A young Kiwi traveller has died after taking part in an ancient Amazon "cleansing ceremony".
Aucklander
Matthew Dawson-Clarke, 24, was holidaying in Peru when he joined a
seven-day ayahuasca retreat designed to foster a spiritual awakening and
bring inner peace.
Ayahuasca, also known as yage, is a plant that contains a hallucinogen, and induces intense psychological effects.
The retreats, which are growing in popularity with tourists and holidaymakers, offer a variety of other "purging" drinks.
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Ayahuasca use, which often involves an experienced shaman, has been
documented since the 16th century. It is illegal in many countries but
legal in Peru, Brazil and Ecuador. Retreats can cost up to $3000.
The
Government's Safe Travel website offers advice relating to the dangers
of spiritual cleansing rituals that involve ayahuasca tea.
"While not illegal, ayahuasca tourism is not regulated and consumption of the tea does present certain risks.
Kiwi traveller in Peru dies after Amazon drug ritual - National - NZ Herald News
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