Abstract The paper defines hallucinogens as any drug that reacts with a person's mind by distorting reality to the point where hallucinations occur. The paper describes LSD; the most powerful hallucinogen, "magic mushrooms," PCP and ecstasy. The paper illustrates the dangers these mind-altering chemicals pose.
From the Paper "I couldn't walk through the lobby of the entry way at the dorm without getting really scared, because of the goblin I saw there when I was tripping." This is a perfect example of the hallucinogenic flash back that many LSD, PCP, Ecstasy and Magic Mushroom users experience after using one of these common hallucinogenic drugs. Hallucinogens refer to any drug that reacts with a person's mind by distorting reality to the point where hallucinations occur. Hallucinations occur when people see something that really does not exist. These drugs affect all of your senses, perceptions, thoughts and moods. This includes a distorted perception of time where minutes seem like hours, distance, gravity, spatial perceptions concerning oneself and one's surrounding environment. These drugs can also cause feelings of a mystical, religious or cosmic nature, which is what draws people to their use. These effects can also be very dangerous."
Abstract This paper presents a research proposal for exploring and researching the use of hallucinogens in the treatment options of mental illness. The paper also proposes that, if deemed worthy by the relevant and informative documentation gathered, further research into the topic should be conducted.
From the Paper "LSD is a hallucinogen which group includes Psilocybin, Psilocyn, Mushrooms, and Peyote, and Mescaline all hallucinogens. Under the influence of these drugs psychological affects occur as well as "light, color and shapes are altered, and imaginary objects appear." Walls 'melt' as well as other objects appearing to melt in front of the individuals eyes. Those under the influence of hallucinogens often feel as though their body is afloat or in reverse being pressed downward and the feeling of moving as though in very slow motion has been reported. Tiny details draw the focus of the individual for long period of time. Mood swings have been cited as one extreme caused by hallucinogens as the individual bounces from thought to thought. Also reported by some are feelings that their body is enlarging or diminishing and in some instances even changing its' shape. Physical symptoms include, dilated pupils, dizziness, dry mouth, numbness, tremors, heavy perspiration, Bad body odor, Chills, goose bumps, nausea, muscle weakness, trembling, poor coordination, lowered body temperatures(LSD or psilocybin mushrooms), Higher body temperature (peyote/mescaline), Rapid heart rate (LSD or psilocybin mushrooms, depressed heart rate and breathing (peyote/mescaline)."
This paper discusses narcotic plants belonging to those categories of plants called psychedelic or hallucinogenic plants because they have a chemical compound that causes hallucinating effects.
Abstract 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."
Abstract In this article the writer looks at the development, testing and use of the PCP drug. The writer discusses how PCP was initially used as a substitute for as well as an adulterant to established hallucinogens such as LSD, mescaline, and marijuana. The writer explains that PCP soon lost favor with habitual users of these hallucinogens, because of its severe psychological effects.
From the Paper "When it was first developed by the pharmaceutical company Parke-Davis, Phencyclidine promised to be a useful new anesthetic during surgery. However when the drug was tested on humans these subjects experienced a number of unpleasant side effects and the company ceased all human trials. That was hardly the end of the story of Phencyclidine, however, for the drug more commonly referred to as PCP would go on to find legitimate use as a tranquilizer in large animals who needed veterinary care and illegitimate uses as ... "
Abstract This paper evaluates a study on the beneficial aspects of psychedelic drugs, especially for those suffering from terminal illness. The paper describes general responses to hallucinogens, citing the seemingly paranormal experiences users report. The author then discusses how the drugs have been used under medical supervisions, and compares the responses to conditions such as anxiety with traditional drug therapy versus psychedelic drugs. The paper concludes citing some of the possible problems in research methods and also how to deal with complications of hallucinogenic drugs.
