My first encounter with 5-MeO-DMT was the single psychedelic experience that changed my life forever. Since that day, I have committed myself to my mission of ensuring that no one has to walk the psychedelic path alone. Every psychedelic experience is deeply intimate and personal. This article is not meant to deter or convince you to try this medicine but rather to help you understand more about this unique journey and the molecule known as “The God Molecule.“
Many people agree that this is an advanced psychedelic journey best undertaken after prior experiences with other substances. For me, this was one of my first macro journeys, one I was certainly underprepared for and unequipped to integrate into my reality once it was over. Yet, I firmly believe that this medicine can be incredibly profound and life-changing in positive ways. Even though my journey with it was unconventional and non-linear, it has led me to some of the most important work I feel called to do in this world, which does not seem like a coincidence.
So let’s talk about 5-MeO-DMT, or if you’re in the know, you can call it 5, and why it is one of the most powerful psychedelics, capable of potentially changing the way you see life forever.
What is 5-MeO-DMT?
5. The toad. Bufo. 5-MeO-DMT goes by many names, but its true name refers to the chemical compound O-methylbufotenin or mebufotenin, a naturally occurring tryptamine found in certain plants and the secretions of some toad species, notably the Colorado River toad. It also exists in synthetic form, which helps prevent harm to the endangered toad species that produce this ‘venom.’
Describing the effects of this medicine is challenging—words often fall short. But let’s start with some basics.
How Long Does It Last?
This isn’t a psychedelic that requires you to block off your entire day (though I still recommend that you do). It works quickly. Most experiences last an average of 15 minutes, though some can be as short as 7 minutes or as long as 20 minutes.
Depending on the dosage, the experience itself can be extremely intense, often propelling you into the cosmos before you even have time to process what’s happening.
How Do You Take 5-MeO?
The medicine is inhaled through a pipe in varying doses. Some facilitators prefer to start with a “handshake dose,” a small introductory amount that allows you to get acquainted with the molecule, before gradually increasing to a full breakthrough dose, if that is your intention.
Breakthrough Dose
A breakthrough dose is considered one that propels you beyond normal consciousness, often leading to ego dissolution and a transcendence of time and space.
The Importance of a Trained Facilitator
The best way to take this medicine is with a trained facilitator or guide who can administer it (hold the pipe) and gently guide your head down as the medicine takes effect. Doing this medicine solo, especially for the first time, is not recommended.
How Does It Feel After?
One of the most logistically interesting aspects of 5 is how it feels once it’s over. Unlike other psychedelics, where the transition back to baseline occurs gradually over hours, 5-MeO-DMT has an almost immediate return to an unaltered state. This can either be really great, or can be quite destabilizing and abrupt for the brain to comprehend.
Immediate Aftereffects
- You may feel emotionally overwhelmed as you process what you witnessed and/or experienced.
- Some people experience intense bliss, while others may feel confused or disoriented.
- Physical energy may need to be released through movement like flinging or dancing, crying, or deep breathing.
Reactivations: What to Expect
- Reactivations are spontaneous resurfacings of the experience, and are common with this medicine. These can occur after consuming caffeine, cannabis, psilocybin, or even while dreaming.
- If reactivations become disruptive, energy-clearing practices like massage, Reiki, or breathwork can help.
Why is it Called the “God Molecule”?
Many people return from their 5-MeO-DMT experience describing an encounter with God, though interpretations vary. While there is no universal understanding of God, a striking number of people report a deep sense of familiarity, as if they have returned to a place they have always known.
Additionally, DMT is a naturally occurring chemical in the brain that is believed to be released at death, further linking it to mystical and near-death experiences.
What Does 5-MeO-DMT Feel Like?
Before I share more, I want to emphasize that every person experiences this medicine differently.
What You Might Experience:
- Loss of ego or personal identity
- A feeling of infinite unity—as if time, space, and self collapse into one
- Deep emotional releases—crying, laughing, or screaming as the body purges stored energy
- No visuals—unlike psilocybin or LSD, most people do not see fractals or colors
- A struggle to let go—some people fight against surrendering, making the experience more intense
Not everyone experiences ego death or loss of consciousness, and not everyone sees God as you may have heard it described. The name The God Molecule can create unrealistic expectations—letting go of these attachments before the journey is crucial.
Should I Try 5-MeO-DMT?
You will know if 5 is for you based on your intuition and readiness.
Things to Consider Before Trying 5-MeO-DMT:
- This is not a beginner-friendly psychedelic—try psilocybin or LSD first.
- It is best experienced with a trained facilitator, not alone.
- The experience can be deeply transformative but also destabilizing—proper integration is crucial.
- Your body will tell you if you are ready—trust your intuition.
If you are considering this journey, take time to reflect. Trust your body, set an intention, and always seek proper support. If you want help integrating a past experience, connect with me here.
Here’s how 5-MeO-DMT stacks up against other psychedelics
| Psychedelic | Duration | Common Effects | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-MeO-DMT | 7-20 min | Ego dissolution, reactivations, deep energetic release | Advanced users, deep transformation |
| Psilocybin | 4-6 hours | Visuals, introspection, emotional clarity | Beginners & self-reflection |
| LSD | 8-12 hours | Visuals, creativity, altered perception of time | Exploration & creativity |
Was This Post Helpful? Are You Thinking of Working With Psychedelics Now?
If yes, but you’re not sure what would be best for you, or you’re totally ready to get started, go ahead and book a free call with me. I’ll help you understand the best path for you so you can truly get the most out of it! And for more psychedelic and transformation tips like this, subscribe to my weekly newsletter, The Art of Change to get them delivered straight to your inbox, along with the gory deets about how I navigate this world as a highly sensitive girlie who uses psychedelics. 🎉🙆🏽♀️
