![]() ![]() When the PSNS is active, the SNS is less active, and vice-versa. The SNS and PSNS are always in constant fluctuation with each other like yin and yang. The autonomic nervous system (unconscious or automatic part of the nervous system) can be split into two halves - the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system: Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) In order to understand how the mandrake works, we have to briefly cover what the parasympathetic nervous system is and what it does for the body. This inhibits a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, the primary neurotransmitter involved with the parasympathetic nervous system (PSNS). These alkaloids work by blocking acetylcholine receptors. Other active ingredients include scopine, cuscohygrine, apoatropine, 3-alpha-tigloyloxytropane, 3-alpha, 6-beta-ditigloyloxytropane, and belladonnines. Mandrake owes the majority of its effects to its tropane alkaloid content - namely hyoscyamine, atropine, and scopolamine. Medicinally, mandrake was used in small doses as a soporific during surgery, applied topically for joint pain, and to cure depression and mania. Harvesters may have gotten some of the active tropane alkaloids into the bloodstream through an open wound or cut while harvesting, which could have resulted in death. This tradition likely stems from the plant’s toxic traits. ![]() The harvester would then hide from a safe distance and cover his ears. To avoid taking damage while harvesting mandrake, harvesters would tie the root to a dog, who could then be lured away with some food to pull the root from the ground. It was thought that once the root was pulled above ground, it would scream so loud it killed anybody within earshot (as portrayed in this Harry Potter scene). The more human-like shape of the root, the more valuable it was.ĭried mandrake root was thought to bring good fortune and wellbeing to those who had one. The unique effects of the mandrake, combined with the very human-like shape of the roots, have resulted in a lot of superstition surrounding the plant. Mandrake Specs & Technical Details: Active Ingredientsĭelirium, psychosis, blurry vision, inability to urinate, dry mouth, fever, & death The difference between an active dose and an overdose is very narrow.Īdditionally, most people that trip on mandrake experience what can be described as “nightmarish” hallucinations, often lasting several days. Under no circumstances is this a plant anybody should use for its psychedelic effects. In higher doses, mandrake is a deadly poison. ![]() The hallucinations are so strong and so believable, most people lose the ability to differentiate between what they’re imagining and what’s actually happening in real life. ![]() In moderate doses, mandrake is a powerful psychedelic and deliriant. In lower doses, mandrake is a hypnotic - inducing feelings of dizziness, confusion, and sedation. Delerium is the inability to differentiate between what’s real and what’s imagined. Tropane alkaloids are highly toxic and cause drug-induced delirium. These are the same active ingredients in plants like datura and Brugmansia. The root of the mandrake contains a collection of powerful hallucinogenic compounds called tropane alkaloids. Mandrake ( Mandragora spp.) is a small, unassuming plant with a rich history of use as medicine, poison, and mysticism. ![]()
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