EVALUATION OF THE THERAPEUTIC NEUROTOXIC EFFECTS OF THE USE OF AYAHUASCA BY DEPRESSIVE PATIENTS

Abstract

Ayahuasca is a tea used in original indigenous rituals with the aim of expanding the mind and consciousness. Some studies have pointed to Ayahuasca as a potent antidepressant with reduced side effects when compared to other conventional synthetic allopathic treatments. Over the years, tea has come to be known by both the popular community and the scientific community. The species used are Psychotria viridis and Banisteriopsis caapi, the leaves of Psychotria viridis have around 0.1% to 0.6% DMT. Psychotria viridis alkaloid, when ingested through Ayahuasca, exerts an agonist effect on 5-HT2A receptors in the brain, while Banisteriopsis caapi has a high concentration of β-carboline alkaloids such as Harmine, Harmaline and tetrahydroarmine, responsible for inhibiting monoamine oxidase (MAO), however, as well as the difficulties encountered in studies associated with the therapeutic benefits of the Cannabis sativa plant, especially in the face of traditional conservative movements, there are also few studies that indicate or position themselves on the neurotoxic and therapeutic potential, especially when used as possible treatments for the depression. Therefore, new natural therapies, including Ayahuasca, should be investigated for their toxic and therapeutic potential so that, as soon as safe parameters are identified, they can serve society, especially for depressive patients.