Ayahuasca is a sacred plant brew made from Amazonian plants that invites us to journey deeper into ourselves.

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For centuries, Indigenous communities of the Amazon have worked ceremonially with Ayahuasca. In Quechua, the primary language of the Inca Empire, “Aya” means soul or spirit, and “Huasca” means vine. Ayahuasca is therefore often referred to as the “vine of the soul” or a “plant teacher.”

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Plant medicines carry profound intelligence. There is deep gratitude and reverence for the opportunity to connect with this ancient wisdom.

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Ayahuasca is traditionally prepared by combining plants that contain DMT with plants that act as MAO inhibitors.

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DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) is the compound that facilitates the inner journey. Interestingly, DMT is also a naturally occurring substance in the human body. It is always present within us, but under normal circumstances, the body quickly breaks it down, otherwise we would remain in a constant altered state.

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DMT is found in various plants, organisms, and mammals. When DMT-containing plants are combined with an MAO inhibitor, Ayahuasca can be made.

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In humans, DMT has been detected in the pineal gland and is often associated with dreaming and near-death experiences.

Because the body naturally breaks down DMT, an MAO inhibitor is essential in the brew. It temporarily slows the breakdown process, allowing the DMT to be absorbed and experienced, both the DMT from the brew and the DMT already present within the body.

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The plants Banisteriopsis caapi and Syrian rue contain harmala alkaloids that function as MAO inhibitors. Beyond their biochemical role, each plant, vine, and seed carries its own unique character and energetic presence.

 

In many traditions, these plants are regarded as living teachers that bring wisdom, deep cleansing, and healing, physically, emotionally, and energetically.

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Preparation

From the moment you feel called to participate in a ceremony at Temple of Ascension and your registration is complete, the preparation begins.

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Preparation includes following a specific diet. This diet is not only physical but also mental and emotional. It supports you in approaching the ceremony with clarity, intention, and awareness.

During this time, it can be valuable to consciously observe your thoughts, feelings, dreams, and emotions. Connect with what arises. Connect with your heart. Writing down your experiences may help you process what surfaces. Many things may begin to shift or release, allow space for whatever comes up.

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An Ayahuasca ceremony is often described as cleansing on multiple levels. Preparing mentally, spiritually, and emotionally for your inner journey is essential. Becoming mindful of your diet helps your body receive the medicine more openly, especially when taken on an empty stomach. By following the dietary guidelines, you enter the experience as clear and receptive as possible.

 

We wish you a beautiful and meaningful experience, whenever, wherever, and with whomever your journey unfolds.

The plant is calling.