Mescaline cacti are among the oldest products we sell here at Dutch-Smart. In fact, it is believed that mescaline is one of the very oldest psychedelics ever used by humans. For example, we know that peyote was used by Native Americans in Mexico over 5,700 years ago, but it’s possible that earlier populations also experienced such a unique mescaline trip. Questions we regularly receive in our inbox are “what are the effects of mescaline” and “what does a mescaline trip look like.” That’s why we’re going to tell you all about it today!
Peyote, San Pedro, Peruvian Torch...
First of all, it’s good to know that there are various types of mescaline cacti. In our online smartshop, we carry the most popular and potent varieties in our selection. For example, Peyote (Lophophora Williamsii) is the most potent, closely followed by the San Pedro cactus (Trichocereus Pachanoi). Varieties that contain slightly less mescaline and are perfect for first-time trippers include Peruvian Torch (Trichocereus Peruvianus) and Bolivian Torch (Trichocereus Lageniformis). All these cacti are prepared in the same way. In most cases, the tops of the cacti are cut off and then dried. The dried cacti are then sliced into pieces that are chewed or soaked in water to brew an infusion.
First, you should know that the effects of mescaline depend heavily on the dose, just as with any psychedelic substance. Generally, 200–300 mg of mescaline is considered a “normal dose.” 300–500 mg is a strong dose, and 500–700 mg is a heavy dose that only experienced mescaline users will find enjoyable. Now, this is certainly good to know, but since no single peyote bud contains a consistent percentage of mescaline, dosing can sometimes be a bit more challenging. It is estimated that the dried buds contain about 10% mescaline. Mescaline effects are usually felt within 45–90 minutes after consumption, peaking after two to four hours. The effects can last for up to about eight hours.
Now that all that is clear, let’s talk about the almost magical effects of mescaline. Because you didn’t really think that hundreds of generations of Native Americans ate these cacti just because they loved the bitter taste, did you? Of course not! Mescaline is so popular because it induces spiritual experiences and because it is also believed to have numerous health benefits. Reports on mescaline are often consistent: consuming the cacti leads to a deep emotional “introspection” during which the user can turn inward.
The effects of a mescaline trip
Of course, it doesn’t stop there. During a mescaline trip, both physical and mental effects are felt. In general, people describe peyote trips as peaceful, revelatory, and emotional.
Physical effects: One of the most common effects of a mescaline trip is nausea and loss of appetite. So it does happen that peyote, San Pedro, or Peruvian torch causes you to vomit. However, this isn’t “unpleasant,” because the nausea quickly subsides after vomiting. First-time users of mescaline are advised to take small doses spread out over a few hours rather than all at once, to prevent vomiting. Other physical effects include an accelerated heart rate, muscle contractions, physical euphoria, and a sensation of warmth.
Mental effects: Many people decide to consume a mescaline cactus because they are curious about the visual effects. These include seeing bright colors and patterns, such as mosaic-like shapes and spirals, as well as visions of more distinct objects like animals, people, and shapes. Even “ordinary” objects typically appear more beautiful and intense during a peyoteor San Pedro trip. However, it was the “visions” that, according to Native Americans, enabled them to communicate with the spiritual world. The effects are usually characterized by these types of visual changes, increased empathy, and changes in how users perceive time. Other effects include hallucinations with eyes closed and an increased libido. Many users also report other effects, such as changes in sensation and the senses. Consider, for example, the effect where a stone suddenly feels soft or a wall suddenly seems malleable.
