Ayahuasca vs Ketamine
A side-by-side research comparison of Ayahuasca and Ketamine across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Ayahuasca | Ketamine |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Ayahuasca (DMT + MAO inhibitor brew) | Ketamine (and esketamine) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Traditional/ceremonial; research compound | Schedule III; esketamine FDA-approved for depression |
| Mechanism | The MAO-inhibiting vine (harmine and related compounds) stops the body from breaking down DMT, allowing an oral psychedelic experience that activates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. | Blocks NMDA glutamate receptors, which is thought to quickly boost synaptic connections and lift mood. This is a different pathway from classic serotonin psychedelics. |
| Molecular weight | Mixture (no single value) | 237.73 g/mol |
| Half-life | Several hours (extended by MAO inhibition) | ~2-3 hours |
| Bioavailability | Oral | IV, intramuscular, nasal, oral (varies) |
| Typical dose | Brew-based, varies by preparation | Low sub-anesthetic doses for depression (clinic-administered) |
| Frequency | Ceremonial or occasional study sessions | A series of supervised sessions |
| Route | Oral brew | IV infusion, intramuscular, or nasal spray (esketamine) |
Ayahuasca reported benefits
- Studied for treatment-resistant depression
- Explored for grief and trauma
- Long history of ceremonial use
- May produce lasting shifts in outlook
Ketamine reported benefits
- Rapid relief from treatment-resistant depression
- FDA-approved option (esketamine) exists
- Can reduce suicidal thoughts quickly
- Useful when other antidepressants fail
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.