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Acute Biphasic Effects of Ayahuasca
Eduardo Ekman Schenberg1, João Felipe Morel Alexandre2, Renato Filev1
1Departamento de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
Plos One
|October 1, 2015
Summary
Ayahuasca use globally is increasing. This study found ayahuasca causes biphasic brain effects, altering alpha and gamma wave activity, linked to its compounds like DMT.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Ayahuasca, an Amazonian brew, is increasingly used worldwide in ritualistic and therapeutic contexts.
- Understanding its neurobiological effects is crucial due to its growing international popularity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pharmacological mechanisms and neural correlates of ayahuasca-induced altered states of consciousness.
- To associate brain activity changes with circulating ayahuasca compound levels.
Main Methods:
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings were used to measure brain activity.
- Quantification of ayahuasca compounds (DMT, harmine, etc.) and metabolites in blood circulation.
- Analysis of EEG data at different time points post-ingestion.
Main Results:
- Ayahuasca induced a biphasic effect on brain activity.
- Reduced alpha band power (8-13 Hz) observed around 50 minutes post-ingestion.
- Increased slow-gamma (30-50 Hz) and fast-gamma (50-100 Hz) power observed between 75-125 minutes.
- These changes were localized to specific cortical regions and correlated with circulating compound levels.
Conclusions:
- Ayahuasca significantly alters brain activity in a time-dependent manner.
- The observed neurophysiological changes are associated with the pharmacological action of ayahuasca's constituents.
- Findings provide a basis for understanding ayahuasca's potential therapeutic effects in ritualistic use.
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