Defining 5-MeO-DMT in Historical and Cultural Contexts
World Futures February 17, 2024 DOI: 10.1080/02604027.2024.2330255 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Historical analysis Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | 5-MeO-DMT DMT |
| Keywords | Radical photochemical reactions Alkaloids |
| Citations | 4 |
| Key points | Argues that little is known about the historical use of 5-MeO-DMT and examines its origins and original use through known writings and limited accounts. |
Abstract
5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a psychedelic and entheogenic compound that has been used for centuries by Indigenous Peoples in the Amazon, Caribbean, and more recently in communities in Northern Mexico in ceremonial practices and to connect with nature. In recent years, there has been growing interest in 5-MeO-DMT to treat mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In response, there has been an increase in scientific research of the efficacy of 5-MeO-DMT in treating such conditions. Little is known about the compound's historical use; this paper will explore and examine the known writings about the origins and original use of 5-MeO-DMT. Additionally, this paper will present the limited data and accounts regarding the use of 5-MeO-DMT and the intersection of those accounts in historical and cultural contexts.