Hallucinogenic Fungi: One Of The Strangest Possible Causes Of The Salem Witch Trials
University of Hawaii Ergot, a fungus sometimes used to create LSD, can be found on rye and wheat under the right conditions.
In the 1970s, a truly wild theory about the cause of the Salem witch trials took off: hallucinogenic fungi. It might sound far-fetched, but the fungus ergot can be found in rye and wheat under the right conditions.
Known to cause convulsions, hallucinations, and pinching sensations, this fungus is now sometimes used to create LSD. But it may also offer an explanation for the symptoms of people who were “bewitched” in Salem.
First introduced by Linnda Caporeal, this theory posits that ergot poisoning may have caused the bizarre physical afflictions associated with being “bewitched.” After all, many of the symptoms of ergot poisoning were quite similar to what was happening to the girls.
Interestingly enough, the weather conditions in Salem during the winter of 1691 to 1692 were just right for ergot to grow. Plus, studies on ergot poisoning have found that children are the most susceptible to its effects.
But is it really possible that something like ergot poisoning could have caused the Salem witch trials? It’s no wonder why this theory is one of the most controversial — and also one of the most fascinating.
Ultimately, we may never know for sure what caused the Salem witch trials. But there’s no question that this strange piece of American history remains just as curious today as it was centuries ago.
After learning about the potential causes of the Salem witch trials, take a look at the werewolf panic that once swept through Europe. Then read about the worst witch trials of all time.
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