Notes on the use of plant hallucinogens in Amazonian Brazil

Abstract

Amazonian Indian use of hallucinogens has been known for a long time (Spruce 12), but the plants used have only recently become the subject of close attention. Schultes et al. (6, 7, 9, 10, 11) have summarized the present knowledge of the plants used, and since these publications Ather workers have added further informaLion. My experience in Brazil (most recently n 1968-9) has been primarily as a taxon)mist making systematic collections of herbarium specimens. While engaged in Field work in various areas of the Amazon region, I encountered utilization of two known hallucinogens in two new localities and was able to make notes about their use rnd collect botanical specimens of the source plants. Some of this account will duplicate what has already been written (e.g., Schultes et A. 5, 6, 7, 9, 10). It may also be somewhat limited, because I was engaged in taxonomic field work rather than ethnobotanical research. I hope, nevertheless, that these notes will stimulate other field workers to add to ethnobotanical knowledge by observing primitive uses of plants, recording details, and collecting material adequate to identify the plants accurately.