Embarking on the journey of Ayahuasca can be an enlightening, transformational, and deeply spiritual experience. However, as with any profound undertaking, it's essential to be well informed before setting foot on this path. Here are nine points, some rooted in neuroscience, the legal sphere, and cultural anthropology that I wish I had known before delving into the world of Ayahuasca retreats in the United States.

• Understand the Pharmacodynamics:
  Ayahuasca is a potent brew originating from the Amazon basin. It consists mainly of two plants - the Psychotria viridis, which contains the powerful psychedelic compound DMT, and a vine called Banisteriopsis caapi. The latter contains monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) that allow DMT to bypass the digestive system and reach the brain, inducing intense hallucinogenic experiences.
• The Legal Landscape:
  The legal status of Ayahuasca in the United States is complex. While DMT is categorized as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, the Supreme Court ruled in 2006 (Gonzales v. O Centro Espirita Beneficiente Uniao do Vegetal) that the UDV Church could use the brew for religious purposes under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. However, this doesn't constitute blanket protection for all users or retreats, and the line between religious use and recreational use can be blurry.
• Thoroughly Vet Your Retreat:
  There's a rise in Ayahuasca retreats across the US, with varying degrees of legitimacy. Some retreats are under the umbrella of recognized churches like the Santo Daime, while others are more informally organized. Before booking, investigate the retreat's legal status, the experience and qualifications of the facilitators, and their approach to safety and participant wellbeing.
• Safety First:
  Ayahuasca can have potent physical and psychological effects. It's crucial to understand potential risks. The brew can interact harmfully with a range of substances, including antidepressants, other MAOIs, and even some types of cheese. It's also mentally intense and could be harmful to individuals with certain psychological conditions.
• Significance of Set and Setting:
  The set (your mindset) and the setting (the environment) are both critical for the Ayahuasca experience. A positive set and setting can facilitate a beneficial experience, while a negative one can lead to a distressing journey. Therefore, choosing a comfortable and supportive retreat environment is vital.
• Integration is Key:
  The Ayahuasca journey doesn't end after the effects of the brew wear off. The integration process - the assimilation of insights gained during the experience into daily life - is as crucial as the experience itself. A good retreat should offer guidance and support during this phase.
• Psychedelic Tourism and Cultural Appropriation:
  One must be mindful of the cultural roots of Ayahuasca. It's part of Indigenous Amazonian spiritual and healing traditions. Approaching it with respect for these traditions and not merely as a "quick fix" or a spiritual novelty is critical.
• No Guarantees:
  While many testify to Ayahuasca's transformative power, it's essential to understand that there are no guarantees of particular outcomes. Each person's experience is highly individual and can be influenced by various factors, ranging from individual psychology to the specifics of the brew used.
• Alternatives Exist:
  It's also crucial to know that Ayahuasca is not the only path to personal growth or spiritual enlightenment. Many other methods, including meditation, psychotherapy, and other forms of personal development, can be equally transformative without the potential legal and safety risks associated with Ayahuasca.

In conclusion, the journey with Ayahuasca can be a profound one. However, it's a journey that requires substantial preparation, knowledge, and respect. The considerations above, rooted in various fields of study, provide a guide to navigating this intricate landscape.