Altered States
Explore an intriguing altered state of consciousness from this unit, examining its causes, symptoms, and potential treatments.
For this discussion, pick a substance that results in an altered state of consciousness that you find interesting. In one paragraph, write about what causes it, what it looks and feels like, and how it could be treated.
Also, think about why it’s important to understand this state and how it might affect people.
Find an article that talks about this state of consciousness and tell your classmates about the main points or discoveries in the article.
Make sure to write clearly and use what we’ve learned in class to help explain your thoughts.
Sample Answer
I will focus on the substance ayahuasca, which is a brew made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the Psychotria viridis shrub. Ayahuasca is a powerful hallucinogen that has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples in the Amazon rainforest for spiritual and healing purposes.
Causes
Ayahuasca causes an altered state of consciousness by blocking the action of the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO) in the brain. This allows other chemicals, such as DMT, to enter the brain and produce hallucinogenic effects.