Michael M. Hughes
Teonanácatl: The Secret History of Magic Mushrooms
From their use as sacred medicine by ancient Mesoamericans to the recent explorations of their active ingredient in widely-heralded studies at Johns Hopkins, so-called "magic" mushrooms have fascinated, frightened, and illuminated our culture. Yet most people are unaware of the mushroom's fascinating journey from the hills of Mexico to the "psilocybin room" at Hopkins, where modern explorers have recreated ancient spiritual journeys. We will take a brief look at this fascinating history via images, photographs, and words from those who have delved into the mystic realms of the sacred mushroom, and ponder how the "little saints" will continue to influence human culture.
About Michael M. Hughes:
Michael M. Hughes is a Baltimore-based writer, photographer, and performer. He has written for local and national publications and has a novel currently making the rounds of NYC editors. His City Paper story "Sacred Intentions: Inside the Johns Hopkins Psilocybin Studies" was the first in-depth account of the groundbreaking scientific studies on psilocybin and mysticism. He was given unprecedented access to several of the study's volunteers and the legendary "psilocybin room" where the studies took place. His own profound experience with psilocbyin was featured in NPR reporter Barbara Bradley Hagerty's book "Fingerprints of God: The Search for the Science of Spirituality."
