In the stillness of a southern night, under the sound of icaros and the gentle glow of candles in the maloca of Sacruna near Marbella, our guests take their first sip of ayahuasca. Many come to us searching for a way out of hopelessness and despair. One of the most common questions we hear is: Can ayahuasca help with depression, and is it truly safe?
At Sacruna, we see that ayahuasca has the potential to bring profound relief and inner balance. Yet we emphasize: this is not a “magic pill.” The experience can only become healing when it is approached with careful preparation, skilled guidance, and ongoing integration.
How Ayahuasca Relates to Depression
Ayahuasca is a traditional Amazonian brew that has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples for healing and spiritual insight. Today, it is also being studied as a tool for emotional and psychological well-being.
Depression is often tied to persistent negative thought patterns, lack of energy, and difficulties with emotional regulation. Ayahuasca can sometimes break these cycles, open new perspectives, and help individuals reconnect with themselves. However, for those with severe or bipolar depression, this path may involve additional risks.
Immediate Effects: The First 48 Hours
Mood Elevation
Many participants describe feeling lighter already during the ceremony or within the first day after it. The sense of heaviness often lifts, and vitality returns. Research shows that 50–70% of people with depression report improvements during this initial window.
Emotional Intensity
Ayahuasca often brings suppressed memories and feelings to the surface. For some, this is liberating and deeply healing. For others, it can be overwhelming. At Sacruna, we accompany our guests step by step, ensuring that even difficult emotions become a doorway to growth rather than a burden.
Longer-Term Outcomes (Weeks to Months)
Lasting Improvements
Some participants experience more stable moods for several weeks or even months after the retreat. Negative self-talk weakens, and daily life feels lighter and clearer.
Building Resilience
Ayahuasca can help uncover the roots of depression and foster greater self-compassion. This strengthens the ability to handle challenges and maintain emotional balance.
Potential Challenges
Around 10–15% of people may experience a temporary worsening of symptoms in the weeks following a retreat. In rare cases, individuals with certain predispositions may face severe crises.
Key Risks
- Emotional overwhelm during the ceremony (20–30% of participants).
- Post-retreat mood instability (10–15%).
- Rare cases of psychotic reactions in predisposed individuals (<0.5%).
- Dangerous interactions with certain medications.
That is why Sacruna conducts comprehensive medical and psychological screenings before participation, ensuring the process is approached safely.
How We Ensure Safety at Sacruna
- Small groups. We limit groups to 6–12 participants so that each person receives personal care.
- Experienced guides. Our facilitators and tradition keepers bring years of experience to the circle.
- Preparation. We help participants set clear intentions and learn grounding and breathing practices before the retreat.
- Integration. After the retreat, we offer support through therapy recommendations, journaling, and integration circles.
Our Philosophy at Sacruna
For us, ayahuasca is not a pharmaceutical cure but a sacred tool of transformation. We honor its Amazonian roots while integrating modern psychological knowledge, creating a bridge between ancient tradition and contemporary care.
Conclusion: The Sacruna Perspective
- Ayahuasca can bring relief from depression: most participants notice improvement in the first hours, and some sustain benefits for months.
- Yet risks exist: overwhelm, temporary worsening, and in rare cases, psychotic reactions.
- Without preparation and integration, the positive effects may fade—or even reverse.
At Sacruna, we create a space where people can explore this path with safety, support, and deep respect for tradition. Our goal is not just to provide relief but to help participants build a foundation for long-term transformation in their lives
