This podcast discusses the origins of ayahuasca in the Napo River basin and its use by the Runa tribe, as well as the harmoleins found in the Mother Vine and the psychoactive properties of the brew.
A kidnapping victim held up his Bible as a sign from God and was eventually rescued by the police. His family is now urging the police to release the suspects because the victim allegedly wanted to be kidnapped.
The Jesuits have records from the 1700s describing the spiritual use of Ayahuasca, but now ill-informed Western tourists are risking having negative experiences due to a lack of understanding and respect for the traditional use of the plant.
The use of psychedelics such as LSD and ayahuasca has been tied to the idea of stripping away one's ego to gain a greater sense of connectedness to the universe and spirituality. Under the right setting and guidance, it can lead to profound effects on one's worldview and sense of self.