Most Used Hallucinogen in the United States
Hallucinogen use in the United States
Hallucinogen use in the United States is nothing new. As far back as text and folk tales go back, there are stories within any Native American tribe of ancients using hallucinogens. Sometimes these hallucinogens are used for religious purposes, while other times they may be used purely for fun…being popular at social gatherings or special ceremonies. It has almost always been popular for certain tribes to “spirit walk” or otherwise use hallucinogens for self-exploration. Hallucinogens have had medicinal purposes within some tribes. In recent times, the use of hallucinogens in the United States is mostly attributed to recreation. So, with the very many resources in today’s society, and the transplanting of so many hallucinogenic species across the globe in regions of which they are not normally native, there must be one hallucinogen which is used most commonly.
Although there are many natural plants that are in the running for the most commonly used hallucinogen in the United States, whether native to the country or not, the winner is a synthesized chemical.
Most Commonly Used Hallucinogen in The USA: LSD
LSD, or Lysergic acid diethylamide, is synthesized, meaning it is not simply extracted from a plant, or available naturally. There are many analogs to LSD which absolutely do occur naturally. One of the most popular and well-known is Ololiuqui, which produces the primary alkaloid ergine. The effects of the seeds, even in low doses, can produce a strong hypnotic state. The psychedelic effects create powerful visions and are usually only reserved for qualified shaman. LSD was synthesized specifically as a result of the research surrounding this plant. Although the plant itself contains no LSD, the synthesized version (LSD itself) is apparently the most popular hallucinogen in the United States. In fact, it has been estimated by the National Center for Biotechnology Information that as many as 9 to 10% of the United States population has tried LSD in their lifetime.
Last Notes on Commonly Used Hallucinogens in the US
Despite the fact that LSD takes the cake for the most commonly used hallucinogen in the United States, there are still many other hallucinogens which have become popular. There are a couple which have strong followings and are impressive second and third places. Psilocybin (from a variety of magic mushrooms), has been tried by about 5 to 6% of the United States population at some point in their life. And about 2 to 3% of the United States population has tried mescaline (from a variety of cacti, most notably the Peyote). It is also interesting to note that approximately twice as many males have used psychedelics than females.
