Sacred and Profane Uses of the Cactus Lophophora Williamsii from the South Texas Peyote Gardens
Dangerous Harvest April 22, 2004 Clarissa T. Kimber, Darrel Mcdonald 4 citations
Peyote, a small cactus known for producing a psychedelic experience, has been used ritually for over 7,000 years, but its use by the Native American Church (NAC) is less than 100 years old. The peyote button is central to NAC ceremonies, regarded as a god-being and sacrament. Non-Indians have also formed churches to follow the Peyote Way. Secular uses include topical medicine for wounds, divination, and recreation. In Mexico, various plants are called peyote, leading to confusion with the mescal bean, a toxic red seed used ritually by Amerinds. The text clarifies these historical and cultural distinctions.