Key Takeaways
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Peyote is a small cactus that contains mescaline, a strong hallucinogenic chemical.
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While used in some religious traditions, recreational peyote use can be dangerous and lead to substance abuse.
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The effects of mescaline can be unpredictable and harmful, both mentally and physically.
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Frequent use can lead to tolerance, risky behavior, and even addiction.
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Treatment is available for those struggling with peyote or other hallucinogen use.
Introduction
Peyote may sound harmless to some, especially when people talk about it as a natural plant. But the truth is, peyote abuse can lead to serious problems. It’s more than just a plant—it’s a powerful hallucinogenic drug that can affect your mind, your body, and your life.
In small doses, it causes strong changes in how a person sees, hears, and feels the world. In larger or repeated doses, it can be dangerous. Some people even become addicted to peyote or use it along with other harmful substances.
This article will explain what peyote is, how it affects you, and why professional addiction treatment might be the right path for people struggling with peyote use.
What Is Peyote and Mescaline?
Peyote is a small, spineless cactus that grows in parts of the southwestern United States and Mexico. The top of the cactus contains round buttons, which people dry and chew. Sometimes, they brew the buttons into a tea. These buttons contain mescaline—a natural chemical that causes hallucinogenic effects.
Mescaline is the main ingredient that gives peyote its power. It’s a type of hallucinogen, a drug that causes users to see or feel things that aren’t real. These effects can last for hours and sometimes be very scary or dangerous.
Even though peyote has been used in Native American religious ceremonies for hundreds of years, its use outside those settings is illegal under U.S. law. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies it as a Schedule I drug, which means it has a high potential for abuse and no approved medical use.
Why Do People Use Peyote?
People use peyote and mescaline for a few reasons. Some believe it brings spiritual insight or a stronger connection to nature. Others use it just to “trip”—to escape or feel something different.
In traditional Native American ceremonies, peyote is used under careful supervision. But when used recreationally or without guidance, the results can be harmful.
Common reasons people use peyote:
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To feel high or escape reality
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Out of curiosity or peer pressure
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For self-exploration or spiritual reasons
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As part of substance abuse along with other drugs
Some believe that because peyote is “natural,” it’s safe. But natural doesn’t always mean harmless.
Effects of Peyote and Mescaline Use
The effects of mescaline kick in about one to two hours after taking peyote and can last up to 12 hours. Some people have what they call a “good trip,” but others may have terrifying or confusing experiences.
Short-term effects include:
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Visual and sound hallucinations
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Changes in mood or emotions
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Nausea and vomiting
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Faster heart rate and high blood pressure
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Confusion or panic
Long-term effects can include:
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Memory problems
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Anxiety or depression
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Trouble focusing or thinking clearly
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Ongoing paranoia or fear
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Flashbacks (unexpected returns of the drug’s effects even days later)
Some people who use peyote regularly develop a tolerance. This means they need more and more to feel the same effects, which can quickly lead to abuse.
Risks and Dangers of Peyote Abuse
Peyote abuse can be very risky. It’s hard to know how strong the drug will be or how a person will react. Some people become extremely anxious or even violent during a peyote trip.
There are also physical risks, especially when mixed with other substances like alcohol or stimulants.
Dangers of peyote use include:
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Hallucinations that cause accidents or unsafe behavior
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Heart problems or dangerously high blood pressure
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Panic attacks or suicidal thoughts
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Mixing peyote with other substances that increase danger
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Breaking the law—peyote is illegal outside approved religious ceremonies
Even though peyote may not cause strong withdrawal symptoms, the risk of mental health problems and dangerous behavior is very real.
Is Peyote Addictive?
Some experts say peyote isn’t physically addictive, meaning your body doesn’t become dependent like with opioids or alcohol. But that doesn’t mean it’s safe.
You can become psychologically addicted to the way peyote makes you feel. People may start using it often to escape problems, improve mood, or chase spiritual experiences. Over time, they might use peyote more than they planned, feel unable to stop, or need more to get the same result.
