Erowid Peyote Vault: Basics

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Peyote Basics

by Erowid

PEYOTE IMAGES

DESCRIPTION

Peyote (Lophophora williamsii) is a small button shaped cactus 2-5 inches in diameter, which grow in Mexico and the Southwest United States. Peyote is a hallucinogen, producing significant physical, visual, and perceptual changes. It is traditionally dried and eaten in a ritual setting to induce visions, and has been used by natives of Mexico for thousands of years.

Though Peyote is used recreationally by some, it is relatively uncommon on the street. Because a single Peyote button can take 5-15 years to mature, there is some concern about the over-harvesting of Peyote in the wild.
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Law
Lophophora williamsii is one of the few plants specifically named as illegal in the United States. It is a schedule I substance, along with its active ingredient Mescaline, making it illegal to buy, sell, or possess. There is a notable exception to this law which allows the use of Peyote by member of the Native American Church.

Chemistry
The primary effects of Peyote come from it's main active alkaloid: Mescaline.

History
The use of Peyote as a psychoactive was first recorded by Spanish conquistadors when they first arrived in the new world in the late 15th century. Based on historical Chichimeca and Toltec events, estimates are that Peyote has been used by native Mexicans for thousands of years. Use of Peyote spread during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Slang
The Substance: Mescal, Buttons, Big Chief, Mescalito

Last Modified - Thu, Jul 19, 2007

Created by Erowid

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