A tourist from Alabama has reportedly died after drinking a psychoactive herbal brew while on holiday in Peru.
According to a report by People, Aaron Castranova, 41, died on June 1 after allegedly drinking an ‘ayahuasca’ brew at the La Casa de Guillermo ICONA hostel in Loreto. The facility is located within the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest. Per Infobae, the establishment is “five hours of river travel” away from the Loreto region’s capital. Dr. Narciso López, the regional prosecutor’s forensic pathologist, led the forensic investigation. They explained Castronova died of multiple organ failure. He reportedly also suffered from fluid around the lungs and acute pancreatitis, although the latter is to be confirmed.
The US Embassy warns tourists against ingesting ‘ayahuasca or kambo’ and even has an information page on the subject. The substances are reportedly marketed to tourists as “ceremonial” or “spiritual cleansers.” However, they can reportedly contain dimethyltryptamine (DMT), which is illegal in many countries and is a potent hallucinogen.
Ayahuasca can reportedly cause nausea, vomiting, and a boosted heart rate. The US Embassy attributes several deaths to the substance, citing another case in 2024. They also explain potential events that could occur while the user is under the influence. Users have reported being assaulted, injured, or robbed after drinking the brew. The Peruvian government does not regulate any groups providing ayahuasca.
The Brew May Have Reacted To The Tourist’s Medication
Infobae cites reports from hostel workers. They allege that Castranova never told organizers he was taking antibiotics. Dr. López reportedly explained that certain medicines can cause severe adverse reactions when combined with ayahuasca.
The outlet also says that hostel workers notified authorities following the tourist’s death. “Castronova’s body was transferred by river to the port of Bellavista Nanay and then transferred to the central morgue of Iquitos.” His body is reportedly waiting to be claimed by relatives or the US Embassy.
The Daily Mail explains that tourism related to ayahuasca has boomed in recent years despite the dangers. Holiday-goers are reportedly drawn to the retreats as they have a reputation for easing multiple mental health issues, such as depression.