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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PDEA sounds alarm over 'Peyote' cactus linked to potent hallucinogen

PDEA sounds alarm over 'Peyote' cactus linked to potent hallucinogen

Published Dec 12, 2025 04:42 pm
(Courtesy of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency)
(Courtesy of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency)
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) cautioned the public about the proliferation of “Peyote” cactus, also known as Lophophora williamsii, due to its mescaline content, a dangerous hallucinogenic substance.
PDEA Director General Isagani Nerez explained that the spineless cactus contains mescaline, which produces powerful hallucinogenic effects that can severely impair judgment and perception.
“Users may experience intense nausea, vomiting, dilation of pupils, headaches, muscle weakness, and loss of motor coordination,” Nerez said.
The PDEA issued the warning following reports that Peyote cacti are being sold commercially on local online shopping platforms.
Nerez stressed that mescaline is classified as a dangerous drug under Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and is listed as a controlled substance under the 1971 United Nations Single Convention on Psychotropic Substances.
He noted that mescaline can be taken mainly through the oral ingestion of fresh or dried cacti. It can also be ground into powder and placed in gelatin capsules or smoked with cannabis or tobacco.
“When abused, mescaline can cause varying degrees of illusions, hallucinations, a distorted sense of the body, and an altered perception of space and time, effects that may lead to accidents, self-harm, and unpredictable behavior,” Nerez added.
Historically, PDEA said the Peyote cactus has been used for centuries in indigenous practices by Native Americans and Mexicans.
“The public must understand that Peyote is not an ornamental plant but a source of dangerous drugs. Being sold online either as smuggled contraband or cultivated locally, these cacti are deliberately pushed into online markets to evade detection. We urge the public to immediately report any sightings or suspected sale of this deadly plant in their localities,” Nerez warned.
He emphasized that PDEA’s foremost objective is to protect the Filipino people from substances that threaten their health, safety, and future.
“We will not allow it to take root in our communities,” the PDEA chief said.

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PDEA Peyote cactus hallucinogen Isagani Nerez
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