The Oldie

Natural highs CHARLES FOSTER This Is Your Mind on Plants

Allen Lane £20

I’ve never met a normal human adult. I’m not sure I want to.

We’re not satisfied with our ‘normal’ states of consciousness. We’re always seeking something else. Many plants help in the search. We sniff them in gardens, inhale their essential oils, make drinks from them and wander through woods, ‘forest bathing’.

So the people I know are human-plant hybrids: products of ancient and elaborate symbiosis. Say hello to

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