mescaline

Mescaline is a naturally occurring psychedelic alkaloid of the phenethylamine class. It is most notably found in the peyote cactus (Lophophora williamsii), as well as other cacti such as San Pedro and Peruvian torch. Chemically known as 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine, it acts primarily as an agonist at central serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) receptors—especially the 5‑HT2A receptor—leading to its characteristic hallucinogenic effects[1][2][10]. Mescaline induces vivid visual hallucinations and significant alterations in sensory perception and thought processes. Its effects are similar to those of LSD and psilocybin but require higher doses due to lower potency[2][3][4]. The compound has been used for thousands of years in Native American religious ceremonies but is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States with no currently accepted medical use[4][5]. Mescaline’s mechanism also includes mild sympathomimetic activity due to its structural similarity to catecholamines[2].

Other names

mescalinmezcalinmeskalinmescalinamezcalinaMescline3,4,5-trimethoxybenzeneethanamine