Shows
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S7E9. Spice - A New Book by Roger CrowleyIn this episode of Plants of the Gods, ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin takes us on a sweeping journey through the epic history of the spice trade—one of the most transformative chapters in global history. From ancient trade routes and religious rituals to colonial conquests and modern capitalism, spices like cinnamon, pepper, nutmeg, and cloves have shaped agriculture, medicine, navigation, and even warfare. Dr. Plotkin also reviews Roger Crowley's gripping new book, Spice: The 16th-Century Contest That Shaped the Modern World.
2025-09-2418 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S7E9. Spice - A New Book by Roger CrowleyIn this episode of Plants of the Gods, ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin takes us on a sweeping journey through the epic history of the spice trade—one of the most transformative chapters in global history. From ancient trade routes and religious rituals to colonial conquests and modern capitalism, spices like cinnamon, pepper, nutmeg, and cloves have shaped agriculture, medicine, navigation, and even warfare. Dr. Plotkin also reviews Roger Crowley’s gripping new book, Spice: The 16th-Century Contest That Shaped the Modern World.
2025-09-2418 min
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S7E7. The Ethnobotany of Brugmansia, the Tree of the Evil Eagle. Ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin discusses Brugmansia, some of the most beautiful hallucinogenic plants in the botanical world. Their bright flowers hang like sacred trumpets and have long been used by traditional healers of the Andes-Amazon region as an important component of their medicine chest. Closely related to the 'hexing herbs' of European witches of the Middle Ages (as detailed in an earlier episode), these fascinating plants can heal - or harm.
2025-08-2731 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S7E7. The Ethnobotany of Brugmansia, the Tree of the Evil Eagle. Ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin discusses Brugmansia, some of the most beautiful hallucinogenic plants in the botanical world. Their bright flowers hang like sacred trumpets and have long been used by traditional healers of the Andes-Amazon region as an important component of their medicine chest. Closely related to the ‘hexing herbs’ of European witches of the Middle Ages (as detailed in an earlier episode), these fascinating plants can heal - or harm.
2025-08-2731 min
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S7E5. Use of Mushrooms and Cannabis in Veterinary Medicine with Dr. Rob Silver If herbal remedies can help humans, why not our pets? In this fascinating episode of Plants of the Gods, ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin sits down with veterinarian Dr. Rob Silver, who has spent decades using cannabis, mushrooms, and other botanical medicines to treat animals. From clinical breakthroughs to the surprising science behind plant-based pet care, Dr. Silver shares stories from the front lines of integrative veterinary medicine—and introduces his new book, There's a Mushroom for That!. Whether you're a pet lover or a mycology fan, this conversation will change the way you think about both. Show note...
2025-07-3053 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S7E5. Use of Mushrooms and Cannabis in Veterinary Medicine with Dr. Rob Silver If herbal remedies can help humans, why not our pets? In this fascinating episode of Plants of the Gods, ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin sits down with veterinarian Dr. Rob Silver, who has spent decades using cannabis, mushrooms, and other botanical medicines to treat animals. From clinical breakthroughs to the surprising science behind plant-based pet care, Dr. Silver shares stories from the front lines of integrative veterinary medicine—and introduces his new book, There’s a Mushroom for That!. Whether you’re a pet lover or a mycology fan, this conversation will change the way you think about both. Show n...
2025-07-3053 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S7E1. Lost Cities, Shamans, Hallucinogens and… King Kong!The lure of lost cities is a deep and enduring fascination that combines equal parts mystery, adventure, treasure, and the promise of forgotten knowledge. The existence and discovery of these ruins – whether it was King Tut's tomb or Machu Picchu – demonstrates the brilliance of ancient civilizations and their impermanence and mortality. In this episode, host Mark Plotkin recounts his experience as part of an expedition in search of the so-called "Lost City of the Monkey God," as well as the role that hallucinogens and shamanism played in helping us understand some of the artwork and cultures of these ancient peop...
2025-06-0424 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S7E1. Lost Cities, Shamans, Hallucinogens and… King Kong!The lure of lost cities is a deep and enduring fascination that combines equal parts mystery, adventure, treasure, and the promise of forgotten knowledge. The existence and discovery of these ruins – whether it was King Tut's tomb or Machu Picchu – demonstrates the brilliance of ancient civilizations and their impermanence and mortality. In this episode, host Mark Plotkin recounts his experience as part of an expedition in search of the so-called "Lost City of the Monkey God," as well as the role that hallucinogens and shamanism played in helping us understand some of the artwork and cultures of these ancient peop...
2025-06-0424 min
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E10. Perils and Pitfalls of Ayahuasca: An Interview with Robert TindallThe therapeutic benefits of ayahuasca are well-known and celebrated worldwide. However, when conducted by the wrong individuals, ayahuasca ceremonies can also lead to harmful outcomes. In this episode, host Mark Plotkin talks with author and explorer Robert Tindall about some of the potential risks and downsides of ayahuasca use.
2024-11-1347 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E10. Perils and Pitfalls of Ayahuasca: An Interview with Robert TindallThe therapeutic benefits of ayahuasca are well-known and celebrated worldwide. However, when conducted by the wrong individuals, ayahuasca ceremonies can also lead to harmful outcomes. In this episode, host Mark Plotkin talks with author and explorer Robert Tindall about some of the potential risks and downsides of ayahuasca use.
2024-11-1347 min
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E9. The Ethnobotany of Chocolate: From Revolution to IndustrializationMany people associate cacao (and chocolate) with its origins in Mexico, but few are aware that the plant itself is native to the rainforests of the northwest Amazon. Previous episodes of this season of "Plants of the Gods" traced the journey of cacao from the Amazon to Central America and then to Europe. In this episode, ethnobotanist Mark Plotkin continues to explore the captivating history of this remarkable treat, spanning from the American Revolution through the Industrial Revolution and into the 21st century.
2024-10-3032 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E9. The Ethnobotany of Chocolate: From Revolution to IndustrializationMany people associate cacao (and chocolate) with its origins in Mexico, but few are aware that the plant itself is native to the rainforests of the northwest Amazon. Previous episodes of this season of "Plants of the Gods" traced the journey of cacao from the Amazon to Central America and then to Europe. In this episode, ethnobotanist Mark Plotkin continues to explore the captivating history of this remarkable treat, spanning from the American Revolution through the Industrial Revolution and into the 21st century.
2024-10-3032 min
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E7. The Medicinal Plants and Fungi of the AmazonThe Amazon rainforest - teeming with unstudied plants, fungi, and shamanic cultures - has long been considered an almost inexhaustible source of healing plants and potions. In this episode - Dr. Mark Plotkin, an ethnobotanist who has been studying the plants and peoples of Amazonia for four decades - provides a detailed and incisive overview of the medicinal power and potential of the world's greatest rainforest!
2024-10-0217 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E7. The Medicinal Plants and Fungi of the AmazonThe Amazon rainforest - teeming with unstudied plants, fungi, and shamanic cultures - has long been considered an almost inexhaustible source of healing plants and potions. In this episode - Dr. Mark Plotkin, an ethnobotanist who has been studying the plants and peoples of Amazonia for four decades - provides a detailed and incisive overview of the medicinal power and potential of the world’s greatest rainforest!
2024-10-0217 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E5. From Ayurveda to Acupuncture: An Interview with Herbalist William SiffEthnobotanist Mark Plotkin conducts a fascinating interview with William Siff, who is a licensed acupuncturist, clinical herbalist, and ethnobotanist who practices an unusual combination of both Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Bill is best known to the general public as author of the classic work, "The Plant Medicine Protocol." The interview not only covers Siff's intriguing background and healing approach but answers the questions of what is a plant, what is a food, what is a spice, what is a medicine, and which species like black pepper are all of the above!
2024-09-0458 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E5. From Ayurveda to Acupuncture: An Interview with Herbalist William SiffEthnobotanist Mark Plotkin conducts a fascinating interview with William Siff, who is a licensed acupuncturist, clinical herbalist, and ethnobotanist who practices an unusual combination of both Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Bill is best known to the general public as author of the classic work, "The Plant Medicine Protocol." The interview not only covers Siff's intriguing background and healing approach but answers the questions of what is a plant, what is a food, what is a spice, what is a medicine, and which species like black pepper are all of the above!
2024-09-0458 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E4. The Ethnobotany of Chocolate: Maria Sibylla Merian and Sir Hans Sloan, Two Unforgettable CharactersJoin host Dr. Mark Plotkin, ethnobotanist and founder of the Amazon Conservation Team, we continue our discussion about cacao. In this episode, Dr. Plotkin sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of Maria Sibylla Merian, a pioneering naturalist whose groundbreaking work in the Amazon predated that of many famous explorers. Discover how this remarkable woman, who began as an artist in 17th-century Germany, became one of the first Europeans to scientifically document the plants, animals, and cultures of the Amazon. Dr. Plotkin also shares his favorite episodes from the "Plants of the Gods" podcast, including stories of Ayahuasca, absinthe, and...
2024-08-2123 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E4. The Ethnobotany of Chocolate: Maria Sibylla Merian and Sir Hans Sloan, Two Unforgettable CharactersJoin host Dr. Mark Plotkin, ethnobotanist and founder of the Amazon Conservation Team, we continue our discussion about cacao. In this episode, Dr. Plotkin sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of Maria Sibylla Merian, a pioneering naturalist whose groundbreaking work in the Amazon predated that of many famous explorers. Discover how this remarkable woman, who began as an artist in 17th-century Germany, became one of the first Europeans to scientifically document the plants, animals, and cultures of the Amazon. Dr. Plotkin also shares his favorite episodes from the "Plants of the Gods" podcast, including stories of Ayahuasca, absinthe, and...
2024-08-2123 min
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E2. The Ethnobotany of Chocolate: Cacao Moves from Mexico to EuropeIn this episode of "Plants to the Gods," we continue our discussion about cacao and chocolate. Join us as Dr. Mark Plotkin delves into the rich history of chocolate and its entanglement with capitalism. Learn how the cacao plant, originally cherished by the Olmecs, Aztecs, and Mayas, went from the rainforests of the northwest Amazon to becoming a global commodity. Discover the fascinating story of how a clever candy maker leveraged the fame of Babe Ruth to sell his new chocolate bar, leading to a surprising courtroom battle over the iconic name. Accompany us as we explore the journey...
2024-07-2426 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E2. The Ethnobotany of Chocolate: Cacao Moves from Mexico to EuropeIn this episode of "Plants to the Gods," we continue our discussion about cacao and chocolate. Join us as Dr. Mark Plotkin delves into the rich history of chocolate and its entanglement with capitalism. Learn how the cacao plant, originally cherished by the Olmecs, Aztecs, and Mayas, went from the rainforests of the northwest Amazon to becoming a global commodity. Discover the fascinating story of how a clever candy maker leveraged the fame of Babe Ruth to sell his new chocolate bar, leading to a surprising courtroom battle over the iconic name. Accompany us as we explore the journey...
2024-07-2426 min
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E1. Food of the Gods: The Ethnobotany of ChocolateToday, we kick off Season 6 of Plants of the Gods, as host Dr. Mark Plotkin of the Amazon Conservation Team explores the fascinating history of cacao, highlighting its ancient origins in the Amazon rainforest and its transformation into the beloved chocolate consumed worldwide today. From its discovery by indigenous peoples in South America to its role in the highly sophisticated Mayan and Aztec cultures as a sacred and valued commodity, cacao's journey is a testament to its enduring significance across centuries and continents. Join Dr. Plotkin as he uncovers the delicious botanical, cultural, and economic legacy of this remarkable...
2024-07-1033 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S6E1. Food of the Gods: The Ethnobotany of ChocolateToday, we kick off Season 6 of Plants of the Gods, as host Dr. Mark Plotkin of the Amazon Conservation Team explores the fascinating history of cacao, highlighting its ancient origins in the Amazon rainforest and its transformation into the beloved chocolate consumed worldwide today. From its discovery by indigenous peoples in South America to its role in the highly sophisticated Mayan and Aztec cultures as a sacred and valued commodity, cacao's journey is a testament to its enduring significance across centuries and continents. Join Dr. Plotkin as he uncovers the delicious botanical, cultural, and economic legacy of this remarkable...
2024-07-1033 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E10. The Mushroom MomentIn this season finale of Plants of the Gods, join host Dr. Mark Plotkin as we learn about everything mushrooms, which are truly having a moment! Drawing from an article he published in HerbalGram, Dr. Plotkin provides an overview of how our daily lives are transformed by fungi, in the past, present and the future. From Pink Floyd to hit TV show “The Last of Us”, from magic mushrooms to our favorite dishes, we wrap up season five with learning about the ways fungi continue to shape our story.
2024-02-2119 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E10. The Mushroom MomentIn this season finale of Plants of the Gods, join host Dr. Mark Plotkin as we learn about everything mushrooms, which are truly having a moment! Drawing from an article he published in HerbalGram, Dr. Plotkin provides an overview of how our daily lives are transformed by fungi, in the past, present and the future. From Pink Floyd to hit TV show "The Last of Us", from magic mushrooms to our favorite dishes, we wrap up season five with learning about the ways fungi continue to shape our story.
2024-02-2119 min
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E9. The Ethnobotany of Amazonian Lianas: A Conversation with ethnobotanist Bruce HoffmanIn this episode of Plants of the Gods, join host Dr. Mark Plotkin in conversation with colleague Dr. Bruce Hoffman, Senior Manager of Scientific Research at ACT, as we learn about the ethnobotany of Amazonian lianas. Dr. Hoffman is a conservation biologist focusing on flora of the Guianas, with 20 years of experience in conducting biodiversity inventories and monitoring and assessing plant populations. He has worked with local and indigenous communities in both Guyana and Suriname. Learn more in this penultimate episode of Season 5 of Plants of the Gods!
2024-02-0746 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E9. The Ethnobotany of Amazonian Lianas: A Conversation with ethnobotanist Bruce HoffmanIn this episode of Plants of the Gods, join host Dr. Mark Plotkin in conversation with colleague Dr. Bruce Hoffman, Senior Manager of Scientific Research at ACT, as we learn about the ethnobotany of Amazonian lianas. Dr. Hoffman is a conservation biologist focusing on flora of the Guianas, with 20 years of experience in conducting biodiversity inventories and monitoring and assessing plant populations. He has worked with local and indigenous communities in both Guyana and Suriname. Learn more in this penultimate episode of Season 5 of Plants of the Gods!
2024-02-0746 min
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E8. Part 2 — Mescal, Tequila and Magic Toads: A Conversation with ethnobotanist Gary NabhanIn this episode of Plants of the Gods, join ethnobotanists Dr. Mark Plotkin and Dr. Gary Nabhan in conversation as we learn about the power of the desert and its plants and animals, from mescal to tequila to magic toads. Dr. Nabhan is a McArthur Genius award-winning ethnobotanist and desert conservation biologist with 50 years of botanical, cultural and conservation research experience. In his seminal works "Gathering the Desert" and "The Desert Smells Like Rain," Dr. Nabhan offers distinct yet interconnected explorations of the desert landscape, its people, and their unique relationship with nature. Catch some of this insight first-hand...
2024-01-2424 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E8. Part 2 — Mescal, Tequila and Magic Toads: A Conversation with ethnobotanist Gary NabhanIn this episode of Plants of the Gods, join ethnobotanists Dr. Mark Plotkin and Dr. Gary Nabhan in conversation as we learn about the power of the desert and its plants and animals, from mescal to tequila to magic toads. Dr. Nabhan is a McArthur Genius award-winning ethnobotanist and desert conservation biologist with 50 years of botanical, cultural and conservation research experience. In his seminal works “Gathering the Desert" and "The Desert Smells Like Rain,” Dr. Nabhan offers distinct yet interconnected explorations of the desert landscape, its people, and their unique relationship with nature. Catch some of this insight first-hand in t...
2024-01-2424 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E7. Part 1 — Mescal, Tequila and Magic Toads: A Conversation with ethnobotanist Gary NabhanIn this episode of Plants of the Gods, join ethnobotanists Dr. Mark Plotkin and Dr. Gary Nabhan in conversation as we learn about the power of the desert and its plants and animals, from mescal to tequila to magic toads. Dr. Nabhan is a McArthur Genius award-winning ethnobotanist and desert conservation biologist with 50 years of botanical, cultural and conservation research experience. In his seminal works “Gathering the Desert" and "The Desert Smells Like Rain,” Dr. Nabhan offers distinct yet interconnected explorations of the desert landscape, its people, and their unique relationship with nature. Catch some of this insight first-hand in t...
2024-01-1036 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E7. Part 1 — Mescal, Tequila and Magic Toads: A Conversation with ethnobotanist Gary NabhanIn this episode of Plants of the Gods, join ethnobotanists Dr. Mark Plotkin and Dr. Gary Nabhan in conversation as we learn about the power of the desert and its plants and animals, from mescal to tequila to magic toads. Dr. Nabhan is a McArthur Genius award-winning ethnobotanist and desert conservation biologist with 50 years of botanical, cultural and conservation research experience. In his seminal works "Gathering the Desert" and "The Desert Smells Like Rain," Dr. Nabhan offers distinct yet interconnected explorations of the desert landscape, its people, and their unique relationship with nature. Catch some of this insight first-hand...
2024-01-1036 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E6. Plants of the Gods in Ancient Persia: A Conversation with Dr. Shauheen EtminanShauheen Etminan, PhD, is the co-founder of VCENNA, a CNS drug discovery biotech company inspired by the ethnobotany and wisdom of ancestral medicinal practices for mental wellness treatment. Born and raised in Iran, Shauheen’s heritage and background in chemical engineering fueled his interest in studying the intersection of plants, chemicals, religion and ancient wisdom. In this episode of Plants of the Gods, join us as Dr. Mark Plotkin and Dr. Shauheen Etminan discuss the fascinating history of mind-altering substances in Zoroastrianism.
2023-12-2736 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E6. Plants of the Gods in Ancient Persia: A Conversation with Dr. Shauheen EtminanShauheen Etminan, PhD, is the co-founder of VCENNA, a CNS drug discovery biotech company inspired by the ethnobotany and wisdom of ancestral medicinal practices for mental wellness treatment. Born and raised in Iran, Shauheen's heritage and background in chemical engineering fueled his interest in studying the intersection of plants, chemicals, religion and ancient wisdom. In this episode of Plants of the Gods, join us as Dr. Mark Plotkin and Dr. Shauheen Etminan discuss the fascinating history of mind-altering substances in Zoroastrianism.
2023-12-2736 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E5. Part 2 — Coffee, the World’s Favorite Stimulant — Chemistry, History, and MoreCoffee is the most widely consumed mind-altering plant product in the world. The human species arose in or near the Rift Valley in East Africa, the northern edge of which abuts the forests of Ethiopia in which the coffee plants originated. The drunk monkey hypothesis proposes that human consciousness was born when our ancestors ingested fermented grapes. The stoned ape hypothesis suggests that the consciousness is due to proto humans consuming magic mushrooms. In the second half of two-part episode, Mark Plotkin discusses the botanical history of coffee, the specialty coffee movement, and how coffee has played a role...
2023-12-1337 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E5. Part 2 — Coffee, the World's Favorite Stimulant — Chemistry, History, and MoreCoffee is the most widely consumed mind-altering plant product in the world. The human species arose in or near the Rift Valley in East Africa, the northern edge of which abuts the forests of Ethiopia in which the coffee plants originated. The drunk monkey hypothesis proposes that human consciousness was born when our ancestors ingested fermented grapes. The stoned ape hypothesis suggests that the consciousness is due to proto humans consuming magic mushrooms. In the second half of two-part episode, Mark Plotkin discusses the botanical history of coffee, the specialty coffee movement, and how coffee has played a role...
2023-12-1337 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E4. Part 1 — Coffee, the World’s Favorite Stimulant — Chemistry, History, and MoreCoffee is the most widely consumed mind-altering plant product in the world. The human species arose in or near the Rift Valley in East Africa, the northern edge of which abuts the forests of Ethiopia in which the coffee plants originated. The drunk monkey hypothesis proposes that human consciousness was born when our ancestors ingested fermented grapes. The stoned ape hypothesis suggests that the consciousness is due to proto humans consuming magic mushrooms. In the first half of two-part episode, Mark Plotkin suggests that the human mind developed when these primates ate coffee berries, whose caffeine inspired both their th...
2023-11-2932 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E4. Part 1 — Coffee, the World's Favorite Stimulant — Chemistry, History, and MoreCoffee is the most widely consumed mind-altering plant product in the world. The human species arose in or near the Rift Valley in East Africa, the northern edge of which abuts the forests of Ethiopia in which the coffee plants originated. The drunk monkey hypothesis proposes that human consciousness was born when our ancestors ingested fermented grapes. The stoned ape hypothesis suggests that the consciousness is due to proto humans consuming magic mushrooms. In the first half of two-part episode, Mark Plotkin suggests that the human mind developed when these primates ate coffee berries, whose caffeine inspired both their th...
2023-11-2932 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E3. How to Save the Rainforest with Mongabay’s Rhett ButlerIn this episode of Plants of the Gods, we hear from Rhett Butler, editor-in-chief and CEO of Mongabay. Mongabay is a nonprofit environmental science and conservation news platform that produces original reporting by leveraging over 800 correspondents in 70 different countries. With a main focus on forests, wildlife, oceans, and the conservation sector, Mongabay reports on many regions that POTG host Dr. Mark Plotkin has spent his career working in. Today, join us in conversation with Dr. Plotkin and Rhett Butler to hear about everything from Mongabay’s origins, Rhett’s inspiration for his work, and how best to save the rain...
2023-11-1538 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S5E3. How to Save the Rainforest with Mongabay's Rhett ButlerIn this episode of Plants of the Gods, we hear from Rhett Butler, editor-in-chief and CEO of Mongabay. Mongabay is a nonprofit environmental science and conservation news platform that produces original reporting by leveraging over 800 correspondents in 70 different countries. With a main focus on forests, wildlife, oceans, and the conservation sector, Mongabay reports on many regions that POTG host Dr. Mark Plotkin has spent his career working in. Today, join us in conversation with Dr. Plotkin and Rhett Butler to hear about everything from Mongabay's origins, Rhett's inspiration for his work, and how best to save the rainforest.
2023-11-1538 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E10. Cannabis: Seeing Through the SmokeSeason 4 of Plants of the Gods wraps up today with an episode featuring Peter Grinspoon, MD, cannabis specialist at Harvard Medical School. During this conversation, Dr. Plotkin and Dr. Grinspoon discuss everything from the pain-relieving and uplifting qualities of cannabis sought by people with chronic illnesses to marijuana in popular culture (cannabis trilogy to brush up on your history!), as well as his father’s successful efforts to fend off the Nixon Administration’s attempts to deport John Lennon because of a cannabis conviction. Join us today for this captivating interview.
2023-06-1451 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E10. Cannabis: Seeing Through the SmokeSeason 4 of Plants of the Gods wraps up today with an episode featuring Peter Grinspoon, MD, cannabis specialist at Harvard Medical School. During this conversation, Dr. Plotkin and Dr. Grinspoon discuss everything from the pain-relieving and uplifting qualities of cannabis sought by people with chronic illnesses to marijuana in popular culture (cannabis trilogy to brush up on your history!), as well as his father's successful efforts to fend off the Nixon Administration's attempts to deport John Lennon because of a cannabis conviction. Join us today for this captivating interview.
2023-06-1451 min
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E9. Part 2 — Mushroom Magic with Giuliana FurciToday's episode features world-renowned mycologist Giuliana Furci. Giuliana is the founder of the Fungi Foundation, the first NGO in the world solely dedicated to Fungi. This two-part discussion between Giuliana and Dr. Plotkin covers everything from her experiences in the field of mycology, influential mycologists and their work, and even a new species of fungi named after fellow mycologist Paul Stamets. Join us today for part two of this captivating interview.
2023-05-3125 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E9. Part 2 — Mushroom Magic with Giuliana FurciToday's episode features world-renowned mycologist Giuliana Furci. Giuliana is the founder of the Fungi Foundation, the first NGO in the world solely dedicated to Fungi. This two-part discussion between Giuliana and Dr. Plotkin covers everything from her experiences in the field of mycology, influential mycologists and their work, and even a new species of fungi named after fellow mycologist Paul Stamets. Join us today for part two of this captivating interview.
2023-05-3125 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E8. Part 1 — Mushroom Magic with Giuliana FurciToday's episode features world-renowned mycologist Giuliana Furci. Giuliana is the founder of the Fungi Foundation, the first NGO in the world solely dedicated to Fungi. This two-part discussion between Giuliana and Dr. Plotkin covers everything from her experiences in the field of mycology, influential mycologists and their work, and even a new species of fungi named after fellow mycologist Paul Stamets. Join us today for part one of this captivating interview.
2023-05-1733 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E8. Part 1 — Mushroom Magic with Giuliana FurciToday's episode features world-renowned mycologist Giuliana Furci. Giuliana is the founder of the Fungi Foundation, the first NGO in the world solely dedicated to Fungi. This two-part discussion between Giuliana and Dr. Plotkin covers everything from her experiences in the field of mycology, influential mycologists and their work, and even a new species of fungi named after fellow mycologist Paul Stamets. Join us today for part one of this captivating interview.
2023-05-1733 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E7. Part 2 — Ayahuasca and Tobacco Shamanism: an Interview with Ethnobotanist Dr. Glenn ShepardToday's episode features ethnobotanist and anthropologist, Dr. Glenn Shepard. This two-part discussion between Dr. Shepard and Dr. Plotkin covers an array of fascinating topics, including the role language plays in ethnobotany, shamanism in a changing world, and personal encounters and experiences with tobacco in indigenous Amazonian communities (revisit our most recent two episodes to brush up on tobacco!). In today's part two of this interview, we delve more deeply into tobacco use in indigenous Amazonian communities. Dr. Shepard also discusses his organization Rainforest Flow which is devoted to delivering clean water, sanitation, and hygiene programs to indigenous people in...
2023-05-0334 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E7. Part 2 — Ayahuasca and Tobacco Shamanism: an Interview with Ethnobotanist Dr. Glenn ShepardToday's episode features ethnobotanist and anthropologist, Dr. Glenn Shepard. This two-part discussion between Dr. Shepard and Dr. Plotkin covers an array of fascinating topics, including the role language plays in ethnobotany, shamanism in a changing world, and personal encounters and experiences with tobacco in indigenous Amazonian communities (revisit our most recent two episodes to brush up on tobacco!). In today's part two of this interview, we delve more deeply into tobacco use in indigenous Amazonian communities. Dr. Shepard also discusses his organization Rainforest Flow which is devoted to delivering clean water, sanitation, and hygiene programs to indigenous people in...
2023-05-0334 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E6. Part 1 — Ayahuasca and Tobacco Shamanism: an Interview with Ethnobotanist Dr. Glenn ShepardToday's episode features ethnobotanist and anthropologist, Dr. Glenn Shepard. This two-part discussion between Dr. Shepard and Dr. Plotkin covers an array of fascinating topics including the role language plays in ethnobotany, shamanism in a changing world, and personal encounters and experiences with tobacco in indigenous Amazonian communities (revisit our last two episodes to brush up on tobacco!). Join us today for part one of this captivating interview. Episode Notes “A Deep History of Tobacco in Lowland South America.” The Master Plant : Tobacco in Lowland South America, https://doi.org/10.5040/9781474220279.ch-002. Descola, Philippe...
2023-04-1956 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E6. Part 1 — Ayahuasca and Tobacco Shamanism: an Interview with Ethnobotanist Dr. Glenn ShepardToday's episode features ethnobotanist and anthropologist, Dr. Glenn Shepard. This two-part discussion between Dr. Shepard and Dr. Plotkin covers an array of fascinating topics including the role language plays in ethnobotany, shamanism in a changing world, and personal encounters and experiences with tobacco in indigenous Amazonian communities (revisit our last two episodes to brush up on tobacco!). Join us today for part one of this captivating interview. Episode Notes "A Deep History of Tobacco in Lowland South America." The Master Plant : Tobacco in Lowland South America, https://doi.org/10.5040/9781474220279.ch-002. Descola, Phil...
2023-04-1956 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E5. Part 2 — Tobacco: The Sacred Shamanic Plant of Freedom and EnslavementIn today's episode, we continue learning about tobacco, one of the most widely used mind altering substances. During this two-part discussion, Dr. Plotkin addresses the duality of this well-known plant of the gods. Between its spiritual significance and its ties to addiction, disease and enslavement, the story of tobacco is complicated yet fascinating. In the second half, we'll hear about some of Dr. Plotkin's own experiences with tobacco, and how indigenous peoples in both Mexico and Amazonia employ this sacred plant for healing purposes. Episode Notes "A Deep History of Tobacco in Lowland South...
2023-04-0515 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E5. Part 2 — Tobacco: The Sacred Shamanic Plant of Freedom and EnslavementIn today’s episode, we continue learning about tobacco, one of the most widely used mind altering substances. During this two-part discussion, Dr. Plotkin addresses the duality of this well-known plant of the gods. Between its spiritual significance and its ties to addiction, disease and enslavement, the story of tobacco is complicated yet fascinating. In the second half, we’ll hear about some of Dr. Plotkin’s own experiences with tobacco, and how indigenous peoples in both Mexico and Amazonia employ this sacred plant for healing purposes. Episode Notes “A Deep History of Tobacco in Lo...
