This is a special joint episode of Plants of the Gods and Brainforest Café.
Host Dr. Mark Plotkin continues his conversation with ethnopharmacologist Dr. Dennis McKenna. They reflect on the origins and impact of the ESPD conferences, launched in 1967, and how these landmark gatherings helped shape the field of ethnopharmacology.
The discussion also explores the enduring legacy of Richard Evans Schultes and his profound influence on ethnobotany. Dennis emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary research and the respectful integration of Indigenous knowledge into modern medicine—an approach that remains vital to the future of psychedelic science.
Show notes:
McKenna Academy https://mckenna.academy/mka-podcast/
ESPD Books: https://mckenna.academy/mka-programs/espd55/#espdbooks
Plants of the Gods: Hallucinogens, Healing, Culture and Conservation podcast