This report presents the summary of a comprehensive analysis of mescaline concentrations measured in a variety of cactus specimens from the Trichocereus genera. These specimens originate from diverse regions across South America, particularly Peru, Bolivia, and Chile, where many of these species are endemic and culturally significant. The data collected was taken from whole-plant slices, from mature greenhouse grown plants. The full report includes sample weights, parts per million (PPM) mescaline readings, calculated percentages of mescaline by weight, species identification, geographic origin as well as growing parameters of all 44 specimens.
Overview of Collected Data
A total of 44 unique samples were tested, each representing distinct cultivars, hybrids, or naturally occurring populations. Sample weights ranged from 52.7 grams (S74, Santaensis from Santa Valley, Peru) to 74.6 grams (CSD, a Bridgesii specimen). The mescaline content, expressed in parts per million (PPM), varied considerably, revealing significant chemotypic diversity within and between species.
Highlights and Notable Findings
- Highest Mescaline Content:
The sample labeled SM, a Bridgesii specimen, exhibited the highest mescaline concentration with a remarkable 2590.1 PPM, equating to 3.495% mescaline by weight. This value significantly exceeds the average mescaline concentration recorded in the dataset, suggesting an exceptional genetic lineage or cultivation method. - High-Performing Species:
Several other specimens demonstrated elevated mescaline levels, including BK08 (Bridgesii from La Paz, Bolivia) with 2.7% mescaline, GBLP (Bridgesii from La Paz, Bolivia) with 2.194%, and EILEEN (Bridgesii) with 1.778%. These findings are consistent with anecdotal and ethnobotanical accounts that Bridgesii varieties frequently exhibit high mescaline concentrations. - Santaensis Variability:
The Santaensis group displayed a wide range of mescaline content. For instance, PUMA yielded 1.663% mescaline, while samples like S48 and S56 had extremely low mescaline levels of 0.011% and 0.013%, respectively, although they were only a few years old from seed. This variation highlights the need for selective breeding and chemical profiling when considering Santaensis specimens for entheogenic purposes. - Pachanoi Cultivars and Hybrids:
Pachanoi specimens were widely represented, originating from regions such as Matucana, Huaraz, and Cajamarca, Peru. Mescaline concentrations in Pachanoi ranged from 0.555% in KJ17 to 1.494% in Ogunbodede, a Matucana, Peru clone. The dataset supports previous research indicating that Pachanoi generally exhibits lower mescaline content compared to Bridgesii, although exceptions exist due to hybridization and selective cultivation.
Species and Regional Breakdown
The samples fall into several distinct species categories:
- Bridgesii: Notable for high mescaline yields. Predominantly collected from Bolivia (Ayamara and La Paz regions).
- Pachanoi: Exhibits broad variability. Significant specimens were sourced from Peru (Matucana, Cajamarca, Puquio, Huaraz).
- Santaensis: Sourced mainly from Peru’s Santa Valley and Castrovirreyna region. Chemotypic diversity is high, with some extremely low mescaline readings.
- Peruvianus and Hybrids: These appear sporadically in the data. Sharxx Blue and Bruce’s Dragon are classified as Peruvianus and exhibit moderate mescaline levels of 0.805% and 0.682%, respectively.
- Huarazensis: Represented by HZ and VOLTA, both collected from Huaraz, Peru. Their mescaline content ranges from 0.014% to 0.748%, again demonstrating variability.
Implications for Cultivation and Breeding
The data clearly demonstrates that mescaline content in these cacti is highly dependent on both species and individual genotype. Bridgesii emerges as the most potent species on average, making it a desirable target for breeding programs focused on maximizing mescaline production. In contrast, Pachanoi and Santaensis exhibit broader chemical diversity, suggesting that selective breeding could yield high-mescaline cultivars from these species, though with more effort.
Hybrids such as ICM4 (Peru x Hauraz) and Bridg x Peru crosses (SSXMA1, SSXMA3) suggests an emerging trend of cross-breeding to enhance desirable alkaloid profiles. These hybrid strains may hold future potential for both horticultural and ethnobotanical purposes.
Conclusion
This summary of our comprehensive chemical profiling reveals the rich genetic diversity of mescaline concentrations across different species and regional varieties. The data can inform future cultivation strategies, breeding programs, and conservation efforts aimed at preserving and enhancing mescaline-rich cactus populations. It also underscores the significance of location and species selection in sourcing material for traditional, ethnobotanical, or research purposes.
Get the Full Report
If you’re interested in a detailed copy of the full report—including comprehensive data on all 44 specimens, growing methods, harvesting guidelines, high-quality photos, and in-depth provenance information—copies are available for $50 (+ shipping).
To order, reach out directly at dhphyto@gmail.com.
Support the Work
If this information has been helpful or valuable to you, consider making a donation to help support and sustain this ongoing research. Every contribution allows us to continue documenting, preserving, and sharing these important insights.
Be sure to check out the button below to visit our online plant nursery, where you can purchase live cuttings of various Trichocereus specimens. Whether you’re a collector, grower, or breeder, we offer high-quality, verified genetics for your garden.
Leave a Reply