Albert Hofmann, synthesized1 LSD for the first time in 1938, in Basel, Switzerland, while looking for a blood stimulant.
Its hallucinogenic effects were unknown until 1943 when Hofmann accidentally absorbed 20 micrograms of LSD-25, a few days later he experimented further and took 250 micrograms of LSD-25.
In his journal he writes specifics about his journey until 5pm when the journal’s recordings went blank.
Due to war restrictions in 1943 vehicles were not permitted, instead bicycles were the method of transportation. Hofmann who needed to get back home while on LSD, got on his bicycle – followed by his assistant –
Hofmann later described the magic bicycle experience and quotes “Kaleidoscopic, fantastic images surged in on me, alternating, variegated, opening and then closing themselves in circles and spirals, exploding in colored fountains, rearranging and hybridizing themselves in constant flux,β. βIt was particularly remarkable how every acoustic perception, such as the sound of a door handle or a passing automobile, became transformed into optical perceptions. Every sound generated a vividly changing image, with its own consistent form and color.β
He experienced vivid hallucinations which proved the hallucinogenic effects of the chemical compound.
Because of its similarity to a chemical present in the brain and its similarity in effects to certain aspects of psychosis, LSD was used in experiments by psychiatrists through the 1940s, β50s and β60s.
A big population of scientists continued to feel positive about LSD, it’s effects and potential benefits and in 1985, Thomas B. Roberts from Northern Illinois University established April 19th as “Bicycle Day”, a day to commemorate Hofmann’s magic bike ride. Today after many struggles, LSD continues to be tested as a therapy including micro-dosing
Facts:
- LSD has been used by the US government for project MKUltra, also known as the CIA mind control program.
- LSD is chemically active at the microgram dosage, making it one of the most potent psychedelics available to man weight for weight. itself, one of the strongest hallucinogens known to man.
- LSD, in some cases, has the potential to cause psychological issues – especially in people with psychosis, schizophrenia, or a family history of mental illness.
β6′ of separation between my body and my consciousness” Dj Tennis