Do you have a calling?
Are you looking for yourself?
Henosis is founded upon the idea that every human being in unique and has a purpose. You have aspects that make you so different to every other human on the planet, yet such deep similarities that show we're all the same.
Origin Story of Henosis
The Greek word henosis refers to the process of achieving a state of oneness or unity with the divine. This concept has been central to many mystical and philosophical traditions throughout history, particularly in ancient Greece.
The term henosis comes from the Greek word ἕνωσις, which means "union" or "merging." It was used by several ancient Greek philosophers, including Plotinus and Proclus, to describe the goal of mystical practice.
For these philosophers, the goal of mystical practice was to transcend the limitations of the physical world and achieve a direct experience of the divine.
This experience was seen as a merging or union with the divine, a state of consciousness in which the individual and the divine were no longer separate entities but were united as one.
In some mystical traditions, henosis was seen as a gradual process of spiritual development, in which the individual gradually purifies their mind and body and becomes more attuned to the divine. In others, it was seen as a sudden, spontaneous experience that could occur at any time.
The concept of henosis was also central to many ancient Greek religious practices, particularly in the mystery religions. These were secretive, initiatory cultures that focused on the direct experience of the divine through ritual practices, often involving ecstatic states of consciousness.
Henosis has also been an important concept in the history of Christianity, particularly in the Eastern Orthodox tradition. In this tradition, henosis is seen as the ultimate goal of spiritual practice, a state of union with God that is achieved through prayer, contemplation, and asceticism.
Overall, the concept of henosis is a complex and multifaceted one that has played a central role in many mystical and philosophical traditions throughout history. Whether seen as a gradual process of spiritual development or a sudden, spontaneous experience, it represents the human longing for a direct experience of the divine, and the recognition that this experience lies at the heart of our deepest aspirations and desires.
HENOSIS PURPOSE
Henosis was formed to hold space for the lost soul, questioning their current reality, and to provide alternative information and experiences that may serve as the launching pad for their new life.
HENOSIS VISION
We believe that all humans deserve to live a life of fulfillment and to participate in the raising of the vibrational frequency of earth to expand consciousness.
HENOSIS MISSION
Henosis assists with the shedding of our limiting beliefs, overcoming our emotional and energetic blocks and reprogramming harmful habits and biases. We develop educational information, events and activities to promote ancient wisdom, alternative medicines, new age science and holistic healing modalities to empower the individual to discover their own limitless possibilities and increase awareness.
What the greats say about Henosis over Millenia
Within the word henosis lies a powerful invitation to experience the unity and oneness that exists within and around us, to dissolve the illusion of separateness and awaken to the truth of our interconnectedness with all of life.
Plato
Henosis is the transcendence of the self, the merging of the individual with the divine, and the attainment of spiritual enlightenment.
Eckhart Tolle
The experience of henosis is a mystical journey, a quest for the ultimate truth and the ultimate reality.
Carl Jung
In the state of henosis, the individual ego dissolves into the infinite, and the soul merges with the divine.
Deepak Chopra
Henosis is the realisation that we are all interconnected, that we are all part of a greater whole, and that we are all one.
Alan Watts
In the state of henosis, the boundaries between self and other dissolve, and the individual becomes one with the universe and all that exists.
Sri Ramana Maharshi
Henosis is the state of being in which one transcends the limitations of the ego and realises the true nature of the self as part of the divine.
Buddha
Henosis is the ultimate liberation, the release from the bonds of the ego and the attainment of eternal bliss and peace.
Henosis
Henosis represents the journey of transcending individuality, merging with the divine, and awakening to the unity that connects all of existence.
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HEALTH & WELLBEING
Ancient Maya Civilisation use of the Plant Medicines - Psilocybin & Peyote
The ancient Maya civilisation, which flourished in Mesoamerica from approximately 2000 BC to 1500 AD, is known for its impressive achievements in mathematics, astronomy, and architecture. However, one aspect of Maya culture that is often overlooked is their extensive use of plant medicine in their religious practices. The Maya believed that plants were sacred and had the power to connect them with their gods. In this article, we will explore how the ancient Maya people used plant medicine to speak to their gods and the evidence that supports this argument.
