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Ayahuasca as a Healing Tool Along the Continuum of Recovery from Eating Disorders


Web link: doi.org/10.1007/9...

Pages: 189 - 208

Abstract

Eating disorders (EDs) are associated with a wide array of comorbid psychological symptoms and conditions. They can have a serious impact on quality of life, as well as contributing to high morbidity and premature mortality. EDs are also among the most challenging mental disorders to treat, and long-term outcome studies show high rates of relapse. For these reasons, new treatments must be explored. This chapter will explore the potential for ayahuasca as a healing tool for EDs via qualitative study of the experiences of participants with both a history of an ED and ceremonial ayahuasca use in various contexts. Positive outcomes will be presented through a biopsychosocial-spiritual lens, as will data from a subset of participants who also engaged in conventional ED treatment in North America. Perceived risks associated with ayahuasca-assisted therapy and recommendations for the integration of ayahuasca in a Western context will also be presented.