Ayahuasca vs Psilocybin
A side-by-side research comparison of Ayahuasca and Psilocybin across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Ayahuasca | Psilocybin |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Ayahuasca (DMT + MAO inhibitor brew) | Psilocybin (from psilocybin mushrooms) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Traditional/ceremonial; research compound | Schedule I (FDA Breakthrough Therapy 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. | Converted in the body to psilocin, which activates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors in the brain. This temporarily loosens rigid thinking patterns and increases connectivity between brain networks. |
| Molecular weight | Mixture (no single value) | 284.25 g/mol |
| Half-life | Several hours (extended by MAO inhibition) | ~2-3 hours (psilocin) |
| Bioavailability | Oral | Oral |
| Typical dose | Brew-based, varies by preparation | 10-30 mg 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
Psilocybin reported benefits
- Studied for treatment-resistant depression
- Eases anxiety in life-threatening illness
- Explored for alcohol and tobacco addiction
- Often produces durable improvements after few doses
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.