Sacred, hallucinogenic to Huichol shamans who also used the plant on cuts and scratches as an antibiotic. Modern scientific research has proven this use.

Peyote has a long history of human use. The cactus contains the psychoactive alkaloid mescaline. It has been used to engender altered states of consciousness, possibly for as long as 7,000 years. It has a strong religious connection with the Huichol and Tarahumara in Mexico who make ritualised pilgrimages to collect it. In Huichol belief, the deer-god left peyote plants in its tracks. One Huichol man is quoted as saying: ‘peyote is the crossing of souls, it is everything that is. Without peyote nothing would exist’. Traditionally, the tops of plants are carefully cut off, allowing the plant the chance to re-grow. These pieces are then dried and eaten. Ingestion leads to feelings of extreme nausea followed by hallucinations.

contains mescaline, a psychoactive compound. It causes hallucinations characterised by vivid colouration of perceived environment.

Toxic.

Humans/pets. Harmful if eaten.