Plants with delirium and dissociation effects induce confusion, detachment from reality, and memory disturbances, whereas plants with psychedelic effects primarily enhance perception, alter cognition, and evoke profound sensory or spiritual experiences without significant confusion. Even though all three types of effects are tied to hallucinogenic properties to some extent or share that overlap, they should still be considered separately.
Datura species, such as Datura stramonium (commonly known as Jimson weed) and Datura inoxia (Moonflower), are plants belonging to the Solanaceae family. They are infamous for their potent psychoactive effects, which are primarily due to the presence of tropane alkaloids, including atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine. These compounds affect the central and peripheral nervous systems by blocking acetylcholine receptors, specifically at muscarinic sites.
The psychoactive effects of Datura are characterized by hallucinations that are often vivid and immersive, but typically frightening and disorienting. Unlike the effects of psychedelics like DMT or LSD, which are associated with heightened awareness and visual distortions, Datura induces a delirium where the user struggles to distinguish between reality and hallucination. Experiences can include conversations with non-existent people, encounters with imaginary entities, or difficulty recognizing familiar surroundings. The mental state is often accompanied by confusion, agitation, paranoia, and amnesia, with users frequently unable to recall their experience afterward.
The mechanism of action involves the inhibition of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which plays a critical role in functions such as memory, attention, and muscle contraction. When muscarinic receptors are blocked, the central nervous system experiences widespread disruption, causing the characteristic symptoms of anticholinergic toxicity: dilated pupils, dry mouth, tachycardia, urinary retention, and hyperthermia, alongside the profound delirium.
Datura grows naturally in many parts of the world, thriving in temperate and tropical climates. It is often found in disturbed soils, along roadsides, or in fields. Originally native to the Americas, many species have since spread worldwide. Historically, Datura has been used in shamanic practices, traditional medicine, and rituals due to its psychoactive and medicinal properties. For example, certain Indigenous cultures used Datura in vision quests or to induce altered states of consciousness for spiritual purposes.
The risks associated with Datura are significant. The plant is highly toxic, and the difference between a psychoactive dose and a lethal dose is narrow, making accidental poisoning common. Symptoms of overdose can include seizures, respiratory failure, coma, or death. There is also no reliable way to dose Datura safely, as the concentration of tropane alkaloids varies widely between plants and even within different parts of the same plant. The unpredictable and often terrifying nature of the hallucinations further compounds the risks.
While Datura has been studied for potential medical applications, such as the use of scopolamine for motion sickness or postoperative nausea, the dangers of the plant in its raw form far outweigh any practical benefit for most people. Recreational use is highly discouraged, not only due to the risk of toxicity but also because of the long-term psychological effects that can result, including persistent confusion, memory deficits, or psychosis.
Brugmansia, commonly known as Angel's Trumpet, is a genus of flowering plants in the Solanaceae family. Like Datura, Brugmansia contains potent tropane alkaloids, including scopolamine, atropine, and hyoscyamine, which are responsible for its psychoactive and toxic effects. These compounds act as anticholinergics, interfering with the neurotransmitter acetylcholine by blocking muscarinic receptors in the nervous system.
The psychoactive effects of Brugmansia are similar to those of Datura, as both plants share a comparable chemical profile. Users may experience intense, often nightmarish hallucinations that feel indistinguishable from reality, profound confusion, paranoia, and amnesia. These effects occur because acetylcholine is essential for cognitive processes like attention, memory, and sensory integration. When muscarinic receptors are inhibited, normal brain function is disrupted, resulting in the bizarre and disorienting experiences characteristic of anticholinergic deliriants. Physical effects include dilated pupils, dry mouth, increased heart rate, hyperthermia, urinary retention, and in severe cases, seizures or coma.
Brugmansia is native to South America, particularly the Andes region, but it has been cultivated widely for its ornamental value due to its large, trumpet-shaped flowers and sweet fragrance. The plant thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and can often be found in gardens or as a naturalized species in warmer regions around the world. Indigenous peoples of South America have used Brugmansia in traditional medicine and spiritual practices, often under the guidance of shamans who understand its dangerous properties.
