Part 7/9:
Critics also raise concerns about the economic implications of many ayahuasca retreats. Peruvian anthropologist Dr. Ruben Orellana points out that the rise of such businesses often comes at the expense of local communities and the environment. Many retreats capitalize on the mystical allure of the Amazon but fail to provide fair compensation to local workers or sufficiently mitigate the environmental impact. The burgeoning industry can appear more focused on profit than genuine healing or community empowerment.