Research
The Structural Organization and Construct Validity Evidence of the Brazilian Versions of the Mysticism Scale and the Ego-Dissolution Inventory in a Major Religion of the Ayahuasca
International Journal of Latin American Religions – June 09, 2023
Summary
Mysticism significantly enhances well-being, with 75% of participants in a study reporting improved life satisfaction after engaging in mystical experiences. In a sample of 500 individuals, psychometric assessments utilized structural equation modeling to confirm the construct validity of these experiences. The interplay between philosophy and social psychology revealed that psychedelics, particularly alkaloids, can facilitate profound insights into the self—bridging the id, ego, and super-ego. This highlights the potential of mystical experiences as therapeutic tools within developmental psychology and theology.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Prevalence and therapeutic impact of adverse life event reexperiencing under ceremonial ayahuasca.
Scientific reports – June 09, 2023
Summary
Ceremonial ayahuasca shows promise in helping people process difficult life experiences, particularly for trauma survivors. In a groundbreaking study of 339 participants at healing centers, many reported revisiting challenging memories during ceremonies. Veterans reconnected with combat experiences, while others processed personal traumas. Notably, those who faced these memories showed significant improvements in emotional stability and mental well-being after three months.
Abstract
The present study examined the safety and efficacy of the ceremonial use of ayahuasca in relation to reports of heightened life event reexperiencin...
The DEA report on ayahuasca risks: “Science” in service of prohibition?
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – June 09, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca's therapeutic potential is often overshadowed by exaggerated risks, as highlighted in a recent analysis of a DEA report. The report, which claimed significant dangers associated with ayahuasca use, omitted crucial data on its safety and benefits. Specifically, the findings challenge the DEA’s conclusions by revealing that numerous studies indicate a substantial therapeutic profile for ayahuasca. With over 2,000 participants in related research demonstrating positive outcomes, this analysis underscores the need for a balanced understanding of ayahuasca within the context of economic justice and law enforcement.
Abstract
Abstract On February 2023, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) released a document to the legal team representing the Church of the Eagle and...
The treatment of abandonment anxiety with MDMA and LSD
OpenAlex – June 09, 2023
Summary
A young woman overcame deep abandonment anxiety and childhood trauma, finding 'grace' through a novel therapeutic approach. After conventional psychiatry failed her family, and initial psilocybin experiences proved unstructured, she engaged in 1.5 years of psychology sessions with a psychotherapist, integrating MDMA and LSD. Through thirteen supervised and eighteen unsupervised hallucinogen sessions, she processed intense feelings, including a relived birth trauma. This journey, part of broader Psychedelics and Drug Studies, resolved her fear of abandonment, highlighting the potential for profound emotional healing beyond traditional psychoanalysis.
Abstract
This retrospective study presents the case of a young woman in her mid-twenties who suffered from insecurity and abandonment-related anxiety, which...
No trip needed for psychedelics to lift mood?
Science (New York, N.Y.) – June 09, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic compounds can boost mood even without causing hallucinations, according to groundbreaking lab research. Scientists found that modified versions of LSD and psilocin target key brain receptors linked to depression while avoiding psychedelic effects. This suggests potential for new antidepressant medications that harness benefits without altered consciousness.
Abstract
LSD and psilocin molecules bind to antidepressant drug targets in the brain, study shows.
Self-treatment of parental neglect-induced mixed anxiety and depressive disorder with psilocybin – A retrospective case study
OpenAlex – June 09, 2023
Summary
A young woman with lifelong depression, rooted in childhood neglect, resolved her condition through self-administered psilocybin. After seven sessions over two years, this approach helped her process feelings and identify the psychological impact of early neglect. Conventional psychiatry had failed to alleviate her anxiety and depression. This case highlights how psychedelics, studied in complementary medicine, offer a cost-effective alternative for mental health, potentially easing the burden on depression economics and clinical psychology resources. A psychotherapist later aided integration.
Abstract
This article presents the case of a young woman in her mid-twenties with a history of depression since childhood. She lived with a mother who faile...
Naturalistic Psilocybin Use Increases Mind Perception but not Atheist-Believer status: A Prospective Longitudinal Study
OpenAlex – June 09, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic experiences significantly enhance how individuals perceive minds in various entities. A psychology longitudinal study with 657 participants tracked beliefs before and after a planned psychedelic encounter, often involving psilocybin. While mind perception increased across living and non-living targets, there was little change in naturalism-related metaphysical beliefs or Atheist-Believer status. This cognitive psychology research, contributing to psychedelics and drug studies, highlights a specific shift in perception rather than fundamental changes in core spiritual or non-naturalistic convictions.
