ABSTRACT
The use, in various forms, of mind-altering drugs has occurred throughout the history of humankind for both medical and religious purposes. Enhancement of physical well-being and heightened religious and mystical experiences were considered appropriate and legitimate reasons for the use of drugs; the relief of psychic pain, anxiety and emotional problems by means of drugs has always appeared to be more attainable than actually solving the underlying problems; drugs have also been used purely for hedonistic recreational intoxication.
