Claviceps purpurea is the prominent member of the Ergot-group that grows on rye, wheat and other related grains. It produces toxic alkaloids, like ergotamine, which have many effects on the blood circulation system and can create hallucinations.
In the Middle Ages, human poisoning in Europe was common due to the consumption of bread made from these infected grains. Back then, man also believed that the hallucinations were created by witches which has lead to the many witch-hunts.
Nowadays it is known that is was actually the ergot alkaloids that created these hallucinations and this inspired the Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann to synthesize LSD or lysergic acid diethylamide: a derivative of lysergic acid, which is a chemical subpart of the ergotamine.
LSD is known as a psychedelic drug: the experience after intake is characterized by an increase of imaginary power and a change in perception of the world.
Bo Van de Moortel
More drugs. I could have known...
BeantwoordenVerwijderenThe start is a bit 'dry', but flow and style are ok.
Mind spelling: which has led to...
As we're on the subject: Aldous Huxley (yes, the one who wrote 'A Brave New World') once wrote a book in which he described his LSD trips. The title of the book is 'The Doors of Perception'. A title that struck a chord with Jim Morrison who called his band... The Doors.