Quitting Smoking: Resources and Risks
For individuals seeking to quit smoking, a variety of treatments are available and understanding the health risks associated with tobacco use is crucial. Smoking remains a significant public health concern, with far-reaching consequences for individual well-being.
According to reports, approximately half of smokers die due to causes related to tobacco use. A physician explained that the detrimental effects of tobacco extend to numerous health conditions, impacting overall mortality rates.
The process of quitting smoking involves several steps, and support systems can play a vital role in achieving success. Resources are available to assist individuals in navigating this journey.
The risks associated with tobacco addiction are numerous. A recent health update on December 17 highlighted the significant health risks stemming from nicotine dependence, underscoring the importance of prevention and cessation efforts.
The use of toxins, such as those found in the venom of the Incilius alvarius (commonly known as the Sonoran Desert toad or bufo), has been explored for recreational and religious purposes, and even in attempts to treat mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. The venom is released when the animal feels threatened and can be consumed as smoke or through intravenous injections. However, experts caution that substances within the venom can pose dangers to human health, and its collection is often illegal, potentially driving the species toward endangerment. The bufotenine found in the toad’s secretions has psychoactive effects, and the ritual of smoking the venom, sometimes referred to as “the God molecule,” involves inhaling bufotenine extracted from the parotid glands.
The effects of smoking the venom can include a rapid onset of psychoactive effects, similar to other tryptaminic psychedelics found in mushrooms, and may manifest as visual, auditory, and temporal distortions, emotional experiences, and memory alterations. A “journey” or experience can last between 15 and 20 minutes, potentially causing tachycardia, loss of consciousness, and, in some cases, death. Dosages used in rituals can range from five to 20 micrograms, though even 1 to 3 micrograms can induce hallucinations.
The Incilius alvarius is one of 463 varieties of toads in the world that contains bufotenine. The species is native to the United States and Mexico.
