A multidisciplinary overview of intoxicating snuff rituals in the western hemisphere.
Journal of ethnopharmacology March 1, 1985 P A De Smet 32 citations
Ritual intoxicating snuffs in the western hemisphere involve plants with varying levels of evidence for psychoactive properties and indigenous use. Four categories emerge: plants with confirmed psychoactive principles and confirmed or probable ritual use (Anadenanthera, Erythroxylum, Nicotiana, Virola); plants with confirmed psychoactive principles but poorly recorded or unlikely ritual use (Banisteriopsis, Cannabis, Datura, Ilex guayusa); plants with confirmed or probable ritual use but unconfirmed psychoactive principles (Justicia pectoralis, Pagamea macrophylla, Tanaecium nocturnum); and plants with poorly recorded use and unconfirmed psychoactive principles (Acorus calamus, Capsicum, Macquira sclerophylla, Piper interitum). Nasal pharmacokinetics show atropine, cocaine, nicotine, and scopolamine are effective nasally, but tryptamine alkaloids lack experimental confirmation. Self-experiments with 6.4 mg/kg caffeine produced substantial plasma levels nasally, while 0.5 mg/kg harmine did not produce measurable levels.