chacruna

plant

Also known as: Psychotria viridis

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Last updated

July 21, 2026

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Chacruna, scientifically known as Psychotria viridis, is a plant native to the Amazon basin. It is a key ingredient in the preparation of ayahuasca, a traditional hallucinogenic drink used by indigenous South Americans.1

Ayahuasca is made by combining the stems of the Banisteriopsis caapi vine with the leaves of the chacruna plant. This mixture is then soaked or boiled. The B. caapi vine provides harmine, an alkaloid that prevents the digestive breakdown of DMT (dimethyltryptamine), which is the psychoactive compound supplied by the chacruna leaves. This combination allows for the psychoactive effects of DMT to be experienced.1

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ayahuasca
…with the leaves of the chacruna plant (Psychotria viridis). Alternatively, the leaves of certain other plants, most notably the chagropanga plant (Diplopterys cabrerana), may be used. B. caapi is a source of harmine, an alkaloid that inhibits the breakdown in the digestive system of DMT
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…with the leaves of the chacruna plant (Psychotria viridis). Alternatively, the leaves of certain other plants, most notably the chagropanga plant (Diplopterys cabrerana), may be used. B. caapi is a source of harmine, an alkaloid that inhibits the breakdown in the digestive system of DMT
Read More