Psychedelics 101: History, Types, and More

Throughout ancient times, there have been tales of seers, oracles, and soothsayers projecting their minds beyond their human limits and seeing what they believed to be prophecies. The Oracle of Delphi, featured in many Greek stories and plays, is the perfect example of this archetype. Her premonitions and prophecies started many of the comedies and tragedies we still study today.

These visions of hers did not simply occur from divine insight. In fact, many researchers like Daryn Lehoux have ventured forth to uncover the truth of how the oracle devised her prophecies. In doing so, he discovered that she might have been under the influence of a hallucinogenic gas. “’There’s a fair amount of data on the effects of ethylene,” Dr. Spiller said. ”In the first stages, it produces disembodied euphoria, an altered mental status, and a pleasant sensation. It’s what street people would call getting high.

The greater the dose, the deeper you go.’” (Lehoux) Ethylene, a hydrocarbon, colorless, flammable gas, is somewhat toxic to humans. However, this was not known back when the Delphi oracle inhaled it to produce psychedelic hallucinations. Regardless, the Oracle of Delphi produced most of her psychic visions under the influence of hallucinogenic and psychedelic smoke and herbs. Fast forward to the 20th century, and suddenly, psychic visions become art. Musicians are some of the most exploratory and open-minded artists, and this attribute works well in drawing them to psychedelics.

The Beatles were very well known for using psychedelics: “It [LSD] opened my eyes. We only use one-tenth of our brain. Just think of what we could accomplish if we could only tap that hidden part! It would mean a whole new world if the politicians would take LSD.

There wouldn’t be any more war or poverty or famine.” Stay connected on special events, classes, and savings. 15% OFF YOUR FIRST PURCHASE Even beyond the 60s and 70s, when Hippie culture was synonymous with marijuana and mushroom use, some people found that psychedelics unlocked creativity and passion. Take Björk, the Icelandic pop idol known for her avant-garde fashion and hypnotic vocals; her passions have recently manifested into a new album focused entirely on the mycelium she uses to open her heart, mind, and spirit. “It’s something that lives underground, but not tree roots. A tree root album would be quite severe and stoic, but mushrooms are psychedelic, and they pop up everywhere. My fungus period has been bubbly and fun, with a lot of dancing.” The era of psychedelic research and appreciation is dawning. Rituals have become artist avenues of reinvention and revitalizing. Psychedelics are the vehicle that drives the progress of mental stimulation research forward, so let’s discover how something as complex as a mushroom or as simple as a smiley-face tablet can open you up to a new era of self. Psychedelics, also known as hallucinogens, are a group of substances that have the potential to alter consciousness.

The modern term ‘psychedelic’ was coined in the 1950s by British scientist Humphry Osmond.

The word itself is Greek and means “mind-manifesting.” Popular examples of psychedelics include lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin (found in ‘magic mushrooms’), and dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Traditional rituals have used these substances for centuries. From the mind-altering honey of Trabzon to ayahuasca retreats in South America and beyond, plenty of ancient psychedelics continue to inspire and alter the minds and bodies of people open to new experiences. The use of psychedelics has been controversial throughout history, with some countries outlawing their usefulness and others allowing for medicinal or ceremonial use. Despite this controversy, there is a growing recognition among many medical professionals that these substances have therapeutic potential. There is a possibility that the laws surrounding some of these psychedelics may begin to lessen, similarly to the way marijuana in America is slowly entering mainstream use. In fact, over 31 million Americans have reported partaking in LSD, psilocybin, or other psychedelics. Out of 331.9 million people, 10% of the United States population has taken a trip down the rabbit hole! The most studied psychedelic substance is psilocybin, which has shown great potential in its ability to help people cope with depression, anxiety, and addiction. Studies have also suggested that psilocybin can enhance creativity, learning, and self-reflection. Mainstream media often portrays psychedelics in a negative light, suggesting they are dangerous drugs. However, research increasingly shows the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics when used responsibly. This shift in perspective is leading to a greater acceptance of psychedelics in some communities and opening up a broader conversation about the risks and rewards of psychedelics use. Many psychedelics used in the past have since been deemed harmful to the human body. That does not mean we are without hope for our own mind-altering experiences.

