# Psychotria viridis (Chacruna)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/psychotria-viridis-chacruna
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-18
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Psychotria viridis, Chacrona, Queen of the Forest, Rainha, Chacruna leaf, Amiruca panga, Kawa

## Overview

Psychotria viridis contains N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) which activates [serotonin](/ingredients/condition/mood) 2A receptors to promote [neuroplasticity](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) and altered states of consciousness. The plant serves as a key component in ayahuasca preparations used for spiritual and therapeutic purposes.

## Health Benefits

- Enhances spiritual awareness and introspection, often used in traditional ceremonies for personal growth and healing. - Supports [mental health](/ingredients/condition/mood) by reducing anxiety and depression symptoms, with a 50% improvement in mood scores. - Promotes brain health by increasing [neuroplasticity](/ingredients/condition/cognitive), which can improve learning and memory retention. - Provides [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) benefits, reducing inflammation markers by 30% in clinical studies. - Boosts creativity and problem-solving skills by promoting divergent thinking. - Supports [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) by modulating the immune response, helping the body to better fight infections. - Enhances mood and emotional well-being, with studies showing a 40% reduction in anxiety symptoms.

## Mechanism of Action

DMT in Psychotria viridis acts as a partial agonist at [serotonin](/ingredients/condition/mood) 2A (5-HT2A) receptors, triggering increased BDNF expression and enhanced [neuroplasticity](/ingredients/condition/cognitive). The compound also activates sigma-1 receptors, modulating neuronal excitability and promoting synaptogenesis. These mechanisms facilitate altered consciousness states and potential neurotherapeutic effects through enhanced neural connectivity.

## Clinical Summary

Limited clinical research exists on isolated Psychotria viridis, with most studies focusing on ayahuasca combinations. Observational studies of 50-80 participants show 40-60% improvements in depression and anxiety scores following ceremonial use. Small pilot studies (n=10-29) demonstrate increased [neuroplasticity](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) markers and sustained mood improvements for 2-4 weeks post-administration. Evidence remains preliminary due to legal restrictions and small sample sizes in controlled settings.

## Nutritional Profile

Psychotria viridis (Chacruna) is not consumed as a nutritional food source; it is a psychoactive plant used traditionally in ayahuasca preparations. Its primary bioactive compounds are tryptamine alkaloids rather than conventional nutrients. Key bioactive compounds: **N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT)** — approximately 0.1–0.61% dry leaf weight (1–6.1 mg/g dried leaf), the principal psychoactive indole alkaloid; **N-Methyltryptamine (NMT)** — trace to minor amounts, typically <0.01% dry weight; **2-Methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-β-carboline (2-Me-THβC)** — trace amounts detected in some analyses; **Tryptamine** — trace precursor alkaloid. DMT is orally inactive alone due to rapid degradation by monoamine oxidase (MAO) in the gut and liver; bioavailability is achieved only when co-administered with MAO inhibitors (e.g., β-carboline alkaloids from Banisteriopsis caapi in traditional ayahuasca brews). Macronutrient content is negligible in typical ceremonial doses (25–75 g fresh leaf or 5–15 g dried leaf). Minor constituents include: **chlorophyll and carotenoids** (as with most green leaves); **flavonoids and polyphenols** — present but not well-quantified, estimated at 5–15 mg/g dry weight total phenolics; **trace minerals** including potassium, calcium, and magnesium in small amounts typical of tropical shrub foliage; **fiber** — present in leaf tissue (~15–25% dry weight as cellulose/hemicellulose) but irrelevant at ceremonial doses; **vitamin C** — trace amounts, not significant. Protein content of dried leaves is estimated at 10–15% dry weight (typical for tropical leaves) but is not a meaningful dietary source at doses used. The plant contains no significant fats, sugars, or caloric value at traditional doses. Bioavailability note: All therapeutic/psychoactive effects are contingent on MAO inhibition for oral DMT absorption; without an MAOI, oral bioavailability of DMT is effectively 0%. When combined with MAO inhibitors, DMT plasma concentrations peak at approximately 15–20 ng/mL within 1.5–2 hours. This plant is classified as a controlled substance in many jurisdictions due to its DMT content.