The Maya civilisation was centered in what is now Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and parts of Honduras and El Salvador. This region is home to a diverse array of plant species, many of which the Maya used for medicinal purposes. The Maya believed that certain plants had the power to heal physical ailments, but also had spiritual properties that allowed them to communicate with the gods. These plants were used in various religious ceremonies and rituals, often administered by trained shamans or healers.
Plant Medicine - Psilocybin Mushrooms
One of the most famous plant medicines used by the Maya was psilocybin mushrooms, which contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. Psilocybin mushrooms grow naturally in the forests of Mesoamerica, and their use in religious rituals dates back at least 2,000 years. The Maya referred to these mushrooms as "teonanácatl," which translates to "flesh of the gods." The use of teonanácatl was so ingrained in Maya culture that even today, in some parts of Mexico and Guatemala, the mushrooms are still used in traditional religious practices.
Evidence of the Maya's use of psilocybin mushrooms comes from a variety of sources. The earliest evidence comes from pottery vessels found in Guatemala that date back to 300 BC. These vessels depict scenes of mushroom ceremonies, with figures wearing mushroom caps and performing rituals. Other evidence comes from the writings of Spanish conquistadors who arrived in Mesoamerica in the 16th century. One such conquistador, Bernardino de Sahagún, wrote about the use of teonanácatl in his famous work "General History of the Things of New Spain." Sahagún described how the mushrooms were consumed in religious ceremonies and were believed to allow the participants to communicate directly with the gods.
Another plant medicine used by the Maya was the Peyote cactus, which contains the psychoactive compound mescaline. The cactus was used in religious rituals as a way to connect with the divine. Like the psilocybin mushrooms, the use of Peyote cactus dates back at least 2,000 years. The cactus was often consumed in a drink called "aguacolla," which was made by boiling the cactus in water.
Evidence of the Maya's use of Peyote cactus comes from a variety of sources as well. Like the psilocybin mushrooms, depictions of the cactus can be found on ancient pottery vessels. Spanish conquistadors also wrote about the use of Peyote cactus in their accounts of the conquest. One such account comes from the conquistador Pedro de Cieza de León, who wrote about a ceremony he witnessed in which the Maya consumed the cactus and danced in a trance-like state.
The Maya also used a variety of other plant medicines in their religious practices, including tobacco, morning glory seeds, and ayahuasca. Tobacco was considered a sacred plant by the Maya and was used in various rituals, including offerings to the gods. Morning glory seeds contain the psychoactive compound LSA and were used in religious ceremonies to induce visions. Ayahuasca, a powerful psychedelic brew made from the ayahuasca vine and other plants, was not used by the Maya, but is used extensively in other indigenous cultures
Plant Medicine - Peyote
Peyote is a small, spineless cactus native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. For centuries, it has been used by indigenous communities in these regions for its psychoactive properties, as well as its spiritual and medicinal benefits. Recently, a number of scientific studies have been conducted to examine the effects of peyote consumption on human physiology and behavior. In the next few paragraphs, we will explore some of the findings from these studies and their implications for our understanding of this remarkable plant.
One of the most well-known active compounds in peyote is mescaline, which is a powerful psychedelic substance that can induce vivid hallucinations and altered states of consciousness. Despite its psychoactive properties, peyote has been used by indigenous communities for centuries in spiritual and religious ceremonies. These ceremonies are often led by a shaman or spiritual leader and are considered to be a way to connect with the divine.
Recent scientific studies have shed light on some of the physiological effects of peyote consumption. For example, a study published in the journal Psychopharmacology in 2018 found that mescaline consumption resulted in changes in brain activity in areas associated with sensory perception and self-awareness. Specifically, the study found that mescaline induced a decrease in activity in the default mode network, which is a network of brain regions that is active when we are not engaged in any specific task. This decrease in activity was associated with an increase in feelings of unity and connectedness with others and the environment.
Another study, published in the journal Human Psychopharmacology in 2016, examined the effects of peyote consumption on mood and behavior. The study found that individuals who consumed peyote experienced an increase in positive mood and a decrease in negative mood. The participants also reported an increase in feelings of empathy and a decrease in feelings of hostility. The researchers suggested that these changes in mood and behavior may be related to the psychoactive effects of mescaline, as well as the spiritual and social context in which the peyote ceremony takes place.