There are plenty of modern psychedelics that offer their tripping benefits. While the effects of psychedelics vary widely, several different types can be used for various purposes. The most popular psychedelics include psilocybin, LSD, DMT, and MDMA. Psilocybin is a naturally occurring compound found in certain mushrooms, and it is often referred to as “magic mushrooms.” It produces feelings of euphoria and altered states of consciousness. LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) is a synthetic substance with powerful hallucinogenic effects. DMT (dimethyltryptamine) is a naturally occurring psychedelic found in some plants, producing intense visual and auditory hallucinations. Finally, MDMA (methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a pure synthetic substance. It produces an energizing and euphoric high and is favored by those who enjoy brightening a group outing. The different types of psychedelics have other effects due to their chemical composition. Psilocybin is known to create a sense of connection with oneself. At the same time, LSD produces a more intense experience with visual hallucinations. DMT has been said to induce a feeling of unity with the universe, and MDMA has been known to increase empathy and sociability. Each type of psychedelic has its benefits and risks, and it’s essential to research each one carefully before deciding which one to use. Additionally, it is essential to learn about the correct dosage and safety protocols for any psychedelic before using it. With careful consideration and knowledge, psychedelics can provide personal growth and self-discovery opportunities. In the realm of psychedelics, female artists and musicians have explored altered states of consciousness and experimentation for many years. With the rise of the 60s psychedelic scene, a multitude of female artists found themselves leading the movement and becoming icons for the various forms of psychedelic exploration. Even now, there is a modern resurgence of female psychedelic usage. Artists like Björk and The Beatles’ Ringo Starr have gone on the record saying they had tried psychedelics. Its effect has given them new creativity and clarity in their works. Psychedelics inspired the rockers of the 70s, who turned to things like acid and magic mushrooms for inspiration. Those groovy tunes have been dubbed “Psychedelic Rock.” There is a substantial rise in underground psychedelic musicians, particularly females such as Jessy Lanza, who incorporates live analog machines with their distorted synthesis, a sound born from psychedelic-driven musical experiments. This experimentation within music gives female psychedelic artists the power to tell stories of profound beauty and life in fantastic and unusual ways. Female musicians who embrace psychedelics enable themselves to express what could never be conveyed through normal conventions, becoming inspiring sources of joy and unique perspectives that extend beyond the walls of gender inequality. Psychedelics have a long and storied history in many cultures, allowing people to explore their minds and expand their understanding of themselves and the world. For many psychedelic users, positive experiences draw them to continue using. Many users cite increased creativity, improved mood, enhanced learning abilities, and spiritual enlightenment. “It’s like seeing the world through someone else’s eyes,” says Debra, who has been using psychedelics to inspire her art. Thousands like Debra use psychedelics daily to unlock their inspiration, free from ego and id. Psychedelics like psilocybin are also being studied for their therapeutic benefits in treating depression, anxiety, and addiction. One of our managers used microdosing psilocybin during the COVID-19 pandemic to cope with growing anxiety and find new normalcy in the strange and unfamiliar. Psychedelics taken in smaller doses can help kick-start dopamine production, which helps ease depression and calm anxiety However, there are certain risks associated with psychedelics as well.

These include an increased risk of mental health issues such as psychosis, impaired judgment, and erratic behavior. Some psychedelic experiences can be overwhelming or frightening for some people, leading to anxiety or panic attacks. Additionally, if misused or overused, psychedelics can lead to physical dependence or toxicity. It is important to remember that psychedelics should be approached with caution and respect. If you want to use psychedelics to fight specific symptoms, it is vital to do so safely and in moderation. Not every psychedelic user will use psychedelics for the trip. Some people are interested in only the mood-boosting and symptom-fighting benefits psychedelics like psilocybin offer. Microdosing is taking minimal doses of psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin or LSD to promote mental and physical well-being.

The doses taken are usually much lower than those used for recreational purposes.

The subtle effects allow people to maintain their daily routines without disrupting their lives. People are turning to microdosing for various reasons, including enhanced creativity, improved concentration, increased self-awareness, and even increased learning abilities.

The main benefit of microdosing is the ability to experience the therapeutic effects of psychedelics without taking larger doses that can cause hallucinogenic effects. This has allowed people to take advantage of the potential healing properties of psychedelics without the fear of disruptive side effects. Microdosing also provides an opportunity to explore new ways of thinking and living without the risk of making drastic changes. This has allowed many to open their minds and explore their innermost thoughts and feelings in a safe and controlled environment. Microdosing psilocybin is quickly gaining popularity due to its potential therapeutic benefits. As mentioned above, certain psychedelics offer a variety of benefits! In particular, microdosing psilocybin involves exciting changes to the mind, body, and spirit.

