Does one need to use drugs to reach ecstatic states?
No, it is not recommend that drugs be used to achieve ecstatic states. The use of drugs is primarily cultural in achieving the ecstatic state. The rhythmic beat of a drum, dancing, and or fasting also allows the shaman to reach this ecstatic state. However, the historical use of drugs by Siberian shamans is well documented. The Siberian shamans used a mushroom called psilocybin; this mushroom is noted for its psychedelic effects. The Native American Indians have been know to use peyote, while those in Central America marijuana and mescalito or mescaline, and South America use an hallucinogenic drink called natema. (Drury and Tillett, page 27-28) Celtic shamans are said to have sometimes used herbs such as bilberry to reach the ecstatic or desired state.
