Ayahuasca and the Treatment of Drug Addiction: Evidence and Proposals - José Carlos Bouso

Ayahuasca shows significant promise as a therapeutic tool for treating drug addiction, though rigorous empirical evidence remains fragmented. Evidence suggests that long-term participation in ayahuasca-using religious groups correlates with lower rates of substance abuse and distinct positive personality shifts. These shifts include lowered harm avoidance and higher self-transcendence, which may facilitate lasting behavioral change. Future research requires well-designed clinical protocols that integrate adequate control groups and standardized outcome measures such as the Temperament and Character Inventory. Moving beyond anecdotal reports is essential to validate these initial findings regarding the efficacy of ayahuasca in addressing dependencies safely and effectively.