A brief history of LSD

LSD was first synthesized by Albert Hofmann in 1938 as part of a systematic study of lysergic acid at Sandoz laboratories in Basel, Switzerland. But it was not until 1943 that the psychoactive effects of this substance were discovered. In what could be commonly regarded as an accident, Hofmann intoxicated himself by an unknown amount of this substance. Due to the extraordinary nature of the effects, he later decided to try a dose of 250 micrograms. Further experiments were conducted at Sandoz labs that led to the publication of a report of the effects of LSD in normal volunteers and psychiatric patients in 1947. This report became widely popular in the scientific community and led to a high number of clinical and laboratory research studies in several countries.

Unfortunately, use of psychedelic substances was banned around the world in the late 60’s. Widespread irresponsible experimentation, coupled with government and mass media propaganda, managed to create a stigma and prejudice towards these substances that is beyond absurd. The fact that someone is legally allowed to possess a firearm at home, but not certain plants or non-toxic substances should make anyone question the rationale and motives behind prohibition. Psychedelic substances were used in clinical research, psychology and psychiatry for over two decades up until the early 1970’s. Recently, several research projects have been carried out around the world, giving birth to what is commonly known as the psychedelic renaissance.

References

Fadiman, J. & Kornfeld, A. (2013). Psychedelic-induced experiences. In Friedman, H. L. & Hartelius, G. The Wiley Blackwell handbook of transpersonal psychology. (pp. 352-363). Malden, MA: John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Grof, S. (2008). LSD Psychotherapy (4th ed.). Ben Lomond, CA: Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies.

Hofmann, A. (2005). LSD: My problem child. Santa Cruz, CA: Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies.