Ayahuasca, A Full Guide: History, What it Is, Benefits, and How Long it Lasts

~ Gerard Powell

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Introduction

The indigenous peoples living in the extended Amazonian area, including parts of Brazil, Costa Rica, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, have used this plant medicine for thousands of years. In contemporary times, many have discovered the Ayahuasca ceremony and have enjoyed the benefits of life-changing transformations.

The best practices for use are when plant medicine is experienced under properly supervised ceremonial treatment procedures that produce proven positive results for most people.

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What is Ayahuasca?

This traditional plant medicine is used in spiritual and religious ceremonies to open the doors of perception and experience an altered state of consciousness.

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What is Ayahuasca made of?

The preparation is a brew of medicinal plants that has psychoactive properties, which include the Banisteriopsis vine that has monoamine oxidase (MAO)inhibitors and leaves from the Psychotria Viridis plant that contain Dimethyltryptamine (DMT).

Monoamine oxidase (MAO)inhibitors - These block the actions of enzymes that break down the brain chemicals used for brain communication called neurotransmitters, specifically serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. When the levels of these neurotransmitters increase, one benefit is an elevated "happier" mood, and that can help in the treatment of depression. One common experience of Ayahuasca is hysterical laughter from the boost of these neurotransmitters.

Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) - is a hallucinogen that causes a person to feel a euphoric "high" and experience highly sensual visions that are an alternative reality.

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How long does Ayahuasca last?

The effects last from two to six hours . After the brew is prepared and you can take it, you will feel the effects begin about 20 minutes later and then increase to its peak after an hour. You will experience the full sensation for about two hours, and then the sensation begins to slowly reduce until you are back to "normal" after four hours and up to eight hours.

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Is Ayahuasca legal?

In some countries, the cultivation, possession, use, transport, and sale of this plant medicine is entirely legal. These countries include Costa Rica, Brazil, Mexico, and Peru. In some countries, such as Spain , it is controlled and its use is restricted to specific pharmaceutical processes, and sale to the public is illegal.

In the United States, it is illegal, except for use for religious purposes. Its use is illegal in most of Europe and the UK.

The laws are changing, so if you want to know the current status, be sure to check with the proper authorities.

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Why Ayahuasca Matters to Me

There are many potential benefits for those undergoing the Ayahuasca experience. Everyone's experience is personal and may be slightly different.

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What is Ayahuasca used for?

Here is a list of the uses of this plant medicine and the most commonly reported positive effects.

• Cleansing - Taking Ayahuasca causes a purge. You may become nauseous and vomit up the contents of your stomach. While this may sound gross, it is a cleansing of your digestive tract and this portion of the trip passes quickly.
• Healing - Healing happens on deeper levels and may include physical as well as psychological healing.
• Reduced Anxiety - For those who suffer from high levels of anxiety, this treatment may provide welcomed relief.
• Escape from Chronic Depression - Even those who suffer from chronic depression for years may find their symptoms disappear after treatment.
• Addiction Recovery - Alcohol and drug addictions become less.
• Creativity - Artists, musicians, writers, and other creatives become inspired. Everyone feels freer to express their creativity.
• Renewed Enthusiasm for Life - Getting in touch with nature, finding meaning, and discovering your life's true purpose with gratitude are life-changing impacts.

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How to Create an Ayahuasca-Based Business

Gerard Armond, who likes to be called Gerry, started the plant medicine retreat, Rythmia Life Advancement Center, in Costa Rica. It is rated as #1 in the world for a specialty lodging facility. Understanding how the facility works and how it maintains its high standards of operations is the first step on your path while developing your ideas of an Ayahuasca-based business.

You are invited to book a stay at Rythmia and meet Gerry to learn more about the Ayahuasca experience and business opportunities.

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