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Effects of ayahuasca on gratitude and relationships with nature: An open-label, naturalistic study


Web link: osf.io/t32qp...

Abstract

Ayahuasca is a psychedelic brew that has been the focus of an increasing number of investigations for its potential therapeutic effects. In addition to psychiatric improvements, qualitative studies and anecdotal reports suggest that ayahuasca use may influence gratitude and relationships with nature. Yet, to date, these specific changes have been understudied. Here, participants (N = 54) completed surveys one-week before, one-week after, and one-month after attending an ayahuasca retreat center. There was a significant increase in gratitude, nature relatedness, and nature appreciation at the one-week and one-month follow-ups compared to baseline. Ratings of mystical-type experiences and awe, but not ego dissolution, were weakly-tomoderately correlated with increases in gratitude, nature relatedness, and nature appreciation. Although further research is needed to address study limitations, our results support that mystical-type experiences and awe occasioned by ayahuasca can be followed by changes in personality that are beneficial to mental health as well as prosocial.