Peyote (Mescaline) and Human Chromosomes
JAMA October 20, 1975 Arthur D. Bloom 4 citations
A study of lifelong peyote users among the Huichol Indians of northern Mexico found no increase in chromosomal aberrations in their peripheral-blood lymphocytes, providing reassuring evidence that in vivo studies of possible chromosomal mutagens can yield clear-cut negative results. The findings address concerns from the late 1960s and early 1970s about chromosomal damage from psychoactive agents like LSD and marihuana, though the authors caution against heavier experimentation with peyote or mescaline based on this apparent absence of chromosomal effects.