From the Paper "For the first time in three decades, human studies on LSD have increased (Kotler 2005). Many of these researcher said this should have happened earlier or sooner. Many researchers said that hallucinogens disappeared in research laboratories because of the scare for drugs like methamphetamines and heroin and the war on drugs. One research organization was the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, which funded much of such research work on LSD. According to its researchers, there was little evidence that psychedelic drugs are addictive or more dangerous that other stimulants, like alcohol and marijuana. They noted that advances from disease treatment to consciousness studies and basic psychological research suffered a dent on account of this. They looked to these new studies as an important first step to the recovery of missed information. This new development occurred in the early 90s when the Food and Drug Administration ran out of justifications to avoid the research of these prohibited drugs. Scientists looked into the possibility of treating conditions with hallucinogens. In 1960, researcher Eric Kast found that the use of LSD relieved anxiety in terminally ill cancer patients. Rick Doblin of the Multidisciplinary Association is currently studying psilocybin in the treatment of anxiety in late-stage cancer patients. Charles Grob of the Harbor-UCLA Medical Center stressed that psychedelics peaked for 50 years. Much research was funded in this field in the 40s and 50s. Many also felt that hallucinogens have an important part in modern psychiatry. The discovery of the neurotransmitter serotonin spearheaded the brain chemistry revolution (Kotler). "
Abstract This paper examines witchcraft in England during the Middle Ages and the arguments used by historians Macfarlane and Caporael on the possible reasons for hallucinogenic properties of ergotism. The paper discusses the Essex, England and Salem, Mass., USA witch-trials.
From the Paper "European witchcraft emerged only at the end of the middle ages; the great witch craze occurred during the renaissance, reformation and ended at the end of the 18th century. During these periods at least 100,000 men, women, children and animals were tortured and burnt as witches. However, although this period of persecution of witches was known as the burning times, there were no witches burnt in England or during the famous Salem Witch craze, all offenders found guilty during this time were either imprisoned for a period or hanged."
Abstract This paper reviews the involvement of the musician Ken Kesey and his group, the Merry Pranksters in the encouragement of taking LSD. In the beginning they were committed and dedicated to getting everyone familiar with the hallucinogenic drug, LSD. The paper describes how they bought a bus and toured around to distribute the drugs and allow society to have this experience. Their dedication to spreading the word was the reason why all the music bands, the progression in the music concerts and the major music festival was a possibility. However, before his death, Kesey was discouraging everyone from the use of psychedelic drugs.
Overview
How LSD came to be widely used in the 60?s
Acid test
West coast music scene and its relation to LSD
The Grateful Dead
Grateful Dead's relation to Kesey and the Pranksters
Conclusion
From the Paper "The psychedelic phase kicked off with the popularity of bands springing up constantly. The bands had no ambitions to do concerts or make and sell records; they were merely playing for their own enjoyment. Success to them was not making the top ten charts or any charts, or fame or fortune. Success to them meant having fun and making enough money to purchase psychedelic drugs."
Abstract This paper discusses how people of all societies and nationalities take drugs for different purposes ranging from spiritual to medical to recreational. It shows how all known drugs can be categorized into groups such as stimulants, steroids, depressants or hallucinogens etc. and examines some of their short and long term physical and psychological effects. It looks at some of the legal aspects of drugs and the problems of trafficking (illegal mobilization), focusing on some of the offending countries.
From the Paper "The substance in cigarettes that causes addiction to tobacco is known as nicotine. If smoked for a short time, nicotine aids its users in relaxing. It initially causes a rush of adrenaline, the substance released when you are excited. However it cause an increase in basal metabolic rate meaning that you lose weight without doing any work. This is not a safe way of losing weight, nonetheless; because concurrently it also effects the release of insulin, the substance that stores excess glucose, and makes a person hyperglycemic. "
Abstract This paper examines how there are many drugs that may be abused for relaxation or obtaining a high. Through an exploration of some of these drugs, it attempts to show that the abuse of such drugs ultimately extracts a high price by taking away the user's self-control and health. It discusses how one possible reason for so many people abusing drugs is the lack of knowledge about the many, often severe, effects of drug abuse and the importance of educating the public at large and students, in particular, about the dangers inherent in the use of drugs.
