mescalinas

Mescalines are a group of psychedelic phenethylamines best known for their hallucinogenic effects in humans. The most prominent natural sources are certain cacti, especially peyote (Lophophora williamsii), the San Pedro cactus (Echinopsis pachanoi), and the Peruvian torch cactus (Echinopsis peruviana). Mescaline can also be produced synthetically or found in trace amounts in other cacti.

Mescaline was first isolated in 1897 by the German chemist Arthur Heffter from peyote. Indigenous peoples of the Americas have used peyote and other cacti containing mescaline in religious and healing ceremonies for centuries, notably in the southwestern United States and the Andean regions.

Chemically, mescaline is 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine, with the formula C11H17NO3. It acts primarily as a serotonin 2A receptor agonist, producing psychedelic effects. Onset occurs after ingestion, with peak effects within a few hours; the total experience can last roughly eight to fourteen hours. Physiological effects may include pupil dilation, increased heart rate, sweating, nausea, and tremors. Tolerance develops rapidly; there is no widely documented physical dependence, but psychological risks include challenging experiences and distress in susceptible individuals.

Potency and effects vary widely depending on the plant source and preparation; dried peyote buttons contain varying amounts of mescaline, and San Pedro is generally less potent per gram than peyote. Because content is variable, standardizing doses is difficult, and user experiences may vary.

Legally, mescaline is controlled in many countries; in the United States it is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, making possession and distribution illegal except for specific permitted religious use by members of the Native American Church. Some jurisdictions allow limited use in research or possession under license.