List of entheogens

List of Entheogens

Entheogens are substances that are used in a religious, shamanic, or spiritual context to induce altered states of consciousness for the purpose of spiritual growth, healing, or insight. The term "entheogen" is derived from the Greek words entheos, meaning "full of the god, inspired, possessed," and genesthai, meaning "to come into being." Thus, entheogens are substances that 'generate the divine within'. This article provides a list of substances that have been used as entheogens across different cultures and times.

Psychedelics

Psychedelics are a class of psychoactive substances that produce changes in perception, mood, and cognitive processes. They are one of the most commonly known and used entheogens.

• Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)
• Psilocybin mushrooms (also known as magic mushrooms)
• Mescaline (found in peyote, San Pedro cactus)
• DMT (found in ayahuasca)
• 5-MeO-DMT (found in the venom of the Bufo alvarius toad)

Dissociatives

Dissociatives are substances that induce a state of dissociation—a sense of detachment from one's environment and self. Some dissociatives have been used as entheogens.

• Ketamine
• PCP (Phencyclidine)
• DXM (Dextromethorphan, found in some cough syrups)

Deliriants

Deliriants are a class of hallucinogen that induce states of delirium, characterized by confusion, disorientation, and hallucinations. They are less commonly used as entheogens due to their often unpleasant effects.

• Datura
• Henbane
• Belladonna (Atropa belladonna)

Cannabis and Other Plants

Cannabis and certain other plants have been used as entheogens in various cultures.

• Cannabis (used in traditional Hindu and Rastafarian rituals)
• Salvia divinorum (used in Mazatec shamanic rituals)
• Iboga (used in Bwiti religious ceremonies)

Traditional Preparations

Some entheogens are prepared in traditional ways, combining various plants to achieve the desired effects.

• Ayahuasca (a brew made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and other ingredients)
• San Pedro cactus (mescaline-containing cactus used in Andean traditional medicine)

Modern Research and Legal Status

The use of entheogens has been subject to legal restrictions in many countries, though there has been a resurgence of interest in their therapeutic potential. Research into psychedelics as treatment for depression, PTSD, and addiction has shown promising results.