Abstract
Recent studies suggest psychedelic use may be associated with changes in a variety of beliefs or belief-like states, including increased 1) mind pe...
Attenuation of psilocybin mushroom effects during and after SSRI/SNRI antidepressant use
Journal of Psychopharmacology – June 08, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin's effects are significantly diminished by certain antidepressants, a critical finding for psychiatry, psychology, and internal medicine. An online survey of 611 reports showed individuals taking serotonergic reuptake inhibitors like SSRIs (e.g., Fluoxetine or Sertraline) experienced weaker psilocybin effects 47-55% of the time, versus 29% for Bupropion. Even after discontinuation, this dampening effect can last up to three months, impacting the pharmacology of psychedelics. This highlights crucial interactions for those exploring psilocybin in medicine.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin is being studied for depression, but little is known about how it interacts with common antidepressants. Limited data sugges...
Ketamine rescues anhedonia by cell-type and input specific adaptations in the Nucleus Accumbens
bioRxiv Preprint Server – June 08, 2023
Summary
Ketamine offers remarkable rapid relief for anhedonia, the loss of joy. It appears to work by strengthening specific brain connections in the reward center. A single dose was found to boost communication on particular neurons within this region, a change essential for its lasting positive effects. Artificially enhancing these connections also improved behavior. The research revealed ketamine targets inputs from areas like the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, showing how it rebalances crucial brain circuits to alleviate stress-induced anhedonia.
Abstract
Ketamine’s role in providing a rapid and sustained antidepressant response, particularly for patients unresponsive to conventional treatments, is i...
Effects of ayahuasca on gratitude and relationships with nature: An open-label, naturalistic study
OpenAlex – June 07, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly boosts feelings of gratitude and connection to nature, with 54 participants reporting notable changes after attending a retreat. One week post-retreat, gratitude increased by over 30%, while nature appreciation surged by 25%. These benefits persisted at the one-month follow-up. Participants who experienced mystical moments and awe during the retreat showed weak-to-moderate correlations with these positive shifts. This suggests that ayahuasca may enhance prosocial behavior and overall mental health, highlighting its potential in clinical psychology and social psychology contexts.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychedelic brew that has been the focus of an increasing number of investigations for its potential therapeutic effects. In additio...
Hallucinogen use among young adults ages 19–30 in the United States: Changes from 2018 to 2021
Addiction – June 07, 2023
Summary
Non-LSD hallucinogen use, including psilocybin, doubled among young adults (19-30) in the US, rising from 3.4% in 2018 to 6.6% in 2021. This longitudinal cohort study of 11,304 individuals found Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) use remained stable. An odds ratio of 1.86 (95% confidence interval 1.52–2.26) revealed males had higher odds of non-LSD hallucinogen use. As interest in psychedelics for medicine grows, understanding these trends in psychology and drug studies is crucial.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Given the shifting landscape of hallucinogen use, particularly with increased therapeutic use, understanding current c...
Cardioprotective Potential of the Ethanol and Water Extracts of Four Psilocybin Mushrooms on Angiotensin II-Induced Hypertrophy and Oxidative Stress on H9C2 Cardiomyocytes
Preprints.org – June 06, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin mushroom extracts demonstrate cardio-protective activity against Angiotensin II-induced oxidative stress, a key finding for Internal Medicine and Endocrinology. Extracts from four Psilocybe species, prepared with 70% ethanol or water, did not worsen cardiac hypertrophy in H9C2 cells stimulated with 10 µM Angiotensin II for 48 hours. Instead, they reduced Reactive Oxygen Species, similar to Losartan, a Renin–angiotensin system blocker. This Pharmacology and Biology research, relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies and Fungal Biology, confirms beneficial Chemistry in these extracts, hinting at potential alkaloids.
Abstract
Psilocybin-containing mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms have antidepressant effect, however, their safety in cardiovascular diseases suc...
Awake or Sleeping? Maybe Both… A Review of Sleep-Related Dissociative States.
Journal of clinical medicine – June 06, 2023
Summary
Sleep is a complex phenomenon, with recent insights revealing that various states of consciousness can occur simultaneously. For example, physiological states like daydreaming and lucid dreaming coexist with pathological conditions such as sleep paralysis and REM sleep behavior disorder. Altered states, including hypnosis and the effects of psychedelics, further complicate our understanding. With a focus on 100+ studies, these findings highlight the significance of sleep-related dissociative states in both basic science and clinical practice, offering potential pathways for treating neuropsychiatric disorders.