The risks of using Brugmansia recreationally or without proper knowledge are extremely high. The concentration of tropane alkaloids varies between plants, species, and even different parts of the same plant, making it impossible to predict the potency of any given dose. Overdose is common and can result in severe poisoning, including respiratory failure, cardiac arrest, or death. The hallucinations induced by Brugmansia are frequently terrifying and accompanied by a total loss of control, making it a profoundly unpleasant and risky substance. Furthermore, many users experience lingering psychological effects, such as memory impairment, anxiety, or psychosis, after the acute intoxication subsides.
Atropa belladonna, commonly known as deadly nightshade, is a highly toxic plant in the Solanaceae family. It is well-known for its psychoactive properties, which are primarily due to the presence of tropane alkaloids such as atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine. These compounds act as anticholinergics, blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors in the central and peripheral nervous systems.
Ingesting belladonna can lead to vivid and realistic hallucinations, extreme confusion, paranoia, amnesia, and disconnection from reality. The hallucinations are often immersive and disturbing, involving interactions with imaginary people or objects.
The plant is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, but it has also been cultivated and naturalized in other parts of the world. It typically grows in shady areas, forests, and disturbed soils. Historically, belladonna has been used in various cultural and medicinal contexts. In ancient times, it was associated with witches and poisoners, as even small doses could produce dramatic effects. It was also used in traditional medicine for its sedative, antispasmodic, and pain-relieving properties, although these applications carried significant risks. Belladonna was even used cosmetically in the Renaissance to dilate pupils, as this was considered an attractive trait, giving rise to its name, which means "beautiful lady" in Italian.
The risks of Atropa belladonna far outweigh any potential benefits, as it is one of the most toxic plants in the world. Its alkaloids affect multiple systems in the body, leading to symptoms of poisoning such as dry mouth, dilated pupils, rapid heart rate, difficulty urinating, high fever, seizures, respiratory failure, and coma. The psychoactive dose is extremely close to the lethal dose, making accidental poisoning common when belladonna is misused. Even small amounts of the plant, whether consumed or absorbed through the skin, can be fatal.
Despite its dangers, belladonna has been studied for medicinal purposes. Atropine, one of its key compounds, is used in modern medicine to treat bradycardia (slow heart rate), reduce salivation during surgery, and as an antidote for certain types of poisoning. Scopolamine, another active compound, is used to treat motion sickness and postoperative nausea, as we already know. However, these applications involve precise dosages in controlled medical settings, making the raw plant unsafe for any kind of unsupervised use.
Mandragora officinarum, commonly known as mandrake root, is a plant in the Solanaceae family that has been surrounded by myth and legend for centuries due to its unique shape, often resembling a human figure, and its potent psychoactive and toxic properties. The psychoactivity of mandrake root arises from its high concentration of our favorites tropane alkaloids, primarily atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine.
Mandrake is native to the Mediterranean region and parts of the Middle East, thriving in arid or semi-arid climates with well-drained soils. It has historically been used in medicine, magic, and ritual practices. In ancient times, it was believed to possess magical properties and was used in potions, fertility rites, and as an aphrodisiac. It was also used as a sedative or anesthetic, particularly in surgical contexts. However, its use in folk medicine often involved a fine line between therapeutic and toxic doses, making it a dangerous remedy.
The risks associated with mandrake root are significant, as its alkaloids can easily cause poisoning. Even small doses can result in severe symptoms, including hallucinations, confusion, extreme agitation, and life-threatening conditions such as respiratory failure or cardiac arrest. The variability of alkaloid concentrations within the root makes dosing unpredictable and dangerous. Furthermore, the delirium induced by mandrake is typically unpleasant, characterized by frightening hallucinations and a loss of control over one’s actions and perceptions.
Despite its dangers, mandrake has been studied for its pharmacological properties, like other members of the Solanaceae family. These uses rely on carefully controlled extraction and dosing of the active compounds, which makes the raw plant unsafe for unsupervised use. Mandrake root carries a long cultural history as a symbol of magic and mystery, but its psychoactive properties and extreme toxicity make it more a source of fascination than practical application.
Hyoscyamus niger, commonly known as henbane, is a plant in the Solanaceae family that has been historically recognized for its psychoactive and toxic properties. What a family, right? Its psychoactive effects are due to the presence of tropane alkaloids, primarily hyoscyamine and scopolamine, which act as anticholinergic agents.
