Ayahuasca has recently become one of the more popular hallucinogens, used for its ability to cause prolonged hallucinations and spiritual experiences. But ayahuasca abuse can be dangerous. If you have been using hallucinogenic drugs regularly and require treatment, call 800-411-9312 (Who Answers?) now to find a rehab program that will cater to your needs.

The Effects of Ayahuasca

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “Ayahusasca is a tea made from one of several Amazonian plants containing dimethyltryptamine (DMT), the primary mind-altering ingredient” in the drug. It causes severe and long-lasting hallucinations, and many individuals report having spiritual or mind-altering experiences. For this reason, it is often brewed into a tea and used in religious ceremonies.

The main effects of ayahuasca use include:

• Intense hallucinations
• Profuse sweating
• Increased blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature
• Tremors
• Agitation
• Dizziness
• Vomiting

Profuse sweating and dizziness are common side effects of ayahuasca.

In most cases, the vomiting caused by ayahuasca abuse is extremely severe. This is because of the way the drug affects people when it has been brewed into a tea. In general, though, people do not believe the drug to be dangerous. This is actually untrue.

The Dangers of Ayahuasca

Ayahuasca can be dangerous, especially the more its abused, but even one use of the substance can be problematic. Like all hallucinogens, the strongly altered perception and state of mind experienced by the user can create severe effects. As stated by the Center for Substance Abuse Research, “The frightening and disorienting effects of a bad trip are know to result in violent or hazardous behavior, leading to accidental fatalities, homicides, self-mutilation, or suicide.”

It is always possible for a hallucinogenic drug to cause a bad reaction in someone, but even someone under positive influences could become confused and wind up hurting themselves. This is one of the biggest risks associated with hallucinogenic abuse.

In addition, there is much we do not know about ayahuasca. For example, its long-term effects are completely unknown, and there is not enough research on the subject to ensure that the drug will not cause addiction like some other hallucinogens (NIDA). In this sense, you could be putting yourself in danger by abusing a drug for which the side effects are not well understood.

Finally, the vomiting caused by ayahuasca is so severe, it could possibly be damaging to one’s body. Depending on how intensely you react to the tea, you could wind up needing to go to the emergency department if the effects are very bad.

Is Ayahuasca Dangerous (And Do I Need Help)?

Ayahuasca abuse could possibly be very dangerous, and you may require help if you have been abusing the drug regularly (especially in combination with other substances). To find rehab centers where you can recover from substance abuse, call 800-411-9312 (Who Answers?) now.

We will match you with the best program for your needs and help you find the right treatment plan for you. We can also answer any questions you may have on ayahuasca use and substance abuse treatment. Call today.

The Dangers of Hallucinogen Abuse