This page will explain the effects of DMT, which is the most important active ingredient in Ayahuasca, from a scientific perspective. Ayahuasca is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for ritual and medicinal purposes by the indigenous peoples of the Amazon for centuries. Recently, it has attracted considerable attention in modern science. First, we will look at the molecular structure of DMT, then show how DMT accumulates, and finally, how it is broken down within the human body. We will also describe the pharmacodynamics, i.e. the effect of DMT within the human organism.
The “consciousness molecule”
DMT, also referred to as the “consciousness molecule,” is short for N,N-dimethyltryptamine. It is a first-order hallucinogenic molecule that has been found in plants, animals including the human body. Taking DMT can cause intense hallucinations, which can be both visual and auditory. These experiences are often so profound that people describe them as life-changing events. DMT is of particular interest in science because it could provide insights into the mechanisms of human consciousness.
The tryptamine
DMT is a tryptamine characterized by the addition of two methyl groups. In organic chemistry, the simple arrangement of atoms is called a methyl group. Atoms are the building blocks for all substances and together they form a molecule. Tryptamines are biochemical metabolites found in a variety of living things, including plants and humans. The class of tryptamine compounds with two methyl groups is particularly known for their psychoactive properties. These can also be found in other drugs such as psilocybin, an active ingredient in “magic” mushrooms. However, DMT is unique in that it has the simplest chemical structure known among psychedelic substances, despite it being a particularly small molecule.
The molecule
The molecular structure of DMT is very similar to the body’s own substances serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin, also known as the “happy hormone,” is a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood, sleep, and cognition. Neurotransmitters are the messenger substances in our nervous system. The body’s own hormone melatonin, on the other hand, controls the sleep-wake rhythm. This structural similarity allows DMT to function as a neurotransmitter in the brain and exert profound effects on human consciousness.
DMT molecule
Serotonin molecule
The neurotransmitter
DMT acts as a neurotransmitter, showing that our body has a natural interest in its function. It is synthesized, stored and can penetrate various barriers in the human body, indicating complex biochemical regulation. DMT’s role as a neurotransmitter may help explain its effect on consciousness and emotional experience. In addition, it is believed that DMT can fundamentally alter people’s perception and sensation through its interaction with serotonin receptors in the brain.
Pharmacodynamics
DMT has both agonistic and antagonistic effects on various serotonin receptor types. Receptors are cells or certain cell components that respond to stimuli and can transmit signals by binding molecules to them. These properties may be the basis for the psychotherapeutic benefits of DMT, which is being researched in the treatment of depression and other mental illnesses. From a scientific perspective, research into DMT has the potential to open up new therapeutic options for people who do not respond to conventional medications or treatment methods.
DMT in humans
DMT has been detected in the urine, blood, brain and lungs of people. There are scientific theories that DMT may play a role in natural altered states of consciousness, such as those that occur during dreams, meditation, or near-death experiences. DMT could therefore function as a neurotransmitter in sensory perception. Taking Ayahuasca, a drink containing DMT, is viewed by shamans as a spiritual journey where people can experience profound insight and healing. These ceremonies have an established place in traditional medicine and are now increasingly being researched as potential therapeutic interventions.
The accumulation of DMT
DMT is produced in the peripheral tissues of the human body, particularly in areas outside the central nervous system. These peripheral structures are responsible for storing and transporting DMT before it enters the central nervous system. There it can work through a three-stage mechanism:
- Transport across the blood-brain barrier: DMT is actively transported across the blood-brain barrier, an organic barrier that regulates the exchange of substances between the bloodstream and the central nervous system and protects the cerebrospinal fluid from harmful substances.
- Absorption into the nerve cells: With the help of the “Serotonin Uptake Transporter”, DMT is absorbed into the nerve cells. This transporter is a protein that allows DMT to be absorbed into the cell. This is because it is a serotonin transporter that can cross cell membranes.
- Storage in synaptic vesicles: DMT is eventually packaged into synaptic vesicles where it can be stored for up to a week. Synaptic vesicles are small sacs at the ends of nerve cells that contain neurotransmitters.
These complex processes demonstrate that DMT may serve an essential function in the human body that goes beyond its psychedelic benefits. Because a three-stage mechanism means a lot of effort for our body. The high priority the body gives to this molecule suggests a deeper meaning or vital function that has not yet been fully understood.
The elimination of DMT
DMT is primarily broken down by the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO). This breakdown process takes place in the liver and gastrointestinal tract, which explains why DMT has no effect when taken orally without the simultaneous use of an MAO inhibitor. However, in combination with MAO inhibitors, such as those found in Ayahuasca, DMT can be taken orally and develop its hallucinogenic effects.
Pharmacodynamics – How does DMT work?
DMT works by binding to various receptors in the brain, resulting in the release of neurotransmitters and increasing neuronal plasticity. This means that the brain can create new connections between nerve cells, which may be the reason for the profound consciousness expansions and therapeutic effects associated with DMT.
