Can Ayahuasca Be Beneficial for Weight Loss? Here’s What Science Says

Ayahuasca has been getting quite a lot of attention for its mental health benefits, but what about helping with weight loss?

While this plant medicine is primarily used for spiritual purposes, some researchers, as well as people who have used ayahuasca, have pointed out possible benefits beyond the emotional and psychological—namely on body weight and health habits.

Read on to learn everything we know so far about ayahuasca for weight loss. 

What Is Ayahuasca?

Ayahuasca is a tea made from plants native to the Amazon rainforest, mainly the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the Psychotria viridis leaf. It has DMT and natural MAO inhibitors and offers an intense, often therapeutic experience. 

Traditionally ayahuasca was used in sacred ceremonies, but it’s become much more mainstream today, with many people attending ayahuasca retreats that promise personal growth and healing.

How Ayahuasca Might Help With Weight Loss

First and foremost, it’s important to know that ayahuasca isn’t a weight loss treatment. But, that said, some studies do suggest it could help change our behaviors and thought patterns related to our eating habits. 

For example, ayahuasca’s ability to help you think clearly and reduce stress could help you address the underlying issues that cause you to overeat, like anxiety or unresolved trauma. 

A 2018 study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology found that ayahuasca reduced symptoms of depression and improved mindfulness, which could help people make healthier choices around food and exercise.

Similarly, a 2020 study in Nature Scientific Reports found that using ayahuasca increases our self-acceptance and reduces negative thoughts. While it’s not guarantee, this could mean a change in how you see your body and approach your long-term health goals.

Other Ways Ayahuasca May Help

Besides weight-related changes, what other benefits can you expect from taking ayahuasca?

A key benefit of ayahuasca retreats like Etnikas is that they provide an environment that supports your overall well-being. These retreats usually encourage clean eating, yoga, meditation, and even volunteering activities, which can all complement your journey to better health. 

At the end of the retreat, you should feel more motivated to take care of your body and mind, bringing healthy habits with you back home.

The Science Caveat

While the research and testimonials available so far are promising, we want to reiterate here that ayahuasca isn’t a quick fix for weight loss. 

It’s best to treat it as one piece of the puzzle to improve your physical and mental health. To see long-term results from your weight loss plan, you’ll need to combine an ayahuasca experience with practical actions, like adopting healthy eating habits and exercise.

Is Ayahuasca Worth Trying For Weight Loss?

Ayahuasca has numerous benefits and may help you to lose weight, but that doesn’t mean the experience is right for everyone. 

It can be emotionally overwhelming, so if you are considering it, it’s recommended to attend a retreat and experience it in a controlled and supported environment. And, of course, consult a healthcare professional first to make sure it’s safe for you, especially if you have a medical condition or take other medications.