Matthew Dawson-Clarke, 24, from Auckland was in Peru and took part (opens new window) in a cleansing ceremony.

Ayahuasca (pr. Ayuwasca) is hallucinogenic and illegal in many countries. It is popular amongst new age people.

Drunk as a tea, causes spiritual feelings of oneness and purpose.

Causes vomiting

"He was screaming louder than I've ever heard a human scream,"

The family said:

"We want people to be aware of the potential dangers so other families do not have to go through what we're going through."

Unfortunately I was able to find another Kiwi on Give A Little (opens new window) who is trying to raise $42,000 to travel to Peru for 3 months and be treated for severe epilepsy.