New Supplement Offers Ayahuasca-Like Benefits Without Psychedelic Trip

A new oral supplement called Happy Caapi, made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine used in ayahuasca, is being marketed as a way to achieve benefits like improved mood and focus without the potent psychedelic effects of the traditional brew. The product aims to provide these advantages without the hallucinations, intense psychological experiences, or physical discomfort sometimes associated with ayahuasca consumption.

Ayahuasca has a long history of use in Indigenous Amazonian healing and spiritual practices. In recent years, it has gained traction among Westerners seeking emotional healing, enlightenment, or a profound mental journey. However, the potent brew can also bring challenging experiences, including nausea, vomiting, and intense psychological distress, alongside potential risks for individuals with certain medical or psychiatric conditions.

The efficacy of ayahuasca lies in its combined components. The Banisteriopsis caapi vine contains beta-carbolines like harmine and harmaline, which inhibit monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A). This enzyme typically breaks down N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a powerful hallucinogen found in other plants often combined with the caapi vine. By inhibiting MAO-A, the caapi vine allows DMT to reach the brain, producing its psychoactive effects. While these effects can be transformative for some, they can also be overwhelming or frightening for others.

Happy Caapi, however, contains no DMT. Instead, it focuses on the compounds within the caapi vine itself. Gonzalo Bisquerra, founder and CEO of Happy Caapi, stated at Dave Asprey’s Beyond Psychedelics conference that the beta-carbolines in the caapi vine offer benefits beyond just MAO inhibition, referring to it as "nature's antidepressant." These compounds are being studied for their potential impact on neurotransmitter signaling, inflammation, neuroplasticity, and protection against oxidative stress, all of which are linked to brain health and mood regulation.

Users of Happy Caapi have reported experiencing reduced mental chatter, enhanced focus, a greater ability to stay present, and an improved mood. One individual who tried the supplement after a long day described feeling more alert, similar to the effect of coffee but without jitters or sleep disruption, and noted an uplifted mood.

While DMT is a Schedule I controlled substance in the U.S., making traditional ayahuasca generally illegal, the caapi vine itself is not federally scheduled. This distinction allows for the sale of supplements like Happy Caapi, which do not contain DMT. The product launched in July and is available online for $40 for a 50-milliliter bottle.

Despite the absence of psychoactive effects, Happy Caapi is not without potential risks. The company advises individuals on prescription medications to consult a healthcare professional before use. It is also not recommended for individuals with bipolar disorder, psychosis, seizure disorders, or significant liver disease. Users are warned against combining the supplement with SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, tramadol, dextromethorphan, or consuming large amounts of tyramine-rich foods. The safety of the supplement during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been established.

Happy Caapi products undergo third-party laboratory testing for contaminants such as pesticides and heavy metals. The company sources its caapi vine from a single, traceable supplier in South America and provides a certificate of analysis with each bottle to ensure quality and safety.