Peyote has also been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits. In a study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs in 2017, researchers examined the use of peyote as a treatment for alcoholism. The study found that peyote consumption was associated with a significant reduction in alcohol consumption, as well as an increase in overall well-being and spiritual experiences. The researchers suggested that peyote may be a promising treatment for alcoholism and other addictive disorders, although more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits.
Modern Usage Guidelines
Informed Consent: Participants should be provided with detailed information about the risks and benefits of the study, and they should give their voluntary informed consent to participate.
Participant Screening: Participants should be screened for medical conditions, psychiatric history, and medications that may interact with the hallucinogen. Individuals with a history of mental illness or other health problems that may be exacerbated by hallucinogen use should not participate.
Dosage Control: The dose of hallucinogen should be carefully controlled to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. Dosage should be based on individual factors, such as body weight and previous experience with the drug.
Supervision: Participants should be carefully supervised throughout the study by trained staff. There should be a designated person responsible for monitoring the physical and psychological well-being of the participant.
Setting: The setting for hallucinogen use should be carefully chosen to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. A comfortable and safe environment with minimal distractions is ideal. Participants should have access to water and a bathroom, and they should not be left alone.
Integration: Participants should be provided with appropriate follow-up care after the study, including debriefing and integration sessions. These sessions can help participants make sense of their experience and incorporate any insights gained into their daily life.
Emergency Response: Staff should be trained in emergency response protocols, including the administration of medication to manage adverse reactions. There should be a designated person responsible for contacting emergency medical services if necessary.
Overall, safety guidelines for human hallucinogen consumption aim to minimise the risk of adverse reactions while allowing participants to experience the potential benefits of these substances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, peyote and other plant medicines are remarkable plants that has been used for millennia by indigenous communities for their psychoactive, spiritual, and medicinal properties. Recent scientific studies have shed light on some of the physiological effects of peyote consumption, as well as its therapeutic benefits. Overall, the findings from these studies underscore the importance of respecting and preserving the traditional cultural practices associated with plant medicine consumption, while also promoting their benefits in a scientific context.
Sources
Frecska, E., Bokor, P., & Winkelman, M. (2016). The Therapeutic Potentials of Ayahuasca: Possible Effects against Various Diseases of Civilization. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 7, 35. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2016.00035
This article examines the potential therapeutic benefits of ayahuasca, a psychoactive brew used in traditional Amazonian medicine that contains the same active compound (DMT) as peyote. It suggests that ayahuasca and other plant medicines like peyote may have a role to play in the treatment of various diseases of civilization, including addiction, depression, and anxiety.
Johnson, M. W., Richards, W. A., & Griffiths, R. R. (2008). Human hallucinogen research: Guidelines for safety. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 22(6), 603–620. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881108093587
This article provides guidelines for the safe conduct of human hallucinogen research, including studies of peyote and other psychoactive substances. It emphasizes the importance of informed consent, appropriate screening of participants, and careful monitoring of their physical and psychological well-being during and after the study.
Ospina-Giraldo, M. D. P., Palacio-Acosta, C. A., & Miranda-Casas, C. (2019). The sacred cactus and the psychiatric patient: A review of the therapeutic potential of Peyote and its use in psychotherapy. Mental Health, Religion & Culture, 22(10), 1043–1058. https://doi.org/10.1080/13674676.2019.1658773
This article provides a review of the literature on the therapeutic potential of peyote and its use in psychotherapy, including its potential benefits for individuals with mental health conditions. It highlights the need for further research on the safety and efficacy of peyote in therapeutic settings, while also acknowledging the cultural significance of the plant and the need to respect traditional practices.
PSYCHOLOGY
Ancient Maya Civilisation use of the Plant Medicines - Psilocybin & Peyote
The ancient Maya civilisation, which flourished in Mesoamerica from approximately 2000 BC to 1500 AD, is known for its impressive achievements in mathematics, astronomy, and architecture. However, one aspect of Maya culture that is often overlooked is their extensive use of plant medicine in their religious practices. The Maya believed that plants were sacred and had the power to connect them with their gods. In this article, we will explore how the ancient Maya people used plant medicine to speak to their gods and the evidence that supports this argument.
