LSD history
LSD, or lysergic acid diethylamide, is one of the world's best-known psychoactive substances. It was first synthesized in 1938 by Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann in Sandoz laboratories. Hofmann was looking to treat headaches and respiratory problems, but it wasn't until 1943 that accidental ingestion of the substance revealed its potent psychedelic properties.
LSD quickly gained the attention of scientists and psychologists, who studied its potential for treating depression, anxiety and addiction. In the 1960s, the substance found its way into mass culture thanks to the hippie movement. It was a symbol of rebellion and exploration of consciousness, but its abuse and controversy led to its global outlawing in the 1970s.
LSD action
LSD affects the serotonin system in the brain, leading to changes in perception, mood and thinking. Effects may include:
- Changes in perception of time and space.
- Intensification of colors and sounds.
- Deep introspection and feelings of oneness with the world.
The effects of LSD usually begin 30-90 minutes after taking it, last 6-12 hours and are highly dependent on the dose and the environment ("set and setting"). Although LSD is considered to have little toxicity, there is a risk of so-called "bad trips," or negative mental experiences, especially under adverse conditions.
1P-LSD
1P-LSD (1-propionyl-LSD) is a chemical with a structure similar to the classic LSD-25. It is popular in the psychedelic community, especially where LSD-25 is unavailable due to restrictive laws.
1P-LSD acts as a prodrug - in the body it metabolizes to LSD-25, which produces similar effects. Users report that its effects are somewhat milder than those of LSD-25, although the duration and nature of the sensations are comparable. Due to its legal status in some countries, 1P-LSD has often been sold as part of so-called "research chemicals."
LSD-25
LSD-25 is the original form of LSD synthesized by Albert Hofmann. The substance was studied extensively in the 1950s and 1960s, both in medical and military contexts. In psychiatry, it was used as a potential tool to treat mental disorders, including depression and alcoholism.
Experiments conducted by the CIA under Project MK-Ultra aimed to use LSD as a means of mind control, adding to its controversial nature. Today, LSD-25 remains illegal in most countries, although interest in psychedelic therapy has experienced a renaissance in recent years.
How much LSD costs
The price of LSD depends on a number of factors, such as region, availability and form of the substance (e.g. carton, tablet, drops). In Poland, the price for a single dose (known as a "blotter") usually varies between PLN 50 and 100. In Western countries, such as Germany and the Netherlands, prices can be slightly higher - between €10 and €20 per dose.
Prices also largely depend on the quality and content of the active substance. It is worth remembering that the market for illegal substances is unpredictable, and buying LSD involves the risk of acquiring counterfeit or contaminated products.
Sources:
- Hofmann, A. (1979). LSD: My Problem Child.
- Nichols, D. E. (2016). "Psychedelics." Pharmacological Reviews.
- Carhart-Harris, R. L., & Nutt, D. J. (2017). "Serotonin and brain function: a tale of two receptors." Frontiers in Psychology.
- https://psychonautwiki.org/
- MAPS - Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies.