What is Banisteriopsis Caapi ?
Banisteriopsis caapi, commonly known as Caapi or Ayahuasca vine, is a perennial vine native to the Amazon rainforest in South America.
What is inside a bottle of Caapi™?
Banisteriopsis Caapi Vine extract, mixed with distilled water.
Is Caapi™ the same as Ayahuasca?
Banisteriopsis Caapi is the scientific name of the Ayahuasca vine. What is commonly referred to as "Ayahuasca" is a brew that is a combination of the Ayahuasca vine (Banisteriopsis Caapi) and another plant, which contains DMT, (often Psychotria viridis or Diplopterys cabrerana). Together this combination is known to produce psychoactive and hallucinogenic effects. Our extract is made only from Banisteriopsis Caapi and does not contain other plants.
Does Banisteriopsis Caapi extract contain DMT?
No, our extract does not contain DMT. Pure Banisteriopsis caapi vine does not naturally contain any DMT. Our extract is pure and not mixed with any other plants, only distilled water.
How is it that there is no DMT in Caapi™?
Banisteriopsis caapi, is the vine commonly used in Ayahuasca preparations known for containing DMT. The source of DMT in the Ayahuasca brew comes from the combination of Banisteriopsis caapi and another plant, often Psychotria viridis or Diplopterys cabrerana, therefore the vine itself does not contain DMT. Caapi is extracted from Banisteriopsis caapi only and is not mixed with any other DMT containing plants.
What does Banisteriopsis caapi do for your brain?
Banisteriopsis caapi contains harmala alkaloids that are known as MAO inhibitors. These compounds have been studied for their neuroprotective properties as well as the abilty to stimulate neurogenesis (the process by which new neurons (nerve cells) are generated in the brain). Research shows increasing potential to impact brain performance in areas such as memory, learning and concentration. Read science and research section for more.
How do I use Caapi™ drops?
Shake the bottle well. Take 10 drops under the tongue, on an empty stomach. Hold it there for 2-3 minutes before swallowing. Take daily for 60 days. Preferably at the same time of day. After 60 days, take a 7 day break. During the break, assess how you are feeling compared to before beginning the drops. Resume the protocol if desired. Adjust the dosage as required. Taking Caapi is a personal experience. Keeping a journal will help you track changes such as mood, energy, sleep and focus. You can then adjust to a dose most suitable for you
Can I use Caapi™ while taking other medications?
It is advised to consult a healthcare professional before using Banisteriopsis Caapi if you are taking any medications. It is strongly advised not to take Caapi whilst taking any medications containing SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor).
Is Banisteriopsis caapi extract legal?
Banisteriopsis caapi extracts that do not contain DMT are considered legal because they lack the controlled substance - DMT. However, the legal status can change, and some countries or regions may have specific regulations or restrictions on the sale, possession, or use of Banisteriopsis caapi or its extracts. To ensure you are in compliance with the laws in your area, it is advisable to research and consult with legal experts or local authorities regarding the specific legal status of pure Banisteriopsis caapi extract.
Will I get high from consuming Caapi™?
Banisteriopsis caapi on its own without the presence of DMT-containing plants is not associated with inducing a feeling of getting high nor hallucinogenic/ psychedelic effects. However, the effects of Banisteriopsis caapi can vary from person to person, depending on factors like dosage and individual sensitivity, therefore it is advised to adjust dosage as required.
Is Banisteriopsis caapi psychoactive?
No. Banisteriopsis caapi on its own without the presence of DMT-containing plants is not associated with inducing psychoactive / hallucinogenic/ psychedelic effects.
What are the alkaloids in Banisteriopsis caapi?
The most studied Alkaloids in B.caapi are:
Harmine: primary harmala alkaloid in the vine and is responsible for inhibiting monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A). Harmaline: another major harmala alkaloid in Banisteriopsis caapi, harmaline also plays a crucial role in MAO-A inhibition. Tetrahydroharmine: a third significant harmala alkaloid in the Ayahuasca vine and contributes to the MAO inhibition. Harmalol: Harmalol is a related harmala alkaloid present in Banisteriopsis caapi, though it is generally found in smaller quantities compared to the other harmala alkaloids.
