Ayahuasca ceremonies have long been a part of indigenous cultures in South America. Recently, these sacred practices have stirred interest in the United States, leading to the proliferation of Ayahuasca retreats. As with any subject that teeters on the edge of mainstream understanding and acceptance, the rise of these retreats has spawned a slew of misconceptions. Today, our mission is to lay bare the truth, and dispel ten of these commonly held myths.

• Ayahuasca is simply a recreational drug
• Ayahuasca retreats are not legal in the USA
• Ayahuasca retreats are not safe
• One must travel to South America for an authentic Ayahuasca experience
• Ayahuasca is a cure-all medicine
• Ayahuasca experiences are always pleasant
• All Ayahuasca retreats offer the same experience
• Ayahuasca retreats only attract people with problems
• Ayahuasca ceremonies are devoid of scientific basis
• Ayahuasca retreats exploit indigenous cultures

By debunking these myths, we aim to offer a more nuanced understanding of Ayahuasca retreats in the United States. As with any deeply personal exploration, it is essential to approach Ayahuasca with respect, mindfulness, and an informed perspective.