One of the main reasons many people seek Ayahuasca therapy is because Ayahuasca can improve psychological well-being. Research has shown that taking Ayahuasca can increase the awareness capacity of your brain and improve your overall psychological well-being. Could look at this study of 20 people showed that taking Ayahuasca once a week for 4 weeks was as effective as an 8-week mindfulness program in increasing acceptance – a component of mindfulness that recreates a total role in psychological healthiness.
Other studies have found similar results, noting that Ayahuasca can improve attention, mood, and emotional regulation. A study of 57 people showed that depression and stress ratings decreased significantly immediately after participants took Ayahuasca. This effect was still significant 4 weeks after the consumption of Ayahuasca. They are mostly associated with DMT and -carbolin in Ayahuasca. Ayahuasca can help treat addiction, anxiety, treatment-resistant depression, and PTSD. A study in 29 people with treatment-resistant depression showed that a single dose of Ayahuasca caused a significant increase in the severity of depression compared to a placebo. Another study reported a rapid antidepressant effect of Ayahuasca as well.
Additionally, a review of six studies concluded that Ayahuasca exhibits beneficial effects in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and drug dependence. In one study, 12 people with severe psychological and behavioral problems related to substance abuse participated in a 4-day treatment program that included 2 Ayahuasca ceremonies.
At a 6-month follow-up, they showed significant improvements in awareness, hope, empowerment, and overall quality of life. Plus, self-reported use of tobacco, cocaine, and alcohol decreased significantly. Researchers hypothesize that Ayahuasca may help those with PTSD as well, although more research in this area is needed. According to current research, Ayahuasca may protect brain cells and stimulate nerve cell growth. It can also improve mood, increase awareness, and treat depression and addiction disorders, although more research is needed to confirm these effects.