Albert Hofmann, Swiss Scientist & LSD Creator
The Swiss scientist who is credited with synthesizing LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), Albert Hofmann, passed away on April 29, 2008 of heart failure. He was 102 years old.
Hofman studied chemistry at the University of Zurich, with a particular interest in plant and animal chemistry. After school he joined Sandoz Laboratories and began studying the medicinal plant squill and the fungus ergot within their pharmaceutical department. It was during this time that he synthesized LCD. Through accidental ingestion of a small sample, Hofman learned first hand of the compounds affects. He performed several additional self-experiments during this time and wrote of his experiences.
“I think that in human evolution it has never been as necessary to have this substance LSD. It is just a tool to turn us into what we are supposed to be. â€
—Albert Hofmann
Hofmann believed in the drug’s medicinal benefits and was discouraged by the way the youth movement of the 60s caused the drug to become demonized. He worked up until the end of his days educating the science community on the potential benefits of the drugs as part of psychoanalysis therapy. Hofmann was also a prolific writer who published hundreds of scientific articles and was well know for his book LSD: My Problem Child.
Tags: Albert Hofmann, Valley of Life