The psychoactive effects of henbane typically include hallucinations, confusion, and delirium, where the user has difficulty distinguishing hallucinations from reality. The hallucinations are often vivid and immersive but can be disorienting or frightening. Users may also experience agitation, paranoia, and amnesia during and after the experience. Physical effects of henbane poisoning include dilated pupils, dry mouth, elevated heart rate, difficulty urinating, and overheating, with higher doses causing seizures, respiratory depression, coma, or death.
Henbane is native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia and has been introduced to other regions, such as North America, where it has become naturalized in some areas. It thrives in nutrient-rich, disturbed soils and can often be found in waste grounds, roadsides, and abandoned fields. Historically, henbane has been used in various cultural and medicinal contexts. In ancient and medieval times, it was an ingredient in potions, salves, and "witches’ brews" because of its ability to induce altered states of consciousness. In traditional medicine, henbane was used for its sedative, analgesic, and antispasmodic properties, although it was recognized as highly dangerous and required careful preparation.
The risks of using henbane are substantial. The narrow margin between a psychoactive dose and a toxic dose makes accidental poisoning a frequent occurrence. Symptoms of overdose include extreme agitation, hallucinations, convulsions, respiratory failure, and death. The anticholinergic delirium caused by henbane is rarely pleasant, often characterized by a sense of disconnection from reality and terrifying hallucinations. The experience is typically accompanied by amnesia, leaving the user unable to recall much of what occurred.
Today, henbane is mainly valued for its historical and cultural significance rather than any practical applications outside of controlled medical contexts.
Brunfelsia is a genus of flowering plants in the Solanaceae family, native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, particularly Central and South America and the Caribbean. The genus is sometimes referred to by the common name "Yesterday-Today-and-Tomorrow" due to the color-changing flowers of some species. Several species of Brunfelsia are known for their psychoactive properties and their use in traditional medicine and shamanic rituals. The psychoactivity of Brunfelsia is attributed to alkaloids, such as scopoletin, brunfelsamidine, and other structurally unique compounds, though the exact mechanisms of action and pharmacological effects are less well-studied than other plants in the Solanaceae family.
Some of the alkaloids, like scopoletin, have been studied for their possible effects on mood and cognition, while others, such as brunfelsamidine, may have neurostimulant or convulsant properties. In traditional use, certain Brunfelsia species have been consumed or prepared as teas to induce altered states of consciousness, likely involving mild euphoria, heightened sensory perception, or dreamlike experiences. However, in higher doses, the plant is associated with toxic effects, including seizures, hallucinations, and nervous system overstimulation.
Brunfelsia grows in warm, tropical climates and is found in forested or semi-forested areas. It is often cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive, fragrant flowers. In traditional medicine, Indigenous cultures have used Brunfelsia preparations for various purposes, including treating fevers, arthritis, and as part of spiritual practices. It has also been used in rituals to cleanse the body or to expel negative spiritual influences. However, these uses were typically guided by healers familiar with the plant’s properties, as improper preparation or dosing could lead to poisoning.
The risks of Brunfelsia use stem from its toxicity. The alkaloids in the plant can cause convulsions, respiratory distress, and in severe cases, death. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscular spasms, and central nervous system overstimulation. Because the active compounds are not well-studied and their concentrations vary between species and individual plants, predicting the effects or safely dosing Brunfelsia is extremely difficult. These factors make it dangerous for unsupervised or recreational use.
Despite its risks, Brunfelsia has drawn attention for its potential medicinal properties. Some of its compounds have shown anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity in preliminary studies, suggesting possible therapeutic applications. More research is needed to isolate and study its active compounds in controlled settings.
Salvia divinorum, often called salvia, is a psychoactive plant in the mint family (Lamiaceae) that is native to the cloud forests of Oaxaca, Mexico. It has a long history of use by the Mazatec people, who use it in shamanic rituals and healing ceremonies to induce visions and connect with the spiritual realm. Salvia’s psychoactive effects are due to its primary active compound, salvinorin A, which is a potent kappa-opioid receptor agonist. This mechanism of action is unique among psychoactive substances, as most hallucinogens interact with serotonin receptors, whereas salvinorin A bypasses this pathway entirely.
Salvia effects are characterized by profound alterations in perception, a sense of detachment from the self or body, and vivid, dreamlike hallucinations. These effects occur quickly and intensely, usually peaking within a few minutes and lasting less than 30 minutes when smoked or vaporized. Users often report a complete loss of connection to their surroundings, with experiences ranging from visiting otherworldly realms to interacting with imagined entities or objects. The effects are highly subjective and can vary widely depending on dose, setting, and individual sensitivity.
