Discussion: Ayahuasca & Phenibut

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Ayahuasca & Phenibut​

Ayahuasca is a traditional Amazonian brew made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the Psychotria viridis shrub. It has been used for centuries in shamanic rituals and healing practices. The brew is known for its potent psychoactive properties, primarily due to the interaction between the active compounds in its ingredients.

Key Components:

1. Banisteriopsis caapi (B. caapi): Contains beta-carboline alkaloids, primarily harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine. These alkaloids are reversible inhibitors of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), an enzyme that breaks down monoamine neurotransmitters.
2. Psychotria viridis (P. viridis): Contains N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a powerful psychoactive compound. DMT is structurally similar to serotonin, a key neurotransmitter in the brain.

The psychoactive effects of Ayahuasca result from the synergistic action of DMT and the beta-carbolines: Normally, orally ingested DMT is rapidly broken down by MAO-A in the digestive system, preventing it from reaching the brain. The MAO inhibitors in B. caapi inhibit this enzyme, allowing DMT to enter the bloodstream and cross the blood-brain barrier. Once in the brain, DMT primarily acts on serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor. This activation leads to altered perception, intense visual and auditory experiences, and changes in the sense of self and time.


Phenibut, also known as β-phenyl-γ-aminobutyric acid, is a central nervous system depressant and nootropic agent. It is structurally similar to the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), with an additional phenyl ring. Here’s how Phenibut works and its effects on the brain and body:

Phenibut primarily acts as an agonist at GABA-B receptors. GABA-B receptors are metabotropic receptors that, when activated, reduce neuronal excitability through inhibitory effects. This action contributes to its anxiolytic, sedative, and muscle relaxant effects. Phenibut also has some activity at GABA-A receptors, although this effect is much weaker compared to its action on GABA-B receptors. GABA-A receptor activation typically results in rapid, short-term inhibitory effects.

Phenibut may increase dopamine levels in the brain by acting on D2 receptors. This dopaminergic activity is thought to contribute to its mood-enhancing and motivational effects. Phenibut has been found to block certain subtypes of voltage-dependent calcium channels, which may contribute to its neuroprotective and anti-anxiety effects by reducing neuronal excitability.


Combining Ayahuasca and Phenibut is not well-documented in scientific sources, and the potential effects and risks require careful consideration.

Potential Benefits:

• Reduced Anxiety: Phenibut's anxiolytic effects could potentially mitigate the anxiety that some users experience during Ayahuasca trips, leading to a more manageable experience.
• Enhanced Mood: Phenibut may enhance the overall mood, making the Ayahuasca journey more positive and less fearful.

Risks and Safety Concerns:

• Increased Sedation: Combining these substances could result in excessive sedation. Phenibut depress the central nervous system, which under pharmacological load could lead to extreme drowsiness.
• Unpredictable Psychological Effects: The intense psychological effects of Ayahuasca might be altered unpredictably by Phenibut. While Phenibut might reduce anxiety, it could also dull the profound insights typically gained from Ayahuasca.
• MAOI Interaction: Ayahuasca contains MAOIs, which can interact dangerously with various substances, including Phenibut. This combination might exacerbate side effects like hypertension or serotonin syndrome, especially if other serotonergic drugs are involved.

Anecdotal Reports and Community Insights:

Some users report that combining Phenibut with Ayahuasca leads to a less anxiety-provoking trip, enhancing their ability to navigate the intense experience more comfortably. Others caution against this combination due to the potential for increased sedation and the unpredictable nature of combining a synthetic substance with a traditional psychedelic brew.

While some anecdotal evidence suggests potential and speculative benefits from combining Ayahuasca and Phenibut, the risks and lack of comprehensive scientific data make this combination hazardous. If considering this combination, it is crucial to do so with minimal dosages, and under the guidance of a knowledgeable experienced sitter who can monitor for adverse effects and ensure safety.

In light of these considerations, we strongly recommend a meaningful approach to this combination.