Then (1979), Plants of the Gods
Peyote Conservation Crisis
Schultes documented the peyote cactus as a sacred plant of the Native American Church, used in ceremony for centuries, growing in specific regions of the US and Mexico. He noted it as requiring conservation attention.
contested
As of 2023, peyote is classified as threatened in the Chihuahuan Desert, its primary habitat. Non-native demand, from non-NAC psychedelic users attracted by the 'psychedelic renaissance', has increased pressure on wild populations. The Peyote Way Church of God and the Chacruna Institute have issued formal conservation warnings. Texas, where most US-grown peyote is harvested, has seen 40% population decline in studied areas since 2000. The Native American Church has formally requested that non-members refrain from consuming peyote to protect both the plant and the cultural practice.
Sources
- Schultes & Hofmann, Plants of the Gods (1979)
- Feeney et al., J. Cactus Succul. Res. (2022) [Source not found; under review]
- NAC Statement on Peyote Conservation (2023)