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Ayahuasca: The international career of an Amazonian narcotic.


Web link: www.scopus.com/inward/re...

Pages: 544 - 558

Abstract

In the western periphery of Amazonia a sort of hallucinogenic tea is made out of a forest liana (Banisteriopsis caapi), either alone or in combination with various other plants. Shamans have used this psychedelic brew to have visions, to help meeting with spirits and to heal the ill for centuries. The drug and the related rites at the beginning of the 20th century became well-known in Mestizo communities as well, and churches were established which combine the consumption of ayahuasca with Christian and African elements. They believe in a harmonic coexistence of people and nature, which is aided by the benevolent psychic effects of the drug. In the 1960s it was used in north-America and Europe as well, and since then it has become widespread internationally. Amazonia has become a destination of spiritual tourism, where one may take part in rituals led by the local shamans, who may provide their services of rite and beverage abroad as well. The users of ayahuasca report of intensive emotional experiences, self-awareness and spiritual development. Medical and psychological investigations are being conducted in order to verify the benevolent effects of the drug and its possible adaptation to cure dependencies. The paper ends with a presentation of the emergence of the subject matter on Hungarian websites and with an analysis of Hungarian personal experience narratives about the impact of ayahuasca.