Sacred plant medicine ceremonies
& healing in Cape Town, South Africa

Ayahuasca has been a sacred medicine among Indigenous Amazonian cultures for thousands of years. It is traditionally prepared by combining two key plants: the Ayahuasca vine (Banisteriopsis caapi) and the chakruna plant (Psychotria viridis). This blend creates a potent brew known for facilitating spiritual exploration and altered states of consciousness beyond ordinary perception.

The chakruna plant contains dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a naturally occurring psychoactive compound. On its own, DMT is quickly broken down in the digestive system by monoamine oxidase (MAO) enzymes, rendering it inactive. However, the Ayahuasca vine contains MAO-inhibiting compounds, such as harmine, which prevent this breakdown. As a result, DMT remains active in the body, allowing it to reach the brain and trigger profound visionary experiences, often unlocking deeper layers of the mind.

Yes. Many people come to ceremony for the first time. Before anything is booked we talk through your intentions, questions and any concerns, so you understand how the medicine works and what to expect on the day.

First journeys are held with extra care — including a conservative starting dose — so that you can build trust with the medicine at your own pace.

Your safety and well-being are my top priorities. My role is to guide you toward personal healing and growth while following strict medical and safety guidelines. Certain medications and substances, including antidepressants, sedatives, and narcotics, must be avoided, as their combination with Ayahuasca can be life-threatening. Narcotics, alcohol, and recreational drugs are strictly contraindicated.

You cannot participate in an Ayahuasca or plant medicine ceremony if:

• You have schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, psychosis, borderline personality disorder, or certain other psychological conditions.
• You have severe kidney disease, unstable diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, severe neurological disorders, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases (e.g. angina, stroke, CVA), pheochromocytoma (adrenal tumour), blood dyscrasias (abnormal cells), hyperthyroidism, or certain liver disorders.
• You are currently taking antidepressants (these must be discontinued 4–8 weeks before the ceremony).
• You are taking painkillers, sleeping pills, or medication for migraines and allergies (these must be stopped 3–6 days before the ceremony).
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• You intend to combine Ayahuasca or San Pedro with drugs such as cocaine, amphetamines, MDMA, alcohol, etc.
• You view Ayahuasca or San Pedro as a recreational drug and are seeking a party experience.

Before booking your ceremony, you will be required to complete a screening form to determine whether you are eligible to participate. Never stop or change prescribed medication without speaking to your doctor first.

Proper preparation is essential to receiving the full benefits of this sacred plant medicine. To prepare, you should focus on cleansing yourself physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.

• Physical preparation: detox your body by following a plant-based diet and avoiding foods that contain tyramines.
• Emotional & mental preparation: avoid gossip, distance yourself from negativity, and try to refrain from sexual activity.
• Spiritual preparation: set clear intentions, practise meditation, and minimise digital distractions.

We recommend starting the diet at least seven days before drinking Ayahuasca and continuing it for seven days after your last ceremony. If seven days is not feasible, a minimum of three days before and after is required.

You will receive more detailed guidance on the full dieta to ensure you are properly prepared. The Ayahuasca dieta & preparation guide (minjay.co.za/ayahuasca-dieta) covers what to avoid, what to eat and what to bring.