Just as with any medication that we decide to take, it is always prudent to understand the risks and possible side effects involved with using entheogens. Popular opinions about entheogens, usually referred to as hallucinogenic drugs, involve many myths due to widespread anti-drug propaganda. These myths and the fact that these substances are very poorly understood by the general public creates the perception that taking entheogens is extremely dangerous, self-destructive, and irresponsible. People choosing to explore these compounds are easily mistaken for “addicts” even though the actual addiction potential for entheogens is extremely low - significantly lower than alcohol or nicotine.
In most cases, there is little evidence indicating any physiological long-term damage caused directly by entheogens (most fatalities, for example, are due to accidents rather than the toxicity of the substance ingested). However, prior to beginning their journeys, there are a few risks that every traveler should be well aware of, in order to prepare accordingly and take responsible safety precautions. Some of these dangers are immediate (during the actual journey).
