Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Purpose of Review Summarizes preclinical and clinical evidence on ayahuasca—a traditional Amazonian brew combining N , N -Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and β-carbolines—in treating depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use, eating, and personality disorders. Recent Findings Preclinical work shows enhanced neuroplasticity, reduced inflammation, and oxidative stress. Human neuroimaging reveals decreased default mode network activity, increased functional connectivity and brain entropy, indicating a flexible neural state and modulation of pathways related to neuroplasticity, inflammation, and stress response. Summary While promising, the evidence is mainly observational. Users report emotional breakthroughs, increased self-awareness, and mystical experiences tied to therapeutic outcomes. Ayahuasca appears to target core psychological and neurobiological processes across disorders but requires caution in psychotic or bipolar individuals and should be administered with support. Randomized trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety. In structured, culturally sensitive settings, ayahuasca/DMT may offer a novel treatment and, by integrating indigenous wisdom with modern science, deepen our understanding of healing and consciousness.
Source: Current Addiction Reports
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,790
Award: G3690646728
OpenAlex ID: W7130713779