Is LSD dangerous?

LSD has the potential to open the doors to a new world: intensified color perception, increased creativity and euphoria. So it's not for nothing that experimenting with LSD derivatives is so popular. But of course the question arises: is LSD dangerous? And that's exactly the question we want to answer here. Here you can find out how LSD affects your body, what possible side effects there are, and also what potential lies dormant in experimenting with derivatives such as 1D-LSD.

To answer whether LSD is dangerous, it is important to understand what LSD actually is and how it works. LSD stands for lysergic acid diethylamide - a synthetic lysergamide. It is known as one of the strongest hallucinogens and belongs to the subgroup of psychedelics. LSD is generally illegal in Germany, but there are certain LSD derivatives whose structure is very similar to that of lysergic acid diethylamide. These include the derivative 1D-LSD that is legal in Germany.

The effect of LSD when microdosing, i.e. when using small amounts, tends to be euphoric. Possible effects include an improved mood, a reduced feeling of stress and an increase in creativity. At a high dose, the effect of LSD is more hallucinogenic. Spatial perception can change: For example, sounds are perceived as colors and you can taste colors.

But what does LSD do to the body to produce these effects? In general, LSD and serotonin have a certain chemical similarity. LSD activates various receptors that normally react to serotonin, which strongly stimulates the whole brain. This effect of LSD on the brain leads to increased alertness - similar to a serotonin high. However, this alone does not answer whether LSD is dangerous.

Anyone who is concerned with whether LSD is dangerous will generally deal with the effects of the drug. This also raises the question of how quickly LSD actually go into effect. Of course, this always depends on the individual circumstances. In principle, however, it can be said that LSD takes effect within about half an hour when taken orally. The next question that arises: How long does LSD last? There is no clear answer to this question either. The effect can last for around 8 to 12 hours, or even longer. The duration is heavily dependent on the dose. The dose also plays a decisive role in whether LSD is dangerous. A higher dose can increase the effect of LSD.

Even though experimenting with LSD derivatives can have positive consequences and effects, such as improved concentration, higher self-efficacy and a better mood, it is of course important to be aware of the possible side effects of LSD. After all, as with any psychoactive substance, there are certain risks. So anyone considering whether LSD is dangerous should be aware of the potential risks of the psychedelic substance. These include the following:

• Paranoia: It is possible for paranoia to be triggered by the use of LSD. This can lead to panic in those affected.
• Anxiety: Anxiety can also occur apart from paranoia - especially when the effect wears off.
• Psychosis: In some cases, LSD can lead to the development of psychosis.

The possible side effects of LSD should always be taken seriously. However, it is worth mentioning at this point that the above-mentioned risks are also associated with the consumption of alcohol, for example. The British psychopharmacologist and psychiatrist David Nutt has looked into the risks of different substances as part of his scientific research and the result of his study "Drug harms in the UK: a multicriteria decision analysis" is that LSD poses a significantly lower risk of physical and psychological harm compared to alcohol. In general, however, the question "Is LSD dangerous?" cannot be answered with a simple Yes or No be answered with a simple yes or no.

Long-term effects of LSD are also possible. For example, regular use can lead to the development of tolerance. In order to still achieve effects, a higher dose must be taken, which can end in a vicious circle in the long term. LSD addiction in the form of psychological dependence is also possible. Physical dependence on LSD is not known. You should also be aware of the possible after-effects of LSD: so-called "flashbacks" can occur even weeks after taking it, which are very unpleasant for those affected. However, it can be said that in terms of addiction, LSD is not as dangerous as alcohol, for example.

Dealing with whether LSD is dangerous before experimenting with the substance is undoubtedly important. But the positive effects that the psychedelic can have should not be ignored either.

• Improving concentration: Microdosing with LSD can have positive effects on your ability to concentrate. This can benefit you in everyday life and at work.
• Increased creativity: Creative energies can also be stimulated. LSD can help you to solve problems more quickly and promote creative ideas.
• Increased self-efficacy: The substance can also help you to lead a healthier lifestyle and to achieve the things you set out to do more easily.
• More energy: LSD can make you feel more resilient during the day and give you more energy. This may also make you more productive.
• Improved social skills: Although we mentioned the possible side effect of anxiety disorders when we asked whether LSD is dangerous, it should be mentioned that the opposite effect is also possible: LSD can reduce anxiety in social situations and therefore improve your social life.
• Improved mood : A general improvement in mood is often observed when using LSD.
• Improvement of symptoms during periods: The substance can also help with menstrual cramps. It is even possible to improve symptoms.

When high dosing with LSD uses a significantly higher dosage than microdosing. It is about high dosing is about embarking on a mind-expanding journey. LSD is more dangerous in high doses than in small quantities - as with any psychedelic substance. It is important that you are in a suitable mental and physical condition. If you want to try high dosing with LSD in a safe setting because you are worried about whether LSD is dangerous, then a psychedelic retreat could be the right thing for you. There you will be accompanied by MODERNmind psychologists and experienced spiritual guides.

Let's come back to the question"How dangerous is LSD?". As you can see, this is not easy to answer. According to current studies, it can be assumed that LSD is not as dangerous as alcohol, for example. However, this does not mean that LSD is not dangerous at all. As with any psychedelic substance, there are certain risks associated with its use. Are you worried about how dangerous LSD is, but still want to try it out to feel the positive effects? Then we recommend attending one of our psychedelic retreats. There you will be accompanied on your journey and can answer the question "Is LSD dangerous?" and let it go.