How Do You Spell MESCAL BUTTONS?
Pronunciation: [mˈɛskə͡l bˈʌtənz] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [mˈɛskə͡l bˈʌtənz] (IPA)
Mescal buttons are small, rounded, and disc-shaped parts of the cactus plant known as peyote (scientifically named Lophophora williamsii). These buttons are the portions of the cactus that contain various psychoactive and hallucinogenic compounds, such as mescaline. Mescal buttons have a long history of traditional and ceremonial use among indigenous cultures in North America, particularly the Native American tribes of Mexico and southwestern United States.
Typically, the mescal buttons are harvested by carefully cutting the top of the peyote cactus, which is composed of multiple layers forming a central core called a button. The buttons are then allowed to dry before being consumed or used in ritualistic practices. When ingested, mescal buttons produce profound psychoactive effects, often characterized by altered perception, heightened sensory experiences, and intense spiritual or mystical experiences.
The term "mescal" is derived from the Nahuatl language, spoken by the indigenous peoples of Mexico, and refers specifically to the peyote cactus. The word "buttons" is used to describe the small, button-like shape of the dried peyote tops. Mescal buttons are highly revered for their cultural, spiritual, and medicinal value and are often considered sacred in religious ceremonies and practices.
It is important to note that the use of mescal buttons and their psychoactive component, mescaline, is regulated in many countries due to their potentially mind-altering effects and their classification as a controlled substance.
Anhalonium lewinii.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "mescal buttons" has its etymology rooted in the Nahuatl language, which is spoken by the Nahua people of Central Mexico. The term "mescal" comes from the Nahuatl word "mexcalli", meaning "oven-cooked agave". It refers to a type of distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant.
The word "buttons" in this context refers to the small, button-like structures that grow on certain species of cacti, particularly the peyote cactus (Lophophora williamsii). These button-like structures contain the psychoactive compound mescaline. The term "mescal buttons" is thus a description of the specific part of the cactus that is harvested for its hallucinogenic properties.
