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“Plants of the Gods” and their hallucinogenic powers in neuropharmacology — A review of two books

Summary

This review examines two books about plants that have been used in religious and healing rituals across many cultures for their mind-altering properties. The author verifies that the hallucinogenic plants described in Carlos Castaneda’s popular books about a Yaqui sorcerer are accurately portrayed pharmacologically. The review explains how different sacred plants like peyote, certain mushrooms, and nightshade varieties affect the brain through various chemical pathways, while noting their dangers when misused.

Background

Plants containing hallucinogenic or mind-altering substances have held religious and cultural significance in many primitive cultures worldwide, being considered sacred and used in rituals to communicate with gods and ancestors. These plants are frequently employed in healing rites and continue to be used in modern societies for recreational purposes. The neuropharmacological effects and associated neuropsychiatric manifestations of these substances warrant attention from medical professionals.

Objective

This review examines two books that explore hallucinogenic plants and their cultural, historical, and pharmacological significance. The review aims to verify the accuracy of hallucinogenic plants described in Carlos Castaneda’s “The Teachings of Don Juan” and to provide comprehensive neuropharmacological information about sacred plants used across different cultures.

Results

The review found that descriptions of hallucinogenic plants in Castaneda’s work were largely accurate regarding preparation and effects. Major plant groups identified include Nightshade plants (tropane alkaloids), Peyote cactus (catecholamine derivatives), Psilocybe mushrooms (indole alkaloids), ergot fungus, Cannabis sativa, and coca plants. These plants produce psychoactive effects through interactions with various neurotransmitter systems including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine pathways.

Conclusion

The authors recommend both books as valuable resources for understanding hallucinogenic plants’ cultural, historical, and neurochemical aspects. However, Castaneda’s works should be read primarily as fiction for entertainment, while acknowledging the accurate pharmacological descriptions in his first book. The scientific review of neuropharmacology remains relevant despite being published over 20 years prior.
  • Published in:Surgical Neurology International,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.25259/SNI_560_2021, PMC8326085
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