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Brazilian Prison Study Shows Ayahuasca Reduced Recidivism Rates Compared to Control Group

Huberman Lab · Essentials: Psychedelics & Neurostimulation for Brain Rewiring | Dr. Nolan Williams · June 4, 2026
Brazilian Prison Study Shows Ayahuasca Reduced Recidivism Rates Compared to Control Group
Huberman Lab
Huberman Lab
Essentials: Psychedelics & Neurostimulation for Brain Rewiring | Dr. Nolan Williams
"The recidivism rate or the return to prison rate in the ayahuasca-exposed individuals was statistically significantly lower than the recidivism rate in the control group, suggesting that, you know, whatever is going on there seems to have an effect on whatever drives criminal behavior."
Dr. Williams described Brazilian research in which prisoners who received ayahuasca sessions showed statistically lower rates of returning to prison compared to control groups. The study utilized ayahuasca's status as a Catholic sacrament in some Brazilian sects, though Williams cautioned against interpreting this as a recommendation for widespread prison psychedelic use.
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Huberman Lab
Huberman Lab

Essentials: Psychedelics & Neurostimulation for Brain Rewiring | Dr. Nolan Williams

August 3, 2026 · 5 Egleze moments
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