Naropa Psychedelic Journal Club Talk

In this video, ND/MSRc student ‪@paytonfollestad5808‬ explores a 2024 systematic literature review by Sheth et al., examining how ayahuasca, the traditional Amazonian brew, is being studied as a potential therapeutic tool for modern mental‑health disorders. , we break down the biochemical mechanisms, psychological effects, and cultural context that shape ayahuasca’s emerging role in psychiatry.

Across 43 studies published between 2017 and 2023, the authors highlight several key themes.

I. Biochemical synergy
Ayahuasca combines DMT with β‑carbolines.
These work together to:
Modulate brain activity.
↑ neuroplasticity,.
Prolong DMT’s effects.

II. Rapid, lasting improvements
Evidence suggests that even a single dose may reduce symptoms of:
Treatment‑resistant depression.
Anxiety.
Eating disorders.
Substance‑use disorders.

III. Trauma processing & addiction recovery
Many studies emphasize the importance of:
(A) The “mystical experience.”
(B) Ritual setting.
Appear to help individuals:
(A) Reprocess trauma.
(B) Shift maladaptive patterns.

IV. Holistic well‑being
Participants frequently report improvements in:
(A) Mood.
(B) Emotional clarity.
(C) Overall life satisfaction.

V. Why Ritual and Context Matter
The review stresses that ayahuasca’s therapeutic potential is not just biochemical. Its effects are shaped by:
Guided ceremony.
Cultural traditions.
Shamanic interpretation.
Participant mindset and expectations.

These elements appear to amplify psychological insight and emotional release, making the experience difficult to replicate in purely clinical settings.

VI. Limitations & Future Directions
The authors note several challenges:
Heavy reliance on self‑report and survey‑based data.
Lack of standardized dosing or controlled clinical protocols.
Variability in ritual settings and participant backgrounds.
More rigorous, controlled trials are needed to determine safety, efficacy, and best practices.

V. Why This Matters
Ayahuasca research is pushing psychiatry toward a more holistic, culturally respectful, and experience‑based model of healing — one that integrates neurobiology, psychology, and traditional knowledge.

VI. Citation
Sheth, R., Parikh, E., Olayeye, K., Pfeifer, K., & Khanna, D. (2024). The Effects of Ayahuasca on Psychological Disorders: A Systematic Literature Review. Cureus, 16*(3), e55574. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.55574.

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