However, sigma-1 receptors may play a role in treating addiction, depression, neurodegenerative diseases, and pain. The exact role these receptors play in the overall DMT experience is unclear. All of these substances stimulate serotonin receptors known as 5HT2A.ĭMT also appears to stimulate other receptors, including dopamine and sigma-1 receptors. The effects of DMT in the brain are quite similar to classic psychedelics like magic mushrooms and LSD. However, auditory hallucinations are unusual. It is also common to see glowing lights or feel these lights emerging from somewhere deep inside the body. Visual effects include colorful, shifting, geometric patterns, something like looking through a kaleidoscope. Physical effects include alternating hot and cold feelings, shivering, reduced coordination, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. Some have compared its effects to out-of-body experiences, while others state they feel they reached humanity’s limits. It depends upon several factors, including dosage, administration method, and each person’s unique biochemistry.Īs we have explained, spiritual experiences are widespread with DMT. The DMT ExperienceĪ DMT trip can vary significantly between individuals. Some have compared these beings to angels or aliens.įurthermore, many people believe that DMT has given them a deeper understanding of humanity and the universe as a whole. Its effects are somewhat akin to those of near-death experiences, where the body temporarily seems to separate from the mind.Ī surprising number of users report seeing or sensing the presence of other intelligent beings. Traditionally, shamans would use concoctions like ayahuasca to assist them on their spiritual journeys. The term stems from the reports of people who have used DMT, who often describe spiritual, mystical, or “God-like” encounters. There is now also a documentary of the same name. In the year 2000, psychologist and psychedelic researcher Rick Strassman authored a book called DMT: The Spirit Molecule. It is also similar to tryptophan, an amino acid that acts as a precursor to vital neurochemicals like serotonin and melatonin. It is similar in structure to psilocybin, the psychedelic component of magic mushrooms. It has the chemical formula C₁₂H₁₆N₂ and its atoms form two rings with a short side chain. The DMT molecule itself is relatively simple. It is brownish-green in color and has the appearance of dried herbs. It contains a combination of two plants, DMT-containing Psychotria viridis and Banisteriopsis caapi.Īnother preparation called changa is a smokeable mixture with similar ingredients. When people mix it with certain herbs to alter its properties, it can take on a very different appearance.įor example, the traditional ayahuasca brew is a reddish-brown liquid. It looks white in its pure form, but it may also have yellow, pink, or orange tones when impure. What Does DMT Look Like?ĭMT is a crystalline substance. Therefore, we do not recommend making DMT at home.Īfter extraction, people typically smoke DMT in a pipe, either alone or in combination with other herbs. However, the process is not only illegal but also potentially dangerous. It is possible to extract DMT from these plants using an acid-base reaction, involving a few common household chemicals. Some of the plant genera that contain DMT include: However, this theory currently remains unproven. They suggest that this could account for abnormal states of consciousness like dreams, near-death experiences, and psychosis. Some experts have hypothesized that we synthesize endogenous DMT in the pineal gland. Scientists have even found the compound in the human brain. Where Does DMT Come From?ĭMT occurs naturally in many different mammals and plants. So, what is DMT, and how did it get its mystical-sounding moniker? Here’s all you need to know. It is probably most famous as a vital component of the Amazonian ayahuasca brew. N-N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a drug that some people refer to as “the spirit molecule.” It is a powerful psychedelic that humans have used for many years.