Have there been deaths in ayahuasca ceremonies?
Are there any known deaths caused by ayahuasca? What caused death during such an ayahuasca ceremony?
People sometimes die after ayahuasca
Ayahuasca, the traditional plant medicine from the Amazon region, is used worldwide for spiritual growth and emotional healing. At the same time, reports of deaths related to ayahuasca ceremonies are circulating. In this article, we take a closer look at the question: "Are there any known deaths caused by ayahuasca? What caused death during such an ayahuasca ceremony?" We discuss what the available data and studies tell us, highlight an example from the Netherlands and explain why alternative, safer ceremonies - such as truffle and psiloflora ceremonies - are increasingly preferred.
Some known deaths from ayahuasca
There have been several incidents in the Netherlands where participants in ayahuasca ceremonies have died, such as in Eersel (April 2019), where a 31-year-old Hungarian man died after an ayahuasca session, in Haarlem (November 2019), where again a participant was killed in a ceremony by the same organisation, and in IJzendijke (September 2018), where a 34-year-old man from Oudewater died during a healing session with ayahuasca, with the judiciary stating that violence may have played a role.
The most recent case in the Netherlands concerns the death of 35-year-old Tinne Geuens from Antwerp. She died during a 'healing weekend' that included the consumption of ayahuasca and hallucinogenic mushrooms. Two Dutch nationals were on trial for this.
Mortality rates to 2022
Media reports have pointed to a link between ayahuasca and 58 deaths from 2010 to 2022. Importantly, there is no unequivocal evidence that the drink itself directly causes death. Often other factors also play a crucial role, such as:
- Unsafe combinations: The MAOIs in ayahuasca can cause severe reactions when combined with certain medications or foods (e.g. tyramine-rich foods).
- Incorrect doses or inexperienced guidance: Improper preparation or lack of a safe and controlled setting can lead to complications.
- Additional resources: In a number of cases, other psychoactive substances or alcohol played a role, undermining the overall safety of the ceremony.
Safer alternatives: truffle and psiloflora eremonies
For those seeking spiritual or therapeutic experiences with psychedelics, truffle and psiloflora ceremonies may offer a safer alternative.
Truffle ceremonies: Psilocybin truffles are legal in the Netherlands and are known for their predictable dosage and effects. They offer deep introspective experiences and are considered safer than ayahuasca, especially when guided by experienced professionals.
Psiloflora ceremonies: These ceremonies combine psilocybin truffles with certain MAOI plants to deepen the experience. Although MAOIs are used, the risks are more manageable and the effects more predictable than with ayahuasca.
At Triptherapie, we offer professional guidance for both truffle and psiloflora ceremonies. Our focus is on safety, personal guidance and integration of the experience so that participants can enjoy the benefits of psychedelic therapy responsibly.
Conclusion
While ayahuasca can offer valuable insights for some, the potential risks are significant, including the risk of death. For those seeking similar therapeutic experiences with a better safety profile, truffle and psiloflora ceremonies may be a suitable alternative. It is recommended to always opt for experienced and professional guidance when exploring these substances.
