The Tim Ferriss Show

#508: Plants of the Gods — Dr. Mark Plotkin on Ayahuasca, Shamanic Knowledge, the Curse and Blessing of Coca, and More

Apr 8, 2021
Dr. Mark Plotkin, an ethnobotanist and president of the Amazon Conservation Team, dives deep into the world of psychoactive plants, particularly ayahuasca and coca. He shares fascinating insights on the historical and cultural significance of these plants, their roles in indigenous healing practices, and their integration into modern medicine. The discussion also highlights the legacy of Richard Evans Schultes and the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge for environmental conservation. Plotkin's passion for ethnobotany shines as he navigates the intersection of culture, science, and nature.
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ANECDOTE

Schultes' Impact

  • Mark Plotkin recalls a life-changing moment in Richard Schultes' class.
  • A photo of Yukuna Indians, one with a Harvard degree, dancing under the influence of plants, sparked his interest in ethnobotany.
ANECDOTE

Schultes' Amazon Adventures

  • Schultes spent 14 years in the Amazon, surviving numerous hardships.
  • He lived among tribes who had never seen white men and was presumed dead during one long absence.
ANECDOTE

Schultes and Peyote

  • Schultes, a poor kid from East Boston, got a scholarship to Harvard.
  • His interest in peyote began with a book he chose for a term paper due to its small size.
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