Luís Fernando Tófoli: Treating Alcohol-Related Disorders with Ayahuasca

Ayahuasca is explored as a potential therapeutic intervention for alcohol-related disorders, drawing on preliminary evidence from various studies and the ICARO (Interdisciplinary Cooperation for Ayahuasca Research and Outreach) initiative. Research indicates that ritual use of ayahuasca may correspond with reduced alcohol consumption, likely mediated through neurobiological pathways involves monoamines, sigma-1 receptors, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). The presentation argues for the importance of respecting indigenous traditions while exploring clinical applications. Ethical considerations, such as biopiracy and the cultural appropriation of traditional medicine, are central to the discourse, particularly as researchers examine the potential for developing standardized pharmaceutical preparations of ayahuasca.