Is Dutch ayahuasca different from the one from Peru?

@hippy 

Posted by: @hippy

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Is Dutch ayahuasca different from that from Peru?

Yes, the recipe or preparation is often different from how it is done here. Even ayahuasca brewed by the same person using the same recipe can vary because natural products are used that can also vary in strength and proportions. In Peru, they often have different preparation methods among themselves and within each tribe as well.

Traditional ayahuasca in Peru is usually prepared with the Banisteriopsis caapi plant or another plant containing DMT, such as Psychotria viridis (chacruna). In the Netherlands, the composition can vary, and it may contain other ingredients such as Mimosa hostilis or various Acacia species. The MAO inhibitors used can also differ; while Banisteriopsis caapi was originally used, Peganum harmala is also found in the Netherlands.

In addition to the different composition, ayahuasca is illegal in the Netherlands, and the ceremony often feels 'underground'. This stands in contrast to Peru, where ayahuasca is traditionally used and is often recognized as a sacrament of indigenous religions. While in Peru the shaman often leads the ayahuasca ceremony, in the Netherlands you will often encounter individuals who call themselves shamans.

If you want to experience ayahuasca, choose the authentic experience and travel to the Amazon. Here in the Netherlands, you are better off choosing legal options such as psiloflora or psilohuasca. You can read more about these legal alternatives in the info below.