527 - T6 D1

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School

Grand Canyon University *

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Course

527

Subject

Medicine

Date

Apr 3, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

2

Uploaded by GeneralSnowSalmon14 on coursehero.com

D1: Describe the medical and spiritual uses of hallucinogens both currently and in the past. R1: Hallucinogens are substances capable of altering perception, mood, and cognition, and they have served both medical and spiritual purposes throughout history. In recent years, studies have indicated potential therapeutic benefits of certain hallucinogens, such as psilocybin (found in "magic mushrooms") and MDMA (also known as "ecstasy"), in treating mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD (MDMA, 2022; NIDA, 2022). For instance, psilocybin has demonstrated lasting positive effects on mood, anxiety, and overall quality of life among cancer patients. Similarly, MDMA has been under investigation for its potential in assisting with PTSD treatment for veterans and first responders (MDMA, 2022; NIDA, 2022). Historically, various cultures employed hallucinogens for purported healing properties. Native American societies, for instance, utilized peyote containing mescaline in religious rituals for centuries, deeming it sacred and attributing to it the ability to facilitate spiritual connection and growth (Prince, 2019). Hallucinogens have also played a significant role in religious and spiritual practices globally. Indigenous communities have incorporated plant-based hallucinogens like ayahuasca, iboga, and salvia into their spiritual ceremonies. In contemporary times, some individuals use hallucinogens for spiritual exploration and personal development, believing these substances can provide insight into life, the universe, and their existence within it (Zawilska & Wojcieszak, 2013). Advocates of this usage suggest that hallucinogens may foster empathy, creativity, and a sense of interconnectedness with others and the environment. However, it's crucial to acknowledge the considerable risks associated with hallucinogen use, including adverse psychological effects, unpredictable physical reactions, and potential accidents or fatalities. Therefore, their usage should be approached cautiously and only under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals or spiritual guides. References: Adams, C. (2010). Psychedelics and holistic thinking: a tool for science. Drugs and Alcohol Today, 10 (1), 33-35. https://doi.org/10.5042/daat.2010.0126 Carhart-Harris RL, & Nutt DJ. (2010). User perceptions of the benefits and harms of hallucinogenic drug use: a web-based questionnaire study. Journal of Substance Use , 15 (4), 283–300. https://doi-org.lopes.idm.oclc.org/10.3109/14659890903271624
MDMA . Erowid MDMA (ecstasy) vault. (2022, April 4). Retrieved April 1, 2023, from https://www.erowid.org/chemicals/mdma/mdma.shtml NIDA. 2022, December 19. Introduction. Retrieved from http://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/mdma-ecstasy-abuse/Introduction on 2023, April 1 Prince, M. A., O'Donnell, M. B., Stanley, L. R., & Swaim, R. C. (2019). Examination of Recreational and Spiritual Peyote Use Among American Indian Youth. Journal of studies on alcohol and drugs , 80 (3), 366–370. https://doi.org/10.15288/jsad.2019.80.366 Zawilska, J. B., & Wojcieszak, J. (2013). Salvia divinorum: From Mazatec medicinal and hallucinogenic plant to emerging recreational drug. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental , 28 (5), 403–412. https://doi-org.lopes.idm.oclc.org/10.1002/hup.2304
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