Abstract

In 1985, ayahuasca was banned for a short period of time by the Federal Council of Drugs (CONFEN). After more than two decades of debates and public policies, the Brazilian government consolidated the regulation of ayahuasca consumption for religious purposes and recognized ayahuasca groups as legitimate religions and part of the cultural heritage of the Amazon region. The aim of this work is to demonstrate that scholars played a crucial role in shaping public policy related to the regulation of ayahuasca exclusively for religious purposes, as well as influencing the public recognition of the Brazilian ayahuasca religions. Thus, by participating in the decision-making processes and incorporating elements from the academic field into the debate, Brazilian researchers contributed to mold the regulation of ayahuasca and shape the public policies.