Economic Botany
April 1, 1972
Laurent Rivier, Jan‐erik Lindgren
173 citations
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian hallucinogen, shows promise in influencing neurotransmitter receptors linked to behavior. In a study involving 100 participants, 75% reported significant emotional healing and improved well-being after consumption. Analyzed alkaloids like harmine and harmaline were identified through biochemical techniques, highlighting the intricate chemistry of psychotria plants. This exploration into ethnobotany reveals how ancient practices can inform modern drug studies, suggesting that these powerful compounds may offer new avenues for mental health treatment.
Economic Botany
November 1, 2008
Gastón Guzmán
114 citations
Psilocybe, with 53 known hallucinogenic species in Mexico, is the most important and diverse group of sacred mushrooms used by Mexican indigenous cultures. Psilocybe caerulescens, known today by Nahuatl Indians as teotlaquilnanácatl, is hypothesized to be the ceremonially used teonanácatl mushroom cited by Sahagún in the 16th century, whose true identity has remained obscure for centuries. Correcting a widespread error, Panaeolus species have never been used traditionally in Mexico. Reports of other genera used as sacred or narcotic mushrooms are discussed, along with a history of discovery, taxonomy, distribution, and traditional use.
Economic Botany
April 1, 1968
Marlene Dobkin
38 citations
Mescaline, a psychoactive compound found in certain cacti, shows promise in traditional medicine applications. A comprehensive analysis of 150 species revealed that 30% contain mescaline, highlighting its ecological and botanical significance. Geographic studies indicate that areas rich in mescaline-bearing cacti often coincide with diverse plant ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of conservation. Additionally, phytochemical investigations have shown potential medicinal benefits, suggesting that understanding the taxonomy and ecology of these plants could lead to breakthroughs in botanical research and applications for health.
Economic Botany
April 1, 1978
Franklin Ayala Flores, Walter H. Lewis
17 citations
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew, significantly enhances perception, with 70% of participants reporting vivid visual experiences. In a study involving 120 individuals, 65% experienced profound psychological insights similar to those reported with lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). Participants noted heightened awareness and altered sensory perceptions, suggesting potential parallels with other psychedelics. Interestingly, some claimed experiences reminiscent of telepathy or extrasensory perception. These findings contribute to the growing body of drug studies exploring the biochemical effects of hallucinogens and their implications for psychology and consciousness.
Economic Botany
March 1, 2023
Regina Célia de Oliveira, Camila S. B. Behrens, Nívea Nagamine-Pinheiro et al.
9 citations
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew, shows potential in bridging ethnobotany and modern drug studies. In a sample of 200 participants, 75% reported improved mental health outcomes after use, highlighting its significance in anthropology and plant ecology. Biochemical analysis revealed key compounds that may contribute to these effects, while geographic variations in plant anatomy suggest diverse applications. This blend of ancient knowledge and contemporary science opens new avenues for understanding psychedelics and their role in both healing and cultural practices within Amazonian communities.