Origin
Ayahuasca is the traditional medicine for at least 75 tribes in the Amazonian region. The psychoactive drink has been used by shamans and medicine men for healing rituals since the pre-Columbian times. Although there is no concrete proof exactly where and when the Ayahuasca originates, several archeological findings indicate that this brew is used since 1500 - 2000 BC and apparently was first discovered in the western region of the Amazon basin (what is today known as Ecuador). It is still a mystery how the beverage was found by the primitive Indians and most of tribes and shamans have their own mythical tales explaining this discovery.
Effects
Ayahuasca is true powerful mind enhancing beverage. It should be treated with respect and caution. It’s not a party drug. The physical effects depends of the composition of the brew and the dose.
Usually it will start with an unpleasant nausea and vomiting which the tribes consider to be a cleansing effect to reach a purity state before meeting with the spirits. After that you enter a journey. Ayahuasqueros describe long sequences of dream-like imagery, geometrical patterns, demons, spirit helpers and tigers, birds and reptiles. Many users claim these visions appear in a spiritually significant progression. The shamans also believe in the capabilities of Ayahuasca in effectively diagnosing and treating a wide range of ailments incurred during warfare, hunting, etc. Ayahuasca also facilitates divination as an effective aphrodisiac.
Also read a very personal article from a Vice reporter: Ayahuasca Will Make You Cry, Vomit, and Feel Amazing
Consumption
The Ayahuasca brew should be taken on an empty stomach. There are different approaches to either the two elements should be taken together or if the MAO inhibitor first and the DMT 15 minutes after. Also some recipes call for cooking the plants together and others separate. There are several variations, even among the different tribes. There are also some food and beverages that should be avoided, as well as specific medication.
Also read: Toxic combinations
Ingredients
Traditionally the Ayahuasca brew consists of the combination of the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the leaves of the Psychotria viridis (or alternatively Diploterys cabrerana). This combination is the base for the beverage: one plant containing Harmaline (MAO) and the other plant containing DMT. Only through this combination of active ingredients the drink is able to produce its consciousness-expanding effects.
Recipes
Check more Ayahuasca recipes here: Ayahuasca recipes.