Mescaline is a naturally occurring alkaloid known for its potent psychedelic properties. It has been used for centuries in religious ceremonies and spiritual rituals. Its history is deeply rooted in indigenous cultures of North and South America, where it was used as a tool for connection with the divine, emotional healing, and exploration of consciousness.
Today, mescaline is not only generating interest in spiritual and recreational contexts but also in the medical and scientific fields. As we have seen with magic mushrooms, recent research has begun to unravel its possible therapeutic applications, exploring its ability to treat mental and emotional disorders. This fascinating substance not only offers a journey to unique inner worlds but also represents a bridge between ancient traditions and the advances of modern science. Today we tell you what mescaline is, how it is used, and its effects on the body.
What is mescaline and where is it found?
Mescaline is a hallucinogenic molecule that belongs to the phenethylamine family, a group of compounds that also includes other psychoactive substances such as MDMA. Its chemical structure mimics certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin, which explains its ability to alter perception and consciousness.
It is found naturally in several species of cactus, among which the following stand out:
- Peyote (Lophophora williamsii): This small, rounded cactus, native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, is perhaps the best-known source of mescaline. Its use is deeply linked to the ceremonies of Native American peoples.
- San Pedro (Echinopsis pachanoi): Native to the Peruvian and Ecuadorian Andes, this tall, columnar cactus is used in Andean shamanic rituals.
- Peruvian Cactus (Echinopsis peruviana): Similar to San Pedro, but with higher concentrations of mescaline, which makes it especially appreciated for the extraction of this substance.
In addition to its presence in these plants, mescaline can be synthesized in the laboratory, which has allowed its study in scientific and medical contexts.
Synthesis of mescaline
Although peyote and other cacti are natural sources of mescaline, their cultivation and harvesting present logistical and ethical challenges, as many of these species are endangered due to overexploitation. For this reason, the chemical synthesis of mescaline has become a viable alternative for scientific research and therapeutic applications.
The biosynthesis of mescaline in peyote (Lophophora williamsii) is a complex biochemical process that takes place in the cells of the cactus. This process involves several metabolic pathways and enzymes that transform simple starting compounds into the final molecule of mescaline, a psychoactive alkaloid. Below we describe the process in general terms:
1. Starting compound: tyrosine. The starting point for mescaline biosynthesis is the amino acid tyrosine, which is a common compound in many plants and organisms. Tyrosine is derived from the plant’s primary metabolism and is the basis for the formation of phenethylamines such as mescaline.
2. Conversion of tyrosine to tyramine. Tyrosine is deaminated (an amino group is removed) by an enzyme called tyrosine decarboxylase, yielding tyramine. Tyramine is a key molecule in the biosynthesis of several alkaloids, including phenethylamines.
3. Methylation of tyramine. Tyramine undergoes a series of methylation reactions, in which methyl groups (-CH₃) are added to the hydroxyl groups (-OH) present in the benzene ring. These reactions are catalyzed by specific enzymes called methyltransferases and use the compound S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) as a methyl group donor.
- First methylation: 3-methoxytyramine is produced.
- Second methylation: n-methoxy-3,4-dimethoxytyramine is formed.
- Third methylation: Finally, 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine is obtained, which is the basic chemical structure of mescaline.
4. Final production of mescaline. After the third methylation, the complete molecule is structurally mescaline. At this point, the alkaloid accumulates in the tissues of the cactus, particularly in its upper part (buds or “crown”), where it is most concentrated.
Factors influencing mescaline biosynthesis
- Genetics: Peyote’s ability to produce mescaline depends on its genes and the specific enzymes they encode.
- Environmental conditions: Factors such as light, temperature, and nutrient availability can influence the amount of mescaline produced.
- Age of the plant: Older cacti tend to have a higher concentration of mescaline due to the accumulation of the compound over time.
Importance of the process
This process not only plays a role in the plant’s ecology, possibly as a chemical defense against herbivores but is also the basis of its cultural and scientific value. Peyote’s ability to synthesize mescaline is a fascinating example of how plants produce bioactive compounds with significant effects on other species, including humans.
Chemical synthesis of mescaline
The chemical synthesis process (in the laboratory) of mescaline involves combining precursor compounds such as 3,4,5-trimethoxybenzaldehyde with specific chemical reagents. This method not only allows for obtaining pure mescaline in controlled quantities but also reduces the environmental impact associated with collecting wild cacti.