The plant grows naturally in shaded, moist environments in the Sierra Mazateca region of Oaxaca, but it has also been cultivated in other parts of the world. Salvia divinorum thrives in subtropical climates with rich soil and high humidity. Traditionally, the Mazatec people consume the leaves by chewing them or brewing them into a tea, though modern recreational use typically involves smoking dried leaves or vaporizing salvinorin A extracts.
In scientific contexts, salvinorin A has been studied for its potential in treating conditions like depression, addiction, and pain, though research is still in early stages. Its unique interaction with the kappa-opioid receptor provides an avenue for studying brain function and exploring novel therapeutic targets.
However, salvia has notable cons and risks. The intensity and unpredictability of its effects can lead to overwhelming or frightening experiences, often described as dysphoric or disorienting. Users may lose awareness of their surroundings, putting themselves at risk of accidental injury. While salvinorin A is not considered addictive, repeated use can lead to psychological distress or confusion. Additionally, because the plant’s effects are so brief and potent, individuals unfamiliar with it may underestimate its impact.
Unlike many traditional hallucinogens, salvia’s lack of serotonergic activity means it is less likely to produce euphoria or spiritual insight in a recreational context, further contributing to reports of unpleasant or confusing experiences.
Tabernanthe iboga, commonly known as iboga, is a perennial shrub native to the rainforests of Central Africa, particularly Gabon, Cameroon, and the Republic of Congo. It has been used for centuries by the Bwiti spiritual tradition and other Indigenous communities for religious rituals, healing, and rites of passage. The psychoactive properties of iboga are primarily due to the alkaloid ibogaine.
Ibogaine primarily acts as a modulator of multiple neurotransmitter systems. It influences serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate pathways and interacts with opioid receptors, sigma receptors, and NMDA receptors. Its most notable action is as an antagonist at NMDA receptors and as an agonist at kappa-opioid receptors, which contribute to its hallucinogenic and dissociative properties. Additionally, ibogaine's ability to modulate dopamine and opioid systems underpins its use in addiction treatment, as it reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
The psychoactive experience induced by iboga is intense, long-lasting, and often described as introspective. Users report vivid, dreamlike visions, often accompanied by profound insights into their lives, traumas, and behaviors. Unlike other hallucinogens, iboga tends to produce an inward-focused state where individuals revisit memories or confront psychological challenges. The experience can last 12 to 36 hours, followed by a reflective phase lasting several days. These effects make it unique among psychoactive substances and have contributed to its traditional and therapeutic applications.
Iboga grows naturally in tropical regions, thriving in the humid, shaded environments of Central African forests. It is cultivated both for traditional use and for modern applications, such as in addiction therapy. In Bwiti ceremonies, the root bark is consumed in large quantities under the guidance of experienced practitioners who monitor the user for safety.
The benefits of iboga include its potential for deep psychological exploration and healing. Ibogaine has shown promise as a treatment for addiction, particularly for opioid dependency, by alleviating withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Some individuals also report lasting psychological benefits, including reduced anxiety and greater clarity about their life’s purpose. However, iboga’s efficacy in addiction treatment requires careful administration in a controlled medical setting, as its effects are complex and unpredictable.
The risks of iboga are significant, especially when used without proper medical supervision. Ibogaine can cause serious cardiovascular effects, including arrhythmias and changes in heart rate, which can be fatal in individuals with pre-existing conditions. Other side effects include nausea, vomiting, tremors, and ataxia, which may persist for several days. Additionally, the intense psychoactive experience can be psychologically overwhelming, potentially exacerbating underlying mental health conditions. Iboga is also associated with rare cases of sudden death, typically due to heart complications or improper dosing.
Iboga therapy centers operate in countries where its use is permitted, offering a structured environment for addiction treatment or psycho-spiritual exploration. However, the lack of standardized dosing protocols and the variability in individual responses make iboga treatment a highly specialized practice requiring skilled supervision.
It seems I've managed to list the main plants of this types of action. I will update this topic with new posts titled ADDITION if I come across new examples.
If you're interested in such publications, please react and leave comments.
