what is psychedelics

Psychedelics, also known as hallucinogens, are a class of psychoactive substances that produce changes in perception, mood, and cognitive processes. They are a type of drug that changes a persons perception of reality and causes them to see, hear, or feel things that are not real or are distorted. Psychedelics can be naturally occurring, such as in trees, vines, seeds, fungi, and leaves, or they can be made in laboratories. Some common types of psychedelics include LSD, psilocybin, mescaline, and DMT. Psychedelics mainly interact with specific receptors in the brain, known as 5-hydroxy-tryptamine (5-HT)2A receptors, which are targets for the neurotransmitter serotonin. At certain doses, psychedelics may bring on vivid visions or sensations, alter a persons sense of self, and promote feelings of insightfulness or connection. Psychedelics have been used since ancient times by various cultures throughout the world for their mystical and spiritual associations. However, using psychedelic and dissociative drugs has been linked to dangerous behavior and injuries, and people using these drugs may have impaired thought processes and perception that causes them to behave in unusual or dangerous ways.