Exploring the History of LSD and Its Impact on Early Psychology

Psychedelics had a huge role to play in early psychology.

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the history of LSD and how it played a pivotal role in early psychology.

As more eyes are on psychedelics and plant based medicines, psychologists are investigating their potential role to play in mental health and wellness.

This blog goes over one such psychedelic and its influence on psychology.

LSD

Albert Hofmann was originally interested in developing new medicines to stimulate the respiratory and circulatory systems, and he had been working with the ergot fungus to create derivatives of the naturally occurring compound lysergic acid.

In 1943, Hofmann accidentally ingested a small amount of LSD while working in his laboratory, likely through skin absorption or accidental ingestion. He experienced unusual sensations and altered perceptions, which led him to suspect that he had discovered something significant.

Three days later, on April 19, 1943, Hofmann intentionally ingested a larger amount of LSD to confirm its effects. This intentional self-experimentation, now famously known as "Bicycle Day," resulted in Hofmann experiencing intense psychedelic effects, including vivid hallucinations and altered states of consciousness.

Subsequently, LSD was investigated for its potential medical applications, particularly as an aid in psychotherapy and as a tool for studying the mind.

Early research on these compounds are one large contributor to how we understand how the brain works today.

Through studying the effects of LSD on neurotransmitter receptors, researchers gained insights into the role of serotonin and other neurotransmitters, in regulating mood and perception.

Initially synthesized for its potential medical applications, LSD soon found its way into the hands of psychologists and researchers, leading to groundbreaking findings and insights into the human mind.

In the 1940s and 1950s, LSD was extensively researched by psychiatrists and psychologists, who believed that it could facilitate access to the unconscious mind and provide new insights into mental health disorders.

Early studies explored the use of LSD in treating various psychiatric conditions, including anxiety, depression, and addiction. Some researchers reported promising results, with patients experiencing enhanced introspection, improved self-awareness, and increased empathy.

Psychedelic Era: LSD and the Counterculture Movement

The 1960s saw a surge in public interest in LSD, with the compound gaining popularity among artists, musicians, and intellectuals. The counterculture movement of the time embraced LSD as a tool for self-exploration, creativity, and expanded consciousness.

Influential figures arose such as Timothy Leary, and multiple influencers including musicians and artists promoting the use of LSD as a means of achieving higher states of consciousness and questioning established societal norms.

However, the widespread use of LSD in the counterculture movement also raised concerns about safety and potential risks. Reports, fueled by certain factions, of adverse reactions, "bad trips," and psychotic episodes associated with LSD use led to increasing scrutiny and regulatory measures.

In 1965, under the Nixon administration, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified LSD as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act, effectively halting most of the research on its potential therapeutic applications.

Despite its controversial history, the early research on LSD had a lasting impact on the field of psychology and psychiatry.

The pioneering work of psychologists and researchers such as Stanislav Grof, Humphry Osmond, and Abram Hoffer shed light on the nature of consciousness, the workings of the mind, and the potential therapeutic applications of psychedelic substances.

LSD was found to induce profound and unique psychological experiences, including mystical and spiritual experiences, altered perceptions of time and space, and enhanced emotions and insights.

In addition, the concept of "set and setting," proposed by multiple advocates emphasized the importance of the mindset and the external environment in shaping a meaningful LSD experience.