Note 2 — APPENDIX 4: “PLANT WORSHIP” IN MEXICO AND THE UNITED STATES

Cf. the physiological action of peyote-alkaloids, discussed elsewhere (dilation of the pupil, increased reflex excitability). The use of narcotics in this area in connection with racing appears again with peyote in northern Mexico, and with the “mescal bean” (Sophora secundiflora) among the Wichita. The Acaxee used peyote in their ball play, much as the “black drink” (Ilex cassine) was used in the Southeast. Cf. Mooney’s (Tarumari-Guayachic) “Muräto,” apparently identical with Lumholtz’ Mulato, that “is used mostly in races, not ground up, but tied whole around waist, at back.”