Speaker Bio
Dr. Shauheen Etminan, founder of VCENNA, a cutting-edge biotech company specializing in natural drug discovery for mental health, seamlessly blends ancient Eastern medicine with modern science. As a scientist, researcher, product developer, and dedicated entrepreneur, Dr. Etminan is committed to creating holistic wellness solutions rooted in the convergence of medicine and mysticism. Renowned as a world expert in phytochemical extraction technology, Dr. Etminan explores the realm of psychedelics with a particular focus on ancient Zoroastrian texts. His quest involves unraveling the ancestral use of psychoactive plants for holistic wellness and otherworldly journeys in the East. Through the application of advanced scientific tools in chemistry, neurophysiology, and psychopharmacology, Dr. Etminan and his team have unveiled neurological health properties in beta-carbolines. This groundbreaking discovery has led to the formulation and launch of multiple psychoactive supplements designed to promote longevity, mindfulness, and therapeutic benefits. Armed with an MSc and Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Dr. Etminan's expertise extends beyond the laboratory. He is a mystic practicing Sufi whirling meditation for years, reflecting his deep commitment to holistic well-being.
ICPR 2024 Abstract
Shamanic Journeys in the East: Deciphering the Psychedelic Wisdom of Ancient Iranian Magi
Much of the knowledge and fascination with the ancient use of psychedelic compounds is limited to shamanic practices in Meso-America and the Amazon. However, much less is known about shamanic practices in the East in this psychedelic saga. Mircea Eliade, the famous religious historian and author of the book 'Shamanism,' acknowledges the magico-religious value of intoxication for achieving ecstasy of Iranian origin.
Based on Zoroastrian religious texts, ancient Iranian priests, known as magi, participated in shamanic practices with an inebriating plant-based potion called Haoma. In Bundahishn, the revelation of Zarathustra is said to have been achieved in a dreamy state and under the intoxication of Haoma. His revelation culminates in an immense understanding of consciousness, mental health, morality, and the relation between psyche and quantum physics, establishing the triad of the Zoroastrian religion.
In this presentation, we explore the quality of the oneirophrenic/hypnagogic journeys and subjective experiences of magi from ancient texts and examine the effect of haoma constituents neurophysiologically and psychopharmacologically. Our research concludes that the primary psychoactive compound in Haoma is beta-carbolines extracted from the ancient Iranian sacred plant, Espand (Peganum Harmala). Our hypothesis is supported by our observational study, as well as in-silico and clinical data. This research invites the audience to follow the trace of oneirophrenic/hypnagogic beta-carbolines in mystical and shamanic traditions, while their effects are primarily overlooked solely as MAOi’s.