Exploring Legal Psychoactives: Tradition, Preparation, and Science

The first 5 that we selected for Radiant Farms and why.

Psychoactive plants sit at the intersection of cultural traditions, biological science, and practical application.

Here’s how I see it: people and plants have co-evolved together. Wherever humans have settled, all over the earth, plants growing nearby have proven to have healing properties to support common human ailments- from digestive issues to muscular pain. They also evolved to provide mental, emotional and spiritual support. Nature makes medicine, as well as food.

To state the obvious, cultures have long employed sacred herbs and ritualistic practices for overall wellbeing—from burning sage or resins for purification, to brewing medicinal teas, to making tinctures and extracts. We know how many cultures invoked psychoactive plants to cultivate connection, insight, and communal harmony. We have even woven plants into the stories of our mythologies, our rites of passage, and our expressions of gratitude.

The relationship to plant healers isn't only utilitarian- it has a kind of reverence. We view the plants we use not as commodities but as partners. We honor the miracle of the gifts from the plants, and their unique personality signature- which goes beyond the science of alkaloids and terpenes.

Today I’m summarizing five legal psychoactives- specifically the ones we loved so much that we chose to offer them as stabilized edibles through Radiant Farms. When we make “products” at Radiant Farms, it’s with the intention to respect these plant allies, and the communities and cultures they come from. These five plants share common themes: they are rooted in cultural traditions, enhance mood or relaxation, and offer pathways to spiritual connection. Yet, each has unique active compounds, preparation methods, and mechanisms of action. From Blue Lotus’s dopaminergic stimulation to Kava’s GABAergic modulation, these plants represent a spectrum of psychoactive effects. They all fall in line with our core philosophy: try plants first.

Thank you for your interest in the why behind what we do, and all love,

Christine

Nymphea Cerulea (Blue Lotus)

Blue Lotus, a sacred flower of ancient Egypt, has long been revered for its calming and euphoric properties. Traditionally, it was used in rituals to deepen meditative states and encourage lucid dreaming. The flowers, harvested at full bloom, are dried or infused into teas and tinctures. The plant's active compounds, apomorphine and nuciferine, engage dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways, creating mild sedative and mood-enhancing effects. Anecdotal reports highlight its ability to promote relaxation and sleep. Blue Lotus may however amplify the effects of sedatives like benzodiazepines, posing risks of over-sedation. It is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data.

Calliandra Angustifolia (Bobinsana)

A lesser-known Amazonian treasure, Bobinsana is celebrated for its heart-opening and adaptogenic qualities. Traditionally prepared as decoctions, its bark and roots are harvested sustainably from riverbanks. Phenolic compounds and flavonoids underpin its immunomodulatory effects, reducing oxidative stress and supporting emotional resilience. Contraindications include caution for individuals taking immune-suppressing medications or those with autoimmune conditions. The plant’s slow release of active compounds through decoctions provides a deep, sustained experience for emotional and physical alignment.

Piper Methysticum (Kava)

Kava, a cornerstone of Polynesian culture, offers relaxation and sociability. Traditionally consumed as a cold-water infusion from ground roots, its effects derive from kavalactones, which modulate the GABAergic system to reduce neuronal excitability. Modern studies confirm its efficacy in reducing anxiety, with doses of 120-250 mg of kavalactones yielding significant benefits.

Despite its calming properties, Kava use requires careful monitoring due to its potential hepatotoxicity. Individuals with liver conditions or those consuming alcohol should avoid it. This is limited when only waka roots are used. Kava is not recommended for those taking benzodiazepines or SSRIs. Kava offers a non-alcoholic alternative for social and therapeutic settings, merging tradition with modern well-being.

Sceletium Tortuosum (Kanna)

For centuries, Kanna has been used by indigenous South African communities for mood elevation and focus. The plant's leaves and stems undergo fermentation, enhancing its psychoactive alkaloids mesembrine and mesembrenone. These compounds act as serotonin reuptake inhibitors, with additional phosphodiesterase inhibition supporting cognitive enhancement. Modern studies support Kanna's anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, with doses of 50-200 mg proving effective. However, contraindications include potential interactions with SSRIs and MAOIs, posing a risk of serotonin syndrome. Individuals with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia should also exercise caution, as it may destabilize mood. Kanna’s rapid onset and moderate duration make it a versatile option for both therapeutic and recreational use.

Banisteriopsis Caapi (Unpotentiated Ayahuasca Vine)

The unpotentiated Ayahuasca Vine is a powerful example of plant-based neurochemistry. Used in Amazonian rituals, its active alkaloids harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO-A), increasing neurotransmitter availability. While typically combined with DMT-containing plants for visionary experiences, the vine alone fosters calm, introspection, and neuroprotective benefits. Contraindications for Banisteriopsis include its interaction with SSRIs and other serotonergic agents, as these can lead to serotonin syndrome. Individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular issues should also approach with care, as its MAOI properties may affect blood pressure regulation.