Ayahuasca vs Harmaline
A side-by-side research comparison of Ayahuasca and Harmaline across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Ayahuasca | Harmaline |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Ayahuasca (DMT + MAO inhibitor brew) | Harmaline (harmala alkaloid) |
| Category | Psychedelics | Psychedelics |
| Status | Traditional/ceremonial; research compound | Natural alkaloid; research compound |
| Mechanism | The MAO-inhibiting vine (harmine and related compounds) stops the body from breaking down DMT, allowing an oral psychedelic experience that activates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. | Inhibits the enzyme MAO-A, which lets oral DMT work; also has mild psychedelic and sedative effects of its own. |
| Molecular weight | Mixture (no single value) | 214.26 g/mol |
| Half-life | Several hours (extended by MAO inhibition) | Several hours |
| Bioavailability | Oral | Oral |
| Typical dose | Brew-based, varies by preparation | Varies by individual and setting |
| Frequency | Ceremonial or occasional study sessions | Occasional |
| Route | Oral brew | Oral |
Ayahuasca reported benefits
- Studied for treatment-resistant depression
- Explored for grief and trauma
- Long history of ceremonial use
- May produce lasting shifts in outlook
Harmaline reported benefits
- Enables oral DMT (ayahuasca)
- Studied in ethnobotany
- Natural harmala alkaloid
- Dreamy effects at higher doses
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.