plant medicine consciousness. This state and level of awareness offers access to new perspectives of deep hurts and wounds that have contributed to some form of dis-ease. Entheogens are being used to treat depression, anxiety, addictions, PTSD, and feelings of disconnection from the self and from nature. When we are in these altered states of consciousness our brains can go through biological shifts where neuronal connections in the prefrontal cortex of the brain increase. The firing of synapses and neurons and the activation of atrophied neurons creates the ability for deep change in emotional and mental states when psychedelics are used properly and are supported by therapy. Psilocybin mushrooms are being researched by major medical industries, such as John Hopkins, and the findings are impressive. Research is showing that Psilocybin is treating major depression and anxiety to the point that people are feeling completely recovered and able to function in their daily lives much more effectively. These magic mushrooms are on the ballot for legalization in 2020. If the bill is passed this will be a major step in utilization of this medicine for healing.
AN INTRODUCTION TO ENTHEOGEN PLANT MEDICINE By Robin Bodhi
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ntheogen plant medicine is re-emerging at a time when self-exploration and alternative healing is being actively sought after and is much needed in our troubled times. Many people are looking for other forms of healing that are less invasive, and less harmful than what traditional allopathic medicine typically offers. Entheogen is a term referring to a psychoactive plant medicine that offers a sacred spiritual experience. This term differentiates it from a recreational psychotropic experience. Psychedelics became suppressed then banned in the late 60’s and 70’s. There was a lot of fear-based thinking and reaction around these substances that, when ingested, took people out of conforming ways of thinking into expanded states of consciousness. At that time, the general population was not ready nor willing to face what the psychedelic world was presenting. Psychedelics are coming back on the scene and research is beginning to show the potential healing benefits of these various substances. The healing that psychotropic plant medicine offers is unique to each individual, however the common benefit for most everyone is the experience of being in a state of expanded 18
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Some other plant medicines that are gaining popularity as life changing substances, are Ayahuasca, Ibogaine, peyote and cannabis. Using any of these substances one must be mindful of their legal standing. With any psychotropic journey, doing it with intention and awareness around a supportive setting is key to whether or not it will be a beneficial journey. Using discernment around the environment in which one opens to expanded states of consciousness is critical. There are people who “sit” as guides for others who want to take an entheogen in a safe container. Having an experienced “sitter” to help facilitate a smooth ride can be helpful and provides the opportunity to share some of your experience with a support person.