These are signs of peyote addiction, which can lead to a larger substance use disorder—especially if someone starts using other drugs too.
How Peyote Compares to Other Hallucinogens
Peyote and mescaline are similar to other hallucinogens like LSD, psilocybin (magic mushrooms), or DMT. They all affect the brain in ways that distort reality.
But unlike some of these substances, peyote is a natural plant, which can make people think it’s less harmful. The truth is, all hallucinogens, natural or not, can be dangerous—especially when misused or combined with other drugs.
Like other Schedule I drugs, peyote has no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, according to the DEA.
Treatment Options for Peyote Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with peyote abuse, professional help is available.
At Virtue Recovery Chandler, our team understands how hallucinogens like peyote affect the mind and body. We create personalized treatment plans that help you recover in a safe and supportive way.
Treatment may include:
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Detox support (if needed)
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One-on-one and group counseling
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Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to change harmful thinking
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Mental health support for depression, anxiety, or trauma
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Relapse prevention and life skills training
No matter how long you’ve been using or how unsure you feel, recovery is possible.
Conclusion
Peyote may seem like just a plant. But the mescaline inside it is a powerful hallucinogenic drug. It can cause dangerous effects, lead to risky behavior, and leave lasting damage to your mind and body.
If you or a loved one is struggling with peyote abuse, you are not alone. There’s no shame in asking for help—and recovery is within reach.
Call Virtue Recovery Chandler today at 866-338-5779. We’re here to help you take back control and start a healthier, safer future.
FAQs About The Effects of Peyote Use and Peyote Addiction Treatment
What is peyote and how is it used?
Peyote is a small cactus that contains mescaline, a hallucinogenic drug. It is often ingested in the form of peyote buttons or brewed as peyote tea. The psychoactive effects can lead to altered perceptions and experiences.
What are the risks of peyote abuse?
The risks of peyote abuse include potential psychological dependence, altered mental state, and negative physical effects. Continued use can lead to addiction and abuse, which can impact mental health and overall well-being.
What are the symptoms of peyote use?
Symptoms of peyote use can include visual and auditory hallucinations, changes in perception of time and space, and intense emotional experiences. Users may also experience nausea and other physical side effects.
How can someone tell if they are addicted to peyote?
Signs of peyote abuse may include a strong craving to take peyote, continued use despite negative consequences, and withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug. If someone exhibits these behaviors, they may be addicted to peyote.
What are the withdrawal symptoms associated with peyote?
Physical withdrawal symptoms from peyote are generally mild but can include anxiety, depression, and cravings for the drug. It is important to seek help if experiencing these symptoms after stopping use.
How does mescaline differ from peyote?
Mescaline is the primary psychoactive ingredient in peyote. While peyote refers to the cactus itself, mescaline can also be found in other hallucinogenic plants. Both substances create similar hallucinogenic effects, but peyote is a specific source of mescaline.
What are the side effects of peyote?
Side effects of peyote can include nausea, vomiting, increased heart rate, and anxiety. These effects can vary based on the amount of peyote ingested and the individual’s tolerance to hallucinogenic substances.
Is peyote legal to use recreationally?
Peyote is illegal in many places, as it is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. However, it is legal for certain religious ceremonies among Native American tribes. It is important to understand the legal implications before considering its use.
What should someone do if they want to stop using peyote?
If someone wants to stop using peyote, it is advisable to seek professional help or counseling. Support groups and treatment centers can provide assistance in overcoming addiction and managing withdrawal symptoms effectively.
Can peyote be used safely with other hallucinogens?
The use of peyote in conjunction with other hallucinogens can increase the risks of adverse effects and unpredictable reactions. It is generally recommended to avoid combining peyote with other hallucinogenic drugs to minimize the potential for harmful outcomes.
Resources
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-473/peyote
https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Peyote%20and%20Mescaline-2020_0.pdf
https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/peyote-and-mescaline
