HOLISTIC MEDICINE

This may be due to the effects of ayahuasca on the neurological system. A study in 57 people demonstrated that depression and stress were significantly decreased after the ayahuasca ceremony and these changes persisted for 4 weeks. Likewise, convergent thinking improved post-ayahuasca ceremony until the 4 weeks follow-up. Satisfaction with life and several aspects of mindfulness increased the day after the ceremony, and where present 4 weeks later. Changes in affect, satisfaction with life, and mindfulness were significantly correlated to the level of ego dissolution experienced during the ayahuasca ceremony. Participants reported the spiritual experience induced by the substance reduced or completely eliminated their fear of death.

While ayahuasca has been used as a healing agent in traditional rituals for thousands of years, it wasn’t until western science studied the substance and addiction treatment trials were initiated. World renowned addiction expert and western-trained psychotherapist Gabor Mate believes that addiction is a direct result of coping mechanisms developed in early childhood to deal with stress, abuse, or trauma. He believes in the power of ayahuasca as a treatment for the underlying psychological distress experienced by people facing addiction.

“No matter what a person is addicted to—whether it’s eating, shopping, sex, drugs— each addicted person harbors a deep pain, which they may or may not be in touch with. The plant removes the self-created barriers to get in touch with the source of that pain, so you realize what you’ve been running from all of your life.” –Gabor Maté

Ayahuasca is a brew made from the leaves of the Psychotria Viridis shrub along with the stalks of the Banisteriopsis Caapi vine. Psychotria Viridis contains dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a psychedelic substance that occurs naturally in the plant. When combined, people who have taken Ayahuasca report having mystical experiences and spiritual revelations regarding their purpose on earth, the true nature of the universe, and deep insight into their “higher self.” This is viewed by many as a spiritual awakening and what is often described as a near death experience or rebirth. It is often reported that individuals feel they gain access to higher spiritual dimensions and make a deep connection with the universe. However, every experience is completely unique to the individual. It is a very mystical experience that may take you on trip within. The plant will show you exactly what you need to see, and you will feel exactly what you need to, therefore every experience is perfect as it is.

During this state, he pondered a fundamental question: If our higher consciousness has already provided everything necessary for our well-being, and certain regions of the world possess sacred plants as their solution, what equivalent plants exist in our own part of the world? The answer unveiled itself as Tepezcohuite. Samadhi incorporates extracts of Syrian Rue as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, and Tepezcohuite root as the source of DMT. Samadhi serves as a sacred tool, reminding us of our true nature and what we have forgotten. It beckons us to return to a way of living rooted in consciousness rather than the fragmented beliefs of our minds, which create separation and division. Samadhi was born as a pure tool, untouched by beliefs, rituals, or dogmas of any kind. Participants may employ it as a means for self-awareness and liberation, with the understanding that it was they themselves who drifted into slumber and now seek awakening through these sacred tools. Samadhi is designed to facilitate an elevated state of consciousness, wherein participants recognize their unity with life, existence, and gradually comprehend that all things are sacred, divine, and ultimately rooted in love. The only necessary release is the beliefs through which we interpret and judge life itself, which are the source of our suffering and the illusion of separation.

It is essential to note that consciousness does not stem from the past, ancestral customs, or religious practices. Consciousness is a state of presence and recognition of existence that can be attained through the purposeful use of these powerful tools—to remember our true essence. To become conscious is to acknowledge our oneness with existence in the here and now, understanding that all forms of being have emerged from this existence and are equally valid. From this communion with eternal-present-life, participants realize that everything perceived is pure existence, continuously creating, recreating, and sustaining itself moment by moment. Existence does not originate from the past nor move towards the future. This profound understanding leads to the process of respecting all existing forms. Upon this realization, participants experience deep peace as their minds begin to recognize the truth. The mind ceases to compare, judge, and strive to be right, returning to a state of conscious living. The only reality that exists is the present moment, where life unfolds flawlessly. Beliefs about this or that are merely beliefs and not absolute truth.

Individuals who have experienced Bufo often describe a profound sense of unity with the universe and a feeling of rebirth. Some express a merging with God or a deep connection to a divine source. Others encounter vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and an overwhelming sense of interconnectedness with the cosmos and all living beings. The encounter with the divine source is often described as a blissful, transcendent experience where the ego and mind dissolve, paving the way for a boundless journey of pure consciousness. The intensity of this experience is difficult to convey in words, but it entails an ego death, which is the essence of the beauty found within the Bufo experience. Bufo has the ability to silence the ego, allowing suppressed aspects of one’s being to resurface. Certain groups, such as African Americans and Jews, may encounter ancestral traumas like slavery or the Holocaust during their journeys. Trauma can impact multiple generations, and its imprints can become evident in these experiences.

Scientific research exploring the therapeutic benefits of Bufo venom inhalation is limited; however, one study has shown promising results in the treatment of depression and anxiety. The study involved over 350 individuals who had participated in Bufo group sessions, and it revealed significant improvements in depression and anxiety symptoms. Approximately 80% of participants with depression reported symptom improvement, while 79% of those with anxiety experienced positive changes after the session.
It is important to note that the use of Bufo should be approached with caution and under the guidance of experienced practitioners, as its potent effects require responsible and informed usage.