Ayahuasca is a psychoactive tea-like drink. DMT is the first and main ingredient. People who use ayahuasca often do so as part of religious or cultural rituals. The brew contains a range of compounds that may help limit side effects and reduce the overall toxicity of DMT.

Some important differences between the two substances include:

  • DMT typically contains no other ingredients, while ayahuasca contains plants and other compounds.
  • DMT may be more potent than ayahuasca.
  • Ayahuasca may contain other ingredients that alter the high of DMT.
  • Toxicity and side effects may be more likely with DMT than with ayahuasca