'Pihkal' is a groundbreaking exploration of the psychopharmacological realm, intertwining memoir with science. Authored by the legendary chemist duo, Alexander and Ann Shulgin, this book unveils the couple's deep dives into the world of psychoactive compounds. With each chapter, readers encounter firsthand the experiences and profound insights that accompany their experiments with substances from the psychedelic family. The narrative is both a love story and a scientific adventure, challenging societal norms about consciousness and human experience. Prepare to embark on a journey that blurs the lines between chemistry, spirituality, and self-discovery.
By Alexander Theodore Shulgin, Ann Shulgin
Published: 1991
"The profound mysteries of the mind and the extraordinary possibilities of the human experience lie just beyond the veil of our everyday perception."
PIHKAL (Phenethylamines I Have Known And Loved) is a unique book written by renowned psychopharmacologist Alexander Shulgin and his wife Ann Shulgin. This book gives details of their research and investigations into the use of psychedelic drugs for the study of the human mind, and is also a love story. The second half of the book describes in detail a wealth of phenethlyamines, their physical properties, dosages used, duration of effects observed, and commentary on effects.
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“The profound mysteries of the mind and the extraordinary possibilities of the human experience lie just beyond the veil of our everyday perception.”
Pihkal
By Alexander Theodore Shulgin, Ann Shulgin
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Alexander Theodore Shulgin (1925-2014) was a renowned American pharmacologist, chemist, and author best known for his groundbreaking work in the field of psychoactive compounds. His notable works include 'PIHKAL' (Phenethylamines I Have Known and Loved) and 'TIHKAL' (Tryptamines I Have Known and Loved), co-authored with his wife, Ann Shulgin. These works are celebrated for their detailed accounts of the synthesis, effects, and personal experiences with various psychoactive substances. Shulgin's writing style is characterized by a blend of scientific rigor and personal narrative, making complex chemical concepts accessible to a broader audience while also inviting readers to explore the philosophical implications of psychoactive experiences.
Ann Shulgin was an influential American author and psychonaut, best known for her work in the field of psychedelics and consciousness exploration. Born in 1931, she profoundly impacted the understanding of the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. Along with her husband, Stanislav Grof, she co-authored the seminal book 'PiHKAL: A Chemical Love Story,' which blends autobiography with an exploration of various psychoactive substances. Ann's writing is characterized by its blend of personal narrative and scientific inquiry, making complex topics accessible to a broader audience. Her contributions have earned her a prominent place in the discourse surrounding psychedelics and mental health.
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