Psychedelics
Psychedelics (pronunciation: /ˌsaɪkɪˈdɛlɪks/), also known as hallucinogens, are a class of Psychoactive substances that produce changes in perception, mood and cognitive processes. The term "psychedelic" is derived from the Ancient Greek words psyche (ψυχή, "soul") and deloun (δηλοῦν, "to make visible, to reveal"), translating to "soul-revealing".
Psychedelics can be derived from certain types of plants and fungi or can be synthetic. They are used in both medical and recreational contexts. Some of the most common types of psychedelics include LSD, Psilocybin, DMT, and Mescaline.
History
The use of psychedelic substances can be traced back thousands of years within various cultures for religious and healing purposes. In the modern world, psychedelics have been used for psychotherapeutic uses as well as for recreational purposes.
Effects
Psychedelics cause a range of effects that can vary widely depending on the specific substance, the dose, the user's individual physiology, and the environment in which it's used. These effects can include hallucinations, changes in perception, altered states of awareness, changes in thought processing, and spiritual experiences.
Medical Use
There is ongoing research into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for treating a variety of conditions including PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction. Some studies suggest that psychedelics may help reduce symptoms of these conditions, particularly in cases where other treatments have been ineffective.
Legal Status
The legal status of psychedelics varies by country and by specific substance. In many countries, including the United States, most psychedelics are classified as Controlled substances, making their non-medical use illegal.
See Also
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