However, mescaline synthesis is strictly regulated due to its classification as a controlled substance in many countries, limiting its availability outside of research settings.
Taste, aroma, and applications of mescaline
- Taste and aroma: Mescaline has a bitter, earthy taste, typical of the alkaloids present in cacti. This taste is often difficult for many people to tolerate, which has led to the development of alternative methods of consumption, such as purified extracts or capsules.
- Traditional Applications: In indigenous cultures, mescaline has been used primarily in ceremonial and spiritual contexts. It is believed to facilitate connection with divine forces and allow participants to reach states of deep introspection.
- Modern Applications: Mescaline is currently being studied therapeutically to treat disorders such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety. Additionally, its ability to expand sensory perception makes it attractive to artists and thinkers seeking new forms of inspiration.
Effects of mescaline
The effects of mescaline are intensely psychedelic and last between 8 and 12 hours. Some of the most common effects are listed below:
- Visual: Colors appear more vibrant, geometric shapes appear in consistent patterns, and everyday objects take on new textures or meanings.
- Auditory: Sound perception is heightened, which can make music or natural noises deeply moving.
- Emotional: Users often experience euphoria, a sense of oneness with their surroundings, and feelings of spiritual connection. In some cases, difficult emotions may also arise, emphasizing the importance of consuming in a safe environment.
- Disruption of time and space: Time may appear to slow down or speed up, and physical distances are perceived differently.
As is often the case with this type of psychoactive substance, it is worth noting that the experience can vary significantly depending on the dose, the environment, and the mental state of the user. As always, aspects such as set & setting will be very important to enjoy a satisfactory experience and not suffer a bad trip.
Bad trips and magic mushrooms
Without a doubt, a bad mushroom trip is a truly intense experience for those who experience it. But why do these bad trips occur? What is the cause of these types of effects? Can anything be done to stop or mitigate them? Today we answer all these questions.
How is mescaline consumed?
There are different ways to consume mescaline, from eating a cactus rich in this substance directly to preparations and, as we have seen, there is also the option of pure synthesized mescaline:
- Natural forms: Cacti containing mescaline can be consumed directly, either fresh or dried. They are usually chewed or prepared into bitter infusions.
- Extracts and preparations: Through extraction processes, concentrated mescaline can be obtained, which is easier to dose and consume.
- Synthetic form: Synthesized mescaline is commonly presented in powder or capsule form, which facilitates more precise and controlled consumption.
Consumption should be done with caution, in a safe environment, and under supervision, especially for beginners or people with little experience with psychedelic substances.
Mescaline therapies?
The therapeutic use of mescaline has begun to attract the attention of scientists and therapists, especially in the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Although research is still in the early stages, some studies suggest that mescaline may be effective for:
- Reducing anxiety in terminally ill patients: By inducing states of acceptance and well-being, it can help people cope with the fear of death.
- Treat emotional disorders: Such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addictions.
- Promote self-knowledge and introspection: Which facilitates the resolution of internal conflicts and personal growth.
The potential of mescaline in psychological therapies represents an exciting frontier for modern medicine. However, its therapeutic use requires an appropriate clinical setting and further studies to ensure its safety and efficacy.
Mescaline, with its deep cultural roots and unique psychedelic impact, remains a fascinating subject that combines spirituality, science, and personal exploration. Whether in a ritual context or modern research, this compound stands out as a valuable resource for understanding the human mind and its possibilities.
We will keep you informed!
References:
- Naturalistic Use of Mescaline Is Associated with Self-Reported Psychiatric Improvements and Enduring Positive Life Changes, Agin-Liebes, Gabrielle, Haas, Trevor F., Lancelotta, Rafael, Uthaug, Malin V., Ramaekers, Johannes G., Davis, Alan K.
- Traditional medicine applied by the Saraguro yachakkuna: a preliminary approach to the use of sacred and psychoactive plant species in the southern region of Ecuador, Armijos, Chabaco, Cota, Iuliana, González, Silvia
- Biosynthesis of Mescaline in Lophophora williamsii, Rosenberg H, Khanna KL, Takido M, PAUL AG
