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Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew from the decoction of different Amazonian plants, traditionally used in several cultures, religions, and rituals. Scientific studies with ayahuasca are rapidly increasing due to its subjective effects and therapeutic potential. Although ayahuasca is traditionally used in its liquid presentation, lyophilized (freeze-dried) ayahuasca is often used in scientific experimentation settings. However, there is no standard process or guideline to freeze-dry ayahuasca nor comparison of the chemical profile between the liquid and freeze-dried presentations. Therefore, we describe a reproducible five-day protocol for ayahuasca lyophilization with alkaloids quantification by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry of both the liquid and the final freeze-dried ayahuasca. By the end of the protocol, approximately 295 g of freeze-dried extract with similar alkaloids concentration were obtained from two liters of ayahuasca (dry matter: 14.75 %). The final extract was stored for three years inside a vacuum desiccator (approximately 6°C) with its texture quality preserved. Further studies should address the impact of different storage conditions and the lyophilization on the alkaloids' quantity of the freeze-dried ayahuasca, especially the use of heat in regards to the β-carbolines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to provide environmental education concerning the rational use of medicinal, spice, and toxic plants, plant beds were installed and maintained at the Diadema Botanical Garden. Educational materials (folders and booklets) were also produced for each of the three plant groups. This project was developed as a collaboration between the Center for Ethnobotanical and Ethnopharmacological Studies (CEE) of the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); the São Paulo city Herbarium, which belongs to the Environment Department of São Paulo; and the Botanic Garden of Diadema, which belongs to the Diadema Environment Department. The project was aimed at the general public, with the main focus being students from public and private schools in Diadema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]