In the world of psychology, "entheogen" is the go-to term for mind-altering substances with profound effects on our awareness, like psilocybin. Historically, naturally occurring entheogens have been the spiritual fuel for religious groups, such as Native American peyote ceremonies, to ignite their mystical and divine experiences. These 'magical' compounds have paved the way for some of the most iconic experimental research studies in the psychology of religion, highlighting their role in creating profound mystical experiences and a sense of union with a greater reality.
As science delves deeper into the potential perks of psychedelics, here is an overview of how their use influenced the development of human consciousness and various ritual practices through history. Click on to find out more.