How did the Toloache religion use Datura during initiation ceremonies?

In the Toloache religion, practiced by groups such as the Luiseño and Diegueño in southern California, the use of Datura was central to formal initiation ceremonies.1

During these rituals, initiates consumed a hallucinogenic decoction prepared from the plant. This substance induced a trance state, which was believed to provide the initiates with supernatural knowledge regarding their future lives and their specific roles within the sacred society.1

It is important to note that Datura species contain potent alkaloids—such as scopolamine, atropine, and hyoscyamine—that are highly toxic and can be fatal if ingested. Because of these dangerous properties, the use of the plant requires extreme caution and respect for its physiological risks.23