Why did some Western missionaries and colonial officials criticize ritual drug use?

Western missionaries and colonial officials often criticized the ritual use of drugs in indigenous cultures because they viewed these practices as demonstrations of superstition and folly.1

These observers frequently failed to recognize the structured, religious nature of these rituals, which were often guided by traditional leaders such as shamans or medicine men to channel spiritual experiences. In contrast, anthropologists and other scientific observers who approached these rituals with sympathy often reported on their functional value within those societies, noting their role in shaping behavior and community life.1

Historically, this lack of understanding led to the harassment of groups like the practitioners of the peyote religion, who faced significant opposition from missionaries and government agents. Despite such criticism, many of these communities maintained their traditions, with some eventually forming organized bodies like the Native American Church to protect their right to worship.2