Many people, though fully acquainted with most illicit drugs, have had no idea their origins.  Some drugs are made from plants that grow naturally such as marijuana. Others are synthesized in labs, for example LSD.  In this section we will discuss not only the origin of many popular drugs but also their historical uses. Drugs such as cocaine were at one time legal and could be purchased by anyone. Today, we know that is not the case.

The history of drugs is an interesting one.  Not only does it give individuals a certain perspective on a particular substance but it is also fascinating to learn that some of drugs which we view as potent and dangerous today were used wholesale and widely in many communities. Individuals will be able to see how a drug goes from acceptance and being viewed as generally benign to being maligned and eventually made illegal.  The drug histories we will take a closer look at include marijuana, cocaine, heroin, LSD and amphetamine.