The Maya civilisation was centered in what is now Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and parts of Honduras and El Salvador. This region is home to a diverse array of plant species, many of which the Maya used for medicinal purposes. The Maya believed that certain plants had the power to heal physical ailments, but also had spiritual properties that allowed them to communicate with the gods. These plants were used in various religious ceremonies and rituals, often administered by trained shamans or healers.
Plant Medicine - Psilocybin Mushrooms
One of the most famous plant medicines used by the Maya was psilocybin mushrooms, which contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. Psilocybin mushrooms grow naturally in the forests of Mesoamerica, and their use in religious rituals dates back at least 2,000 years. The Maya referred to these mushrooms as "teonanácatl," which translates to "flesh of the gods." The use of teonanácatl was so ingrained in Maya culture that even today, in some parts of Mexico and Guatemala, the mushrooms are still used in traditional religious practices.
Evidence of the Maya's use of psilocybin mushrooms comes from a variety of sources. The earliest evidence comes from pottery vessels found in Guatemala that date back to 300 BC. These vessels depict scenes of mushroom ceremonies, with figures wearing mushroom caps and performing rituals. Other evidence comes from the writings of Spanish conquistadors who arrived in Mesoamerica in the 16th century. One such conquistador, Bernardino de Sahagún, wrote about the use of teonanácatl in his famous work "General History of the Things of New Spain." Sahagún described how the mushrooms were consumed in religious ceremonies and were believed to allow the participants to communicate directly with the gods.
Another plant medicine used by the Maya was the Peyote cactus, which contains the psychoactive compound mescaline. The cactus was used in religious rituals as a way to connect with the divine. Like the psilocybin mushrooms, the use of Peyote cactus dates back at least 2,000 years. The cactus was often consumed in a drink called "aguacolla," which was made by boiling the cactus in water.
Evidence of the Maya's use of Peyote cactus comes from a variety of sources as well. Like the psilocybin mushrooms, depictions of the cactus can be found on ancient pottery vessels. Spanish conquistadors also wrote about the use of Peyote cactus in their accounts of the conquest. One such account comes from the conquistador Pedro de Cieza de León, who wrote about a ceremony he witnessed in which the Maya consumed the cactus and danced in a trance-like state.
The Maya also used a variety of other plant medicines in their religious practices, including tobacco, morning glory seeds, and ayahuasca. Tobacco was considered a sacred plant by the Maya and was used in various rituals, including offerings to the gods. Morning glory seeds contain the psychoactive compound LSA and were used in religious ceremonies to induce visions. Ayahuasca, a powerful psychedelic brew made from the ayahuasca vine and other plants, was not used by the Maya, but is used extensively in other indigenous cultures
Plant Medicine - Peyote
Peyote is a small, spineless cactus native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. For centuries, it has been used by indigenous communities in these regions for its psychoactive properties, as well as its spiritual and medicinal benefits. Recently, a number of scientific studies have been conducted to examine the effects of peyote consumption on human physiology and behavior. In the next few paragraphs, we will explore some of the findings from these studies and their implications for our understanding of this remarkable plant.
One of the most well-known active compounds in peyote is mescaline, which is a powerful psychedelic substance that can induce vivid hallucinations and altered states of consciousness. Despite its psychoactive properties, peyote has been used by indigenous communities for centuries in spiritual and religious ceremonies. These ceremonies are often led by a shaman or spiritual leader and are considered to be a way to connect with the divine.
Recent scientific studies have shed light on some of the physiological effects of peyote consumption. For example, a study published in the journal Psychopharmacology in 2018 found that mescaline consumption resulted in changes in brain activity in areas associated with sensory perception and self-awareness. Specifically, the study found that mescaline induced a decrease in activity in the default mode network, which is a network of brain regions that is active when we are not engaged in any specific task. This decrease in activity was associated with an increase in feelings of unity and connectedness with others and the environment.
