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Ayahuasca Safety and Contraindications

Our full stance on working with Ayahuasca — the contraindications, how to prepare, and what to bring to the ceremony. Read this before you apply.

An honest conversation between women at the Portals retreat near Tulum

Working with Ayahuasca

The sacred medicine of Grandmother Ayahuasca is a profound tool for deep healing and self-discovery. It offers a powerful opportunity to look within, transform your life, and heal your relationship with yourself and those around you. Through prayer and intention, this sacred medicine allows you to connect with your inner teacher and healer, your guides, your shadows, your light, and divine beings of love.

A ceremony with Ayahuasca amplifies your vision of life and spirituality, expanding your consciousness to new heights. However, it is essential to approach this experience with deep respect, for the medicine, the ceremony, and all participants.

To take part, you must hold a clear, heartfelt intention for what you wish to explore and heal. This is a sacred opportunity for profound transformation, not a recreational experience. We ask that you honor this process with awareness, commitment, and reverence, as this work is not for everyone.

Most important: if you are on any medication, please contact us directly.

Contraindications

The following conditions may prevent participation in the ceremony. Please review carefully and consult with us if any apply to you:

  • Individuals currently taking antidepressants (such as SSRIs or MAOIs) or antipsychotic medications.
  • Those with psychiatric conditions or family histories of mental health disorders, including psychosis, paranoia, suicidal tendencies, schizophrenia, severe depression, or mania.
  • Individuals who have undergone surgery within the past three (3) months.
  • People with heart conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes, or epilepsy.
  • Those actively struggling with drug or alcohol addiction.
  • Individuals who are pregnant, or undergoing treatment for other significant medical conditions.
  • Those under allopathic, homeopathic, or herbalist treatment.

If you have any of the above conditions or treatments, please inform us in advance so we can assess whether participation is appropriate for you.

Preparation Guidelines

One (1) week before intake:

  • Refrain from sexual activity for three (3) days prior.
  • Avoid red meat, pork, animal fats, spicy foods, fermented food, onions, aged cheeses, garlic, and acidic foods for three (3) days leading up to the ceremony.
  • Avoid alcohol, recreational drugs, and cannabis.
  • Don’t watch scary movies or the news for three (3) days before the ceremony.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, and focus on a diet rich in vegetables and fruits.
  • Make sure you are well rested, with a minimum of 7–9 hours of sleep each night before the ceremony.
  • On the day of the ceremony, eat light meals and stop eating around 2pm — water only after that.
  • Watch your dreams in the days before you drink the medicine.
  • If you are working with a therapist, explore your intentions for the medicine with them.

What to Bring to the Ceremony

  • Comfortable, warm clothing, and extra underwear.
  • A water bottle for your personal use during the ceremony.
  • A journal and pen, to write your intentions before and your insights after the ceremony.

Alcohol, drugs, and any other substances are strictly prohibited during the ceremony. We ask that you commit to staying within the ceremony space for your safety and the integrity of the experience, and keep cell phones off, with no headphones or other devices.

Mats, blankets, cushions, toilet paper, and a small bucket are provided for everyone.

Questions or concerns

If you have any questions or concerns, or if you are on any medication, please contact us directly.

Written by Shannon Brown, sound healer, shamanic guide, and visionary artist

Last reviewed August 2026

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