Description
The Immortality Key is Brian C. Muraresku’s debut book, published in 2020 and a New York Times bestseller. Muraresku, a lawyer trained in classical languages, spent years chasing one question: did the ancient Greeks and early Christians use psychedelic drinks in their most sacred rites?
The book follows his search through museum archives, archaeological sites and lab analyses, from the kykeon drunk at the Eleusinian Mysteries to wine in early Christian ritual. It reads like a detective story, and it’s one of the most talked-about books in psychedelic history.
What’s inside
| Part | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Brewing the Psychedelic Beer | The Eleusinian Mysteries and the theory that their sacred kykeon drink was psychoactive |
| Mixing the Psychedelic Wine | The theory that early Christian ritual wine may have been spiked with psychoactive ingredients |
Its central claims are disputed. Several classicists and archaeologists, including a scientist whose residue analyses the book draws on, have said the evidence is thin and overinterpreted. Enjoy it as a provocative theory and a great read, not as settled history.
Who it’s for
Readers who like ancient history, religion and big, contested ideas, and anyone who’s seen Brian Muraresku on a podcast and wants the full argument. It’s not about psilocybin specifically, and it’s not a guide to using psychedelics.
What buyers say
Our two reviews so far are short and positive. Outside our shop, the book has passionate fans and equally passionate academic critics, which is part of its appeal.
Read it alongside
For the modern science of psychedelics, pair it with How to Change Your Mind. Browse every title in books.
The Immortality Key: common questions
Who wrote The Immortality Key?
Brian C. Muraresku, with a foreword by Graham Hancock. It was first published in 2020.
What are the Eleusinian Mysteries?
Secret initiation rites held at Eleusis, near Athens, for nearly 2,000 years. Initiates drank a barley drink called kykeon; whether it was psychoactive is the book’s central question.
Is The Immortality Key accurate?
It’s well researched but controversial. Many scholars dispute its main conclusions, so read it as a theory.
Is it about magic mushrooms?
Not mainly. It focuses on psychoactive drinks in ancient religion.
Where can I buy The Immortality Key in Canada?
Right here. Books ship in the same plain package as the rest of your order, to every province and territory by Canada Post Xpresspost. Orders paid before 11 AM PST ship the same business day, and orders of $125 or more ship free. See the full shipping policy.
Last updated October 2026 by the MMD Editorial Team. Educational information only, not medical advice.
Great book
Great addition to my order!