LSD
Also known as: Acid, Lucy, LSD‑25
Category: Classic psychedelic (ergoline derivative)
LSD is a synthetic compound derived from ergot fungus, first created by Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann in 1938. Its powerful psychoactive effects, discovered accidentally in 1943, occur at microgram-level doses. Typically taken as blotter paper or liquid, LSD’s effects begin within 20–40 minutes and last 8–12 hours, profoundly altering perception, mood, and thought. Though synthetic, it is derived from ergot fungus, a natural source with a long cultural and medical history.
History & Culture
1938 – Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann synthesizes LSD-25 at Sandoz Laboratories, exploring compounds from ergot fungus for potential circulatory benefits.
1943 – Hofmann accidentally absorbs a small amount of the substance, leading to the discovery of its psychoactive effects.
1947 – Sandoz begins distributing the compound under the name Delysid, marketing it for experimental psychiatric use.
1950s–60s – LSD becomes the focus of clinical research into treatments for alcoholism, trauma, and existential distress.
Late 1950s – Architect Kiyoshi Izumi experiments with LSD to reimagine therapeutic environments, designing Ontario’s “psychedelic psych ward” as a futuristic model for mental health care.
1953 onward – The U.S. government initiates Project MK-ULTRA, conducting unethical experiments with LSD on unwitting civilians and soldiers to explore mind control and interrogation.
1960s – LSD spreads beyond the lab into counterculture, shaping art, protest, music, and consciousness.
1970 – The U.S. classifies LSD as a Schedule I drug, effectively shutting down most research for decades.
1990s–present – Interest in LSD slowly reemerges, contributing to today’s psychedelic therapy renaissance.
Effects
Highly visual with enhanced pattern recognition and emotional insights.
Higher doses may induce ego dissolution, synesthesia, and mystical experiences.
Risks & Side Effects
Primarily psychological—anxiety, paranoia, looping thoughts.
Rare after-effects include HPPD (visual flashes).
LSD can moderately increase heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.
Those with a psychosis or bipolar history are at higher risk.
Microdosing
Involves taking very small doses that do not cause hallucinations or major perceptual shifts
Explored for potential benefits in mood regulation, focus, creativity, and emotional resilience
Early studies suggest possible applications for chronic pain, depression, and neuroinflammation
Popular in startup, academic, and design communities for its perceived cognitive boost
Scientific consensus is still evolving — some effects may stem from expectation or placebo
LSD’s long duration and legal status make dose timing and setting critical
May interact with SSRIs or heart medications — caution and informed support recommended
Microdosing LSD requires accurate volumetric dosing to avoid unintentional trips
Duration & Onset
Dosage
Microdose: 5–15 µg
Common: 75–150 µg
High: 150–250+ µg
Interactions
SSRIs may blunt effects; do not combine with lithium or MAOIs. Alcohol and cannabis can make experiences emotionally unpredictable.
If you’re taking prescription medications or have a diagnosed mental health condition, always consult a medical professional or qualified psychedelic-informed therapist before use. Drug interactions can be complex, and set, setting, and personal health history all matter.
Therapeutic & Cultural Resonance
Respected for creativity enhancement and therapeutic benefit; studied for cluster headaches and anxiety. Influential creatives have credited LSD with shaping their work and sharpening their focus, such as Aldous Huxley, Timothy Leary, Steve Jobs, John Lennon, David Bowie, Stanley Kubrick, Carlos Santana (think of his iconic Woodstock performance), and Hunter S. Thompson.
“Taking LSD was a profound experience, one of the most important things in my life."
- Steve Jobs
Integration Tips
Encourage journaling, visual art, embodiment practices, and ample rest. Insights often emerge days after the journey.
