Hallucinogen Policy for the Kith of Yggdrasil

There is evidence from the literature of our faith that natural hallucinogens were used to enhance mystic powers [shamanic voyaging], possibly for social purposes, and by such distinct groups as berserkers in order to achieve a desired mental state. As is natural, some modern day followers of our faith seek to emulate such practices for both social and mystical purposes.

Because of this, it is necessary for the Kith of Yggdrasil to position itself with regard to the use of such substances, since as an organised body it has both a moral and a legal responsibility in respect of its members. The position adopted must protect both the Kith of Yggdrasil itself and its members, whilst not inhibiting the individual.

The hallucinogens under consideration are such natural ones, as can be derived from the common plant life of this land and, as is possible in this day and age, imported from other countries.

The effect of such hallucinogens can, in the opinion of some, enhance mystic work, and yet they can have a range of effects from mild euphoria to a severe abreaction, insanity and even death. Hence there is the need for caution in their use, and their use poses problems for the Kith of Yggdrasil.

It is necessary to make it quite clear that we are not thinking about some slight chance of things going wrong: rather we are concerned about very real dangers that are not always appreciated by the aspiring mystic.

Here it would be well to look back in time and realise that our ancestors, living as they did much closer to nature than most of us of today, enjoyed a wealth of experience in respect of the natural properties of plants. They could perhaps draw upon that experience, and use natural hallucinogens with a reasonable expectation of achieving the desired result. However we lack that experience, and so any use of such things must by its very nature be experimental: further what might be entirely safe, pleasurable and positive for one, could have an adverse effect upon another. From the evidence available to us, our ancestors were aware of the very real risks they were running when embarking upon the life of a mystic.

It is also necessary to consider public relations, for whilst our ancestors would have understood and accepted the use of hallucinogens by the mystic or shaman, today the general public is most unlikely to accept such things. Therefore in the light of gaining wider acceptance for our faith, we must consider the risks of giving ammunition to our detractors.

After careful consideration, the Kith of Yggdrasil has decided that it must oppose any use of hallucinogens on any occasion or event that could be considered to be under its aegis. Furthermore, it will not promote their use in any of its literature or other pronouncements

This is not to deny that some members of the Kith of Yggdrasil might for their own reasons make use of hallucinogens: possibly a successful use. The Kith of Yggdrasil cannot deny any member their right of choice in such matters, but that choice must be exercised in a way that is entirely separate from the activities of, and without the endorsement of, the Kith of Yggdrasil.

It is hoped that the above will both protect the Kith of Yggdrasil and enable members to exercise their freedom of choice in such matters.

In conclusion we must remind our members of the very real dangers inherent in the use of any hallucinogen, regardless of quantity and method, and despite what others might say.

©The Kith of Yggdrasil. Revised June 2006