Another study, published in the journal Human Psychopharmacology in 2016, examined the effects of peyote consumption on mood and behavior. The study found that individuals who consumed peyote experienced an increase in positive mood and a decrease in negative mood. The participants also reported an increase in feelings of empathy and a decrease in feelings of hostility. The researchers suggested that these changes in mood and behavior may be related to the psychoactive effects of mescaline, as well as the spiritual and social context in which the peyote ceremony takes place.
Peyote has also been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits. In a study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs in 2017, researchers examined the use of peyote as a treatment for alcoholism. The study found that peyote consumption was associated with a significant reduction in alcohol consumption, as well as an increase in overall well-being and spiritual experiences. The researchers suggested that peyote may be a promising treatment for alcoholism and other addictive disorders, although more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits.
Modern Usage Guidelines
Informed Consent: Participants should be provided with detailed information about the risks and benefits of the study, and they should give their voluntary informed consent to participate.
Participant Screening: Participants should be screened for medical conditions, psychiatric history, and medications that may interact with the hallucinogen. Individuals with a history of mental illness or other health problems that may be exacerbated by hallucinogen use should not participate.
Dosage Control: The dose of hallucinogen should be carefully controlled to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. Dosage should be based on individual factors, such as body weight and previous experience with the drug.
Supervision: Participants should be carefully supervised throughout the study by trained staff. There should be a designated person responsible for monitoring the physical and psychological well-being of the participant.
Setting: The setting for hallucinogen use should be carefully chosen to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. A comfortable and safe environment with minimal distractions is ideal. Participants should have access to water and a bathroom, and they should not be left alone.
Integration: Participants should be provided with appropriate follow-up care after the study, including debriefing and integration sessions. These sessions can help participants make sense of their experience and incorporate any insights gained into their daily life.
Emergency Response: Staff should be trained in emergency response protocols, including the administration of medication to manage adverse reactions. There should be a designated person responsible for contacting emergency medical services if necessary.
Overall, safety guidelines for human hallucinogen consumption aim to minimise the risk of adverse reactions while allowing participants to experience the potential benefits of these substances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, peyote and other plant medicines are remarkable plants that has been used for millennia by indigenous communities for their psychoactive, spiritual, and medicinal properties. Recent scientific studies have shed light on some of the physiological effects of peyote consumption, as well as its therapeutic benefits. Overall, the findings from these studies underscore the importance of respecting and preserving the traditional cultural practices associated with plant medicine consumption, while also promoting their benefits in a scientific context.
Sources
Frecska, E., Bokor, P., & Winkelman, M. (2016). The Therapeutic Potentials of Ayahuasca: Possible Effects against Various Diseases of Civilization. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 7, 35. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2016.00035
This article examines the potential therapeutic benefits of ayahuasca, a psychoactive brew used in traditional Amazonian medicine that contains the same active compound (DMT) as peyote. It suggests that ayahuasca and other plant medicines like peyote may have a role to play in the treatment of various diseases of civilization, including addiction, depression, and anxiety.
Johnson, M. W., Richards, W. A., & Griffiths, R. R. (2008). Human hallucinogen research: Guidelines for safety. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 22(6), 603–620. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881108093587
This article provides guidelines for the safe conduct of human hallucinogen research, including studies of peyote and other psychoactive substances. It emphasizes the importance of informed consent, appropriate screening of participants, and careful monitoring of their physical and psychological well-being during and after the study.
Ospina-Giraldo, M. D. P., Palacio-Acosta, C. A., & Miranda-Casas, C. (2019). The sacred cactus and the psychiatric patient: A review of the therapeutic potential of Peyote and its use in psychotherapy. Mental Health, Religion & Culture, 22(10), 1043–1058. https://doi.org/10.1080/13674676.2019.1658773
This article provides a review of the literature on the therapeutic potential of peyote and its use in psychotherapy, including its potential benefits for individuals with mental health conditions. It highlights the need for further research on the safety and efficacy of peyote in therapeutic settings, while also acknowledging the cultural significance of the plant and the need to respect traditional practices.