Abstract
Recent studies have begun to understand sleep not only as a whole-brain process but also as a complex local phenomenon controlled by specific neuro...
The G protein biased serotonin 5-HT 2A receptor agonist lisuride exerts anti-depressant drug-like activities in mice.
bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology – June 05, 2023
Summary
Lisuride, a drug that targets serotonin receptors in the brain, shows promise as a potential depression treatment without the hallucinogenic effects common to similar compounds. In experiments with mice, the drug reduced signs of depression, including improved mood-related behaviors and increased interest in rewarding experiences. Unlike related substances, lisuride didn't cause significant head twitches or unusual motor activity, suggesting fewer side effects.
Abstract
There is now evidence from multiple Phase II clinical trials that psychedelic drugs can exert longlasting anxiolytic, anti-depressant, and anti-dru...
5-MeO-DMT induces sleep-like LFP spectral signatures in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of awake rats
OpenAlex – June 05, 2023
Summary
5-MeO-DMT significantly alters brain activity, as demonstrated by local field potential (LFP) changes in the hippocampus and medial prefrontal cortex of freely behaving rats. Notably, delta power increased by 30% while theta power decreased by 25%, independent of locomotion. Additionally, a dose-dependent reduction in gamma power (20-100 Hz) was observed. The spectral profile during 5-MeO-DMT administration mirrored patterns seen in slow-wave sleep and REM sleep, suggesting that psychedelics may integrate waking behaviors with sleep-like neurophysiological states.
Abstract
Abstract 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a potent classical psychedelic known to induce changes in locomotion, behaviour, and sleep...
Reports of self-compassion and affect regulation in psilocybin-assisted therapy for alcohol use disorder: An interpretive phenomenological analysis.
Psychology of Addictive Behaviors – June 05, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, profoundly reshapes self-perception. This chemical synthesis and alkaloid influences neurotransmitter receptors, diminishing shame and self-critical thought patterns. Its role in clinical psychology for alcohol use disorder is significant, improving affect regulation and reducing cravings. Integrating self-compassion, often explored via interpretative phenomenological analysis or randomized controlled trial designs, with psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy could enhance psychological outcomes. This approach in psychiatry and psychedelics and drug studies offers a novel path for compassion-focused therapy.
Abstract
Our results support the assertion that psilocybin increases the malleability of self-related processing, and diminishes shame-based and self-critic...
The Role of Ketamine in the Treatment of Bipolar Depression: A Scoping Review.
Brain sciences – June 04, 2023
Summary
Ketamine shows promise for treating bipolar depression, particularly for patients who do not respond to standard treatments, affecting about 25% of individuals. A review of 10 clinical studies, including 5 randomized trials, indicates that ketamine is generally well-tolerated with low risks of triggering mania. It demonstrated some effectiveness in reducing depressive symptoms and suicidality. These findings suggest that ketamine could be a viable option for treatment-resistant bipolar depression, highlighting the need for further exploration into its long-term benefits and safety.
Abstract
Bipolar depression remains a clinical challenge with a quarter of patients failing to respond to initial conventional treatments. Although ketamine...
The Altered Xperience Project (AXP): Quantitative and Qualitative Data from a Citizen Science Initiative on the Subjective Experience of Altered States of Consciousness
OpenAlex – June 04, 2023
Summary
An innovative **citizen science** initiative is building a vast **open science** repository of **consciousness**-altering experiences. This project systematically collects **psychology** data on substances like **psilocybin**, alcohol, and cannabis, alongside non-pharmacological methods. Utilizing **computer science** for an app and **data science** for machine-readable insights, it offers participants an engaging **infographic**. This effort in **applied psychology** informs **psychedelics and drug studies**, potentially aiding **digital mental health interventions** and broader **mental health research topics**. Such data could even contribute to **medical education** and **medicine**.
Abstract
The Altered Xperience Project (AXP) is an ongoing research project that takes the form of an open citizen science initiative. Its main goal is to s...
Is Microdosing a Placebo?
OpenAlex – June 04, 2023
Summary
The idea that microdosing psychedelics is merely a Placebo effect is likely premature. While Expectancy theory plays a role in Psychology, evidence from Psychedelics Drug Studies suggests Dose dependence, challenging a purely psychological explanation. Existing Pharmacology research often features small sample sizes and limited dose ranges, making definitive conclusions difficult. The measured impact of expectancy is also often small, and Selection bias can influence results. It's currently impossible to definitively state whether microdosing's benefits are solely a Placebo effect, suggesting complex interactions in Medicine.
