How Peyote Works

# Stuff You Should Know Podcast Summary

Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant dive deep into the history and science of peyote, the spineless cactus native to Mexico and south Texas that contains the psychedelic compound mescaline. From its ancient use by indigenous tribes dating back thousands of years to its modern role in the Native American Church, the episode traces how this bitter plant became a cornerstone of spiritual ceremonies while also capturing the fascination of Western counterculture figures like Aldous Huxley and Carlos Castaneda. Along the way, they explore the quirky pharmaceutical history of mescaline, the mystical reputation peyote has for hiding in plain sight, and how a single Comanche chief named Quanah Parker helped spread peyote use far beyond its natural habitat to tribes across North America.