From ancient rituals to cutting-edge neuroscience, Psychedelics offers a sweeping, multidisciplinary exploration of a class of drugs that continue to fascinate us. Enriched with striking images of iconic artworks and cultural belongings from the exhibition, this book brings together leading voices in archaeology, history, and medicine to trace the global journey of psychedelics across time and cultures.

Beginning with millennia-old ceremonial uses and moving through the dramatic rise, fall, and resurgence of psychedelics in the West, Psychedelics examines how these substances have shaped spiritual practices, scientific inquiry, and therapeutic frontiers. Readers will gain insight into how psychedelics affect the brain, their potential to treat mental health conditions, and the ethical complexities surrounding their use today.