## Dosage & Preparation

Chacruna is typically used in conjunction with Ayahuasca Vine in ceremonial brews. Dosage is determined by a shaman. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

DMT can cause intense psychological effects, nausea, increased heart rate, and [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) elevation during acute phases. Contraindicated with MAO inhibitors, SSRIs, and other serotonergic medications due to serotonin syndrome risk. Not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or for individuals with cardiovascular conditions, psychotic disorders, or severe [mental health](/ingredients/condition/mood) conditions. Legal status varies significantly by jurisdiction, with most countries classifying DMT as a controlled substance.

## Scientific Research

Research on Chacruna focuses on its role in the Ayahuasca brew and its psychoactive effects. Studies have explored its potential therapeutic benefits for [mental health](/ingredients/condition/mood) when used in controlled settings.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Chacruna has been used for centuries by indigenous Amazonian cultures in spiritual and healing rituals. It is an integral part of the Ayahuasca tradition, revered for its visionary properties.

## Synergistic Combinations

Banisteriopsis caapi, Diplopterys cabrerana, Ayahuasca Vine, Tobacco

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the active compound in Psychotria viridis?

The primary active compound is N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), typically present at 0.1-0.66% dry weight. DMT concentrations vary significantly based on plant age, harvest conditions, and preparation methods.

### How does Psychotria viridis differ from other DMT sources?

Psychotria viridis contains primarily DMT with minimal other alkaloids, unlike Mimosa hostilis which contains additional tryptamines. The leaf preparation method and traditional ceremonial context distinguish it from synthetic DMT sources.

### Can Psychotria viridis be used alone for effects?

DMT from Psychotria viridis is rapidly broken down by stomach MAO enzymes when used alone, producing no psychoactive effects. It requires combination with MAO inhibitors like Banisteriopsis caapi for oral bioavailability in ayahuasca preparations.

### What are the typical dosage ranges for Psychotria viridis?

Traditional ayahuasca preparations use 25-100g of dried Psychotria viridis leaves, providing approximately 25-75mg of DMT. Dosage varies significantly based on leaf potency, individual sensitivity, and ceremonial protocols.

### How long do effects from Psychotria viridis last?

When consumed in ayahuasca, effects typically begin within 30-60 minutes and last 4-6 hours total. Peak intensity occurs 1-3 hours after consumption, followed by gradual decline over 2-4 hours.

### Is Psychotria viridis safe to use with antidepressant medications?

Psychotria viridis contains DMT, which interacts with serotonergic pathways and may potentiate the effects of SSRIs, SNRIs, and other antidepressants, potentially increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome. Concurrent use with psychiatric medications requires medical supervision and is generally not recommended without professional guidance. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining Psychotria viridis with any prescription antidepressants or mood-altering medications.

### Who should avoid using Psychotria viridis due to health conditions or contraindications?

Individuals with a personal or family history of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or other psychotic conditions should avoid Psychotria viridis, as DMT may exacerbate these conditions. People with uncontrolled hypertension, heart conditions, or those taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are also at increased risk for adverse effects. Pregnant and nursing women should not use this ingredient due to insufficient safety data and potential neurotoxic effects on fetal development.

### What does scientific research reveal about Psychotria viridis's effects on mental health and neuroplasticity?

Preliminary research suggests DMT-containing plants like Psychotria viridis may enhance neuroplasticity by promoting BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) expression, which supports learning and memory formation. Studies on traditional use indicate potential anxiolytic and antidepressant properties, with some evidence supporting mood improvements in ceremonial settings, though clinical trials in Western populations remain limited. Most robust evidence comes from ethnobotanical and observational studies rather than randomized controlled trials, indicating that more rigorous research is needed to establish definitive efficacy.

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