

Does Ayahuasca Cause Addiction?

Ayahuasca and its effects have not been studied extensively enough to know whether or not it causes addiction. However, this does not mean the drug is safe to use. If you have been abusing ayahuasca in large doses and want to put an end to it, call 800-592-1193 to find rehab programs that will cater to your needs.

The Effects of Ayahuasca

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Ayahuasca is a tea made from one of several Amazonian plants containing dimethyltryptamine (DMT), the primary mind-altering ingredient” in the drug. Its short-term effects include:

  • An increase in blood pressure
  • Severe vomiting
  • A profoundly altered state of awareness
  • Perceptions of ethereal or mystical images

While the drug is known to cause some very intense short-term side effects, “there is little information to suggest that ayahuasca use creates lasting physiological or neurological deficits” (NIDA). Despite this, dangerous results could still occur if someone abuses the drug often enough.

Most people who drink ayahuasca as a tea do it rarely and for religious purposes, but there is still a possibility that this infrequent use could lead to severe side effects.


Ayahuasca has been said to cause perceptions of mystical images.

Any time someone uses a substance that causes intense hallucinogenic and psychological effects, it is possible that the individual may hurt themselves or someone else in their altered state.

Accidental deaths are incredibly common among the use of LSD and other hallucinogenic drugs, and it is important not to rule out this possibility in someone who uses ayahuasca. But can you get addicted to the drug?

Ayahuasca and the Potential for Addiction

Generally, it is unlikely that the substance would cause addiction. This is partially because it acts more similarly to hallucinogens like LSD, peyote, and psychedelic mushrooms, which are not addictive, than to those hallucinogens that can be habit-forming.

However, while you may not be concerned about the possibility of ayahuasca addiction, dangerous issues can still occur from using the drug, many of which are highlighted above.

Do I Need Treatment for Ayahuasca Abuse?

If you feel that you require help either quitting or coping with the effects of your ayahuasca use, it is important to seek professional help. If you are unsure as to whether or not you require this type of treatment, remember that any time you abuse a hallucinogen, you are putting yourself in considerable danger.

Ayahuasca, though currently popular and therefore considered to be unproblematic by many, has a number of the same effects associated with Schedule I substances like LSD and psychedelic mushrooms.

Treatment may be necessary to ensure that you do not suffer from any unresolved issues associated with your past ayahuasca abuse.

Call Now to Find Safe, Reliable Treatment

We will help you find a rehab program that you can count on and that will cater to your needs as a patient and an individual. Recovering from substance abuse can be difficult, but we strive to ensure that every individual is able to find the right program for their needs. Call 800-592-1193 now.

Which Hallucinogens are Addictive?

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This