In this episode, we dive deep into the rich and complex story of mescaline, the naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in peyote and San Pedro cacti. We explore its sacred use by Indigenous cultures, particularly among Native American tribes, who have used mescaline ceremonially for centuries to foster healing, spiritual connection, and community.
From prehistoric rock art to peyote ceremonies, mescaline has long held cultural and medicinal significance. We’ll also trace its path into Western consciousness, including its pivotal influence on Aldous Huxley, whose groundbreaking book The Doors of Perception helped ignite interest in the psychedelic experience.
But this resurgence also brings ethical and ecological concerns. Peyote, a slow-growing cactus, faces the threat of overharvesting and extinction, raising critical questions about cultural appropriation, conservation, and respect for Indigenous sovereignty.
Resources:
https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/494/872/
https://decriminalizenature.org/understand/entheogenic-plants/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36252614/
https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/mescaline/
How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan
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