Medical Guidance
Ayahuasca Medical Guidance
Ayahuasca medical guidance is very necessary when planning to attend a retreat. plant medicine can induces profound psychological and physiological effects. Because it contains both DMT (a potent psychedelic) and MAOIs (Harmine/Harmaline), it poses significant risks if combined with certain medical conditions or substances.
Critical Medical Guidance
Individuals with the following conditions are generally advised to avoid Ayahuasca due to the risk of life-threatening complications:
Cardiovascular Issues: Severe heart disease, chronic high blood pressure (hypertension), or a history of stroke or aneurysms. Ayahuasca significantly increases heart rate and blood pressure.
Psychiatric Disorders: History of Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder (Type I or II), or Borderline Personality Disorder. The brew can trigger prolonged manic episodes or psychosis.
Liver or Kidney Disease: Impaired organ function can prevent the body from safely metabolizing the brew’s alkaloids.
Neurological Conditions: Epilepsy or a history of seizures, as the brew may lower the seizure threshold.
Common drugs to stay away from when preparing for ayahuasca
Combining ayahuasca with other substances can lead to Serotonin Syndrome a potentially dangerous condition caused by an excess of serotonin in the nervous system.Examples of such drugs include;
Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Effexor: You need 4–6 weeks (with doctor supervision)
Marplan, Nardil, Eldepryl: You need 4 weeks doctor’s supervision
Xanax, Ativan, Valium, Sleeping pills: you need 2 weeks doctor’s supervision
Adderall, Ritalin, Cocaine, MDMA: you need 2 weeks doctor’s supervision
Cough suppressants (DXM), Decongestants: you need 1 week doctor’s supervision
The Substance category varies from; SSRIs / SNRIs, MAOIs, CNS Depressants, Stimulants, OTCs
Ayahuasca dietary preparation
Traditional and clinical guidelines recommend a specific diet to reduce physical strain and avoid tyramine-related headaches.
Things to avoid a week before retreat:
Fermented/Aged Foods: Aged cheeses, soy sauce, miso, and sauerkraut (high in tyramine), Processed Meats,.
Substances like: Alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, and cannabis.
What can I take when preparing for ayahuasca ceremony?
Fresh fruits and vegetables (low-acid).
Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, oats).Lean proteins (organic chicken or eggs).Plenty of water for hydration
Medication Policy
It is mandatory to disclose all medications you have taken in the past year. Certain medications and supplements can interact dangerously with ayahuasca, and must need to be discontinued for a specific period beforehand. Always consult your doctor before stopping any medication.