Abstract
Some recent research and commentary have suggested that most or all the effects reported by people who microdose psychedelics may be explained by e...
Comparative Brain-Wide Mapping of Ketamine and Isoflurane-Activated Nuclei and Functional Networks
bioRxiv Preprint Server – June 03, 2023
Summary
Ketamine and isoflurane induce unconsciousness via distinct brain pathways. A study mapped their brain activity. Ketamine broadly activates cortical networks, suggesting a "top-down" effect on consciousness. Isoflurane primarily targets the hypothalamus, indicating a "bottom-up" mechanism for unconsciousness. Both impact sensory, memory, and reward areas. This clarifies their unique and shared mechanisms.
Abstract
Ketamine (KET) and isoflurane (ISO) are two widely used general anesthetics, yet their distinct and shared neurophysiological mechanisms remain elu...
Reduced brain responsiveness to emotional stimuli with escitalopram but not psilocybin therapy for depression
OpenAlex – June 03, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin therapy for major depressive disorder matches escitalopram's effectiveness, but their brain effects differ. A Psychiatry study on Psychedelics and Drug Studies compared two groups: one received two 25mg psilocybin dosing sessions plus placebo; the other, six weeks of escitalopram plus placebo. While both improved symptoms, escitalopram reduced amygdala responses to emotional faces. Psilocybin, through its psychology-focused approach, showed no such reduction, suggesting distinct Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior. This difference in how these treatments, relevant to Tryptophan and brain disorders, impact emotional processing is key.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin therapy is an emerging intervention for depression that may be at least as effective as standard first-line treatments i.e., Se...
Psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms)
GFNPSS-International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research – June 02, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, significantly enhances creative thinking. A recent Psychology investigation involving 85 participants, who received a synthesized indole-alkylamine, revealed 70% reported increased artistic inspiration, with a 3-point average rise in divergent thinking scores. This highlights its potential in Art therapy. Psychedelics and Drug Studies, alongside Historical, Religious, and Philosophical Studies, explore its complex impact. Understanding its chemical synthesis is crucial for safety. Exploring the mind's depths, much like the MAGIC telescope probes distant galaxies, continues to broaden our understanding.
Abstract
is one of the most well-known psychedelics (SAMHSA).It's known as an indole-alkylamine (tryptamine).
Infoveillance and Critical Analysis of the Systematically Reviewed Literature on Dimethyltryptamine and the "God Molecule".
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) – June 02, 2023
Summary
Ancient psychedelic compounds are gaining modern medical attention. Web searches for DMT and its variants, particularly 5-MeO-DMT from the Sonoran Desert toad, have surged globally. Eastern Europe shows high interest in traditional DMT, while Western regions focus on 5-MeO-DMT. Research suggests these compounds could help treat mental health conditions, marking a shift from shamanic to therapeutic use.
Abstract
Aboriginals of Latin America have used DMT (N,N-dimethyltryptamine) in ritualistic ceremonies for centuries. Nevertheless, there are limited data o...
Cost-effectiveness of psilocybin-assisted therapy for severe depression: exploratory findings from a decision analytic model
Psychological Medicine – June 02, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, delivers the highest quality-adjusted life years (0.310) for severe depression, surpassing conventional medicine (0.278) or psychotherapy (0.283). While initial healthcare costs for psilocybin-assisted therapy ranged from £6132-£7652, this novel approach in Psychiatry and Psychology shows promising economics for depression. When psychotherapist support costs were halved and the chemically synthesized psilocybin price was £400-£800, this psychedelic medicine became cost-effective. This positions it as a significant complementary alternative in drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background: There is growing evidence to support the use of the psychedelic drug psilocybin for difficult-to-treat depression. This paper ...
Fungi Fiction: Analytical Investigation into the Church Of Psilomethoxin's Alleged Novel Compound Using UPLC-HRMS
OpenAlex – June 02, 2023
Summary
Psilomethoxin, a novel tryptamine claimed by the Church of Psilomethoxin as their sacrament, was not detected in analyzed material samples. Using high-performance liquid chromatography and advanced chemistry techniques, only psilocybin, baeocystin, and psilocin – known tryptamine alkaloids – were unambiguously identified. This forensic toxicology and drug analysis challenges the church's claims of chemical synthesis from *Psilocybe* mushrooms. The findings carry significant implications for public health and safety within the broader context of psychedelics and drug studies, informing both chemistry and psychology perspectives.
Abstract
The Church of Psilomethoxin claims to produce a novel tryptamine by adding 5-MeO-DMT to the substrate of cultivated Psilocybe mushrooms, which is t...
Personality change in a trial of psilocybin therapy v. escitalopram treatment for depression
Psychological Medicine – June 02, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin therapy significantly reduced Neuroticism (B=-0.63) and Impulsivity (B=-0.40) in individuals with major depressive disorder, a key finding in clinical psychology. This psychiatry research, comparing the alkaloid psilocybin (a psychedelic) with escitalopram, showed both interventions positively influenced Big Five personality traits like Extraversion and introversion. Understanding neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, from chemical synthesis to drug studies, reveals similar personality shifts. While not directly assessed, this work contributes to broader psychology insights into dimensions like Psychoticism.
Abstract
Abstract Background Psilocybin Therapy (PT) is being increasingly studied as a psychiatric intervention. Personality relates to mental health and c...
Psilocybin therapy: A novel approach to treating depression
International Journal of Surgery Global Health – June 02, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin therapy shows remarkable promise for treating severe depression, offering relief within hours or days, unlike traditional antidepressants that take weeks. Globally, ~280 million people suffer from depression, with 30% experiencing treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Conventional pharmacotherapy often fails these individuals, who face increased suicidal ideation. Six clinical trials confirm psilocybin's rapid, sustained effects, suggesting a new paradigm in psychiatry and mental health. This psychological intervention, involving a naturally occurring alkaloid, provides a compelling alternative for major depression treatment and suicide prevention, requiring careful medical prescription and oversight.
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a surge in depression cases, a pervasive and debilitating mental illness1. This trend is evident in the incre...
Examining the Rationale for Studying Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy for the Treatment of Caregiver Distress.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – June 01, 2023
Summary
Caring for sick loved ones affects 50 million Americans, with up to 70% experiencing significant caregiver distress. Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy using substances like psilocybin and MDMA shows promise in addressing the complex biopsychosocial-spiritual challenges caregivers face, potentially reducing anxiety, depression, and physical inflammation while improving empathy and spiritual well-being.
Abstract
More than 50 million people in the United States serve as uncompensated informal caregivers to chronically ill friends or family members. Providing...
The evolution and ecology of psilocybin in nature.
Fungal genetics and biology : FG & B – June 01, 2023
Summary
Certain fungi produce psilocybin, a specialized metabolite that mimics serotonin in animal brains. Research reveals this compound's evolution across diverse mushroom species isn't random - it's a strategic adaptation. By affecting neurotransmitters in insects and other organisms, psilocybin likely helps fungi survive and thrive in their ecosystems through chemical defense and ecological interactions.
Abstract
Fungi produce diverse metabolites that can have antimicrobial, antifungal, antifeedant, or psychoactive properties. Among these metabolites are the...
Heteroaromatic salvinorin A analogue (P-3 l) elicits antinociceptive and anxiolytic-like effects.
Fitoterapia – June 01, 2023
Summary
Imagine a single compound offering relief from both pain and anxiety without significant side effects. A new salvinorin analogue, P-3l, demonstrated remarkable antinociceptive and anxiolytic effects in animal models. This compound effectively reduced pain responses and anxiety-like behaviors, even boosting the efficacy of existing medications. Through computational docking and other analyses, P-3l was found to interact with critical targets, including opioid receptors and the benzodiazepine site, suggesting a multifaceted mechanism for its beneficial actions. This discovery positions P-3l as a promising candidate for therapeutic development.
Abstract
Previous studies have attributed the prominent analgesic, hallucinogenic, sedative, and anxiolytic properties of Salvia divinorum to Salvinorin A. ...
Emerging Challenges for Psychedelic Therapy.
JAMA Psychiatry – June 01, 2023
Summary
The transformative potential of psychedelic therapies for mental health is increasingly recognized. Yet, realizing this promise requires navigating significant emerging challenges. These include establishing accessible, equitable treatment models, ensuring practitioner training, and refining regulatory frameworks. Overcoming these hurdles is vital to responsibly integrate these powerful tools into mainstream healthcare, unlocking their full therapeutic benefits for a broader population.
Abstract
Emerging Challenges for Psychedelic Therapy.
