DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) is a compound found in many different natural substances. It can be found in various plants in many different countries, certain toads (specifically Bufo Alvarius, the Colorado River Toad), and other animals. The most interesting place where DMT is synthesized and broken down is in the pineal gland of the human brain during R.E.M. sleep, birth, near-death situations and death. Most say that DMT is the reason why most people have elaborate dreams and cannot remember them. However, there is much controversy over this specific molecule. DMT, the "Spirit Molecule" as refered to by Dr. Rick Strassman, is a halucinogenic compound. It provides distortion of time, visual and audio halucinations, and other experiences that, by most who have experienced it, defy description. For centuries it has been used by certain religious and shamanistic groups to provide spiritual enlightenment into concepts that are hard to grasp. Being that is halucinogenic, however, most governments of the world consider it a dangerous substance. Therefore, it is considered a scheduled substance in the United States as well as many other nations.
So therefore, the question is simple. Should a naturally occurring brain chemical be outlawed? Some politicians say so, while various churches, psychiatrists, and researchers say otherwise.
1 comment:
A very good overview, it appears unbiased. You certainly picked a unique topic whose origin I will not pursue. It is important that the information you use to explain its effects is based on solid research. Since it can produce wild sensations, how it interacts with the brain should be explored in order to explain its safety.
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