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Hallucinogens

LSD on blotter paper

LSD, Peyote (Mescaline), Psylocibin, and Other Psychedelics

HALLUCINOGENS are among the oldest known group of drugs that have been used for their ability to alter human perception and mood. For centuries, many of the naturally occurring hallucinogens found in plants and fungi have been used for medical, social, and religious practices.

Hallucinogens do not always produce hallucinations. However, taken in non-toxic dosages, these substances produce changes in perception, thought and mood. Physiological effects include elevated heart rate, increased blood pressure and dilated pupils.

Psylocibin "magic mushrooms"

Sensory effects include perceptual distortions that vary with dose, setting and mood. Psychic effects include disorders of thought associated with time and space. Time may appear to stand still and forms and colors seem to change and take on new significance. This experience may be pleasurable or extremely frightening. It needs to be stressed that the effects of hallucinogens are unpredictable each time they are used.