Trichocereus Bridgesii Cutting 500-1000g

Description
Endemic to the high Andean region of La Paz, the Bolivian torch is a lesser known psychedelic cactus containing several alkaloids including the psychoactive alkaloid mescaline. Bioassay reports indicate that Trichocereus bridgesii is much more potent than the measured mescaline content suggests. Capable of producing a mind-expanding kaleidoscopic psychedelic experience, the effects of the Bolivian torch have been described as more clear-headed than the Peruvian torch. In Bolivia, the cactus is used as a hedge plant, serving a practical and decorative function. Trichocereus bridgesii is slightly thinner than other mescaline cacti and easy to grow which makes it notably suitable for beginner cultivators!

Active Substances
Using GC-MS, over 50 mg. of alkaloids per 100 grams of fresh plant was found, of which:
Tyramine was present at 1-10%
3-Methoxytyramine was present at 1-10%
3,4-Dimethoxyphenethylamine was present at 1-10%
Mescaline over 25 mg. per 100 grams fresh (via European commercial sources)
Mescaline was present at 0.56% (dry outer green tissues/ wild harvested; La Paz Bolivia)
Mescaline was present at 0.18% (dry green outer tissues/commercial nursery stock; California)
Triterpenes - Bridgesigenin A (0.0378% dry weight) Bridgesigenin B (0.00657% dry weight)
Reported to contain Kaempferol & Quercetin (Flavonols)

Appearance
Trichocereus bridgesii also known as Echinopsis lageniformis, or Bolivian torch is a columnar cactus, bluish green in colour. Trichocereus bridgesii can grow to a height of 6 meters and has many strong spines usually in groups of four.

Background
The Bolivian torch is often referred to as achuma or wachuma names that are also reserved for the San Pedro cactus. Much like the San Pedro, Trichocereus bridgesii is regarded by the indigenous peoples of Bolivia as a sacrament and consumed during traditional rituals and ceremonies.

Effect
Consumption of the Bolivian torch produces psychedelic and hallucinogenic effects; the subconscious psyche surfaces, sensory perception becomes distorted,visual distortions and high-level hallucinations occur, users come to meaningful insights about themselves and the world around them. Compared to a San Pedro trip the effects are said to be less dreamy, more clearheaded and lucid. Some users report hyperactivity. Discomfort and queasiness are usually experienced at the onset of the trip and disappear as the trip progresses. Other adverse effects, such as anxiety, paranoia and fear what is referred to as a bad trip can occur. A confident, prepared and emotionally stable person is more likely to have a positive, euphoric and enjoyable trip.

Onset & Duration of Effect
It takes about 1 to 2 hours for the effects to start. A trip can last 6 to 12 hours depending on the amount and time frame in which the cactus is consumed. It is important to keep in mind that alkaloid content may vary among specimens. Also, the intensity of effects is highly subjective as each individual is inherently unique.

Do’s and Don’ts

1. Do not consume psychedelics if you are suffering from or are predisposed to psychiatric disorders, taking anti-depressants or medication.
2. Set and setting are of paramount importance; as in, your current mindset and the environment in which you will be tripping. Make sure that you are in good form, both mentally and physically.
3. Do not consume mescaline cacti at a party or any other busy place. Trip in a safe, familiar, calm environment; at home or in nature. Trip with people you know well and with whom you can be yourself.
4. Do not consume mescaline cacti after a long night of partying or after strenuous activity.
5. Take your time and prepare for the trip. Accumulate as much information as possible, read books, watch videos and read trip reports. It is important that you are well-informed on what lies ahead! Make sure you don't have any obligations the following day.
6. Self-discovery is normal and natural. During the trip, you may come face to face with yourself, i.e., with the subconscious, repressed feelings, unresolved conflicts, or fears. Submit to the feeling, go with the flow. Short periods of fear and doubt are normal and are soon replaced by feelings of joy and wonder.
7. Don’t trip alone. Make sure a (preferably sober) trustworthy person who has tripped before is either there with you or knows of your plans and can easily be contacted. Sometimes reassurance from a calm, experienced confidant is all you need.

Dosage
A fresh Trichocereus bridgesii cutting weighing between 500-1000 grams should contain enough active alkaloids for two doses. For methods of use, see: Consuming mescaline cactus

Propagation
Allow the base of the cutting to callous over before following the instructions for rooting and growing cactus cuttings found here: Growing from mescaline cactus cuttings

Growth Parameters

• Grow Rate: The Bolivian torch is a fast growing cactus. Under the right growing conditions the cactus can grow 30 cm a year.
• Light: The Bolivian torch does well in direct sunlight or partial shade and is suitable for growing indoors or outdoors. Provide plenty of bright natural sunlight and some direct sunlight.
• Watering: The Bolivian torch is more accustomed to watering than desert cacti. During the hot summer months when growing outdoors, water your cactus regularly, at least once or twice a week. If you want to keep your Trichocereus bridgesii indoors in a warm room year round, you’ll have to water the plant consistently. Water at least once every two weeks by placing the pot on a tray or plate filled with water, but keep in mind, if the soil is still wet do not water the cactus! The plant is susceptible to fungal diseases if overwatered.
• Temperature: The Bolivian torch is a cold hardy species that can handle temperatures as low as -12°C. Keep the cactus in a bright spot even in the winter, so that it can get plenty of sunlight. To overwinter your cactus, make sure the soil is completely dry. Stop watering and fertilising your cactus (September or October) place the cactus in a cooler area (7⁰-10⁰C) until early May or April. Keep in mind that cacti kept in a warm room during the winter will lose their ability to flower.

For more information on identifying and treating common cactus problems, click here.

Content: Cactus cutting. Shipped without soil or pot.

Note: Express shipping is advised to keep your plant healthy.

Warning
Not for sale to minors. Not suitable for those under 18 years of age. Do not combine with alcohol, medication or other drugs. Not suitable for those with psychological problems or a psychiatric past. Do not use during illness, while pregnant or breastfeeding. Not suitable for those with epilepsy. Can influence your ability to react; do not participate in traffic or operate machinery while under influence.

Warning & Disclaimer
Botanical specimen; unprocessed. This mescaline cactus is not controlled by the Dutch Opium Act nor by UN conventions. Not for sale to minors. Not suitable for those under 18 years of age. Do not combine with alcohol, medication or other drugs. Not suitable for those with psychological problems or a psychiatric past. Do not use during illness, while pregnant or breastfeeding. Not suitable for those with epilepsy. Can influence your ability to react; do not participate in traffic or operate machinery while under influence.

Legal Note: We sell our plants for purpose within the limits of the law. If your local laws prohibit the consumption or the processing of these plants then only use these plants for ornamental purposes.