Mar 5 • 03:50 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Guardian

NSW wellness guru charged over man’s death during ayahuasca and frog toxin ceremony

A wellness retreat operator in New South Wales has been charged with manslaughter following the death of a client during a psychedelic ceremony.

Soulore Solaris, a 52-year-old wellness guru in New South Wales, Australia, has been charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of Jarrad Antonovich, who passed away in October 2021 after participating in a ceremonial ritual at the Arcoora retreat. The police report alleges that Solaris administered both ayahuasca—a powerful plant-based psychedelic—and kambo, a frog toxin, to Antonovich, leading to severe health complications including a perforated oesophagus.

The investigation indicates that during the ceremony, after Antonovich collapsed, Solaris was negligent in seeking timely medical assistance, which may have contributed to the man's death. The substances in question, ayahuasca and kambo, are known for their psychedelic and potentially dangerous effects when misused or improperly administered, raising concerns about the legality and safety of such wellness retreats that operate outside formal medical oversight.

This case opens up broader discussions regarding the regulation of wellness retreats and the use of psychedelics in ceremonial settings in Australia. With increasing interest in alternative therapies and the rising popularity of psychedelic substances for spiritual and psychological healing, the legal repercussions of their use in unregulated environments are becoming more pressing. The outcome of this case may influence future legislation and safety standards for similar retreats in Australia and beyond.

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