From the earliest recorded time, the small spineless psychoactive cactus known as peyote has been used by indigenous peoples including the Aztec’s and Huichol of northern Mexico and various Native American tribes. The religious, ceremonial, and healing uses of peyote may date back over 2000 years. Under the auspices of what came to be known as the Peyote Cult or Native American Church, in the 19th century, native peoples in more widespread regions to the north began to use peyote in religious practices, as part of a revival of native spirituality. Its members refer to peyote as “the sacred medicine”, and use it to combat spiritual, physical, and other social ills. During the early 20th century Taos became the hub of the movement as U.S. authorities attempted to ban Native American religious rituals involving peyote, including the Ghost Dance in which users claim the drug connects them to the spirit world.

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