The Search for the Original Tree of Knowledge Summary and Analysis

Hallucinogens may be endogenous, within the body such as serotonin, or exogenous, from an outside source such as in edible plants. They may act as regulatory hormones or alter moods and states of being. The family of active chemical compounds, the indole hallucinogens, are suggested as key players in the emergence of human self-reflection. The molecular rings make the indoles highly reactive and ideal for metabolic activity.

There are four families that occur in plants and cause visual hallucinogens:

1. LSD-type compounds. These are rare in nature, occurring in the morning glory genera. These compounds cause mind expansion and increased ability to think and connect. Rather large doses are needed to elicit effects.

2. Tryptamin hallucinogens (e.g. DMT, psilocin, psilocybin). These are found in higher plant families such...