Psychoactive Plants

Among the many gifts that the universe has given to humans are various species of psychoactive plants. People of almost every ethnic, cultural and religious background have used one or more of these plants in ceremonies meant to connect them to higher states of being or altered states of reality. Through these altered states they would commune with spirits, their gods or, in the monotheistic tradition, God. Today we understand that the chemicals in these plants change the chemistry of the brain, changing the way we perceive the world around and within us.

Some of the substances consumed every day by millions of people without a second thought were once used in ceremonial pursuit of higher consciousness. Among these are coffee, tobacco, alcohol and chocolate. The Articles section of this website contains some history of entheogenic (translated as "that which causes a person to be in God") plants and their use in various cultures. There is a wealth of information on the internet, and the Panphilosist is encouraged to study before proceeding.

This section of the website is not so concerned with the specific plants involved as it is with the attitude and manner in which they are consumed. It is intended to offer guidelines for the responsible and reverential use of these psychoactive plants to achieve communion with the universe and insights which will carry over into everyday life.

First, the use of psychoactive plants for the purpose of attaining insight should not be done in a recreational way. While the use of these plants is group settings is common, this is by no means a "party". It is a time of reverence and reflection, a time to look within and without using new perception. A casual attitude will cause what could be a formative moment in your development to degrade into just another "good time". The Panphilosist does not undertake such activities lightly.    

Second, it is not meant to be a substitute for the regular practice of meditation. One should consider their use as a special tool for opening inner doors and attaining insights in ways not ordinarily achievable.

Third, the use of psychoactive plants is not for everyone. Only healthy adults should consider using them. If there is a medical condition existing which may cause the use of these substances to be harmful, they should not be used. The Panphilosist should study careful and know the state of their physical and mental health before consuming them. Under no circumstances should these powerful agents be given to minors.

Fourth, The Panphilosist should be aware of the laws governing the use of psychoactive plants in their area. While the principles of Panphilosism support the use of these substances, they are outlawed in many areas. As we work to change the laws and the perceptions of the public regarding entheogenics, it is the responsibility of the individual Panphilosist to educate themselves in this regard. Panphilosism does not encourage its members to ignore the law.

That being stated, Panphilosism will no doubt in the future join with other organizations which seek to allow responsible adults the freedom to partake of the benefits the proper use of these substances can bring. They can change the way we look at the world around us and bring us closer to a larger reality that the pragmatic ego-based mind does not allow us to see.