Garden of Eden explores the vast world of psychoactive plants, animals and other organisms, and their uses in shamanism, spiritual exploration and healing. Encompassing scientific research, personal experience, ancient knowledge and esoteric philosophies, a multidisciplinary approach is taken, giving a wide view of teh effects of natural substances on the mind, with an emphasis towards beneficial outcomes. Preliminary information is given regarding neurochemistry, drug-free consciousness alteration, and methods of use, from cultivation or wild-sourcing through to harvesting, processing, consumption and navigation of the effects. Thousands of species from over 1700 genera are discussed, with over 440 genera covered in greater detail, including botanical and zoological descriptions. Also included are a detailed index of natural chemicals of particular interest, and a huge bibliography containing thousands of reference entries.