Psychoactive toad

Psychoactive toad refers to certain species of toads that produce psychoactive compounds, which can induce hallucinogenic effects when ingested or inhaled. The most well-known of these toads is the Colorado River toad, also known as the Sonoran Desert toad, which secretes a venom containing 5-MeO-DMT, a potent psychoactive compound.

History

The use of psychoactive toads for their hallucinogenic properties dates back to ancient times. The Mayans and other Pre-Columbian cultures in Mesoamerica are known to have used the secretions of the Colorado River toad in their religious rituals.

Biology

Psychoactive toads produce their psychoactive compounds as a defense mechanism against predators. The compounds are secreted from glands located on the toad's skin. When a predator attempts to eat the toad, the compounds cause disorientation and other effects that deter the predator.

Psychoactive Compounds

The primary psychoactive compound found in the venom of the Colorado River toad is 5-MeO-DMT. This compound is a powerful hallucinogen that is also found in certain plants and in the venom of some other toad species. Other psychoactive compounds found in toad venom include bufotenin and bufotoxin.

Use and Effects

The venom of psychoactive toads can be dried and smoked, or it can be ingested orally. The effects of the venom include intense visual and auditory hallucinations, a sense of euphoria, and altered perception of time and space. These effects can last for several hours.

Legal Status

The legal status of psychoactive toads varies by country. In some countries, such as the United States, the possession and use of toad venom for its psychoactive effects is illegal. However, in other countries, such as Mexico, the use of toad venom is legal and is even used in some traditional healing practices.

See Also

• Psychedelic drug
• Entheogen
• Psychedelic therapy