Preparation & Cleansing

Dieta Preparations

One of the most important aspects of working with ayahuasca is adhering to an honored tradition of following a special diet in order to prepare not just the body, but also the mind and soul to incorporate the healing energy of ayahuasca. This diet also shows the spirit of ayahuasca your intention and is a test of discipline and commitment. 

The central aspects of the diet we recommend are common to the teachings of all ayahuasquero/as across the Peruvian Amazon. In the case of some of the food restrictions there is also definitive scientific evidence that they are essential for safety. On a physical level, ayahuasca inhibits the action of the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO) in the body. While MAO is inhibited, compounds that the enzyme would normally break down could accumulate in the body to toxic levels, causing headaches and other medical issues. Foods containing these compounds are to be avoided.

You should begin the diet at least two weeks before the retreat and continue the diet for at least two weeks after the last ceremony. It is essential to continue the diet to ensure the ikaros you have received and any possible plant remedies you are prescribed, are given sufficient time to integrate.

Restrictions Before and During your retreat:

Two Weeks prior, abstain from:

  • Any plant medicines/psychedelics (including San Pedro, LSD, cannabis, etc.)

  • All street drugs (cocaine, MDMA, amphetamines, etc.) 

  • Sexual activities..(use wisdom)

  • Alcohol

  • Pork

  • Spicy foods (hot peppery spice that burns tongue/mouth)

  • Ice, ice cream, or ice cold drinks

One Week prior, abstain from:

  • Refined sugars

  • Red meat

  • Junk foods

  • Excess salt (only add salt to food if necessary for health reasons and keep it minimal)

  • Sweets or chocolate

  • Excess oils (if you must use oil, use olive or coconut oil very sparingly)

  • Animal fats (lard, etc.)

  • Carbonated drinks (including diet sodas, energy drinks, non-alcoholic beer, seltzer water, etc.)

  • Dairy products

  • Fermented foods

  • Caffeine & other stimulants

Additional restrictions:

  • IMPORTANT: Please contact us if you are currently taking any medication or supplements.

  • Ayahuasca is not compatible with pregnancy.

  • Avoidance of synthetic soaps, perfumes, toiletries, etc.

By eliminating these items from your diet, you will prepare your body physically for the ayahuasca journey, and perhaps also reduce the amount of purging needed to clean your physical body. In addition to the physical aspects, by showing your commitment and determination to ayahuasca and the master plants, you are creating the foundations of your relationship with them and offering them the respect that is essential for this work.

Medications: Many medications are pharmacologically and/or energetically contraindicated with ayahuasca both before and after your retreat. Please ensure you have communicated all medications to your facilitator.

This recommendation article comes from the

¨Temple of the Way of Light¨