The first non-natives to encounter peyote use in the Americas were probably Catholic missionaries and conquistadors during the 16th century. Spanish friar Bernardino de Sahagún, for instance, described a Huichol peyote ceremony held in the desert and estimated that such practices may have been at least 1,980 years old. More recently, with evidence from the Shumla Caves site in Texas, researchers have been able to date ceremonial peyote use to at least 5,700 years ago. It also specifically decriminalizes their cultivation and distribution.

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Some researchers have found that the antidepressant benefits of mescaline correlate to a subjects’ willingness to engage with the experience, to face themselves and to act upon the insights received. In one mid-century study, some of the most significant transformations or breakthroughs came about months after the experience itself, even if the initial psychedelic therapy session seemed to be a failure. In the context of psychotherapy, mescaline may also be useful for re-living or recalling repressed memories. Mescaline also activates serotonin and dopamine receptors, which could help boost mood and treat depression. In fact, one of the traditional therapeutic uses for peyote was as an antidepressant, and depression scores are reportedly low among members of the Native American Church, where peyote use is common.

Risks

Growing location and season of harvest can also affect their potency, as can age—older peyote tends to be more potent. Foster gratitude for the chance to experience a sacred medicine from an ancient culture. If possible, consider taking a few days off from work and spending some time in silence, ideally in nature. It’s the most important thing to ask yourself before drinking—answering it truthfully will make you formulate and express your intentions for what may be the most challenging journey you’ve ever faced.

Combining cannabis and mushrooms doesn’t appear to pose any serious health risks. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Consuming ayahuasca can thus lead to a hypertensive crisis in those who suffer from these health issues and/or are taking prescription medication to treat them. Other compounds that can interact negatively with ayahuasca’s ingredients include serotonergic agents, such as certain depression medication , some psychoactive substances, and psychostimulants.

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