Dihydroharmine: Dihydroharmine is a minor harmala alkaloid found in the vine, which also contributes to the overall composition of alkaloids.
Several other Harmala Alkaloids: There are additional harmala alkaloids, but their presence and significance can vary among different subspecies and varieties of Banisteriopsis caapi.
Is Banisteriopsis caapi a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitior (MAOI)?
Yes, the primary active compounds in the Banisteriopsis caapi vine are the beta-carboline alkaloids, such as harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine. These compounds act as MAOIs, inhibiting the action of the enzyme monoamine oxidase.
What are Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitiors (MAOI)?
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) work by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme monoamine oxidase.
Monoamine oxidase is responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, in the brain. By inhibiting this enzyme, MAOIs increase the levels of these neurotransmitters, leading to altered mood and behavior.
Where does Banisteriopsis caapi vine grow?
The Amazon rainforest in South America. In countries such as Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and other regions within the Amazon basin. Our extract is harvested from Banisteriopsis caapi vines grown in the Ucayali region of Peru.
How is it extracted?
Our extract is prepared using traditional methods by Shipibo people in Peru. Once mature, vines are harvested, the outer layer is removed and the vine is broken into smaller pieces. The prepared vine is then boiled and filtered over a wooden fire.
Does Banisteriopsis caapi help with depression?
Some studies have suggested that certain alkaloids in the vine, such as harmine and harmaline, might have antidepressant or anxiolytic effects. These alkaloids are known as MAO inhibitors (MAOIs) and can affect neurotransmitter levels in the brain, potentially influencing mood. It is strongly advised not to take Caapi whilst taking any anti-depressant medications containing SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor).
Does Banisteriopsis caapi help with anxiety?
Some studies have shown potential anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects from the alkaloids in Banisteriopsis Caapi vine. Several anecdotal reports and traditional use suggest that the vine itself may have calming and grounding effects.
Does Banisteriopsis caapi help with PTSD?
Some studies have suggested that Banisteriopsis caapi may positively impact common PTSD symptoms. The alkaloids in Banisteriopsis caapi have been found to increase neurotransmitters levels, neuroplasticty and serotonin receptor activation which can result in mood stabalization, reduced anxiety, new neural connections (changing traumatic imprints), increased self reflection and reduction in emotional/psychological distress.
Does Banisteriopsis caapi help with inflammation?
Some studies have suggested that the alkaloids in Banisteriopsis caapi have anti-inflammatory effects through modulating various inflammatory pathways. Studies have also shown antioxidant properties which can reduce oxidative stress resulting in anti-inflammatory effects,
Can I get addicted to Banisteriopsis caapi?
Banisteriopsis caapi vine, contains various alkaloids, including harmine and harmaline. These alkaloids are not typically associated with physical addiction.
How long do I need to take Caapi™ drops?
Microdosing with Caapi™ is a personal experience, therefore it is your choice to how long you wish to take the drops. A recommendation is to take daily for 30 days, preferably at the same time of day. After 30 days, take a 14-day break. During the break, assess how you are feeling compared to before beginning the drops. Resume the protocol if desired ans adjust the dosage as required. Keeping a journal will help you track changes such as mood, energy, sleep and focus.
What are the effects of Banisteriopsis caapi plant?
Several studies have shown the alkaloids in the B. caapi vine promote neurogenesis. Most notably, in vitro studies showed that harmine, tetrahydroharmine and harmaline, stimulated neural stem cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation into adult neurons. Other studies have also shown anti-inflammation and anti-axiety effects as well as mood regulation, improved sleep and cognitive ability.
Should Banisteriopsis caapi / Caapi™ be taken at morning or night?
It is your preference to what time of day you take Caapi. As a microdosing protocol, It is suggested to take caapi around the same time everyday. However microdosing and the effects of Caapi is a personal experience, it is advised to asses what time of day and dosage is most suitable for you. This could require journalling frequently when you start taking Caapi, recording how you feel before and after the drops, adjusting and recording your personal expereince again. It is common for individuals to discover a unique personalised protocol that can be adjusted as an when required.