Experiments conducted during the acute phase of a person’s interaction with Ayahuasca on healthy volunteers confirmed that Ayahuasca reduces the activity of the main nodes of the passive brain network (Valle et al., 2016; Sampedro et al., 2017), which is responsible for the formation of our self (Vogt and Laureys, 2005). Additionally, the results of the studies indicate blood flow to specific brain regions responsible for controlling intellectual activities, regulating the emotional sphere, and memory (Riba et al., 2006; Sanches et al., 2016).
Studies have shown that the consumption of Ayahuasca induces a state of decentering similar to what can be achieved through meditative practices. The difference is that Ayahuasca can naturally bring about such a state in individuals after only a few sessions of interaction with the plant, whereas a similar effect through meditation requires years of intensive training.
Experimental data suggest that decentering increases throughout the day after consuming Ayahuasca: study participants demonstrated a greater willingness to accept mental experiences, reduced “internal reactivity,” and an increased ability to perceive their thoughts and experiences “from the outside.” These abilities persist for up to eight weeks after consuming the beverage (Sampedro et al., 2017).
In other words, even a few sessions with Ayahuasca can lead to profound internal changes reminiscent of years of meditation.
Source:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5869920/#B38
Additional articles on scientific studies on Ayahuasca:
Influence of Ayahuasca on Thinking and Other Brain Functions
Part 1: Ayahuasca Enhances Creative Thinking: Scientific Basis for Accessing the “Ocean of New Ideas”