2023-04-0515 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E4. Part 1 — Tobacco: The Sacred Shamanic Plant of Freedom and EnslavementIn today’s episode, we embark on a journey learning about one of the most widely used mind-altering substances: tobacco. During this two-part discussion, Dr. Plotkin addresses the duality of this well-known Plant of the Gods. Between its spiritual significance and its ties to addiction, disease and enslavement, the story of tobacco is complicated but fascinating. With his usual mix of knowledge, insight and humor, Mark provides an ethnobotanical perspective on tobacco’s pleasure and pain. Episode Notes “A Deep History of Tobacco in Lowland South America.” The Master Plant : Tobacco in Lowland South America...
2023-03-2217 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E4. Part 1 — Tobacco: The Sacred Shamanic Plant of Freedom and EnslavementIn today's episode, we embark on a journey learning about one of the most widely used mind-altering substances: tobacco. During this two-part discussion, Dr. Plotkin addresses the duality of this well-known Plant of the Gods. Between its spiritual significance and its ties to addiction, disease and enslavement, the story of tobacco is complicated but fascinating. With his usual mix of knowledge, insight and humor, Mark provides an ethnobotanical perspective on tobacco's pleasure and pain. Episode Notes "A Deep History of Tobacco in Lowland South America." The Master Plant : Tobacco in Lowland South America, https...
2023-03-2217 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E3. Part 2 — Brian C. Muraresku: The Eleusinian Mysteries, Discovering the Divine, The Immortality Key, The Pagan Continuity Hypothesis and the Hallucinogenic Origins of ReligionIn today's episode, we continue our discussion with Brian Muraresku, author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Immortality Key, and Dr. Mark Plotkin, the President of the Amazon Conservation Team. This two-part discussion between Muraresku and Plotkin examines the role psychedelics have played in Western civilization. In the second half, we'll cover topics spanning from ancient wine and beer, experiencing spirituality, the Jewish concept of "tikkun olam," and much more.
2023-03-0826 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E3. Part 2 — Brian C. Muraresku: The Eleusinian Mysteries, Discovering the Divine, The Immortality Key, The Pagan Continuity Hypothesis and the Hallucinogenic Origins of ReligionIn today's episode, we continue our discussion with Brian Muraresku, author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Immortality Key, and Dr. Mark Plotkin, the President of the Amazon Conservation Team. This two-part discussion between Muraresku and Plotkin examines the role psychedelics have played in Western civilization. In the second half, we'll cover topics spanning from ancient wine and beer, experiencing spirituality, the Jewish concept of "tikkun olam," and much more.
2023-03-0826 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E2. Part 1 — Brian C. Muraresku: The Eleusinian Mysteries, Discovering the Divine, The Immortality Key, The Pagan Continuity Hypothesis and the Hallucinogenic Origins of ReligionToday's episode features Brian Muraresku, author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Immortality Key. This two-part discussion between Muraresku and Dr. Plotkin examines the role psychedelics have played in the development of Western civilization. In the first half, we'll cover topics ranging from the Eleusinian Mysteries, early Christianity, and the pagan continuity hypothesis to the work of philosopher and psychologist William James.
2023-02-2229 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E2. Part 1 — Brian C. Muraresku: The Eleusinian Mysteries, Discovering the Divine, The Immortality Key, The Pagan Continuity Hypothesis and the Hallucinogenic Origins of ReligionToday's episode features Brian Muraresku, author of the New York Times bestselling book, The Immortality Key. This two-part discussion between Muraresku and Dr. Plotkin examines the role psychedelics have played in the development of Western civilization. In the first half, we'll cover topics ranging from the Eleusinian Mysteries, early Christianity, and the pagan continuity hypothesis to the work of philosopher and psychologist William James.
2023-02-2229 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E1. Richard Evans Schultes and the Search for AyahuascaIn today’s episode, we launch Season 4 of Plants of the Gods by delving more deeply into our most popular topic to date: ayahuasca. Also known as “the vine of the soul”, ayahuasca is native to the northwest Amazon and is employed by indigenous shamans for therapeutic and other purposes. This sacred potion has played a fundamental role in the ongoing mainstreaming of hallucinogenic plants into western therapeutic practices. In this episode, Dr. Plotkin recounts the participatory research of his mentor Richard Evans Schultes and how it forever changed Western understanding of ayahuasca, shamanism and the Amazon rainforest.
2023-02-0834 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S4E1. Richard Evans Schultes and the Search for AyahuascaIn today's episode, we launch Season 4 of Plants of the Gods by delving more deeply into our most popular topic to date: ayahuasca. Also known as "the vine of the soul", ayahuasca is native to the northwest Amazon and is employed by indigenous shamans for therapeutic and other purposes. This sacred potion has played a fundamental role in the ongoing mainstreaming of hallucinogenic plants into western therapeutic practices. In this episode, Dr. Plotkin recounts the participatory research of his mentor Richard Evans Schultes and how it forever changed Western understanding of ayahuasca, shamanism and the Amazon rainforest.
2023-02-0834 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E10. Part 2 — 21st Century Healing Magic with both Fungi and Herbs: A Conversation with the Remarkable Dr. Christopher HobbsDr. Christopher Hobbs is a world-renowned author, clinician, botanist, mycologist, and research scientist, with over 35 years of experience with herbal medicine. He is the author of the classic, "Medicinal Mushrooms: The Essential Guide." In this second half of a two-part episode, Dr. Hobbs and Dr. Plotkin look at the history of medicinal herbs and fungi, discuss the benefits and questions surrounding microdosing, and ponder their healing potential in the context of modern times.
2022-09-1424 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E10. Part 2 — 21st Century Healing Magic with both Fungi and Herbs: A Conversation with the Remarkable Dr. Christopher HobbsDr. Christopher Hobbs is a world-renowned author, clinician, botanist, mycologist, and research scientist, with over 35 years of experience with herbal medicine. He is the author of the classic, "Medicinal Mushrooms: The Essential Guide." In this second half of a two-part episode, Dr. Hobbs and Dr. Plotkin look at the history of medicinal herbs and fungi, discuss the benefits and questions surrounding microdosing, and ponder their healing potential in the context of modern times.
2022-09-1424 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E9. 21st Century Healing Magic with both Fungi and Herbs: A Conversation with the Remarkable Dr. Christopher HobbsDr. Christopher Hobbs is a world-renowned author, clinician, botanist, mycologist, and research scientist, with over 35 years of experience with herbal medicine. He is the author of the classic, "Medicinal Mushrooms: The Essential Guide." In this first half of a two-part episode, Dr. Hobbs and Dr. Plotkin look at the history of medicinal herbs and fungi, discuss how to find the best products, and discuss their healing potential in the context of modern times.
2022-08-3128 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E9. 21st Century Healing Magic with both Fungi and Herbs: A Conversation with the Remarkable Dr. Christopher HobbsDr. Christopher Hobbs is a world-renowned author, clinician, botanist, mycologist, and research scientist, with over 35 years of experience with herbal medicine. He is the author of the classic, "Medicinal Mushrooms: The Essential Guide." In this first half of a two-part episode, Dr. Hobbs and Dr. Plotkin look at the history of medicinal herbs and fungi, discuss how to find the best products, and discuss their healing potential in the context of modern times.
2022-08-3128 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E8. Part 2 — Magic Frogs, Iboga and the Magic of Hallucinogens: a Conversation with Hamilton MorrisHamilton Morris is an American journalist, filmmaker and scientific researcher. Previously a writer for Vice magazine with a monthly column "Hamilton's Pharmacopeia", Morris currently conducts pharmacological research at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia. Interested in psychoactive substances and hallucinogens, Morris' interests overlap with those of ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin. In this second half of a two-part episode, Morris and Dr. Plotkin ponders synthetic versus organic psychedelics, microdosing and the magic of hallucinogens.
2022-08-1741 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E8. Part 2 — Magic Frogs, Iboga and the Magic of Hallucinogens: a Conversation with Hamilton MorrisHamilton Morris is an American journalist, filmmaker and scientific researcher. Previously a writer for Vice magazine with a monthly column “Hamilton’s Pharmacopeia”, Morris currently conducts pharmacological research at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. Interested in psychoactive substances and hallucinogens, Morris’ interests overlap with those of ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin. In this second half of a two-part episode, Morris and Dr. Plotkin ponders synthetic versus organic psychedelics, microdosing and the magic of hallucinogens.
2022-08-1741 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E7. Magic Frogs, Iboga and the Magic of Hallucinogens: a Conversation with Hamilton MorrisHamilton Morris is an American journalist, filmmaker and scientific researcher. Previously a writer for Vice magazine with a monthly column “Hamilton’s Pharmacopeia”, Morris currently conducts pharmacological research at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. Interested in psychoactive substances and hallucinogens, Morris’ interests overlap with those of ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin. In this first half of a two-part episode, Morris and Dr. Plotkin ponder magic frogs, Iboga and the magic of hallucinogens.
2022-08-0322 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E7. Magic Frogs, Iboga and the Magic of Hallucinogens: a Conversation with Hamilton MorrisHamilton Morris is an American journalist, filmmaker and scientific researcher. Previously a writer for Vice magazine with a monthly column "Hamilton's Pharmacopeia", Morris currently conducts pharmacological research at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia. Interested in psychoactive substances and hallucinogens, Morris' interests overlap with those of ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin. In this first half of a two-part episode, Morris and Dr. Plotkin ponder magic frogs, Iboga and the magic of hallucinogens.
2022-08-0322 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E6. Part 2 — Mushrooms, Magic, Medicine and Mortality: Paul Stamets in Conversation with Dr. Mark PlotkinPaul Stamets is a leading American mycologist, author of many books and best known for his role in the award-winning documentary and accompanying book "Fantastic Fungi". An advocate of medicinal fungi, Stamets' interests overlap with those of ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin. In this episode, Stamets and Dr. Plotkin continue their discussion pondering mushrooms, magic and mortality, while challenging some Western beliefs with personal observations, experiences and ideas. Recorded by award-winning nature photographer Joshua Bloom (realityinbloom.com) at the ESPD55 – Ethnopharmacologic Search for Psychoactive Drugs – Conference (espd55.com). Special thanks to Joshua Bloom, Dylan Fitchett, Dennis McKenna, and the McKen...
2022-07-2031 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E6. Part 2 — Mushrooms, Magic, Medicine and Mortality: Paul Stamets in Conversation with Dr. Mark PlotkinPaul Stamets is a leading American mycologist, author of many books and best known for his role in the award-winning documentary and accompanying book "Fantastic Fungi". An advocate of medicinal fungi, Stamets' interests overlap with those of ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin. In this episode, Stamets and Dr. Plotkin continue their discussion pondering mushrooms, magic and mortality, while challenging some Western beliefs with personal observations, experiences and ideas. Recorded by award-winning nature photographer Joshua Bloom (realityinbloom.com) at the ESPD55 – Ethnopharmacologic Search for Psychoactive Drugs – Conference (espd55.com). Special thanks to Joshua Bloom, Dylan Fitchett, Dennis McKenna, and the McKen...
2022-07-2031 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E5. Mushrooms, Magic, Medicine and Mortality: Paul Stamets in Conversation with Dr. Mark PlotkinPaul Stamets is a leading American mycologist, author of many books, and best known for his role in the award-winning documentary and accompanying book, Fantastic Fungi. An advocate of medicinal fungi, Stamets' interests overlap with those of ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin. In this episode, Stamets and Dr. Plotkin ponder mushrooms, magic, and mortality, challenging some Western beliefs with personal observations, experiences, and ideas. Recorded by award-winning nature photographer Joshua Bloom (realityinbloom.com) at the ESPD55 – Ethnopharmacologic Search for Psychoactive Drugs – Conference (espd55.com). Special thanks to Joshua Bloom, Dylan Fitchett, Dennis McKenna, and the McKenna Academ...
2022-07-0635 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E5. Mushrooms, Magic, Medicine and Mortality: Paul Stamets in Conversation with Dr. Mark PlotkinPaul Stamets is a leading American mycologist, author of many books, and best known for his role in the award-winning documentary and accompanying book, Fantastic Fungi. An advocate of medicinal fungi, Stamets' interests overlap with those of ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin. In this episode, Stamets and Dr. Plotkin ponder mushrooms, magic, and mortality, challenging some Western beliefs with personal observations, experiences, and ideas. Recorded by award-winning nature photographer Joshua Bloom (realityinbloom.com) at the ESPD55 – Ethnopharmacologic Search for Psychoactive Drugs – Conference (espd55.com). Special thanks to Joshua Bloom, Dylan Fitchett, Dennis McKenna, and the McKenna Academ...
2022-07-0635 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E2. Peyote: Richard Schultes and the Peyote RoadToday, we'll follow Dr. Mark Plotkin as he shares the story of Richard Evans Schultes, who, as a busy work-study undergraduate student at Harvard, chose the shortest book he could find to serve as the subject of his term paper for his Plants & Human Affairs class. As fate would have it, this short book – which happened to be about peyote – would launch his career. Not only would he go on to teach this very same class years later, he has come to be revered as the father of ethnobotany.
2022-05-2516 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S3E2. Peyote: Richard Schultes and the Peyote RoadToday, we'll follow Dr. Mark Plotkin as he shares the story of Richard Evans Schultes, who, as a busy work-study undergraduate student at Harvard, chose the shortest book he could find to serve as the subject of his term paper for his Plants & Human Affairs class. As fate would have it, this short book – which happened to be about peyote – would launch his career. Not only would he go on to teach this very same class years later, he has come to be revered as the father of ethnobotany.
2022-05-2516 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S2E11. Hallucinogens and Poisons of the Uncontacted Tribes of the Amazon RainforestIn this bonus episode, Dr. Mark Plotkin shares insights and personal experiences regarding the hallucinogens and arrow poisons of the uncontacted tribes of the Amazon rainforest. Join us for tales and observations regarding these extraordinary peoples who provide an unexpected and vivid link to a deep past, as well as a unique window onto the present and the future.
2021-12-2218 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S2E11. Hallucinogens and Poisons of the Uncontacted Tribes of the Amazon RainforestIn this bonus episode, Dr. Mark Plotkin shares insights and personal experiences regarding the hallucinogens and arrow poisons of the uncontacted tribes of the Amazon rainforest. Join us for tales and observations regarding these extraordinary peoples who provide an unexpected and vivid link to a deep past, as well as a unique window onto the present and the future.
2021-12-2218 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S2E10. The Plants of the Apes - How Animals Use Medicinal Plants. Part 2Dr. Plotkin continues the discussion of zoopharmacognosy with part two of “Plants of the Apes: How Animals Use Medicinal Plants." From the carefully selected flora used in certain birds’ nests as insect repellents, to the tropical daisy species eaten by chimpanzees as an antibiotic, we’ll learn how some creatures have a sophisticated knowledge of the healing power of plants.
2021-11-1029 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S2E10. The Plants of the Apes - How Animals Use Medicinal Plants. Part 2Dr. Plotkin continues the discussion of zoopharmacognosy with part two of "Plants of the Apes: How Animals Use Medicinal Plants." From the carefully selected flora used in certain birds' nests as insect repellents, to the tropical daisy species eaten by chimpanzees as an antibiotic, we'll learn how some creatures have a sophisticated knowledge of the healing power of plants.
