What Is DMT?
DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine) is a powerful psychedelic compound found in many plants and animals, including the human brain. It is also the main psychoactive compound in the ayahuasca brew.
Classification: Other › DMT
Key Takeaway
DMT produces short but intensely immersive psychedelic experiences. It is a controlled substance in most jurisdictions.
Why This Matters
DMT is one of the most potent psychedelics known, producing profound but typically short-lasting experiences when smoked, vaporized, or injected. Taken orally in the ayahuasca brew, which includes MAO inhibitors that prevent DMT breakdown, it produces a longer several-hour experience used in indigenous Amazonian traditions and modern ceremonial contexts. DMT is also produced in trace amounts in the human body, though its physiological role is not well understood. It is a Schedule I controlled substance in most countries, with some exceptions for religious ceremonial use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DMT?
A powerful psychedelic compound found in many plants and animals and in the human brain. It is the main psychoactive compound in ayahuasca.
How long does a DMT experience last?
Smoked or vaporized, the experience typically lasts 5 to 20 minutes. In ayahuasca, the experience lasts several hours because other plant compounds slow the breakdown of DMT.
Is DMT legal?
In most countries it is a Schedule I controlled substance. Some religious and ceremonial uses have legal exceptions, varying by jurisdiction.