Tropane Alkaloid-based Deliriants
These plants can induce a state of confusion, delirium, and hallucinations. Mostly through anticholinergic effects.Datura species (Datura stramonium, Datura inoxia)
Datura species, such as Datura stramonium (commonly known as Jimson weed) and Datura inoxia (Moonflower), are plants belonging to the Solanaceae family. They are infamous for their potent psychoactive effects, which are primarily due to the presence of tropane alkaloids, including atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine. These compounds affect the central and peripheral nervous systems by blocking acetylcholine receptors, specifically at muscarinic sites.
The psychoactive effects of Datura are characterized by hallucinations that are often vivid and immersive, but typically frightening and disorienting. Unlike the effects of psychedelics like DMT or LSD, which are associated with heightened awareness and visual distortions, Datura induces a delirium where the user struggles to distinguish between reality and hallucination. Experiences can include conversations with non-existent people, encounters with imaginary entities, or difficulty recognizing familiar surroundings. The mental state is often accompanied by confusion, agitation, paranoia, and amnesia, with users frequently unable to recall their experience afterward.
The mechanism of action involves the inhibition of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which plays a critical role in functions such as memory, attention, and muscle contraction. When muscarinic receptors are blocked, the central nervous system experiences widespread disruption, causing the characteristic symptoms of anticholinergic toxicity: dilated pupils, dry mouth, tachycardia, urinary retention, and hyperthermia, alongside the profound delirium.
Datura grows naturally in many parts of the world, thriving in temperate and tropical climates. It is often found in disturbed soils, along roadsides, or in fields. Originally native to the Americas, many species have since spread worldwide. Historically, Datura has been used in shamanic practices, traditional medicine, and rituals due to its psychoactive and medicinal properties. For example, certain Indigenous cultures used Datura in vision quests or to induce altered states of consciousness for spiritual purposes.
The risks associated with Datura are significant. The plant is highly toxic, and the difference between a psychoactive dose and a lethal dose is narrow, making accidental poisoning common. Symptoms of overdose can include seizures, respiratory failure, coma, or death. There is also no reliable way to dose Datura safely, as the concentration of tropane alkaloids varies widely between plants and even within different parts of the same plant. The unpredictable and often terrifying nature of the hallucinations further compounds the risks.
While Datura has been studied for potential medical applications, such as the use of scopolamine for motion sickness or postoperative nausea, the dangers of the plant in its raw form far outweigh any practical benefit for most people. Recreational use is highly discouraged, not only due to the risk of toxicity but also because of the long-term psychological effects that can result, including persistent confusion, memory deficits, or psychosis.
Brugmansia (Angel's Trumpet)
Brugmansia, commonly known as Angel's Trumpet, is a genus of flowering plants in the Solanaceae family. Like Datura, Brugmansia contains potent tropane alkaloids, including scopolamine, atropine, and hyoscyamine, which are responsible for its psychoactive and toxic effects. These compounds act as anticholinergics, interfering with the neurotransmitter acetylcholine by blocking muscarinic receptors in the nervous system.
The psychoactive effects of Brugmansia are similar to those of Datura, as both plants share a comparable chemical profile. Users may experience intense, often nightmarish hallucinations that feel indistinguishable from reality, profound confusion, paranoia, and amnesia. These effects occur because acetylcholine is essential for cognitive processes like attention, memory, and sensory integration. When muscarinic receptors are inhibited, normal brain function is disrupted, resulting in the bizarre and disorienting experiences characteristic of anticholinergic deliriants. Physical effects include dilated pupils, dry mouth, increased heart rate, hyperthermia, urinary retention, and in severe cases, seizures or coma.
Brugmansia is native to South America, particularly the Andes region, but it has been cultivated widely for its ornamental value due to its large, trumpet-shaped flowers and sweet fragrance. The plant thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and can often be found in gardens or as a naturalized species in warmer regions around the world. Indigenous peoples of South America have used Brugmansia in traditional medicine and spiritual practices, often under the guidance of shamans who understand its dangerous properties.
The risks of using Brugmansia recreationally or without proper knowledge are extremely high. The concentration of tropane alkaloids varies between plants, species, and even different parts of the same plant, making it impossible to predict the potency of any given dose. Overdose is common and can result in severe poisoning, including respiratory failure, cardiac arrest, or death. The hallucinations induced by Brugmansia are frequently terrifying and accompanied by a total loss of control, making it a profoundly unpleasant and risky substance. Furthermore, many users experience lingering psychological effects, such as memory impairment, anxiety, or psychosis, after the acute intoxication subsides.
Deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna)
Atropa belladonna, commonly known as deadly nightshade, is a highly toxic plant in the Solanaceae family. It is well-known for its psychoactive properties, which are primarily due to the presence of tropane alkaloids such as atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine. These compounds act as anticholinergics, blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors in the central and peripheral nervous systems.
Ingesting belladonna can lead to vivid and realistic hallucinations, extreme confusion, paranoia, amnesia, and disconnection from reality. The hallucinations are often immersive and disturbing, involving interactions with imaginary people or objects.
The plant is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, but it has also been cultivated and naturalized in other parts of the world. It typically grows in shady areas, forests, and disturbed soils. Historically, belladonna has been used in various cultural and medicinal contexts. In ancient times, it was associated with witches and poisoners, as even small doses could produce dramatic effects. It was also used in traditional medicine for its sedative, antispasmodic, and pain-relieving properties, although these applications carried significant risks. Belladonna was even used cosmetically in the Renaissance to dilate pupils, as this was considered an attractive trait, giving rise to its name, which means "beautiful lady" in Italian.
The risks of Atropa belladonna far outweigh any potential benefits, as it is one of the most toxic plants in the world. Its alkaloids affect multiple systems in the body, leading to symptoms of poisoning such as dry mouth, dilated pupils, rapid heart rate, difficulty urinating, high fever, seizures, respiratory failure, and coma. The psychoactive dose is extremely close to the lethal dose, making accidental poisoning common when belladonna is misused. Even small amounts of the plant, whether consumed or absorbed through the skin, can be fatal.
Despite its dangers, belladonna has been studied for medicinal purposes. Atropine, one of its key compounds, is used in modern medicine to treat bradycardia (slow heart rate), reduce salivation during surgery, and as an antidote for certain types of poisoning. Scopolamine, another active compound, is used to treat motion sickness and postoperative nausea, as we already know. However, these applications involve precise dosages in controlled medical settings, making the raw plant unsafe for any kind of unsupervised use.
Mandrake root (Mandragora officinarum)
Mandragora officinarum, commonly known as mandrake root, is a plant in the Solanaceae family that has been surrounded by myth and legend for centuries due to its unique shape, often resembling a human figure, and its potent psychoactive and toxic properties. The psychoactivity of mandrake root arises from its high concentration of our favorites tropane alkaloids, primarily atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine.
Mandrake is native to the Mediterranean region and parts of the Middle East, thriving in arid or semi-arid climates with well-drained soils. It has historically been used in medicine, magic, and ritual practices. In ancient times, it was believed to possess magical properties and was used in potions, fertility rites, and as an aphrodisiac. It was also used as a sedative or anesthetic, particularly in surgical contexts. However, its use in folk medicine often involved a fine line between therapeutic and toxic doses, making it a dangerous remedy.
The risks associated with mandrake root are significant, as its alkaloids can easily cause poisoning. Even small doses can result in severe symptoms, including hallucinations, confusion, extreme agitation, and life-threatening conditions such as respiratory failure or cardiac arrest. The variability of alkaloid concentrations within the root makes dosing unpredictable and dangerous. Furthermore, the delirium induced by mandrake is typically unpleasant, characterized by frightening hallucinations and a loss of control over one’s actions and perceptions.
Despite its dangers, mandrake has been studied for its pharmacological properties, like other members of the Solanaceae family. These uses rely on carefully controlled extraction and dosing of the active compounds, which makes the raw plant unsafe for unsupervised use. Mandrake root carries a long cultural history as a symbol of magic and mystery, but its psychoactive properties and extreme toxicity make it more a source of fascination than practical application.
Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)
Hyoscyamus niger, commonly known as henbane, is a plant in the Solanaceae family that has been historically recognized for its psychoactive and toxic properties. What a family, right? Its psychoactive effects are due to the presence of tropane alkaloids, primarily hyoscyamine and scopolamine, which act as anticholinergic agents.
