Onaya Science are currently running a study assessing the impact of traditional Shipibo style ayahuasca retreats on Military Veterans. In this study, participants attend retreats in the Peruvian Amazon for specially designed research programs. This Shamanic Study strives to assess the underlying physiological changes accompanying mental health outcomes. The team are collecting neuroimaging data from EEG recordings before and after the retreats. Saliva and stool samples are also collected for assessments into the effects of ayahuasca on the human genome and gut-microbiome. 

This work builds on previous research, which found that ayahuasca, when taken in traditional ceremonial practices, leaves epigenetic marks on genes associated with trauma. This study aims to explore further these findings in an effort to clarify the biological networks that ceremonial ayahuasca may be impacting.

Working together with The Ayahuasca Foundation, The Heroic Heart Project and The Herb Clinic, we are striving to bring down 5 groups per year to participate in this valuable study.

Our next dates are:

• Mar 1-24, 2024- Mixed Veteran Retreat (20 day)

• Sept 14-Oct 5,2024- Mixed Veteran Retreat (20 day)

We are currently raising funds to reduce the barriers associated with these retreats for our Veteran participants.

Please click one of the options below to see how you can help.