Know Ancient: Psilocybin – The History of Los Niños Santos

Explore the history of psilocybin and its ancient Mesoamerican origins.

This is an in-person program. Masks are recommended at all in‐person library events.

In this offering, we will explore the historic, traditional and cultural uses of Los Niños Santos (“the sainted children”), the mushrooms we know as psilocybin. There is documented use of this medicine by the Mayans going back 5,000 years; another ancient, potent lineage is still practiced by the Mazotec peoples of Oaxaca, Mexico. Diving into some of these practices, we will shine a light on the complicated legacy of Mazotec curandera Maria Sabina.

Michelle Ericksen, PhD is a bilingual (Spanish) medicine woman, teacher, researcher and coach. Michelle’s work draws from a variety of wisdom and shamanic practices, as well as the fields of education, psychology, neuro-biology, trauma-informed practices, quantum physics and cultural anthropology. She received a masters from Stanford and a Ph.D. from the University of Oregon, and she is an ordained minister with the Universal Life Church.