Psychedelic substances have been part of traditional medicines for thousands of years. Indigenous people consider these plants to be “teachers” and use them for religious purposes, to communicate with spirits, to heal themselves or as a preventative measure.
Today, ayahuasca has become more widespread in the West outside of the research framework. It is often used for self-analysis, treatment, and mind expansion.
What is known about the benefits:
What scientists have discovered so far is that ayahuasca allows access to deeper levels of self-knowledge. It also increases creative thinking, self-acceptance, joy of living, and mental flexibility, and allows one to re-explore an emotional past with another perspective.
These positive effects are partly due to the fact that, like many psychedelic substances, ayahuasca increases neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to create new connections. This action, which lasts for hours or even days after taking it, is an ally in healing psychological problems.
Addictions:
Many researchers consider ayahuasca useful in treating addiction problems and impulse control disorders. Many Latin American countries
are already using it as a treatment for addictions.
Mental illnesses:
Another research plan focuses on ayahuasca in the treatment of anxiety and depression. Indeed, being able to take a step back from one's own beliefs, thoughts and emotions while accepting oneself, represents a considerable asset in the treatment of these disorders and in life in general.
A plant to be connected to the "Whole"? :
Indigenous peoples consider ayahuasca as a "teaching plant" that allows one to get in touch with the mystical. It gives the person who takes it direct access to the spiritual world and to "reserves of wisdom" otherwise inaccessible, thereby facilitating existential intelligence.
Ayahuasca is generally considered a plant that promotes harmonious relationships between Human Beings, Animals and Nature. It is seen as a tool for purifying the soul and body.
Ayahuasca is believed to be a drink that provides access to human knowledge accumulated over the ages. It is said to be the key to a psychic place where Human Beings share the same space-time with Nature, reminding them of the deep bonds that unite them.
People who take it describe a transcendental experience, where the notion of time is greatly altered. They are invited to meet the master spirits of plants or animals, and feel one with the universe. This is accompanied by a feeling of ecstasy and deep peace.
Thanks to Dr. Alice Krähenbühl for her scientific contribution to the preparation of this informative page on ayahuasca medicine and to the Maison de la Paille for this article.