HAPPINESS
Ancient Maya Civilisation use of the Plant Medicines - Psilocybin & Peyote
The ancient Maya civilisation, which flourished in Mesoamerica from approximately 2000 BC to 1500 AD, is known for its impressive achievements in mathematics, astronomy, and architecture. However, one aspect of Maya culture that is often overlooked is their extensive use of plant medicine in their religious practices. The Maya believed that plants were sacred and had the power to connect them with their gods. In this article, we will explore how the ancient Maya people used plant medicine to speak to their gods and the evidence that supports this argument.
The Maya civilisation was centered in what is now Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and parts of Honduras and El Salvador. This region is home to a diverse array of plant species, many of which the Maya used for medicinal purposes. The Maya believed that certain plants had the power to heal physical ailments, but also had spiritual properties that allowed them to communicate with the gods. These plants were used in various religious ceremonies and rituals, often administered by trained shamans or healers.
Plant Medicine - Psilocybin Mushrooms
One of the most famous plant medicines used by the Maya was psilocybin mushrooms, which contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. Psilocybin mushrooms grow naturally in the forests of Mesoamerica, and their use in religious rituals dates back at least 2,000 years. The Maya referred to these mushrooms as "teonanácatl," which translates to "flesh of the gods." The use of teonanácatl was so ingrained in Maya culture that even today, in some parts of Mexico and Guatemala, the mushrooms are still used in traditional religious practices.
Evidence of the Maya's use of psilocybin mushrooms comes from a variety of sources. The earliest evidence comes from pottery vessels found in Guatemala that date back to 300 BC. These vessels depict scenes of mushroom ceremonies, with figures wearing mushroom caps and performing rituals. Other evidence comes from the writings of Spanish conquistadors who arrived in Mesoamerica in the 16th century. One such conquistador, Bernardino de Sahagún, wrote about the use of teonanácatl in his famous work "General History of the Things of New Spain." Sahagún described how the mushrooms were consumed in religious ceremonies and were believed to allow the participants to communicate directly with the gods.
Another plant medicine used by the Maya was the Peyote cactus, which contains the psychoactive compound mescaline. The cactus was used in religious rituals as a way to connect with the divine. Like the psilocybin mushrooms, the use of Peyote cactus dates back at least 2,000 years. The cactus was often consumed in a drink called "aguacolla," which was made by boiling the cactus in water.
Evidence of the Maya's use of Peyote cactus comes from a variety of sources as well. Like the psilocybin mushrooms, depictions of the cactus can be found on ancient pottery vessels. Spanish conquistadors also wrote about the use of Peyote cactus in their accounts of the conquest. One such account comes from the conquistador Pedro de Cieza de León, who wrote about a ceremony he witnessed in which the Maya consumed the cactus and danced in a trance-like state.
The Maya also used a variety of other plant medicines in their religious practices, including tobacco, morning glory seeds, and ayahuasca. Tobacco was considered a sacred plant by the Maya and was used in various rituals, including offerings to the gods. Morning glory seeds contain the psychoactive compound LSA and were used in religious ceremonies to induce visions. Ayahuasca, a powerful psychedelic brew made from the ayahuasca vine and other plants, was not used by the Maya, but is used extensively in other indigenous cultures
Plant Medicine - Peyote
Peyote is a small, spineless cactus native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. For centuries, it has been used by indigenous communities in these regions for its psychoactive properties, as well as its spiritual and medicinal benefits. Recently, a number of scientific studies have been conducted to examine the effects of peyote consumption on human physiology and behavior. In the next few paragraphs, we will explore some of the findings from these studies and their implications for our understanding of this remarkable plant.
One of the most well-known active compounds in peyote is mescaline, which is a powerful psychedelic substance that can induce vivid hallucinations and altered states of consciousness. Despite its psychoactive properties, peyote has been used by indigenous communities for centuries in spiritual and religious ceremonies. These ceremonies are often led by a shaman or spiritual leader and are considered to be a way to connect with the divine.
Recent scientific studies have shed light on some of the physiological effects of peyote consumption. For example, a study published in the journal Psychopharmacology in 2018 found that mescaline consumption resulted in changes in brain activity in areas associated with sensory perception and self-awareness. Specifically, the study found that mescaline induced a decrease in activity in the default mode network, which is a network of brain regions that is active when we are not engaged in any specific task. This decrease in activity was associated with an increase in feelings of unity and connectedness with others and the environment.
