Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcast

Plants of the Gods: S5E6. Plants of the Gods in Ancient Persia: A Conversation with Dr. Shauheen Etminan

Dec 27, 2023

Dr. Shauheen Etminan, co-founder of VCENNA, discusses the history of mind-altering substances in Zoroastrianism. They explore Ayahuasca's significance in different cultures and the connection between beta carbolines and mystical experiences. The hosts delve into the historical and religious background of the Middle East, and the connection between 'Homa' and 'Soma'. They also discuss plants and alkaloids as the source of mystical experiences, and the connection between Christianity, Judaism, and Zoroastrianism through the gift of the magi.

36:34

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Episode guests

Shauheen Etminan

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Quick takeaways

The podcast explores the historical use of mind-altering substances in Zoroastrianism, highlighting the connection between ancient medicine and modern mental well-being.

The conversation delves into the significance of Harmaline and Telepathine compounds in inducing hypnagogic states, facilitating breakthroughs of collective unconsciousness, and their use in psychotherapeutic settings.

Deep dives

The Ancient History of Mind-Altering Substances in Zoroastrianism

This podcast episode explores the fascinating history of mind-altering substances in Zoroastrianism from ancient medicine to modern mental well-being. It delves into the intersection of Iranian culture, Zoroastrianism, the ancient world, and ethnobotany. The conversation highlights the roots of Zoroastrianism in ancient Persia and its connections to shamanic practices and mystical experiences. The discussion revolves around the compounds found in Ayahuasca, the impact of beta-carbolines, and the role of Harmaline in creating hypnagogic states and facilitating breakthroughs of collective unconsciousness.

Introduction

5min

The History and Significance of Ayahuasca and its Components

13min

Historical and Religious Context of the Middle East and the City of Shiraz

2min

The Connection Between 'Homa' and 'Soma'

13min

Exploring Mystical Experiences, Religions, and the Gift of the Magi

3min

Shauheen 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.

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Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcast

Plants of the Gods: S5E6. Plants of the Gods in Ancient Persia: A Conversation with Dr. Shauheen Etminan

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

The Ancient History of Mind-Altering Substances in Zoroastrianism

The Role of Harmaline and Telepathine in Shamanic Practices

Exploring Homa and the Roots of Zoroastrianism

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts