Albert Hofmann accidentally discovers the hallucinogenic effects of the research drug LSD. He intentionally takes the drug three days later on April 19.

Albert Hofmann, a distinguished Swiss chemist whose life spanned an impressive 102 years from January 11, 1906, to April 29, 2008, holds a unique place in scientific history. His most renowned contribution, one that profoundly influenced psychiatry, neuroscience, and counterculture, was his groundbreaking work with lysergic acid diethylamide, more commonly known as LSD. Yet, his scientific curiosity extended far beyond this singular compound, encompassing other naturally occurring psychedelics that have been revered and utilized for millennia.

Hofmann's journey with LSD began not with a quest for mind-altering substances, but within the structured environment of Sandoz Pharmaceuticals in Basel, Switzerland, in 1938. He initially synthesized LSD-25 while researching derivatives of lysergic acid, hoping to find a respiratory and circulatory stimulant. The compound, however, showed little promise in initial animal tests and was set aside. It was five years later, on April 16, 1943, that a peculiar incident occurred. While resynthesizing the compound, Hofmann accidentally absorbed a minute quantity through his fingertips and experienced what he described as "not unpleasant intoxication."

This initial, mild encounter prompted him to conduct a deliberate self-experiment three days later, on April 19, 1943 – an event now famously known as "Bicycle Day." He ingested 250 micrograms, a dose he believed to be small, but which proved to be exceptionally potent. As he cycled home, the true, profound psychedelic effects of LSD unfolded, marking the first recorded intentional psychedelic experience with the substance. This discovery opened up entirely new avenues for understanding consciousness and mental processes.

Unveiling Nature's Psychedelics: Psilocybin and Psilocin

Beyond his work with LSD, Hofmann's scientific acumen also led him to another pivotal area: the investigation of psychedelic mushrooms. Driven by ethnobotanical reports and a deep interest in natural products, he became the first person to successfully isolate, synthesize, and name the two primary psychoactive compounds found in magic mushrooms: psilocybin and psilocin. His research in this field provided scientific validation and understanding for substances that had been integral to spiritual and healing practices in various indigenous cultures for centuries, particularly in Mesoamerica.

A Prolific Mind and Enduring Legacy

Throughout his extensive career, Albert Hofmann authored more than 100 scientific articles, meticulously documenting his findings and contributing significantly to the fields of organic chemistry and psychopharmacology. He also penned several influential books, perhaps none as personally reflective and widely read as LSD: Mein Sorgenkind, translated into English as LSD: My Problem Child. In this memoir, Hofmann shared his detailed account of the discovery, his perspectives on LSD's therapeutic potential, and his concerns about its misuse and the societal controversies it generated. He consistently advocated for responsible scientific research into psychedelics, believing they held keys to understanding the human mind.

Global Recognition and Immortal Genius

Hofmann's extraordinary contributions did not go unnoticed by the wider world. In 2007, a year before his passing, he received remarkable global recognition when The Daily Telegraph newspaper included him in its prestigious list of the "100 greatest living geniuses." Sharing the coveted first place with Sir Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web, underscored the profound and lasting impact of Hofmann's chemical discoveries, likening their global significance to the advent of modern digital communication. His legacy continues to inspire ongoing research into the therapeutic applications of psychedelic compounds and our understanding of the human brain.

Frequently Asked Questions About Albert Hofmann

What is Albert Hofmann primarily known for?
Albert Hofmann is best known as the Swiss chemist who first synthesized, ingested, and recognized the profound psychedelic effects of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD).
When did Albert Hofmann first experience the effects of LSD?
While he first accidentally absorbed a small amount in April 1943, his famous, intentional self-experiment, now known as "Bicycle Day," occurred on April 19, 1943.
Did Hofmann discover other psychedelic compounds?
Yes, he was also the first to isolate, synthesize, and name psilocybin and psilocin, the principal psychedelic compounds found in "magic mushrooms."
What was the title of his most famous book?
His most renowned book is LSD: Mein Sorgenkind, which translates to LSD: My Problem Child.
How long did Albert Hofmann live?
Albert Hofmann lived for 102 years, from January 11, 1906, to April 29, 2008.