Narcotic Plants

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that narcotic plants, known for their effects on mind and body since the prehistoric period, were often associated with magic, religious rites, and medicine. Although there are over 60 species of hallucinogens known today that are consumed by people in one part of the world or other, the author focuses on the five major narcotics: tobacco, opium, hemp (marijuana), betel, and coca. The paper relates that the hallucinations that occur because the neuronal messages are changed in a greatly dramatic manner when narcotic plants are consumed.

Table of Contents
Introduction
History of the Use of Narcotic Plants and Hallucinogens
The Major Narcotic Plants
Ergot
Amanita
Marijuana
Opium
Coca
Tobacco
Other Hallucinogens
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Peyote: Botanically known by the name Lophophora williamsii, Peyote is a small grey-green variety of cactus found in northern Mexico and Texas. The Native Americans extensively used peyote particularly in their religious rites. The Aztecs ardently worshiped it and peyotism even grew as a religion among Americans. The compounds that are chemically active include mescaline and peyonine, of which mescaline induces hallucination essentially visual in nature, which enables the user to foresee and predict happenings as if in spiritual union with the divine power. Consumption of peyote causes intoxication accompanied by nausea, body shivers and perspiration for about two hours after which the user normally falls into hallucination."

More papers on Narcotic Plants:

• Argumentative Essay # 147416 : "Legalization of Marijuana and Economics"
• Essay # 25326 : "Decriminalization of Marijuana in Canada"
• Essay # 30092 : "Cocaine Use and Abuse"

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