A compound which, when taken in minute quantities, produces hallucinations and mental experiences beyond the normal range. The symptoms which follow taking it sometimes resemble schizophrenia. Most theosophists emphatically discourage the use of any hallucinogenic substances, pointing out that their use may, in the long term, have deleterious results on both body and mind and in the short term result in an illusionary condition that is often mistaken for spiritual illumination, but is in fact, not accompanied by a corresponding change in consciousness.

Experimenters have pointed out that although LSD may produce expanded consciousness its use may also generate fearful and horrible experiences. It is a very potent drug and many users have suffered accidental overdose resulting in either permanent mental damage or death.

P.S.H.

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