Ayahuasca microdose (caapi only)

In the West the Ayahuasca brew is known as the result of mixing and boiling the ayahuasca vine (banisteriosis caapi) with the leaves of the chacruna shrub plant (psychotropia viridis). Many vegetalists consider that it is the liana that contains the spirit or mastery of medicine and the chacruna is used to “paint” the visions. Therefore, in the different versions of the brew the chacruna can be replaced by other plants such as chapilonga, but the ayahuasca vine always remains.

Benefits, uses and precautions

Below we explain the main benefits and uses, as well as the precautions to take when microdosing B. caapi.

There are three main alkaloids in the ayahuasca liana, known as the “harmala alkaloids”: they are harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine. Before these alkaloids were named, ayahuasca gained popularity in traditional communities for helping the user develop telepathic powers, and harmine was originally referred to as “telepatina.”

These alkaloids are “reversible monoamine oxidase inhibitors,” meaning they inhibit enzymes that normally break down DMT in the brain. By combining the liana with another DMT-containing plant such as chacruna, this causes DMT to remain intact longer in the central nervous system, allowing the classic visionary and psychoactive experience of the ayahuasca concoction.

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) enzymes metabolize monoamine neurotransmitters such as serotonin, noradrenaline, and dopamine. There are two main isoforms of MAO: MAO-A and MAO-B, with MAO-A responsible for metabolizing serotonin. Prescription medications that are reversible MAO-A inhibitors (RIMAs) are used to treat anxiety and depression. The β-carbolines of B. caapi (harmaline, harmine, tetrahydroharmine) are also RIMA and thus prevent serotonin degradation.

Microdoses of ayahuasca for depression

While there has been promising evidence of the safety and efficacy of macrodosing ayahuasca for treating depression, there are still no clinical trials on the risks and benefits of microdosing ayahuasca (Palhano-Fontes et al., 2019).

Numerous testimonies have been reported collected in internet forums and by ourselves of people who have carried out microdosing processes with ayahuasca. Among the most common results are:

1. Improved mood
2. Greater emotional connection with other people
3. Increased mental clarity and concentration
4. Increased energy and physical performance
5. Improved sleep

Neurogenesis

An in vitro study has shown that B. caapi is able to stimulate neurogenesis (1). Neurogenesis refers to neuronal growth and development, and studies relate this phenomenon to effective treatments for depression and anxiety.

We also know that the monoamine oxidase inhibitors present in B. caapi allow the neurotransmitters norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine to stay in the brain longer, which can lead to feelings of well-being, calmness and even euphoria.

Microdose of ayahuasca as a spiritual practice

Although the effects of microdosing B. caapi are extremely subtle compared to those of a full dose of ayahuasca, the messages can still be profound and powerful. After all, the brain has been shown to potentially produce DMT endogenously, so it’s possible that microdosing with liana helps increase vividness and clarity of dreams, or even produce light visions in meditation. Creating a sacred ritual around the intake of the drops can help maintain that connection with the spirit of the liana.

These medicines have been used traditionally for thousands of years, and it is important to approach them with a high level of respect. Make sure you get B. caapi from a source that respects the eco-sustainability of the crop and creates a positive impact on the towns or localities from which it is extracted.

Are there health risks associated with the consumption of ayahuasca microdoses?

While there is currently no clinical evidence for daily dosing of B. caapi β-carbolines, the risks of serotonin toxicity are extremely rare (Isbister et al., 2003). However, to minimize the risks, caapi microdoses should not be combined with any antidepressant psychoactive drug such as SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics or lithium. In any case, before consuming the microdose, we recommend starting a process of professional coaching or our introductory group course to microdose.

• Consult a medical professional first if you have a psychiatric disorder.
• Not suitable for children under 18 years of age.
• Not suitable for pregnant or lactating women

Composition and preparation

Composition: Liana Banisteriosis Yellow Caapi and Water. The product has a concentration of 2 kg dry liana caapi for every 1 liter of final preparation. Caapi is a jungle vine that grows mainly in the Amazon. It has been used for different purposes for centuries by the indigenous people of the Amazon.

The ayahuasca liana has been cooked in the traditional way for several days, obtaining a careful and handmade product.
They come from indigenous communities in Ecuador, where they are extracted in a sustainable way (we only use cultivated lianas), generating a positive impact on local communities.

How much is a microdose?

Usually a microdose usually represents 10% of a normal dose. With microdosing, it is common to start with a small dose and gradually adjust it as you experience its effects. We recommend taking our introductory course to microdosing to effectively carry out the calibration process that best suits you.

Disclaimer

Our products are not certified by the FDA for human consumption. Our products are not sold or intended for human consumption. The information provided about plants is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be used medically. Wisdom of plants Institute, its suppliers, agents, employees and distributors are not responsible for the misuse of the products offered.

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