Mescaline

Mescaline is a psychoactive alkaloid. It occurs naturally in several different species of psychedelic cacti found in North and South America, including San Pedro, peyote, and Peruvian Torch. Mescaline can also be synthesized in a laboratory setting. Pure synthetic mescaline is usually a brownish or white crystalline powder, either loose or packed into capsules. It may also be found as a brew or liquid. Mescaline extraction is relatively rare in comparison with more common psychedelics. What is the mescaline experience like? The effects of mescaline generally start within 45-90 minutes after ingestion. The peak of the experience occurs at two to four hours, and the total experience lasts up to eight hours. Effects include strong closed-eye visuals and heightened senses. Many participants report that mescaline has a uniquely mystical quality (Barrett & Griffiths, n.d.). The effects of synthetic mescaline may be slightly different from naturally-occurring mescaline, as found in San Pedro and other species, as psychedelic cacti also contain some other alkaloids (Dinis-Oliveira, Pereira, Dias da Silva, 2019). In general, anecdotal reports suggest that synthetic mescaline may provide a smoother experience, with less nausea, greater stimulant effects, and increased mental clarity. In comparison with other psychedelics, studies on the therapeutic potential of mescaline remain limited. There is some evidence, however, that mescaline increases activity and blood flow in the prefrontal cortex of the brain. Lower levels of activity in the prefrontal cortex are linked to anxiety and depression, suggesting that mescaline may be useful in treating certain mental disorders. Mescaline’s interactions with both serotonin and dopamine receptors imply that it can help to boost mood and treat depression. In traditional Mesoamerican cultures, plant-based mescaline was used to treat depression. (https://www.psychedelicexperience.net/c/mescaline/)