The serotonin receptor
DMT acts as an agonist at the serotonin 2A receptor, which increases the activity of pyramidal cells in the prefrontal cortex. This area of the brain is responsible for complex cognitive functions such as decision-making and sensory processing. Stimulation of these receptors can result in intense hallucinations and altered states of consciousness characteristic of Ayahuasca ceremonies.
The sigma-1 receptor
DMT also interacts with the sigma-1 receptor, a protein that plays an important role in the regulation of neuroprotective and neuroplastic processes. This receptor is found in various organs, including the central nervous system, liver, heart and lungs. Activation of the sigma-1 receptor by DMT could have a protective function for nerve cells and is currently being investigated as a possible therapeutic target for the treatment of neurological diseases. Because this receptor plays an important role in addictions or depression.
The “Default Mode Network”
Neuroscientific evidence shows that DMT reduces the activity of the default mode network (DMN) in the brain. The DMN is responsible for self-awareness and mental review. Decreased activity in this network can lead to a feeling of unification and connection with the universe, which is described in many reports of Ayahuasca experiences. These experiences can cause profound psychological and emotional changes in people who take Ayahuasca.
Other areas of the brain have more energy and more opportunities to communicate with each other due to the reduced activity of the DMN. Neuroplasticity increases, which can lead to certain effects such as synesthesia.
Combining the knowledge of indigenous shamans with modern science
Scientific research into DMT and its role in the human body is still in its infancy, but the findings so far are promising. DMT has the potential to not only be used as a psychedelic drug, but as a valuable therapeutic agent. By combining the knowledge of indigenous shamans with modern science, we can gain new insights into human consciousness and its hidden potential. Ayahuasca and DMT offer an exciting interface between tradition and science that deserves further research.
FAQ
Here you will find all the answers to the questions we receive most frequently.
What does Ayahuasca do and what effect does it have on the brain?
Ayahuasca unfolds a profound change of consciousness in your mindset and has an effect on your brain that helps you to recognize and overcome old or toxic habits. The medicine strengthens your emotional and self-reflective perception and gives you a deep inner knowing. The effect of the Ayahuasca plant sets in after 30 to 40 minutes. The peak – the spiritual climax, so to speak – of an Ayahuasca experience is usually reached after 90 to 120 minutes. The duration of the effect is around 4 hours, but can also last up to 12 hours.
Ayahuasca cleanses you both physically and mentally. You will meet yourself in the process. The Ayahuasca ceremony shows you all your sides, including the unpleasant aspects. It is a self-critical encounter in which you can feel a deep respect for life and nature. The harmony of nature around you will probably also be part of your experience. In the Ayahuasca ceremonies during your retreat, the medicine will help you to strengthen your own emotional health and mental clarity. Each process is a highly individual matter. During your personal Ayahuasca experience you can experience many things – from insights, shattering experiences, inner wars, rebirths, near-death experiences, enlightenments, to unbearable bliss. You can find, meet and strengthen yourself. Some of your realizations may also appear after the Ayahuasca ceremony. The after-effects of the medicine are different for each person, and it is possible that you will deepen and internalize your Ayahuasca experience even more in the days following the ceremony.
Is Ayahuasca dangerous or deadly?
The sole intake of Ayahuasca medicine has no lethal effect on an organism. Only the interaction of Ayahuasca with other drugs, medication or illnesses can be dangerous. This is because Ayahuasca tea contains the body’s own active ingredient dimethyltryptamine (DMT) as well as Mao inhibitors. In combination with other drugs or medication (e.g. antidepressants), the monoamine oxidase-inhibiting effect of Ayahuasca poses a danger to life. The enzyme complex monoaminooxidase actually ensures that substances such as DMT are broken down quickly in the body before they cross the blood-brain barrier. This enzyme complex must therefore be inhibited during a retreat so that Ayahuasca can actually have an intensive effect on the brain.
If you need to take medication, please consult your doctor before an Ayahuasca ceremony. This also applies if you suffer from an increased heart rate or high blood pressure.
To prepare for your Ayahuasca ceremony, we recommend that you do not take any medication two weeks prior to your ceremony. Then, nothing will stand in the way of your Ayahuasca experience.
By the way, birth control pills have no effect on drinking Ayahuasca or vice versa. However, you should make sure to take them early enough before the ceremony so that your body can fully absorb the active ingredient and you are still protected against pregnancy.
What happens when you drink Ayahuasca and what are the side effects?
Immediately after drinking the bitter Ayahuasca tea, you may experience side effects such as diarrhea, discomfort, nausea and vomiting. Ayahuasca then triggers massive visions and puts you into a mind-expanding state of trance for several hours – the so-called chuma. The effects of Ayahuasca range from mild visions to powerful out-of-body experiences. These insights bring about a profound healing of your body from the inside out. The visions are usually followed by other feelings (e.g. the feeling of flying or being behind your own ego). However, it is also possible that you will not receive any visions on your Ayahuasca journey. Sooner or later, everyone experiences emotional highs and lows during an Ayahuasca ceremony. Long forgotten memories can resurface and you will meet your innermost self. Ayahuasca not only changes your consciousness during the ceremony, but also has a lasting effect on your thoughts. The effects of such an experience can appear months after your ceremony.