1. Avoid Certain Foods

These can interfere with the medicine or increase the risk of nausea and other side effects.

• Tyramine-Rich Foods: Consuming foods high in tyramine can cause dangerous blood pressure spikes.

  • Aged cheeses

  • Fermented foods (soy sauce, sauerkraut, kimchi)

  • Processed meats (salami, sausages)

  • Alcohol and fermented beverages

  • Overripe fruits

• Fatty and Greasy Foods: Avoid fried or heavy foods that are hard to digest.

• Spicy Foods: These can irritate your digestive system.

• Pork

• Shell fish

2. Avoid Substances

These substances can either diminish the effects of ayahuasca or create potentially harmful interactions.

• Caffeine and Stimulants: Cut out coffee, energy drinks, and teas with caffeine.

• Recreational Drugs: Do not use any substances, especially MDMA, amphetamines, or SSRIs, as they can lead to serotonin syndrome.

• Alcohol: Stop consuming alcohol at least a week before.

3. Focus on Simple and Clean Foods

Eating light, nutrient-rich foods prepares your body and mind.

• Fruits and Vegetables: Stick to fresh and non-fermented options.

• Grains and Legumes: Rice, quinoa, and lentils are great staples.

• Plant-Based Proteins: Such as nuts and seeds, in moderation.

• Herbal Teas: Chamomile, mint, or lemon balm for relaxation.

4. Avoid Salt, Sugar, and Artificial Ingredients

Keep your meals bland and avoid processed foods, refined sugars, and artificial flavorings or colorings.

5. Abstain from Sexual Activity

Abstinence from sexual activity is often recommended for at least 2–3 days before and after to conserve energy and maintain a focused mind.

6. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water but avoid over hydration right before the ceremony.

Timing

• Start the dieta 7–14 days before the ceremony for optimal preparation.

• Follow the dieta for 3–7 days after to integrate the experience and respect the process.

If you are preparing for a specific ceremony, consult the facilitator or shaman for personalized guidance, as traditions can vary. Let me know if you want help creating a tailored plan!

WARNING!

Medicine contains monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which can interact dangerously with certain medications and substances. It's essential to discontinue specific medications before participating in a ceremony to avoid potentially life-threatening interactions like serotonin syndrome or blood pressure spikes.

Here’s a list of medications and substances to avoid:

1. Antidepressants

These are particularly dangerous due to their interaction with MAOIs, potentially leading to serotonin syndrome.

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs):

  • Fluoxetine (Prozac)

  • Sertraline (Zoloft)

  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)

  • Paroxetine (Paxil)

• Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs):

  • Venlafaxine (Effexor)

  • Duloxetine (Cymbalta)

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs):

  • Phenelzine (Nardil)

  • Tranylcypromine (Parnate)

  • Selegiline (Emsam)

• Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs):

  • Amitriptyline

  • Nortriptyline

2. Anti-Anxiety Medications

• Benzodiazepines:

  • Diazepam (Valium)

  • Lorazepam (Ativan)

  • Alprazolam (Xanax)

• Buspirone (Buspar)

These may dull the effects of ayahuasca and interfere with the emotional or psychological processes.

3. Stimulants

These can cause extreme heart rate increases or blood pressure issues.

• Amphetamines:

  • Adderall

  • Ritalin

  • Modafinil (Provigil)

• Caffeine (in large amounts)

4. Opioids

Opioids can suppress the central nervous system and create respiratory or cardiac risks.

• Oxycodone

• Hydrocodone

• Morphine

• Codeine

5. Antipsychotic Medications

These can interact with MAOIs and ayahuasca, possibly leading to severe side effects.

• Clozapine

• Risperidone

• Olanzapine

6. Blood Pressure Medications

Ayahuasca can alter blood pressure, so medications for hypertension or hypotension might amplify these effects.

• Beta-blockers (e.g., Atenolol, Metoprolol)

• Calcium channel blockers (e.g., Amlodipine)

7. Over-the-Counter Medications

• Decongestants:

  • Pseudoephedrine

• Antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine/Benadryl)

• Pain relievers:

  • Ibuprofen, Naproxen (can increase nausea)

8. Recreational Drugs

• MDMA (Ecstasy)

• Cocaine

• LSD or Psilocybin (mushrooms)

• Alcohol (should be avoided at least a week prior)

9. Supplements and Herbal Products

Some herbal supplements can interact dangerously with MAOIs or increase the risk of side effects.

• St. John’s Wort

• Kava

• Ginseng

• Ephedra

General Recommendations

• Discontinue Medications: Ideally, stop taking these medications 2–6 weeks before the ceremony (consult your healthcare provider first).

• Medical Conditions: People with severe psychiatric or heart conditions should exercise caution or avoid ayahuasca entirely.