From the Paper "The term "narcotic" is derived from the Greek word for stupor, which originally referred to substances known for dulling the senses and relieving pain. Today, however, the term narcotics is used to refer to any illicit drug. In a legal context, though, narcotic refers to opium, opium derivatives, and their semi-synthetic substitutes. Thus, for the purposes of this paper, the term narcotic has been taken to refer to drugs, which produce morphine like effects. The phrase "morphine-like effects" implies that narcotics have a lot of therapeutic value, and indeed, they are used to treat pain, suppress cough, alleviate diarrhea, and induce anesthesia."
Abstract The paper relates that prohibited or illegal drugs are divided into four categories. These are stimulants, depressants, analgesic or narcotics and hallucinogens. The paper discusses how each type of drug exhibits various effects and causes, as seen by the different modes of withdrawals for the user. The paper presents accounts and descriptions of the four groups/categories of illegal drugs and relates the different types of substances that are classified and associated with each category. The paper reveals the street names, the methods of administration, the paraphernalia or apparatus and finally, the respective symptoms and withdrawals.
Outline:
Illegal Drugs' Profile
Categories
From the Paper "Stimulants are drugs that stimulate the Central Nervous System. These types of drug tend to increase alertness and physical activity. The groups include pharmaceuticals such as amphetamines and the street drugs commonly called "uppers" or "speed," cocaine, crack and some inhalants like Amyl or Butyl Nitrites. Caffeine which is present in tea, coffee and many brands soft drinks is also classified as a mild stimulant drug."
Abstract The paper defines gateway drugs as those which could open the doors to illicit drugs like hallucinogens, marijuana, cocaine, etc. The paper describes the discussions on whether alcohol and tobacco use among teenagers leads to marijuana use and shows that the pros and cons may vary but it denied that the proponents of the "gateway theory" do have a point. There are others who argue that the facts and figures do not corroborate this aspect, yet it still can be said that the teenager who experiments with tobacco and alcohol often proceeds to illicit drugs at a later stage. The paper concludes that it is ultimately the task of parents and society as a whole to ensure that children do not use drugs.
From the Paper "How often have we heard cases of teenagers shooting down their classmates in broad daylight, resorting to cold-blooded murder for no apparent reason! It is not even necessary that they would have showed any signs of delinquency in the past. What could have prompted them to such gory acts? The reasons can by many, but nothing that family support and affection could not have prevented. Or even for that matter, a friend in school who is willing to listen. Very rarely are such cases medically triggered, as no one is born a criminal. A sad aspect is that a large number of suicides too occur, as there is no one to hear the agonizing cries of a stressed out soul. A teenager with, what he surmises are insurmountable problems."
Tags: National, Institute, of, Drug, Abuse, National, Household, Policy, on, Drug, Abuse, National, Drug, Control, Policy
Abstract This paper examines the North America toad, Bufo Alvarius, with respect to its natural defense mechanisms. Background information on the toad is given, as well as a discussion of prior research of and known reactions to the potent chemical, 5-MEO-DMT, secreted by the toad in response to predation. Last, this paper proposes an experimental project designed to establish the toxic blood and/or serum levels of this chemical, as well as characterize the reaction of predators to the chemical.
From the Paper "With each increasing dose, the effects should be amplified, and may prove to be lethal. At this point, the experiment should be terminated, and the lethal dose should be noted. It is true that the doses administered here are much greater than what would be encountered by any predator or human, but there should be a direct correlation between the effects of the venom in raccoons and in other predators or organisms. I expect that the doses will prove to be fatal before the final dose is administered, while lower concentrations may lead to numbness, blurred vision, and paralysis or catatonic states, in addition to the aforementioned effects."