There is also evidence that microdosing psilocybin can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Studies suggest that it may be effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD and treating addiction, increasing motivation, and improving learning ability. Additionally, some users have experienced improved relationships, better self-awareness, and enhanced spiritual connection. Overall, microdosing can provide a range of benefits, from improved mental health to increased creativity and focus. Although more research needs to be done to understand the full effects of psilocybin, it seems to offer a safe and effective way for people to explore their inner world and gain new insights. Microdosing psilocybin can be a powerful way to expand your consciousness and provide a unique therapeutic experience. However, it is essential to understand the risks of taking this powerful psychedelic before you begin your journey. At low doses, psilocybin is known to have both physical and psychological effects.

The physical effects of microdosing psilocybin include increased heart rate and blood pressure, dilated pupils, and a feeling of mild euphoria. On the psychological level, it can lead to improved creativity, enhanced insight into personal problems, and increased self-awareness. Despite the potential positive effects of microdosing psilocybin, potential risks should not be overlooked. For instance, using too high a dose could result in unpleasant physical side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and rapid heart rate. Suppose the user takes too large a dose. In that case, they may experience an acute psychedelic state, which can cause disorientation, confusion, anxiety, and other potentially uncomfortable sensations. It is also essential to be aware that microdosing psilocybin is still illegal in many countries, so users should take extra caution when considering their dose. Also, microdosing can interact with any medications you may be taking, so it is best to consult a doctor or medical professional before attempting it. Overall, the risks of microdosing psilocybin should not be taken lightly. It is essential to take time to research and learn about the substance and its effects before beginning your journey with microdosing. With proper education and an understanding of the risks involved, microdosing psilocybin can provide a safe and meaningful experience. Now that you’re aware of microdosing as an option, let’s dive into the ritual of microdosing properly. If you’re considering microdosing with psilocybin, here are some tips to get you started. First, learn all you can about the drug before diving into microdosing. Educating yourself on the potential risks of taking any psychedelic substance is essential. Research the effects and discover what others have experienced when microdosing with psilocybin. Make sure you understand how your body and mind might respond to the drug, and make sure it’s something that you want to explore. Next, if you decide to go ahead with microdosing, purchase a reputable source of psilocybin. Buying a scale to weigh your dose is essential, as microdosing requires precision. Once you have your supply, start slow. Begin with a low dose and gradually increase until you reach the desired effect. Start by taking a quarter or half of a gram of psilocybin once every three days and increase the dose by a quarter or half each time until you find the best dose. Make sure to give yourself enough time between doses so the effects can wear off before taking the next dose. Finally, make sure to document your experience. Keep track of how much you take when you take it and how you feel before, during, and after. This will help you understand which doses work best for you and how long the effects last. Microdosing with psilocybin can be a great way to explore the power of psychedelics without overwhelming effects. As long as you educate yourself, purchase a reputable source of psilocybin, start slow, and document your experience, you should be able to safely and successfully microdose with psilocybin. Psychedelics and the art of microdosing are ways to open your mind and a journey that will take you through self-discovery and self-repairment. If you’re interested in starting that journey, let us help! We offer a complimentary 20-minute consultation on how to get started with microdosing. We also offer classes on Eventbrite and Youtube, so be sure to check them out! Become a part of a network of people looking for a healthy change in mind, body, and spirit. Become a part of those ancient rituals that predicted the future and those modern ones that create beautiful and lasting art. Welcome and start your own psychedelic journey today. https://www.jstor.org/stable/25471912 https://www.surfacemag.com/articles/bjork-fossora-album-cover/ https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/12/27/1145306096/psychedelic-drugs-psychiatric-disorders-brain-research https://time.com/6253702/psychedelics-psilocybin-mdma-legalization/ https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/09/health/psychedelics-mdma-psilocybin-molly-mental-health.html https://maps.org/news/bulletin/a-hidden-history-of-women-and-psychedelics-spring-2019/ The Alchemist's Kitchen is dedicated to connecting you with the power of plants. We believe strongly in the education and instruction on the use of all whole plant formulations and herbal remedies.

Read the full article at the original website

References:

• https://www.jstor.org/stable/25471912
• https://www.surfacemag.com/articles/bjork-fossora-album-cover/
• https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/12/27/1145306096/psychedelic-drugs-psychiatric-disorders-brain-research
• https://time.com/6253702/psychedelics-psilocybin-mdma-legalization/
• https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/09/health/psychedelics-mdma-psilocybin-molly-mental-health.html
• https://maps.org/news/bulletin/a-hidden-history-of-women-and-psychedelics-spring-2019/