Ayahuasca vs LSD
A side-by-side research comparison of Ayahuasca and LSD across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Ayahuasca | LSD |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Ayahuasca (DMT + MAO inhibitor brew) | Lysergic acid diethylamide |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Traditional/ceremonial; research compound | Schedule I (research compound) |
| 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. | Activates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors (and others), changing perception, mood and the way brain networks communicate. Effects last much longer than most psychedelics. |
| Molecular weight | Mixture (no single value) | 323.43 g/mol |
| Half-life | Several hours (extended by MAO inhibition) | ~3-5 hours |
| Bioavailability | Oral | Oral |
| Typical dose | Brew-based, varies by preparation | 100-200 mcg in clinical trials |
| Frequency | Ceremonial or occasional study sessions | One to a few supervised sessions |
| Route | Oral brew | Oral, in a supervised therapeutic setting |
Ayahuasca reported benefits
- Studied for treatment-resistant depression
- Explored for grief and trauma
- Long history of ceremonial use
- May produce lasting shifts in outlook
LSD reported benefits
- Studied for anxiety in serious illness
- Explored for depression and addiction
- Long duration allows deep therapeutic work
- Renewed clinical research interest
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.