From the Paper "LSD and Other Hallucinogens
Abstract
There are two different kinds of hallucinogens. Both LSD and MDMA (Ecstasy) are synthetic, made in laboratories, while mescaline is a non-human-made substance obtained from cactus. As peyote, it is ingested in religious ceremonies by Native Americans. Each of these substances has short-term effects, which are characterized as "high" and "psychedelic" experiences. In essence, they affect the brain and nervous system through the neurotransmitters, leading to alterations in the brains processing of information. They also activate different regions of brain, leading to visual and auditory hallucinations, and to feelings of pleasure, or paranoia, as the case may be. They can be fatal, with one use sometimes leading to drug toxicity or problems such as Mallory-Weiss.."
Abstract This paper provides a well-researched book review of a work which focuses on the phenomenon of ecstasy use. The paper approaches this as a social and cultural phenomenon and discusses it according to theories of deviance, subculture, and social control. The work is reviewed in light of major social theorists and their ideas.
From the Paper "Ecstasy, or MDMA, is a fairly new drug; its popularity is a relatively new phenomenon. It does not occur naturally, and is the product of a laboratory. It was initially implemented as a therapy tool for husbands and wives who were not getting along and who needed help overcoming their repression and psychological boundaries. It has since entered the public realm of illicit drug culture, and is one of the most widely used illicit chemicals today. Because MDMA as a social phenomenon is a relatively new development, it can be studied effectively and chronologically. There has been only about twenty years for the myths to be constructed, for people to use it widely, and for others to experiment recreationally. For this reason, the study "The Pursuit of Ecstasy: The MDMA Experience" by Jerome Beck ad Marsha Rosenbaum (1994) is a well-timed one, because it is able to examine the subculture of Ecstasy users and find out what these early explorers of the MDMA experience have to say. The book is based on hundreds of interviews describing first hand the experience of MDMA use; it describes the ups, the downs, and the overall social experience that has come from MDMA use in these people. The cross section of samples is surprisingly large, and its varied nature demonstrates the in-depth research which was conducted."
Abstract This paper portrays Guyana as a mix of religions and cultures by describing the use of tribal medicine. Some examples are the poisonous toad, Bufotenine, and various hormones. The mixing of the old world religions with the new world religions is the main theme of this paper.
From the Paper "When comparing cultures, it is difficult to imagine a culture more different from our own then Guyana. Located on the northern shore of South America. Guyana declared independence from Great Britain in 1966 and became a republic in 1970. Since then, it has transformed from a socialist economic structure to a capitalist economic structure. The entire country is slightly larger than the state of Idaho. The population growth rate is only .23% as of 2002 according to the CIA World Fact Book and the net migration rate as of 2002 was -6.28 per 1000 adults. There is a high infant mortality rate of just over 38 deaths per 1000 live births and almost three percent of the adult population has HIV. The most common ethnicities are Eastern Indians, at 50% of the population, this is followed by blacks who make up 36%, American Natives make up seven percent of the population with the remainder being made up by whites, Chinese and mixed races. About 50% of the population claims Christianity as their main religion, another 35% are Hindu, 10% are Muslim and 5% marked some other religion. The official language of Guyana is English, but American Indian dialects are widely spoken, as is Creole, Hindi and Urdu.
Religion and custom are not static. When followers of more traditional religions came to Guyana, they did not fight as much as they did in the north. Instead, Meso America and South America are known for incorporating elements of traditional Native American religions into their own religions. For example, think of the Day of the Dead in Mexico. That is the most obvious example to the mixture of Catholicism and native religions, or at least one of the most well known. Similarly, as the Christians and others worked to convert the Natives to their religion, the Natives held on to certain aspects of their own religion. It is through this that a nation can be 50% Christian and still practice shamanism, the two are blended and the locals don?t really see a problem with it, but the Pope might beg to differ. Using frog poison as a hallucinogen was an important part of the rituals and the medicine of the people in South America, including Guyana."