2021-11-1029 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S2E9. The Plants of the Apes - How Animals Use Medicinal Plants. Part 1We have all seen dogs eat grass to alleviate illnesses; why would we not think that other animals do not consume other plants for therapeutic purposes? In fact, it was the great Jane Goodall and other colleagues in East Africa who recorded chimps and even elephants eating medicinal plants. This episode ranges from Tanzania to eastern Brazil to Wisconsin to document animals' use of medicinal and even toxic plants. Acosta, William. Bombardier Beetles and Fever Trees: A Close-up Look at Chemical Warfare and Signals in Animals and Plants. Addison-Wesley, 1997. Cowen, Ron. “Medicine on the...
2021-10-2720 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S2E9. The Plants of the Apes - How Animals Use Medicinal Plants. Part 1We have all seen dogs eat grass to alleviate illnesses; why would we not think that other animals do not consume other plants for therapeutic purposes? In fact, it was the great Jane Goodall and other colleagues in East Africa who recorded chimps and even elephants eating medicinal plants. This episode ranges from Tanzania to eastern Brazil to Wisconsin to document animals' use of medicinal and even toxic plants. Acosta, William. Bombardier Beetles and Fever Trees: A Close-up Look at Chemical Warfare and Signals in Animals and Plants. Addison-Wesley, 1997. Cowen, Ron. "Medicine on th...
2021-10-2720 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S2E8. Magic Frogs: Hopping Hallucinogenic Healers of the Rainforest and DesertIn today’s episode, Dr. Plotkin will discuss the history and biology of magic frogs. From poison dart frogs to the hallucinogenic green monkey frog, we’ll learn how these amphibians have been used in traditional societies for a multitude of purposes, and their unexpected yet promising potential for therapeutic uses in western medicine.
2021-10-1327 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S2E8. Magic Frogs: Hopping Hallucinogenic Healers of the Rainforest and DesertIn today's episode, Dr. Plotkin will discuss the history and biology of magic frogs. From poison dart frogs to the hallucinogenic green monkey frog, we'll learn how these amphibians have been used in traditional societies for a multitude of purposes, and their unexpected yet promising potential for therapeutic uses in western medicine.
2021-10-1327 min
The Sacred Speaks72: Mark Plotkin – Plants of the Gods; Tales of a Shaman’s ApprenticeConversation starts at - 6:25
In this episode, Dr. Price interviews Dr. Mark Plotkin, one of the world’s renowned ethnobotanists who has studied traditional indigenous plant use with elder shamans (traditional healers) of Central and South America for much of the past 30 years. In this conversation we explore traditional Amazonian medicine, the great ethnobotanist Dr. Richard Schultes, shamanism, the modern psychedelic renaissance, the ethics of entheogens, ethnobotany 101, Western and Indigenous medicine and spiritualty, the placebo effect, culture, Covid, building relationships with the indigenous community in the Amazon, conservation and the Amazon, Western prohibition on alternate states of consciousness, a brief hi...
2021-08-201h 25
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: Episode 10. The Life and Times of Richard Evans SchultesThe Life and Times of Richard Evans Schultes – Schultes was a scholarship student at Harvard College when entered as a Freshman in 1933. An undergraduate term paper on peyote resulted in an opportunity to partake in a traditional ceremony with the Kiowa in Oklahoma, which then led to research in southern Mexico where he produced the first detailed, scientific account of the so-called “magic mushrooms.” Post-graduate research led him to the Colombian Amazon where he produced the first detailed scientific account of ayahuasca and other Plants of the Gods. In 1967, he organized a conference in San Francisco with Albert Hoffman where...
2021-02-0334 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: Episode 10. The Life and Times of Richard Evans SchultesThe Life and Times of Richard Evans Schultes – Schultes was a scholarship student at Harvard College when entered as a Freshman in 1933. An undergraduate term paper on peyote resulted in an opportunity to partake in a traditional ceremony with the Kiowa in Oklahoma, which then led to research in southern Mexico where he produced the first detailed, scientific account of the so-called "magic mushrooms." Post-graduate research led him to the Colombian Amazon where he produced the first detailed scientific account of ayahuasca and other Plants of the Gods. In 1967, he organized a conference in San Francisco with Albert Hoffman wh...
2021-02-0334 min
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: Episode 8. Hexing Herbs and the Witches of Medieval EuropeHexing Herbs and the Witches of Medieval Europe – The archetypal image of the witch as an old woman riding a broomstick was not a Hollywood creation. In the Middle Ages, "witches" were often skilled herbalists. Some used powerful plants of the Solanaceae family - plants like henbane and mandrake - that are rich in hallucinogenic compounds known as tropane alkaloids that can induce sensations of flying - to achieve altered states. And these plants were then rubbed on broomsticks that were applied to vaginal membranes, so they did fly through the hallucinogenic landscapes of their mind... Sources:...
2021-01-2037 minThe Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: Episode 8. Hexing Herbs and the Witches of Medieval EuropeHexing Herbs and the Witches of Medieval Europe – The archetypal image of the witch as an old woman riding a broomstick was not a Hollywood creation. In the Middle Ages, “witches” were often skilled herbalists. Some used powerful plants of the Solanaceae family - plants like henbane and mandrake - that are rich in hallucinogenic compounds known as tropane alkaloids that can induce sensations of flying - to achieve altered states. And these plants were then rubbed on broomsticks that were applied to vaginal membranes, so they did fly through the hallucinogenic landscapes of their mind... Sources: ...
2021-01-2037 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: Episode 7. The Ethnobotany of WarfareThe Ethnobotany of Warfare – Plants have played a fundamental role in warfare, not just as poisons and medicines but as ships, chariots, weapons and wound bandages. This episode traces this history from the time of primate clobbering each other with sticks to potential new battlefield medicines from plants. Sources: Hughes, J.D. Pan’s Travail. Johns Hopkins Press, 1996. Majno, Guido. The Healing Hand: Man and Wound in the Ancient World. Harvard University Press, 1975. Perlin, J. Forest Journey: The Role of Wood in the Development of Civilization. Harvard Press, 1991. Plotkin, Mark J...
2021-01-1333 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: Episode 7. The Ethnobotany of WarfareThe Ethnobotany of Warfare – Plants have played a fundamental role in warfare, not just as poisons and medicines but as ships, chariots, weapons and wound bandages. This episode traces this history from the time of primate clobbering each other with sticks to potential new battlefield medicines from plants. Sources: Hughes, J.D. Pan's Travail. Johns Hopkins Press, 1996. Majno, Guido. The Healing Hand: Man and Wound in the Ancient World. Harvard University Press, 1975. Perlin, J. Forest Journey: The Role of Wood in the Development of Civilization. Harvard Press, 1991. Plotkin, Mark J. "...
2021-01-1333 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: S1E5. Curare Arrow Poison: Silent Killer of the Amazon RainforestCurare – Once known as the “flying death of the Amazon,” curare is a mixture of rainforest plants that indigenous peoples smear on the tips of their arrows or blowdarts to give them a deadly effectiveness. In the hands of western physicians, however, curare has been converted into a life-sustaining medication, a muscle relaxant in abdominal surgery. Sources: Balick, Michael J., and Paul Alan Cox. Plants, People, and Culture the Science of Ethnobotany. CRC Press, 2020. Marks, Geoffrey, and William K. Beatty. The Medical Garden: Illustrated. Charles Scribner's Sons, 1971. Plotkin, Mark J. Amazon: What Ever...