The psychoactive effects of henbane typically include hallucinations, confusion, and delirium, where the user has difficulty distinguishing hallucinations from reality. The hallucinations are often vivid and immersive but can be disorienting or frightening. Users may also experience agitation, paranoia, and amnesia during and after the experience. Physical effects of henbane poisoning include dilated pupils, dry mouth, elevated heart rate, difficulty urinating, and overheating, with higher doses causing seizures, respiratory depression, coma, or death.
Henbane is native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia and has been introduced to other regions, such as North America, where it has become naturalized in some areas. It thrives in nutrient-rich, disturbed soils and can often be found in waste grounds, roadsides, and abandoned fields. Historically, henbane has been used in various cultural and medicinal contexts. In ancient and medieval times, it was an ingredient in potions, salves, and "witches’ brews" because of its ability to induce altered states of consciousness. In traditional medicine, henbane was used for its sedative, analgesic, and antispasmodic properties, although it was recognized as highly dangerous and required careful preparation.
The risks of using henbane are substantial. The narrow margin between a psychoactive dose and a toxic dose makes accidental poisoning a frequent occurrence. Symptoms of overdose include extreme agitation, hallucinations, convulsions, respiratory failure, and death. The anticholinergic delirium caused by henbane is rarely pleasant, often characterized by a sense of disconnection from reality and terrifying hallucinations. The experience is typically accompanied by amnesia, leaving the user unable to recall much of what occurred.
Today, henbane is mainly valued for its historical and cultural significance rather than any practical applications outside of controlled medical contexts.
Brunfelsia spp.
Brunfelsia is a genus of flowering plants in the Solanaceae family, native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, particularly Central and South America and the Caribbean. The genus is sometimes referred to by the common name "Yesterday-Today-and-Tomorrow" due to the color-changing flowers of some species. Several species of Brunfelsia are known for their psychoactive properties and their use in traditional medicine and shamanic rituals. The psychoactivity of Brunfelsia is attributed to alkaloids, such as scopoletin, brunfelsamidine, and other structurally unique compounds, though the exact mechanisms of action and pharmacological effects are less well-studied than other plants in the Solanaceae family.
Some of the alkaloids, like scopoletin, have been studied for their possible effects on mood and cognition, while others, such as brunfelsamidine, may have neurostimulant or convulsant properties. In traditional use, certain Brunfelsia species have been consumed or prepared as teas to induce altered states of consciousness, likely involving mild euphoria, heightened sensory perception, or dreamlike experiences. However, in higher doses, the plant is associated with toxic effects, including seizures, hallucinations, and nervous system overstimulation.
Brunfelsia grows in warm, tropical climates and is found in forested or semi-forested areas. It is often cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive, fragrant flowers. In traditional medicine, Indigenous cultures have used Brunfelsia preparations for various purposes, including treating fevers, arthritis, and as part of spiritual practices. It has also been used in rituals to cleanse the body or to expel negative spiritual influences. However, these uses were typically guided by healers familiar with the plant’s properties, as improper preparation or dosing could lead to poisoning.
The risks of Brunfelsia use stem from its toxicity. The alkaloids in the plant can cause convulsions, respiratory distress, and in severe cases, death. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscular spasms, and central nervous system overstimulation. Because the active compounds are not well-studied and their concentrations vary between species and individual plants, predicting the effects or safely dosing Brunfelsia is extremely difficult. These factors make it dangerous for unsupervised or recreational use.
Despite its risks, Brunfelsia has drawn attention for its potential medicinal properties. Some of its compounds have shown anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity in preliminary studies, suggesting possible therapeutic applications. More research is needed to isolate and study its active compounds in controlled settings.
Dissociative Plants
These plants induce a sense of detachment from reality, body, or surroundings.Salvia divinorum
Salvia divinorum, often called salvia, is a psychoactive plant in the mint family (Lamiaceae) that is native to the cloud forests of Oaxaca, Mexico. It has a long history of use by the Mazatec people, who use it in shamanic rituals and healing ceremonies to induce visions and connect with the spiritual realm. Salvia’s psychoactive effects are due to its primary active compound, salvinorin A, which is a potent kappa-opioid receptor agonist. This mechanism of action is unique among psychoactive substances, as most hallucinogens interact with serotonin receptors, whereas salvinorin A bypasses this pathway entirely.
