One class of drugs has proven to be particularly useful in producing
the shifts in consciousness needed for doing magick. Psychedelics work by
radically changing our perceptions, causing states of heightened emotions,
heightened senses, hallucinations, and changes in neuro pathways. The most
commonly consumed psychedelics are: psilocybin, THC, LSD, MDMA, and DMT, all of
which are currently illegal in most countries and (many would argue without
merit) classified as Schedule I in the US—of no clinical value and has high
rates of abuse. As with many other drugs, this classification stems more from lack
of cultural familiarity and as a means for systemic persecution of those who
commonly use them.
This classification has led to a lack of serious medical research into
their properties for over fifty years. It has only been in the past twenty
years that research, closely scrutinized by the government, has seen the light
of day. The majority of these studies have found these substances useful in
fighting depression, ease and comfort for terminally ill patients, facilitating
emotional bonds in family therapy, and ironically, treating addiction. It is
important to note:
No credible study of any of
these substances has found any negative short-term health effects when taken by
adults in recommended doses. No data exists on the effects of chronic,
long-term use. None of these substances have been found to be physically
addictive.
This should not delude anyone into believing these substances do no
harm. They can be abused just like any other coping mechanism, such as over
eating or watching too much TV. By far the largest contributing factor in their
potential to do harm comes from them being illegal. Black market substances
have no quality control. They can vary wildly in potency and purity. It makes
it much easier for them to be adulterated, as no authority exists to punish the
manufacturer without punishing the victim. Depending on your locale, possession
can be punishable by loss of employment, fines, long prison sentences, and in
some places execution. May the spirits protect ye brave psychonauts.
Each of these substances have different properties and different uses
in a magical context. We will also touch on some of the social and physical
uses for them as well, as they can be just as important for an individual
magus. While we endeavor to describe the mental experience of each drug, keep
in mind that it can differ radically from person to person, depends heavily on
dosage, and oftentimes cannot be described in words. We recommend that each
individual research for themselves possible interactions, proper dosage, and
proper consumption, and to always err on the side of caution.