Indigenous Attitudes Toward Plant Medicine and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: Insights and Implications

Background and Purpose: Indigenous communities have historically used psychedelics and indigenous plant medicines for physical and spiritual health. Current therapeutic use of psychedelics and indigenous plant medicines has seen broad success in the improvement of mental health (e.g., depression, anxiety, and substance use conditions). However, psychedelic-focused research has left Indigenous people out at alarming rates. Thus, these promising findings lack generalizability beyond white populations and limit Indigenous populations from experiencing the therapeutic benefits. This study sought to understand the attitudes, beliefs, knowledge, and openness to use of psychedelic and indigenous plant medicines assisted therapy (PAT) among an urban Indigenous community in the New York City tri-state area.

Methods: Grounded in community-based participatory research methods, the research team, which consisted of the principal investigator, research assistant, and the community partner conducted two 90-minute semi-guided focus groups with a total of 19 Indigenous participants over the age of 18 who were compensated $50 cash. Audio recorded focus groups were transcribed and manuscripts were thematically coded through a 2-cycle iterative process.

Results: Thematic analysis revealed three main themes: 1) Fear of loss of cultural or spiritual significance, 2) apprehension of the research process and desire for data sovereignty, and 3) perceived and incompatible differences between Indigenous and western terminology

Conclusions and Implications: It is crucial for Indigenous voices to lead the development of group and individual PAT protocols. Training programs for mental health and medical providers should incorporate education on the historical, cultural, and spiritual relevance of plant medicines for Indigenous people. Additionally, these programs must address the importance of using culturally appropriate terminology and prioritize client preferences. Eurocentric terms like "psychedelics" can evoke strong negative reactions and may not align with the values of some Indigenous clients. Access to PAT should prioritize collaboration with small, land-based, Indigenous-led organizations that are capable of building and maintaining long-term relationships. Furthermore, the research process must safeguard Indigenous data sovereignty through formal agreements, such as memoranda of understanding, with research partners. Moving forward, future research must meaningfully include Indigenous perspectives to respect and center their traditions, cultures, and goals.