Blotter acid

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Blotter acid

Blotter acid, also known as blotter LSD, refers to a form of Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), a powerful psychedelic drug known for its psychological effects. This form of LSD is typically distributed on small squares of paper that have been soaked in LSD solution. Blotter acid is one of the most common mediums through which LSD is consumed, due to its ease of production, transportation, and discrete usage.

History

The use of LSD as a psychedelic substance began in the mid-20th century, with blotter acid emerging as a popular form in the 1960s and 1970s, during the height of the counterculture movement. The invention of blotter acid is attributed to the need for a more discreet and manageable method of distributing and consuming LSD, which was previously available in liquid form or as sugar cubes.

Production

Blotter acid is produced by dissolving LSD in a solvent, typically ethanol, and then soaking the liquid into sheets of perforated blotting paper. The sheets are dried, causing the LSD to be deposited evenly across the paper. Once dry, the sheets are cut into small squares, often decorated with colorful artwork or logos, which serve both as a branding method and as a way to differentiate doses.

Usage

To consume blotter acid, an individual typically places a square of the paper under the tongue, where the LSD is absorbed through the mucous membranes into the bloodstream. The effects of blotter acid can vary greatly depending on the dose, the individual's body chemistry, and their mental state at the time of consumption. Effects can include altered thoughts, feelings, and awareness of one's surroundings. Many users report experiencing visual and auditory hallucinations, an altered sense of time, and profound changes in mood and self-perception.

Legal Status

The legal status of blotter acid, like all forms of LSD, varies by country but it is illegal in many parts of the world. In countries where it is controlled, possession, manufacture, and distribution of blotter acid can result in significant legal penalties.

Health Risks

While LSD is considered non-addictive and is known to have a low toxicity relative to dose, there are potential health risks associated with its use. These include the possibility of experiencing distressing hallucinations, anxiety, and paranoia, a state often referred to as a "bad trip." There is also the risk of Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD), where users experience flashbacks to their LSD experiences long after the drug has worn off.

Cultural Impact

Blotter acid has had a significant impact on culture, particularly in the realms of music, art, and literature, where it has been both a source of inspiration and a symbol of the counterculture. The imagery associated with blotter acid, including its unique and often intricate blotter art, has become iconic within certain subcultures.