Different Types of Hallucinogens
There are many different types of hallucinogens. They are separated into two groups: classic and dissociative. While they all produce hallucinations, each drug has a different chemical makeup and effects on the brain.
LSD
LSD, commonly referred to as acid, is a semi-synthetic hallucinogen made from lysergic acid. This chemical compound is in liquid form and placed on sheets of absorbent paper to be taken orally. Street names include acid, electric kool-aid, lucy, or purple haze.
Psilocybin Mushrooms
Known as “magic mushrooms”, psilocybin is found in certain mushrooms grown in the United States, Mexico, and South America. Mushrooms are ingested orally and may be mixed into tea or other foods.
Peyote
Peyote is a psychoactive drug derived from a cactus plant that contains mescaline, a psychedelic compound. Peyote can be chewed or smoked.
DMT
Dimethyltryptamine, or DMT, is known as a “spiritual molecule” and users report having a spiritual awakening. DMT is a hallucinogenic chemical compound that is found naturally in the human brain. DMT can be snorted, smoked, or injected. Oftentimes DMT is mixed with herbal tea, a method referred to as ayahuasca.
PCP
Phencyclidine, or PCP, is considered to be a synthetic, dissociative drug. PCP was introduced in the 1950s as an anesthetic for surgical procedures. It is now an illegal hallucinogenic drug with sedative properties. PCP is available in tablet, crystal, liquid, or capsule forms. The street name for PCP is angel dust.