Peyote

Data Sheet

Peyote

What is Peyote?
Peyote (scientific name Lophophora williamsii) is a small, spineless cactus native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. The top of the cactus, known as the “button,” is harvested and processed into a potent intoxicating substance. Peyote contains the hallucinogen mescaline, and it can be consumed as a drink, taken in pill form, or smoked.
For centuries, peyote has been used in Native American religious ceremonies. However, outside of these traditional contexts, it is considered an illegal drug in the United States.

Prevalence of Peyote Use
While lifetime use is relatively low, peyote’s potent effects make it a substance of concern, particularly for those seeking powerful hallucinogenic experiences.

1.2 Million in the U.S. reported trying mescaline at least once in their lifetime (2023 statistic)

Signs of Peyote Use

Recognizing peyote use can be critical for early intervention. Common signs include:

Anxiety or panic attacks
Increased body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure
Profuse sweating
Impaired motor coordination and movement
Nausea and vomiting
Disconnection from reality

Effects of Peyote

Peyote affects the brain’s serotonin receptors, causing intense psychoactive experiences. Common effects include:

Enhanced perception of colors, sounds, and emotions
Powerful visual and auditory hallucinations
Euphoria and a sense of interconnectedness
Altered sense of time and space
Nausea
Vomiting
Rise in body temperature

How is Peyote Used?

Peyote can be consumed in multiple ways, including:

ORAL (Consumed by chewing the cactus buttons,
drinking a brewed tea, or taking mescaline in
capsule or pill form.)
SMOKING (The dried buttons can be ground and
smoked.)

Common Street Names for Peyote

Risks and Concerns

Peyote holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for certain Native American communities, where its use is founded in sacred and ceremonial traditions. Recreational use is not only illegal but also carries serious risks. Consumption of peyote can result in severe physical and psychological harm, along with potential legal consequences. Such use causes harm that extends beyond the individual. It is essential to understand the potential dangers associated with its use.