09.04.2026 19:50
Istanbul Police Department's Narcotics Crime Investigation Branch teams detected that Yusuf Güney, who participated in a program broadcasted on a digital platform, made encouraging statements about ayahuasca tea. So, what is ayahuasca tea? Is the ayahuasca tea that led to Yusuf Güney's detention illegal, and what does it contain? Details are in our news.
A recent development that has caught the public's attention in Istanbul has brought the ayahuasca tea, associated with alternative consciousness experiences, back into the spotlight. The Narcotics Crime Investigation Department teams of the Istanbul Police Department detected that singer Yusuf Güney used encouraging expressions regarding ayahuasca tea during a program broadcast on a digital platform. Investigations revealed that the DMT substance contained in this drink is among the banned substances, and it was reported that Güney was taken into custody. So, what is ayahuasca tea? Is the ayahuasca tea that led to Yusuf Güney's detention illegal, and what does it contain? Details...
WHAT IS AYAHUASCA TEA?
Ayahuasca tea is a herbal mixture known for its psychoactive effects, originating from the Amazon region of South America. This drink, used by indigenous peoples for centuries, holds significant importance, especially in spiritual rituals and healing ceremonies.
In traditional use, the ayahuasca experience is usually conducted under the guidance of a shaman. It is believed that during these rituals, the tea alters the individual's level of consciousness, provides inner awareness, and contributes to emotional purification. However, in the modern world, such practices can pose serious risks when conducted uncontrolled and without medical supervision.
Although ayahuasca tea has gained popularity in recent years as part of alternative therapy and personal development pursuits, scientific circles emphasize that this experience needs to be carefully evaluated.
IS AYAHUASCA TEA ILLEGAL?
The legal status of ayahuasca tea is controversial in many countries due to the substances it contains. Particularly, DMT (dimethyltryptamine), one of the main components of the tea, is listed as a banned and controlled substance in many countries.
In Turkey, DMT is also classified under narcotic and stimulant substances. Therefore, the production, possession, or use of ayahuasca tea can lead to legal sanctions. In the recent investigation conducted in Istanbul, this situation was emphasized, and it was officially stated that the substance in question is illegal.
Experts point out that such substances pose serious risks not only legally but also in terms of health. Uncontrolled use can lead to negative consequences both individually and socially.
WHAT DOES AYAHUASCA CONTAIN?
Ayahuasca tea is generally prepared by combining two main components:
Banisteriopsis caapi (Jungle vine)
This plant forms the basis of the ayahuasca mixture. The MAO inhibitors it contains enhance the effects of other psychoactive components.
Plants Containing DMT
Some plants added to the mixture contain DMT, a powerful psychoactive substance. This substance can directly affect the brain's perception system, leading to intense hallucinations and changes in consciousness.
The combined use of these two components results in the powerful effects of ayahuasca tea. However, these effects are not always positive.
IS AYAHUASCA TEA DANGEROUS?
The following effects can be observed in individuals consuming ayahuasca tea:
- Intense visual and auditory hallucinations
- Distortion in the perception of time and space
- Deep emotional fluctuations
- Changes in the state of consciousness
While some users describe this experience as "spiritual purification," experts emphasize that such experiences are not safe for everyone.
- The most commonly reported side effects include:
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Heart rhythm disturbances
- Intense anxiety and panic attacks
- Traumatic psychological effects
Therefore, consuming it without medical supervision and in an uncontrolled manner can pose serious health risks.