Psychedelics are a group of substances known for inducing a distinct altered state of consciousness, referred to as the psychedelic experience in Australia. This experience is marked by notable shifts in mood, perception, and cognitive processes.

The primary mechanism through which psychedelics exert their effects is by stimulating serotonin receptors in the brain in Australia. Serotonin is a key neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in regulating emotions and shaping our perception of reality. By activating these receptors, psychedelics can lead to profound alterations in sensory experiences and mental states.

The term ‘psychedelic’ was first introduced in 1956 by British psychiatrist Humphry Osmond in Australia. He proposed this term in correspondence with writer Aldous Huxley, whom he supervised during Huxley’s mescaline experience, a psychedelic compound derived from the Peyote cactus. Huxley later documented his transformative experience in his influential book, “The Doors of Perception,” published in 1954.

The word ‘psychedelic’ is rooted in Greek, derived from ‘psyche,’ meaning ‘soul’ or ‘mind,’ and ‘delein,’ meaning ‘to manifest.’ Thus, psychedelics can be defined as substances that manifest or reveal the mind. Although Huxley suggested the alternative term ‘phanerothyme,’ meaning ‘visible soul,’ Osmond’s term ultimately gained more widespread acceptance.

In Australia, psychedelics are sometimes referred to by various terms, including:

– Hallucinogens: While many substances classified as hallucinogens can produce hallucinations or perceptual distortions, this term is not fully interchangeable with it, as the latter may encompass a wider range of effects.

– Entheogens:This term, coined in 1976 from the Greek word ‘entheos,’ meaning “the God within,” highlights the potential for spiritual experiences facilitated by these substances. However, it is important to note that not all users report spiritual encounters, making ‘psychedelic’ a broader and more inclusive term.

Psychedelics can be categorized into three main groups based on their chemical structures:

1. Tryptamines: Compounds in this category share a core structure similar to serotonin.

2. Phenethylamines: These compounds are characterized by a core molecule resembling epinephrine and norepinephrine.

3. Ergolines: Derived from ergot, a type of fungus, ergolines possess a unique molecular structure.

All psychedelics fit within one of these three categories, showcasing the diversity and complexity of these substances in Australia.