Ayahuasca is a psychedelic brew, usually made from banisteriopsis caapi vine and Psychotria viridis plant, that indigenous tribes in the Amazon basin have been using for centuries.
These tribes use ayahuasca in a ceremonial setting and for healing or spiritual purposes. But where is ayahuasca legal around the world?
In recent years, we have seen a flourishing of ayahuasca retreats, taking place all over the world.
Why Is Ayahuasca Illegal in Many Countries?
Many countries prohibit the sale, possession, transportation, and cultivation of ayahuasca because the psychedelic brew contains the compound DMT.
Ayahuasca involves the combination of two plants: a DMT-containing plant (such as Psychotria viridis) and a plant containing monoamine oxidase inhibitors or MAOIs.
The MAOIs make the DMT orally active. An ayahuasca preparation always involves the use of a plant containing DMT, which makes it illegal.
Ayahuasca Legality In The U.S. And Canada
After long legal battles, the Supreme Court ruled in 2006 that UDV members in the U.S. could legally use ayahuasca as a religious sacrament.
Santo Daime branches exist all over the world.
These countries include Brazil, the U.S., and Canada (specifically, Montreal and Toronto).
Where Is Ayahuasca Legal In Central And South America?
Well, one country in Central America where ayahuasca is fully legal is Costa Rica.
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