Among 68 users of hallucinogenic plants and mushrooms in Slovenia, curiosity was the main reason for starting, typically in their 20s. Psilocybe spp. were the most used, mentioned by about 91% of participants, and half used no other natural hallucinogens. Many plants or mushrooms were used only a few times. The internet often introduced users to these substances. Dosing, methods of use, and settings varied widely, as did knowledge of dangers and natural occurrence. Contrary to public opinion linking use to partying or problematic drug use, most users sought interesting effects, personal growth, and overcoming personal difficulties.
Members of Native Faith and nature-worshiper groups in Slovenia frequently use certain plants in their rituals, with Cannabis spp., Hypericum perforatum, and Salvia spp. being the most commonly mentioned among eighty-four plant categories. The symbolic nature or "spirit" of the plants was more important than their physical properties, showing that symbolic relations are central to how these practitioners connect with their divine conceptions of nature. Most participants identified as Rodnovera or Starovera or avoided labels altogether.