Psychoactive Substances in Daoist Practice: A Cultural and Historical Perspective
Religions April 2, 2026 Qiongke Geng
Daoist cultivation traditions incorporate psychoactive substances, derived from botanicals or artificial synthesis, within ritual consumption practices to induce mystical experiences and facilitate union with the Dao. These substances are part of the broader category of Daoist ingestive culture (fushi). Analysis of Daoist scriptures shows that the use of psychoactive substances goes beyond physiological stimulation, representing a distinctive integration of material practices with transcendental pursuits aimed at achieving perfection in both body and spirit.