Mescaline
By Sofia Husainy and Isabel Carbery
What is this Drug?
This drug is known as one of the oldest drugs recorded since it was used in Native America rituals and early scientific and religious experiments. Mescaline is one of 40-60 alkaloids or nitrogen based compounds found in psychoactive cacti (Science In Context).
Street names for Mescaline are:
(Science in Context)
-Buttons
-Cactus Buttons
- Cactus Head
- Aztec
- Chief
-Big Chief
- Mesc
-Mescal
- Mezc
-Moon
-Topi
-Blue Cap
(Fig. 1: Wikipedia)
How is it used in Medicine?
Once mescaline was named illegal, research for medical use of the drug was put to a halt, though some research continued in some sectors illegally (Science in Context).
Within the recent past mescaline has been found to help Native Americans fight the battle and overcome alcoholism in a safe manner (Science in Context).
How is the Drug Administered?
These tablets can be far more dangerous than their dried cousins since they could contain other types of drugs. According to the Health Canada Online, almost 90% of the Mescaline tablets sold on the streets are actually some other kind of drug (Science In Context).
(fig. 2 Vancouver Seed Bank)
What are the Physical and Psychological Effects of Mescaline?
Short Term vs Long Term Effects
Short Term Effects:
-Increased Blood Pressure
-Difficulty Sleeping
-Dry Mouth
-Panic
-Paranoia
-Excessive sweating
-Loss of Bodily control
(Narconon)
Long Term Effect:
-Issues with Speech
-Memory Loss
-Anxiety
-Weight Loss
-Depression and Suicidal Thoughts
(Narconon)
How Long do the Effects Last?
While the short term effects don't last long, the chemical does have effects on your brain. Due to this, the visions can reoccur months or even years later. When this happens, most users think they are seeing the future. (Narconon/Science in Context)
Withdrawal and Overdose
What are the Laws and Societal Concerns for Mescaline?
Since the drug is used for religious purposes it's legal for tribes to use it. It's only allowed for religious ceremonies and anyone found using it for recreational purposes will face the same penalties listed above. (DEA.gov)
(Fig. 4 Salem News)