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Does moldy rye contain a form of lsd?
Q: does moldy rye contain a form of lsd

A: Not a mold, but a fungus, known as Ergot (Claviceps purpurea) is known to grow on rye as a blue-black club shaped growth that can often take the place of the rye grain itself, and can also grow on oats and other grains. Within the ergot fungus are many alkaloids related to LSD, primarily of importance would by lysergic acid amide (LSA), but no LSD. LSD is a synthetic drug which has not been found to occur naturally, though it can be made from natural precursors.



Eating ergot or making preparations from ergot for ingestion is not a good idea. There are many other dangerous alkaloids in ergot besides those that might be considered recreationally valuable. Traditionally, breads or other grain preparations that had been contaminated could contribute to a disorder called ergotism or "St. Anthony's Fire". People would have hallucinations, limbs would turn blue/black, and would often die or need to be amputated (due to other present alkaloids that constrict blood vessels). Pregnant women could also have labor induced and/or miscarry.



aloha

psilo

Asked By : kevin
Answered By : psilo
Published Date : 3 / 28 / 2001
Last Edited Date : 3 / 28 / 2001
Question ID : 2701

Categories: [ LSD ] [ Chemistry ]



Ask Erowid v1.7 - Jul, 2005

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