Should I Use Ayahuasca for Addiction? Benefits and Dangers

Clinically reviewed by Adrian Solomon — Counselling Psychologist · Last reviewed 7 July 2026.

Addiction is a complex and devastating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Among the various options available, ayahuasca has gained attention as a potential remedy. This powerful hallucinogenic brew was traditionally used by indigenous tribes in the Amazon and is said to offer profound healing experiences.

But before you consider using ayahuasca for addiction, you should weigh its potential benefits against the risks and unpredictability associated with it. In this blog we explore the pros and cons of ayahuasca, and present another option for healing.

For more information on the Holina Rehab approach to healing addiction, contact us on +66 82 113 0657 or email us at info@holinarehab.com.

The Allure of Ayahuasca

Ayahuasca is a potent brew traditionally prepared from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the leaves of the Psychotria viridis plant, which contains DMT activated by the vine’s monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). It’s known for inducing intense, often transformative experiences that many users describe as deeply spiritual. Proponents of ayahuasca for addiction argue that it helps break the cycle of addiction by providing profound insights into one’s behavior and underlying psychological issues.

Potential Benefits

People who have taken ayahuasca sometimes report these benefits from engaging in ayahuasca use.

Emotional and Psychological Healing

One touted benefit of ayahuasca is its potential to facilitate emotional and psychological healing. Users often report confronting and processing past traumas, which can be a significant step in overcoming addiction.

Increased Self-Awareness:

Ayahuasca can lead to heightened self-awareness, helping people understand the root causes of their addiction. This awareness can be the first step towards making meaningful changes in one’s life.

Spiritual Insights:

Many users describe ayahuasca experiences as spiritual awakenings. These insights can lead to a greater sense of purpose and motivation to pursue a life free from addiction.

Community and Support:

Going on an ayahuasca retreat for addiction often involves a communal setting, providing a sense of support and shared experience that can be comforting.

The Dark Side of Ayahuasca

Despite these potential benefits, at Holina Rehab we believe that you should seriously consider the potential dangers before taking this drug. Ayahuasca is not a guaranteed solution, and its use comes with real risks. The unpredictable nature of the brew and its powerful effects can pose serious dangers, especially for those struggling with addiction.

Unpredictable Experiences

Going to an ayahuasca retreat for addiction is highly unpredictable. The intensity and nature of the visions and insights can vary widely from person to person and from session to session. While some may find healing, others might experience overwhelming fear, anxiety, or psychological distress. Research on ayahuasca users has found that people who self-reported an existing psychiatric diagnosis experienced adverse effects more frequently, and people with addiction are particularly at risk, as there are often underlying mental health issues causing the addiction.

Physical and Mental Health Risks

The physical effects of ayahuasca can be intense. A global survey of ayahuasca users published in PLOS Global Public Health found nausea and vomiting were reported by around 62% of users, with headache reported by around 18%, and seizures reported by roughly 1% of respondents.
Ayahuasca can also interact with certain medications, including antidepressants and antipsychotics. Research on ayahuasca safety notes that combining it with SSRIs or other serotonergic medications could conceivably increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, which is why medical screening before any ceremony is important.

Lack of Regulation and Control

Ayahuasca ceremonies are largely unregulated, and the quality and safety of the brew varies. A recent peer-reviewed study on retreat safety practices found substantial variability in how safety precautions are implemented, with protocols remaining inconsistent and poorly documented across providers. Decades ago, many ceremonies in countries like Peru and Brazil were conducted by shamans who cared deeply about the welfare of the people attending the retreat. But nowadays finding a reputable and safe environment for an ayahuasca session can be challenging, and there’s no guarantee of medical support if something goes wrong.

Why Professional Addiction Treatment Offers a Safer Path

Given the unpredictability and risks associated with ayahuasca, professional addiction treatment centers like Holina Rehab offer a more structured and closely supervised path to recovery. These centers provide evidence-based approaches to addiction treatment, ensuring that you receive comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs.

Comprehensive Care

Holina offers a holistic approach to recovery, addressing the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction, including a dual treatment programme for co-occurring mental health conditions. You will have access to medical professionals, therapists, and support groups that can help you navigate the complex journey of recovery.

Evidence-Based Therapies

Holina uses evidence-based therapies that have been studied for treating addiction. These therapies include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and medication-assisted treatment (MAT). These approaches are grounded in scientific research and we tailor them to your individual needs.
We also offer a variety of holistic trauma treatment options, which can help you to get to the root of your problems with addiction, alongside spiritual healing treatment for those who want that dimension of care in a clinically supervised setting.

“Clients often come to me after an ayahuasca ceremony expecting it to have ‘fixed’ their addiction, and I have to help them understand that a single intense experience doesn’t replace the slower work of building new coping patterns.” — Adrian Solomon, Counselling Psychologist

Safe and Supportive Environment

You will be in a safe and supportive environment where your health and well-being are prioritized. Medical professionals will monitor your progress and provide immediate assistance if any complications arise.

Long-Term Support

Recovery from addiction is a lifelong journey, and professional treatment centers offer long-term support to help you stay on track. This support includes sober living aftercare, counseling, and support groups that can provide ongoing assistance as you rebuild your life.

Making the Right Choice for Your Recovery

While the idea of going to an ayahuasca retreat for drug addiction may seem appealing due to its potential for a deep, transformative experience, you should recognize the significant risks and unpredictability involved. The journey to recovery is challenging enough without introducing elements that could exacerbate your condition or lead to new complications.

Holina provides a more structured, closely supervised path to recovery. We offer comprehensive care, evidence-based therapies, and a supportive environment to help you build a fulfilling, sober life.

Our rehab is situated on the idyllic island of Koh Phangan, an island in the gulf of Thailand which is known for its natural beauty and long history of healing traditions.

For more information on how we treat addiction or to arrange a tour of our facility, contact us today on +66 82 113 0657.