Salvia effects are characterized by profound alterations in perception, a sense of detachment from the self or body, and vivid, dreamlike hallucinations. These effects occur quickly and intensely, usually peaking within a few minutes and lasting less than 30 minutes when smoked or vaporized. Users often report a complete loss of connection to their surroundings, with experiences ranging from visiting otherworldly realms to interacting with imagined entities or objects. The effects are highly subjective and can vary widely depending on dose, setting, and individual sensitivity.
The plant grows naturally in shaded, moist environments in the Sierra Mazateca region of Oaxaca, but it has also been cultivated in other parts of the world. Salvia divinorum thrives in subtropical climates with rich soil and high humidity. Traditionally, the Mazatec people consume the leaves by chewing them or brewing them into a tea, though modern recreational use typically involves smoking dried leaves or vaporizing salvinorin A extracts.
In scientific contexts, salvinorin A has been studied for its potential in treating conditions like depression, addiction, and pain, though research is still in early stages. Its unique interaction with the kappa-opioid receptor provides an avenue for studying brain function and exploring novel therapeutic targets.
However, salvia has notable cons and risks. The intensity and unpredictability of its effects can lead to overwhelming or frightening experiences, often described as dysphoric or disorienting. Users may lose awareness of their surroundings, putting themselves at risk of accidental injury. While salvinorin A is not considered addictive, repeated use can lead to psychological distress or confusion. Additionally, because the plant’s effects are so brief and potent, individuals unfamiliar with it may underestimate its impact.
Unlike many traditional hallucinogens, salvia’s lack of serotonergic activity means it is less likely to produce euphoria or spiritual insight in a recreational context, further contributing to reports of unpleasant or confusing experiences.
Iboga (Tabernanthe iboga)
Tabernanthe iboga, commonly known as iboga, is a perennial shrub native to the rainforests of Central Africa, particularly Gabon, Cameroon, and the Republic of Congo. It has been used for centuries by the Bwiti spiritual tradition and other Indigenous communities for religious rituals, healing, and rites of passage. The psychoactive properties of iboga are primarily due to the alkaloid ibogaine.
Ibogaine primarily acts as a modulator of multiple neurotransmitter systems. It influences serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate pathways and interacts with opioid receptors, sigma receptors, and NMDA receptors. Its most notable action is as an antagonist at NMDA receptors and as an agonist at kappa-opioid receptors, which contribute to its hallucinogenic and dissociative properties. Additionally, ibogaine's ability to modulate dopamine and opioid systems underpins its use in addiction treatment, as it reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
The psychoactive experience induced by iboga is intense, long-lasting, and often described as introspective. Users report vivid, dreamlike visions, often accompanied by profound insights into their lives, traumas, and behaviors. Unlike other hallucinogens, iboga tends to produce an inward-focused state where individuals revisit memories or confront psychological challenges. The experience can last 12 to 36 hours, followed by a reflective phase lasting several days. These effects make it unique among psychoactive substances and have contributed to its traditional and therapeutic applications.
Iboga grows naturally in tropical regions, thriving in the humid, shaded environments of Central African forests. It is cultivated both for traditional use and for modern applications, such as in addiction therapy. In Bwiti ceremonies, the root bark is consumed in large quantities under the guidance of experienced practitioners who monitor the user for safety.
The benefits of iboga include its potential for deep psychological exploration and healing. Ibogaine has shown promise as a treatment for addiction, particularly for opioid dependency, by alleviating withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Some individuals also report lasting psychological benefits, including reduced anxiety and greater clarity about their life’s purpose. However, iboga’s efficacy in addiction treatment requires careful administration in a controlled medical setting, as its effects are complex and unpredictable.
The risks of iboga are significant, especially when used without proper medical supervision. Ibogaine can cause serious cardiovascular effects, including arrhythmias and changes in heart rate, which can be fatal in individuals with pre-existing conditions. Other side effects include nausea, vomiting, tremors, and ataxia, which may persist for several days. Additionally, the intense psychoactive experience can be psychologically overwhelming, potentially exacerbating underlying mental health conditions. Iboga is also associated with rare cases of sudden death, typically due to heart complications or improper dosing.
Iboga therapy centers operate in countries where its use is permitted, offering a structured environment for addiction treatment or psycho-spiritual exploration. However, the lack of standardized dosing protocols and the variability in individual responses make iboga treatment a highly specialized practice requiring skilled supervision.
It seems I've managed to list the main plants of this types of action. I will update this topic with new posts titled ADDITION if I come across new examples.
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