Ayahuasca safety &
contraindications
Ayahuasca can be intense and is therefore not suitable for everyone.
Safety is central to us. On this page you can read more about contraindications, medication, psychological vulnerability, preparation and the way we approach safety, guidance and integration during an Ayahuasca ceremony.
How we safeguard safety
Introductory call
Before participating, we schedule a personal introductory call. We discuss your motivation, expectations, background and current life situation. This helps us explore together whether participating is appropriate for you.
Health screening
Before participating, you complete an intake covering medication, mental and physical health, and previous experiences with trauma, therapy or psychedelics. Certain medications and psychological vulnerabilities are contraindications. Safety always comes first.
Small groups
We deliberately work with small groups so that there is enough space for personal attention and guidance. A safe setting requires oversight, calm and presence.
Experienced guidance
We provide continuous guidance throughout the ceremony, based on years of personal experience with ayahuasca and deep therapeutic work. This helps us support participants when difficult experiences arise. Including trauma, abandonment, birth experiences, (sexual)abuse, grief of sudden lost etc.
Aftercare and integration
Alongside the included aftercare, we offer further support:
Deepening work with Carlijn
Space to further process and explore what came up during the ceremony.
Walking sessions with Ramses
Bringing clarity and reflection to thoughts and emotions.
Read more about integration support
When participation is not possible
Certain medications, drugs and supplements
Including:
- Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs)
- Antipsychotics
- ADHD medication and amphetamines
- Sleeping medication and sedatives
- Certain medications for high blood pressure
- Opioids and strong painkillers
- Some natural supplements, such as Kanna, St. John’s Wort and Kratom
Also take care with:
- Hay fever medication
- Nasal sprays
- Cold and flu medication
- Allergy medication
- Sleep aids
- Natural supplements and herbal products
Over-the-counter medication can also carry risks when combined with ayahuasca.
Drug use can also be a contraindication, including:
- Cocaine
- MDMA/XTC
- Speed/amphetamines
- Ketamine
- LSD
- Cannabis (regular use)
- Iboga
These substances can carry risks or interfere with the effects of ayahuasca. For this reason, specific periods of abstinence apply before participation.
If you are unsure, we will discuss your situation during the intake. Never stop prescribed medication without consulting your doctor or medical specialist.
Psychological vulnerability
Ayahuasca can bring up intense emotions and suppressed experiences. For this reason, participation is not suitable for people with a vulnerability to psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder or other serious psychiatric conditions.
Participation may also be advised against when there is a history of serious psychiatric conditions in your immediate family.
Pregnancy
A ceremony can involve intense physical and emotional experiences. Because the effects on pregnancy and the unborn child cannot be reliably predicted, participation during pregnancy is not possible.
Serious heart conditions or physical health conditions
Participation is not possible with:
- Serious cardiovascular disease
- High blood pressure
- Epilepsy or a history of seizures
- Previous brain haemorrhage or stroke
- Serious liver or kidney disease
- Unstable diabetes
- Untreated tuberculosis
Additional consultation is needed for:
- Thyroid conditions
- Gastric bypass or other stomach surgery
- Other medical conditions or situations where there is uncertainty
During the intake, we discuss your medical situation, medication use and any possible risks.
Willingness to prepare, integrate and go deeper
Safe participation is not only about health and medication. Your intention, preparation and willingness to consciously engage with the process also matter.
Ayahuasca is a personal process that requires self-reflection and responsibility. It is therefore important that you are willing to prepare, reflect on your experience and give attention to integration afterwards.
Safety begins carefull assesment
Contraindications are not simply a checklist used to exclude people. They help us carefully assess what is safe and appropriate for each individual.
Do you have questions about medication, your health or psychological vulnerability? We take the time beforehand to discuss your personal situation with you.
Frequently asked questions
Want to experience an ayahuasca ceremony?
Are you considering participating in an ayahuasca ceremony? Take your time to explore our ceremonies and read more about what you can expect.
Want to experience an ayahuasca ceremony?
If, after reading this information, you feel you would like to explore whether a ceremony is right for you, do not start by booking. Start with a free introductory call or mail: info@revermannshares.nl