Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in many plants and some animals. On a chemical level, DMT belongs to the tryptamine family, which also includes molecules like serotonin and melatonin, both crucial to human mental health and well-being.
DMT has a deep history of being a crucial ingredient in traditional shamanic practices across South America. One of the most well-known is Ayahuasca, a mixture of two plants: the pounded bark from Banisteriopsis caapi vines and leaves from Psychotria viridis, the latter of which contains DMT. The Ayahuasca brew is still used today by indigenous communities in the Amazon for spiritual and medicinal purposes.
Synthesis of DMT
DMT was first synthesized in a laboratory setting in 1931 by British chemist Richard Manske. However, its psychedelic properties were not recognized until the mid-20th century. The pioneering work of Hungarian chemist and psychiatrist Stephen Szára in the 1950s demonstrated DMT’s psychoactive effects, bringing this compound to the attention of the scientific community and sparking decades of research and debate.
Why do people take DMT?
People primarily take DMT for its intense psychedelic effects. These include profound alterations in sensory perception, a distorted sense of time, and experiences of ineffable spiritual or mystical states. Some individuals seek out these experiences for personal exploration or spiritual growth, while others may be motivated by curiosity about the mind-altering effects of psychedelics.
What does a trip feel like?
Dr Rick Strassman researched DMT between 1990 and 1995, injecting 60 volunteers with DMT. His book, aptly named, “DMT: The Spirit Molecule,” recounts these sessions and Strassman’s research.
Many report that DMT has shown them the interconnectedness of everything in the universe. An ego-death or loss of “self” is often experienced, and many report interactions with a “being” or an “other.” While many users enjoy positive, transformative experiences with DMT, it’s important to remember that it can also lead to uncomfortable or distressing experiences.
A DMT trip can last up to 30 to 45 minutes when smoked, and up to 4 hours if ingested. When smoked the effects are felt almost immediately, but if consumed by way of Ayahuasca, it has to pass through your digestive system first, and the first effects may kick in within 30 to 45 minutes.
How does it work?
Scientifically, DMT is known to primarily affect the serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to its dramatic impact on perception and cognition. However, the full mechanism of action and its implications on consciousness remain subjects of ongoing research.
Strassman’s book makes the bold case that DMT is naturally released by the pineal gland in the brain, and facilitates the soul’s movement in and out of the body. He also claims that DMT is an integral part of the birth and death experiences, and is released during dreaming.
However, scientific evidence is not consistent with Strassman’s ideas. The pineal gland’s principal function is to produce melatonin and regulate circadian rhythm. It has been shown that very minute concentrations of DMT have been detected in the brain, but are not sufficient enough to produce psychoactive effects. More research is needed to understand the origin of DMT in the brain, and how stress and near death experiences can alter states of consciousness.
This article was first published on Nina’s Notes and is republished on Psychedelic Health with permission.
