What are Psychedelics?
We're going to take you on a crash course!
Psyche: In Greek, “psyche” (ψυχή) refers to the mind, soul, or spirit. It encompasses the consciousness, thoughts, emotions, and overall mental processes of an individual. In the context of “psychedelic,” the term “psyche” indicates a connection to the mind or mental experiences. Delos: The root “delos” (δηλος) means “manifest” or “clear.” It implies a state of revealing or making something visible or apparent. Combining these two roots, “psychedelic” can be understood as something that pertains to the mind or mental experiences and has the ability to manifest or reveal a clear perception or understanding. In contemporary usage, “psychedelic” primarily refers to substances, experiences, or art that produce altered states of consciousness, vivid sensory perceptions, and profound psychological effects. Psychedelics, specifically those that impact the 5HT2A receptors, can take you on a mind-bending and awe-inspiring journey through altered states of consciousness. Strap in and get ready for a fascinating ride!
Picture your brain as a complex control center with numerous receptors. One particular group of receptors, called 5HT2A receptors, acts as the doorway to a surreal realm. When psychedelics come knocking, they essentially hijack these receptors, opening a portal to an alternate perception of reality. Once inside, psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms), and DMT (the spirit molecule) set off a cascade of effects. They disrupt the usual patterns of brain activity, leading to a remarkable expansion of your senses, thoughts, and emotions. Colors suddenly become vibrant and alive, like a dazzling neon light show on steroids. Shapes twist and contort, dancing before your eyes. Time loses its grip, and minutes feel like hours or seconds. Your thoughts become a swirling vortex of ideas, as profound insights and mind-boggling revelations rush in. It’s as if your consciousness has taken a joyride on a rollercoaster through the neural pathways of your mind. But psychedelics are not just a wild party for your brain. They often induce introspection, deep self-reflection, and a sense of connectedness with the world around you. Your ego may dissolve, leaving you with a profound sense of unity and interconnectedness with the universe. It’s like peering behind the curtains of reality and realizing we’re all part of the same cosmic dance.
These mind-altering substances have been used for centuries by various cultures, from ancient shamans to modern-day psychonauts, seeking spiritual insights, healing, and expanded consciousness. They are tools that can unlock the doors of perception and reveal the mysterious depths of the human mind.However, it’s important to approach psychedelics with respect and caution. These substances are not to be taken lightly. Set, setting, and responsible use are key. They are best explored in safe environments, with trusted companions, and with a mindset focused on intention, introspection, and personal growth. So, if you’re ready to embark on a mind-bending adventure, buckle up, keep an open mind, and let the psychedelics guide you through the magical landscapes of consciousness. Just remember to do your research, stay safe, and integrate your experiences into your everyday life for maximum benefit and fun!
| Psilocybe Cubensis | Lysergic Acid Diethylamide | N,N-Dimethyltryptamine
| Psilocybe Cubensis | Lysergic Acid Diethylamide | N,N-Dimethyltryptamine
| Psilocybe Cubensis | Lysergic Acid Diethylamide | N,N-Dimethyltryptamine
| Psilocybe Cubensis | Lysergic Acid Diethylamide | N,N-Dimethyltryptamine
| Psilocybe Cubensis | Lysergic Acid Diethylamide | N,N-Dimethyltryptamine
The Classic Psychedelics
Learn about Magic Mushrooms
(Psilocybe Cubensis)
Let’s start with the good ol’ mushroom, also known as psilocybin mushrooms or magic mushrooms, are a type of fungus that contains a naturally-occurring chemical called psilocybin. When consumed, psilocybin breaks down into psilocin, at which point after about 30 minutes it can produce feelings of euphoria, altered consciousness, and altered perceptions. Some people use psychedelic mushrooms as a means of exploring their consciousness or achieving spiritual enlightenment. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or brewed into a tea. It is important to note that the effects of psychedelic mushrooms can vary greatly from person to person and can sometimes be unpredictable. This is why if you ever try to ask someone about their individual experience it can sometimes be difficult to conjure up thoughts. Learn
Fun fact: Psychedelic mushrooms were ingested by our ancestors since the Pliocene (beginning 5.3 million years ago) indirectly contributing to the “stoned ape” theory that psychonaut Terrence Mckenna popularized.
Learn about LSD, Acid
(lysergic acid
diethylamide)
Lysergic acid diethylamide was first synthesized in 1938 by a Swiss chemist named Albert Hofmann. It was originally developed as a circulatory and respiratory stimulant, but it was later found to have powerful psychoactive effects. Hofmann accidentally discovered the psychoactive properties of LSD in 1943 when he absorbed a small amount of the drug through his skin and experienced its effects. Learn
In the 1950s and 1960s, LSD was studied for its potential use in the treatment of various mental health conditions, including alcoholism, depression, and anxiety. It was also used by some mental health professionals as a tool to facilitate psychotherapy. However, due to President Nixon saying it made men “not want to fight in the war” LSD was eventually classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States in 1970, shortly after all studies ceased.
Today, LSD, like magic mushrooms are being studied for its effects to treat the mental health conditions listed above.
When comparing it to mushrooms, some like to say Magic Mushrooms puts you in the passanger seat while LSD makes you the driver.
Another comparison is Magic Mushrooms is like a downer high such as compared to cannabis, while LSD is the stimulant version of the classic psychedelics.
Fun fact: Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, used LSD and said in his interview with 60 minutes “Taking LSD was a profound experience, one of the most important things in my life. LSD shows you that there’s another side to the coin, and you can’t remember it when it wears off, but you know it. It reinforced my sense of what was important—creating great things instead of making money, putting things back into the stream of history and of human consciousness as much as I could.”
Learn about N,N-DMT,
The Spirit Molecule
(N,N-Dimethyltryptamine)
N,N-Dimethyltryptamine is a naturally occurring psychedelic drug found in certain plants and animals. It is structurally similar to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is involved in the regulation of mood, perception, and behavior. DMT is known for producing a powerful and intense altered state of consciousness that is often described as a “breakthrough” to a different plane of existence, world, and or universe. This experience often feels so real it’s indistinguishable from life as we know it, at times even feeling more real.
The effects of smoking/vaping DMT are typically felt within the first few seconds after inhalation and can last up to 25 minutes but the average is 10 – 15. During this time, users may experience a range of subjective effects including intense visual and auditory hallucinations, altered sense of time and space, and changes in thought and emotion. Some users report having mystical or spiritual experiences while under the influence of DMT, while others describe more intense and confusing states of mind. Learn
DMT takes the word “trip” to a literal meaning.
Fun fact: DMT has been used by indigenous cultures in South America for centuries as part of traditional spiritual and religious practices. The drug is often consumed by drinking a brew called ayahuasca, which is made from plants that contain DMT and other psychoactive substances. Ayahuasca is used in these traditional practices as a tool for spiritual healing and self-discovery, and it is believed to facilitate communication with the spirit world. Drinking Ayahuasca, unlike smoking DMT, results in effects lasting for up to 5 hours as the plants added to the brew inhibit the DMT from being broken down by the body.
