Albert Hofmann's Landmark Discovery of LSD Effects
April 16th, 1943
April 16th, 1943

How Long Ago?
81 years, 10 months, 27 days ago
Location
Basel, Switzerland
Category
Science & Technology
People
- Albert Hofmann
Links & References
Tags
Albert Hofmann's Landmark Discovery of LSD Effects
Albert Hofmann, a Swiss chemist, accidentally discovers the hallucinogenic properties of LSD while researching ergot alkaloids. He notices unusual sensations, prompting him to intentionally ingest the drug three days later on April 19. This self-experimentation reveals its psychological effects, significantly contributing to the understanding of psychedelics and their impact on human consciousness.
Hofmann synthesized LSD while studying ergot alkaloids.
Accidental absorption led to initial psychedelic experience.
Deliberate ingestion on April 19 revealed LSD's effects.
Hofmann's work initiated studies on psychedelic therapy.
What Happened?
Albert Hofmann was conducting experiments with ergot alkaloids at the Sandoz Laboratories in Basel, Switzerland, when he first synthesized lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in 1938. Initially seeking a treatment for migraines, Hofmann had set the compound aside for several years due to a lack of significant effects. However, on April 16, 1943, Hofmann accidentally absorbed a small quantity of LSD through his fingertips while handling the substance, leading to an involuntary exploration of its psychoactive properties. He experienced a series of unusual sensations, including perceptual alterations and an altered state of consciousness.
After this unexpected experience, Hofmann was intrigued and wanted to better understand the effects of the substance. Thus, on April 19, just three days later, he deliberately ingested a dose of LSD to evaluate its effects more thoroughly. This act of deliberate experimentation marked a pivotal moment in the study of psychedelics. Hofmann's vivid voyage was characterized by intense visual hallucinations and a sense of profound interconnectedness with the world around him, laying the groundwork for future research into psychoactive compounds.
Hofmann’s findings captured the attention of both the scientific community and the public, stimulating discussions about mind-altering substances, their potential therapeutic benefits, and their implications for psychological studies. His revelations about LSD would later lead to both recreational use and serious medical inquiries into mental health treatment, affecting the fields of psychology and psychiatry for decades to come.
Why Does it Matter?
The discovery of LSD marked a significant moment in pharmacology and psychology, opening the doors to further studies on hallucinogens and their effects on the human mind. It sparked interest in psychedelic therapy, influencing various movements and research on mental health treatments, including the exploration of creativity and consciousness. LSD's presence in culture later contributed to discussions around drug legalization and the broader implications of mind-altering substances.
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