I have a preference for well understood/studied chemicals now. Previous experiments with narcotics and pharmaceuticals were helpful in understanding dependence/addiction, mysticism, and enlightenment. Those experiments only revealed that most effects are aberrations and the cost+risk+utility of these is a net loss for me. I encourage people to experience this and have offered guidance on managing it - definitely do not try specific ones if you have ever had a notion of dependence or inability to control things like alcohol, smoking, etc. Addiction is not the goal and almost always is a net loss, so be aware of yourself and don't take foolish risks.
My experiments have so far led to net positive, but I am only now about to begin sleep modulation since I have baselines for the chemical experiments.
Basically, balanced nutrition to meet your needs for exercise and productive knowledge and skill acquisition (and relationship building) are foundational. Then start testing augmentation. Keep logs/journals and be open about it with nurturing people around you who understand your life goals, etc. You can also consider your various relationships as variables, so be careful when and how you enter, and alter, relationships while you journey. You need to be able to extricate yourself when you see losses not in line with your larger goals. Developing codependent relationships AND addictions is a dark road.