2020-12-3042 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: S1E5. Curare Arrow Poison: Silent Killer of the Amazon RainforestCurare – Once known as the "flying death of the Amazon," curare is a mixture of rainforest plants that indigenous peoples smear on the tips of their arrows or blowdarts to give them a deadly effectiveness. In the hands of western physicians, however, curare has been converted into a life-sustaining medication, a muscle relaxant in abdominal surgery. Sources: Balick, Michael J., and Paul Alan Cox. Plants, People, and Culture the Science of Ethnobotany. CRC Press, 2020. Marks, Geoffrey, and William K. Beatty. The Medical Garden: Illustrated. Charles Scribner's Sons, 1971. Plotkin, Mark J. Amazon: What...
2020-12-3042 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: Episode 4. WineWine – Wine grapes and wine are unquestionably the world’s most valuable medicinal plants: the global annual value of wine is over 300 billion dollars. And the history of wine predates the origin of the human species: primates are known to consume fermented fruit to enter an altered state. This episode traces the use of wine as medicine, from ancient Transcaucasia on the Black Sea 8000 years ago, through classical Greece and Rome to the Holy Land at the period when Judaism, Christianity and Islam first arose. Sources: McGovern, P. Uncorking the Past. U. of California Press. 2010.
2020-12-2357 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: Episode 4. WineWine – Wine grapes and wine are unquestionably the world's most valuable medicinal plants: the global annual value of wine is over 300 billion dollars. And the history of wine predates the origin of the human species: primates are known to consume fermented fruit to enter an altered state. This episode traces the use of wine as medicine, from ancient Transcaucasia on the Black Sea 8000 years ago, through classical Greece and Rome to the Holy Land at the period when Judaism, Christianity and Islam first arose. Sources: McGovern, P. Uncorking the Past. U. of California Press. 2010. M...
2020-12-2357 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: Episode 3 - Coca and CocaineCoca – not to be confused with coconuts or with cacao, the source of chocolate - is a large bush or small tree native to northwestern South America. Cocaine extracted from the leaves found favor among personages as diverse as Sigmund Freud and Ulysses S. Grant as it was once used as a component of various tonics, patent medicines and even a popular wine. Coca leaves are still widely used in this corner of South America for a variety of purposes by the indigenous tribes of the region. Sources: Plotkin, Mark J. Amazon: What Everyone Needs to...
2020-12-1624 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: Episode 3 - Coca and CocaineCoca – not to be confused with coconuts or with cacao, the source of chocolate - is a large bush or small tree native to northwestern South America. Cocaine extracted from the leaves found favor among personages as diverse as Sigmund Freud and Ulysses S. Grant as it was once used as a component of various tonics, patent medicines and even a popular wine. Coca leaves are still widely used in this corner of South America for a variety of purposes by the indigenous tribes of the region. Sources: Plotkin, Mark J. Amazon: What Everyone Needs to...
2020-12-1624 min
The Plants of the Gods podcast"Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation” Episode 2 - Hallucinogenic snuffsHallucinogenic snuffs – though most hallucinogens like magic mushrooms or ayahuasca are taken orally, the indigenous peoples of Amazonia have created two different and highly potent snuffs from Amazonian trees which they consume for a variety of healing and divinatory purposes. As with ayahuasca, the author draws on his personal insights and experiences with these plants and these peoples to describe the biocultural importance of these snuffs. Sources: Chagnon, Napoleon A. The Fierce People. Holt, Rinehart & Winston, 1968. Plotkin, Mark J. Amazon: What Everyone Needs to Know®. Oxford University Press, 2020. Plotkin, Mark J. Tales...
2020-12-0936 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcast"Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation" Episode 2 - Hallucinogenic snuffsHallucinogenic snuffs – though most hallucinogens like magic mushrooms or ayahuasca are taken orally, the indigenous peoples of Amazonia have created two different and highly potent snuffs from Amazonian trees which they consume for a variety of healing and divinatory purposes. As with ayahuasca, the author draws on his personal insights and experiences with these plants and these peoples to describe the biocultural importance of these snuffs. Sources: Chagnon, Napoleon A. The Fierce People. Holt, Rinehart & Winston, 1968. Plotkin, Mark J. Amazon: What Everyone Needs to Know®. Oxford University Press, 2020. Plotkin, Mark J. Tales...
2020-12-0936 min
The Plants of the Gods podcastPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation Episode 1 Ayahuasca Ayahuasca – From Argentina to Australia, from Israel to Indonesia, a once-obscure Amazonian vine, admixed with a few other plants is now celebrated – and even venerated – as a plant of power knowledge and healing. Ayahuasca – also known as “the vine of the soul.” Native to the northwest Amazon and employed by indigenous shamans for therapeutic purposes, this plant has played a fundamental role in the ongoing mainstreaming of hallucinogenic plants into western therapeutic practices. Sources: Luna, Luis Eduardo, and Steven F. White. Ayahuasca Reader: Encounters with the Amazon's Sacred Vine. Synergetic Press, 2016. Plotkin, Mark J. Amazon: What Everyone N...
2020-12-0224 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcastPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation Episode 1 Ayahuasca Ayahuasca – From Argentina to Australia, from Israel to Indonesia, a once-obscure Amazonian vine, admixed with a few other plants is now celebrated – and even venerated – as a plant of power knowledge and healing. Ayahuasca – also known as "the vine of the soul." Native to the northwest Amazon and employed by indigenous shamans for therapeutic purposes, this plant has played a fundamental role in the ongoing mainstreaming of hallucinogenic plants into western therapeutic practices. Sources: Luna, Luis Eduardo, and Steven F. White. Ayahuasca Reader: Encounters with the Amazon's Sacred Vine. Synergetic Press, 2016. Plotkin, Mark J. Amazon: What Everyo...
2020-12-0224 min
The Plants of the Gods podcast“Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation”“Plants of the Gods” is a new and unique podcast focusing on the hallucinogenic plants and fungi whose impact on world culture and religion – and healing potential - is only now beginning to be appreciated as never before. Unlike other podcasts relating to these issues, “Plants of the Gods” is hosted by renowned ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin, a Harvard and Yale-trained scientist who has been studying the healing plants and shamans of the Amazon rainforest for almost four decades. An award-winning scientist and best selling author, Dr, Plotkin is a spellbinding storyteller who will be speaking from personal experience and will b...
2020-11-3001 minPlants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcast"Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation""Plants of the Gods" is a new and unique podcast focusing on the hallucinogenic plants and fungi whose impact on world culture and religion – and healing potential - is only now beginning to be appreciated as never before. Unlike other podcasts relating to these issues, "Plants of the Gods" is hosted by renowned ethnobotanist Dr. Mark Plotkin, a Harvard and Yale-trained scientist who has been studying the healing plants and shamans of the Amazon rainforest for almost four decades. An award-winning scientist and best selling author, Dr, Plotkin is a spellbinding storyteller who will be speaking from personal experience an...
2020-11-3001 min
Psychedelics TodayDennis McKenna and Mark Plotkin - Richard Evans Schultes, Conservation in the Amazon and the ESPD 50Download In this episode of Psychedelics Today, Kyle and Joe speak to Dennis McKenna (of Dennis McKenna fame) and Mark Plotkin founder of the Amazon Conservation Team. We discuss a broad range of subjects. One of the most interesting was a project that Dennis and many others have been working on for over a year at the time of recording this, titled Ethnopharmacologic Search for Psychoactive Drugs, which was a conference in the UK in 2017. It was a 50 year follow up to the initial event (and later seminal book) that Richard Evan Schultes, Ph.D helped coordinate and host. This...
2018-04-031h 13