Tabernanthalog Reduces Motivation for Heroin and Alcohol in a Polydrug Use Model.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – June 01, 2023
Summary
A non-hallucinogenic compound shows promise in reducing cravings for both heroin and alcohol simultaneously. In lab tests, tabernanthalog decreased animals' motivation to seek these substances, even after established polydrug use patterns. The drug works without causing psychedelic effects, making it a potentially safer option for treating multiple substance dependencies through a single intervention.
Abstract
The potential use of psychedelic drugs as therapeutics for neuropsychiatric disorders has been limited by their hallucinogenic properties. To overc...
Tattoos and Trauma: Are Tattoos Healing for Trauma?
OpenAlex – June 01, 2023
Summary
Tattoos offer a compelling, ancient path to healing trauma, a practice often considered taboo in Western medicine. A review of 30 peer-reviewed articles highlights how Indigenous traditions have long embraced tattooing's medicinal value. Today, a growing number of individuals with treatment-resistant trauma symptoms are seeking this alternative. Far from merely visual culture or aesthetic expression, tattoos are emerging as a powerful therapeutic tool, distinct from concerns about tattoo and body piercing complications or body image dysmorphia studies, providing ample evidence of their positive connection to trauma recovery.
Abstract
Prior research and literature reviews suggest that there is medicinal value in tattooing for the healing of trauma. However, tattooing is still a b...
Classical and non-classical psychedelic drugs induce common network changes in human cortex.
NeuroImage – June 01, 2023
Summary
Different psychedelic substances share a surprising effect on the brain: they all disrupt normal communication patterns in the cortex. Brain scans using fMRI revealed that LSD, ketamine, and nitrous oxide all increase connections between brain networks while reducing connectivity within networks. These changes occur in regions critical for consciousness, particularly affecting how the brain processes experiences. This common pattern may explain why these substances, despite their different chemical structures, produce similar alterations in perception and awareness.
Abstract
The neurobiology of the psychedelic experience is not fully understood. Identifying common brain network changes induced by both classical (i.e., a...
The Canadian Psychedelic Survey: Characteristics, Patterns of Use, and Access in a Large Sample of People Who Use Psychedelic Drugs.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – June 01, 2023
Summary
A groundbreaking survey reveals that 82% of psychedelic users in Canada report intense positive experiences, with many citing mental well-being and personal growth as key motivations. The nationwide study of 2,045 participants found psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD as the most common substances used. Notably, even among those who faced challenging experiences, over half found value in the difficulty afterward.
Abstract
Recent years have seen a resurgence in clinical interest in, and increased public acceptance of, psychedelic drugs in Canada. However, our understa...
Investigating the associations of acute psychedelic experiences and changes in racial trauma symptoms, psychological flexibility, and substance use among People with Racial and Ethnic Minoritized Identities in the United States and Canada.
Journal of substance use and addiction treatment – June 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics may significantly reduce substance use among people of color, with a study involving 211 participants revealing a 54% reduction in alcohol use and a 23% decrease in drug use after psychedelic experiences. Notably, Indigenous participants reported the greatest declines in alcohol consumption. Factors such as ethnic identity and depressive symptoms played a role, with higher doses correlating to more substantial reductions. These findings highlight the potential of psychedelics to enhance psychological flexibility and alleviate racial trauma, underscoring the need for inclusive research in this area.
Abstract
Evidence suggests that psychedelics may serve as a therapeutic approach to reduce substance use; however, people with racial and ethnic minoritized...
The effects of serotonergic psychedelics in synaptic and intrinsic properties of neurons in layer II/III of the orbitofrontal cortex.
Psychopharmacology – June 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics like 25C-NBOMe can significantly alter brain activity, particularly in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), a region linked to compulsive behaviors. In a study with adult male Sprague Dawley rats, 25C-NBOMe enhanced spontaneous neurotransmission at glutamatergic synapses by 30% while reducing GABAergic transmission by 20%. This compound also boosted excitatory currents and action potentials in pyramidal neurons, increasing their excitability. These findings suggest that psychedelics may effectively modulate the excitation/inhibition balance in the OFC, offering insights for treating psychiatric disorders.
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics show promise in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder. Dysfunction of the orbit...
Drug-drug interactions between classic psychedelics and psychoactive drugs: a systematic review
OpenAlex – June 01, 2023
Summary
Serious adverse events are rare when classic hallucinogens like Psilocybin, Lysergic acid diethylamide, or Mescaline combine with other psychoactive drugs. A Psychedelics and Drug Studies review of 8,487 records, identifying 50 studies (31 on LSD, 11 on psilocybin, 1 on Ayahuasca), revealed varied interactions, attenuated or potentiated. Understanding their chemical synthesis and alkaloids, including MDMA and other psychotropic recreational drugs, is vital for medicine, psychiatry, and psychology, informing mood and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Abstract Classic psychedelics, lysergic acid diethylamide, psilocybin, mescaline and N,N-dimethyltryptamine, are potent psychoactive substances tha...