Another study, published in the journal Human Psychopharmacology in 2016, examined the effects of peyote consumption on mood and behavior. The study found that individuals who consumed peyote experienced an increase in positive mood and a decrease in negative mood. The participants also reported an increase in feelings of empathy and a decrease in feelings of hostility. The researchers suggested that these changes in mood and behavior may be related to the psychoactive effects of mescaline, as well as the spiritual and social context in which the peyote ceremony takes place.
Peyote has also been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits. In a study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs in 2017, researchers examined the use of peyote as a treatment for alcoholism. The study found that peyote consumption was associated with a significant reduction in alcohol consumption, as well as an increase in overall well-being and spiritual experiences. The researchers suggested that peyote may be a promising treatment for alcoholism and other addictive disorders, although more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits.
Modern Usage Guidelines
Informed Consent: Participants should be provided with detailed information about the risks and benefits of the study, and they should give their voluntary informed consent to participate.
Participant Screening: Participants should be screened for medical conditions, psychiatric history, and medications that may interact with the hallucinogen. Individuals with a history of mental illness or other health problems that may be exacerbated by hallucinogen use should not participate.
Dosage Control: The dose of hallucinogen should be carefully controlled to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. Dosage should be based on individual factors, such as body weight and previous experience with the drug.
Supervision: Participants should be carefully supervised throughout the study by trained staff. There should be a designated person responsible for monitoring the physical and psychological well-being of the participant.
Setting: The setting for hallucinogen use should be carefully chosen to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. A comfortable and safe environment with minimal distractions is ideal. Participants should have access to water and a bathroom, and they should not be left alone.
Integration: Participants should be provided with appropriate follow-up care after the study, including debriefing and integration sessions. These sessions can help participants make sense of their experience and incorporate any insights gained into their daily life.
Emergency Response: Staff should be trained in emergency response protocols, including the administration of medication to manage adverse reactions. There should be a designated person responsible for contacting emergency medical services if necessary.
Overall, safety guidelines for human hallucinogen consumption aim to minimise the risk of adverse reactions while allowing participants to experience the potential benefits of these substances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, peyote and other plant medicines are remarkable plants that has been used for millennia by indigenous communities for their psychoactive, spiritual, and medicinal properties. Recent scientific studies have shed light on some of the physiological effects of peyote consumption, as well as its therapeutic benefits. Overall, the findings from these studies underscore the importance of respecting and preserving the traditional cultural practices associated with plant medicine consumption, while also promoting their benefits in a scientific context.
Sources
Frecska, E., Bokor, P., & Winkelman, M. (2016). The Therapeutic Potentials of Ayahuasca: Possible Effects against Various Diseases of Civilization. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 7, 35. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2016.00035
This article examines the potential therapeutic benefits of ayahuasca, a psychoactive brew used in traditional Amazonian medicine that contains the same active compound (DMT) as peyote. It suggests that ayahuasca and other plant medicines like peyote may have a role to play in the treatment of various diseases of civilization, including addiction, depression, and anxiety.
Johnson, M. W., Richards, W. A., & Griffiths, R. R. (2008). Human hallucinogen research: Guidelines for safety. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 22(6), 603–620. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881108093587
This article provides guidelines for the safe conduct of human hallucinogen research, including studies of peyote and other psychoactive substances. It emphasizes the importance of informed consent, appropriate screening of participants, and careful monitoring of their physical and psychological well-being during and after the study.
Ospina-Giraldo, M. D. P., Palacio-Acosta, C. A., & Miranda-Casas, C. (2019). The sacred cactus and the psychiatric patient: A review of the therapeutic potential of Peyote and its use in psychotherapy. Mental Health, Religion & Culture, 22(10), 1043–1058. https://doi.org/10.1080/13674676.2019.1658773
This article provides a review of the literature on the therapeutic potential of peyote and its use in psychotherapy, including its potential benefits for individuals with mental health conditions. It highlights the need for further research on the safety and efficacy of peyote in therapeutic settings, while also acknowledging the cultural significance of the plant and the need to respect traditional practices.
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