Have there been deaths during ayahuasca ceremonies?
Are there any known deaths from ayahuasca? What caused death during such an ayahuasca ceremony?
People sometimes die after ayahuasca
Ayahuasca, the traditional plant medicine from the Amazon, is used worldwide for spiritual growth and emotional healing. At the same time, reports of deaths linked to ayahuasca ceremonies are circulating. In this article, we explore the question in more detail: “Are there any known deaths from ayahuasca? What caused the death during such an ayahuasca ceremony?” We discuss what the available data and research 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 another participant was killed at a ceremony of the same organization, and in IJzendijke (September 2018), where a 34-year-old man from Oudewater died during a healing session with ayahuasca, in which the justice department stated 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" during which, among other things, ayahuasca and hallucinogenic mushrooms were consumed. Two Dutch people were on trial for this.
Mortality rates up to 2022
The media has pointed to a link between ayahuasca and 58 deaths between 2010 and 2022. Importantly, there is no clear evidence that the drink itself directly causes death. Other factors often play a crucial role, such as:
- Unsafe combinations: The MAO inhibitors in ayahuasca can cause serious reactions when combined with certain medications or foods (for example, foods rich in tyramin).
- Incorrect dosages or inexperienced guidance: Incorrect preparation or the lack of a safe and controlled setting can lead to complications.
- Additional resources: In some cases other psychoactive substances or alcohol played a role, undermining the overall safety of the ceremony.
Safer alternatives: truffle and psiloflora herbs
For those seeking spiritual or therapeutic experiences with psychedelics, truffle and psiloflora ceremonies can 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 used under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Psiloflora Ceremonies: These ceremonies combine psilocybin truffles with certain MAO-inhibiting 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 responsibly benefit from the advantages of psychedelic therapy.
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 always advisable to seek experienced and professional guidance when exploring these substances.