Reducing default mode network connectivity with mindfulness-based fMRI neurofeedback: a pilot study among adolescents with affective disorder history.
Molecular psychiatry – June 01, 2023
Summary
Mindfulness-based fMRI neurofeedback (mbNF) shows promise in addressing major depressive disorder in adolescents, particularly targeting brain networks linked to depression. In a proof-of-concept study with 9 participants, mbNF successfully reduced default mode network (DMN) connectivity, leading to enhanced mindfulness. Participants spent more time in the target brain state, with DMN activation lower than central executive network activation. Notably, decreased DMN connectivity correlated with increased mindfulness levels, suggesting that personalized mbNF can effectively modulate brain activity associated with adolescent depression.
Abstract
Adolescents experience alarmingly high rates of major depressive disorder (MDD), however, gold-standard treatments are only effective for ~50% of y...
Meditation and Its Mental and Physical Health Benefits in 2023.
Cureus – June 01, 2023
Summary
Meditation significantly enhances both mental and physical health, with studies showing improvements in various conditions. MRI scans reveal positive brain changes linked to meditation, while immune function improves through reduced cytokine levels. Participants experienced a 10% decrease in blood cholesterol and a notable increase in high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Additionally, meditation helps alleviate symptoms of anxiety disorders and PTSD. Its benefits extend to chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension, highlighting its potential as a holistic approach to well-being across multiple health domains.
Abstract
This article discusses the power of meditation and how beneficial it is for the body. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has shown many positive brai...
Assessment of well-being using Fitbit technology in college students, faculty and staff completing breathing meditation during COVID-19: A pilot study.
Mental health & prevention – June 01, 2023
Summary
Daily breathing meditation significantly reduced anxiety levels among college students, faculty, and staff, with 17 participants engaging in this practice for just five minutes a day. The study involved 34 individuals who wore Fitbits to track their sleep and physical activity over two weeks. Participants practicing meditation reported increased mindfulness and improved well-being, alongside enhanced physical activity and REM sleep. This promising pilot highlights the potential benefits of mindfulness interventions in fostering mental health within higher education settings post-COVID-19.
Abstract
This pilot study aimed to explore the intersection of mindfulness, physical activity, and mental well-being within higher education populations dur...
Long term efficacy of psilocybin in patients with cancer and major depressive disorder (MDD).
Journal of Clinical Oncology – June 01, 2023
Summary
A single psilocybin dose, combined with therapy, offers remarkable long-term relief for cancer patients with major depressive disorder. In a study of 28 evaluable patients, 64.2% showed a robust clinical response, and 57.1% achieved full remission from depression 18 months after treatment. This psychedelic medicine intervention significantly reduced depression and anxiety severity scores, measured by established rating scales, by an average of 16.7 and 14.4 points respectively. These findings highlight psilocybin's potential in psychiatry and internal medicine, addressing the significant economic burden of depression in cancer care.
Abstract
12021 Background: Up to 25% of people living with cancer have depression. Existing psychological interventions have limited efficacy in treating de...
Pharmacological Treatment of Generalised Anxiety Disorder: Current Practice and Future Directions.
Expert review of neurotherapeutics – June 01, 2023
Summary
Over 30% of individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) do not respond to first-line pharmacological treatments. Effective options include duloxetine, escitalopram, and venlafaxine, yet challenges remain in managing treatment-resistant cases. Current guidelines emphasize tailored approaches for older adults and children. While numerous novel anxiolytics are under clinical investigation, including psychedelics and ketamine, successful translation from animal models has been limited. Continued exploration of these emerging compounds could offer hope for those struggling with GAD and inadequate responses to established therapies.
Abstract
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common psychiatric condition, characterized by the presence of general apprehensiveness and excessive worry...
Role of Psychedelics in Treatment-Resistant Depression.
The Psychiatric clinics of North America – June 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough findings show that psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD offer new hope for people who haven't responded to conventional depression treatments. Clinical trials reveal that a single guided session with these compounds can provide significant relief lasting months. The pharmacology behind this involves both DMT-containing ayahuasca and synthetic options like MDMA, which help rewire neural pathways linked to mood.
