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About considerations of the ayahuasca beverage and therapeutic perspectives.


Pages: 118 - 131

Abstract

The aqueous extract of a mixture of Banisteriopsis Caapi, Psychotria Viridis and Brugmansia sp., better known as "ayahuasca beverage" with purgative and psychotropic effects, constitutes the main axis of shamanism in the Amazonian region. Anthropological, psychological and phytochemical studies show that this brew can be used with beneficial results in the treatment of toxicomanias and certain mental disturbances, provided it is adequately administred. Our observations on the effects on the commonly prepared brew allow to suggest improvements is its preparation. Furthermore, we were able to withness that the effects are not onlya due to the active principles beta-carbolines, triptamines, but to the psychosomatic condition of the patient, natural sorroundings and other factors involving the therapist.