noun. A hallucinogenic brew made from the bark and stems of a tropical South American vine of the genus Banisteriopsis, especially B. caapi, mixed with other psychotropic plants, used especially in shamanistic rituals by certain Amazonian Indian peoples.

noun. A giant vine native to South America (especially Banisteriopsis caapi), noted for its psychotropic properties.

noun. Any of various psychoactive infusions or decoctions prepared from this vine.

"For better or worse, there are ample byproducts of drug culture's intellect, including, according to Israeli researchers, the Old Testament, where the drug in a popular drink of the time called ayahuasca induced "the seeing of light and profound religious and spiritual feelings.""