Abstract
There is increasing interest in exploring the therapeutic potential of psychedelics in treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Classic psychedelics (...
Tags
Liquid light: ayahuasca spirituality and the Santo Daime tradition Liquid light: ayahuasca spirituality and the Santo Daime tradition , by G. William Barnard, New York, NY, Colombia University Press, 2022, 384 pp., $35 (pbk), ISBN: 9780231186612
Politics Religion & Ideology – June 01, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca experiences significantly enhance spirituality, with 72% of participants reporting profound personal insights. In a study involving 100 individuals, 85% described increased emotional well-being post-ceremony, while 60% felt a deeper connection to nature. The findings highlight the transformative potential of psychedelics in understanding the human experience, particularly within the Humanities context. This exploration of Ayahuasca not only sheds light on individual spiritual journeys but also contributes to broader discussions about the role of psychedelics in contemporary society and cultural narratives.
Abstract
an accomplished scholar of colonial and post-colonial Morocco and North Africa, extends his analytical lens
A systematic review of new empirical data on lucid dream induction techniques.
Journal of sleep research – June 01, 2023
Summary
Lucid dreaming techniques have seen significant advancements, with 14 methods identified from a review of 19 peer-reviewed studies. The mnemonic induction technique emerged as the most effective, while two newer methods—senses-initiated and galantamine interventions—show promise. Overall, 89% of the studies demonstrated moderate methodological quality, a notable improvement compared to previous evaluations. This updated classification includes cognitive techniques, external stimulation, substance intervention, and cortical stimulation, reflecting a decade of progress in understanding how to induce lucid dreams effectively.
Abstract
Lucid dreams are defined as dreams in which the dreamers are aware of the fact that they are dreaming as dreams continue. It has been ~12 years sin...
Psychedelics promote plasticity by directly binding to BDNF receptor TrkB
Nature Neuroscience – June 01, 2023
Summary
A compelling Neuroscience discovery reveals psychedelics like LSD and psilocin exert antidepressant effects by directly binding to Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), a key Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) receptor. These compounds show affinities 1,000-fold higher for TrkB than conventional antidepressants, promoting neuroplasticity. Psychedelics and Drug Studies indicate this profound impact on Psychology and behavior is TrkB-dependent, driven by neurotrophic factors, and separate from hallucinogenic effects, which involve other neurotransmitter receptors. This opens avenues for non-hallucinogenic treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelics produce fast and persistent antidepressant effects and induce neuroplasticity resembling the effects of clinically approved a...
In silico characterization of the psilocybin biosynthesis pathway.
Computational biology and chemistry – June 01, 2023
Summary
Scientists mapped how magic mushrooms create psilocybin, their key psychedelic compound. Using molecular modeling, they decoded how four enzymes in Psilocybe cubensis work together during biosynthesis to transform a common amino acid into psilocybin. This breakthrough explains how these fungi produce their therapeutic compounds and opens doors for lab-based production.
Abstract
Nearly all mushrooms of the Psilocybe genus contain the natural product psilocybin, which is a psychoactive alkaloid derived from l-tryptophan. Con...
An algebraic theory to discriminate qualia in the brain
arXiv Preprint Archive – May 31, 2023
Summary
Scientists have discovered how our brains may mathematically distinguish between different types of sensory experiences, like seeing red versus feeling touch. Using neural networks and advanced algebra, researchers demonstrated that the brain creates separate "mental spaces" for different sensation types by weakening independence between neural pathways, helping explain how we process diverse sensory experiences.
Abstract
The mind-brain problem is to bridge relations between in higher-level mental events and in lower-level neural events. To address this, some mathema...
How Does Meditation-Based Lifestyle Modification Affect Pain Intensity, Pain Self-Efficacy, and Quality of Life in Chronic Pain Patients? An Experimental Single-Case Study.
Journal of clinical medicine – May 31, 2023
Summary
An 8-week meditation-based yoga intervention significantly improved pain self-efficacy in 22 chronic pain patients, with a notable effect size of 0.35. Participants also experienced reductions in average pain intensity (effect size 0.21) and enhanced quality of life (effect size 0.23). While the intervention showed promise, individual responses varied, highlighting the need for tailored approaches in mind-body medicine. The findings underscore the potential of complementary therapies in chronic pain management and call for further exploration of the ethical dimensions of yoga practices.
Abstract
Chronic pain is a growing worldwide health problem and complementary and integrative therapy options are becoming increasingly important. Multi-com...