THE PHARMACOLOGY OF AYAHUASCA
Mariri (Banisteriopsis Caapi):
The Beta-carbolines (Harmine, Harmaline and Tetrahydroharmine) are extracted from the Mariri tea (Banisteriopsis Caapi). On its own, the Mariri tea has the power to induce some indirect psychoactive effects, mediated by its inhibitory activity on Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) and the subsequent elevation of Serotonin levels both at the CNS level and at the peripheral level. Some effects, such as the emergence of hypnagogic-type images, modifications of mood and emotions, are attributed both to Harmine and to the elevation of Serotonin levels in the Central Nervous System. The purgative and emetic effects are mediated by the effect of Serotonin in the intestine.