If you haven’t read the latest Marie Claire article on Ayahuasca (Jan/Feb), you need to. This so-called “spiritual” drug is dangerous and under-researched.
Ayahuasca isn’t new—it has been used for centuries in South America—but it remains largely unregulated. Its main active ingredient, DMT, is a hallucinogen, and while the brew itself isn’t fully classified as a drug, experts warn it is highly addictive and mind-altering.
Professor Mario, a nuclear physician from South America, has observed its effects firsthand. He describes disturbing retreats where participants lie on mattresses for hours, vomiting, moaning, and confronting intense psychological experiences. Some users have even died during these ceremonies.
The drug is often promoted as a cure for depression or bipolar symptoms. But the reality is harsh: it can cause long-term mental confusion, loss of reasoning, or delusions—some users have even believed they were God.
Even more concerning, reports suggest teenagers as young as 10–15 are being allowed to attend Ayahuasca sessions in Pretoria. There is no regulation, no quality control, and no guarantee of safety, with some disturbing incidents of attempted abuse reported at these retreats.
There are safer alternatives. Natural methods to support your mind and body—like therapy, family counseling, holistic cleansing, or meditation—are effective without the risks of addiction or mental harm.
Ayahuasca is also expensive: a weekend retreat with multiple ceremonies can cost around R6000. And according to Prof. Mario, despite all the hype, it is simply another dangerous drug.
Before experimenting, research thoroughly. Protect your mind, your health, and your family.
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