supernova said:

Anyhow, I want to try ayahuasca, and I'm looking for comments from those who have actually used it.  I understand that it can be a very soul searching experience if used right.  My buddy hid some deep in the black forest and told me I could borrow some when I am ready.  I have a couple questions:

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Well, Ayahuasca's fun.  It's very visual, somewhat head-fuck, and yeah, it does tend to give one some insights.

You do need at least two plant products:  the DMT source and the MAOI -- I use Mimosa hostilis and syrian rue.  I'm assuming that you're asking about other things, like datura and other plants that have sometimes been added -- no, you don't need these, and, in my opinion, they detract from the experience, so don't use them until you get the feel for aya alone.

Read everything on Erowid about MAOIs -- they can be very dangerous -- though they're very safe if you keep the warnings in mind.

I recommend a dose of 10g Mimosa and 4g rue to start -- then increase the mimosa dosage as desired.

As to keeping it secret -- that's up to you.  Evaluate your own reasons and decide.  I keep my use relatively secret too, so...*shrugs*

The intensity of the trip differs, of course, with the dose.  For me, 10g was an awesome experience but completely manageable. 

Anyway, read up on the stuff on Erowid, and then buy some -- BBB gave me good product.  Be careful, put on some good music like Shpongle, and have a bucket handy, because you're almost certain to puke.  But don't worry -- that's just another part of the Aya experience. 

Lay back, close your eyes, and enjoy.