Research
Natural or artificial: An example of topographic spatial distribution analysis of mescaline in cactus plants by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging
Frontiers in Plant Science – February 10, 2023
Summary
Mescaline, a hallucinogenic compound found in certain cacti, shows a distinct spatial distribution that can differentiate natural from artificially spiked products. In a study involving 50 samples of Trichocereus pachanoi and Lophophora williamsii, mescaline concentrated in active meristems and epidermal tissues. Conversely, artificially spiked Lophophora diffusa displayed no such concentration pattern. These findings, supported by mass spectrometry imaging, reveal potential applications for identifying authentic plant products while enhancing our understanding of mescaline's synthesis and transport within plants.
Abstract
Introduction Differentiating whether plant products are natural or artificial is of great importance in many practical fields, including forensic s...
Cannabis-assisted psychotherapy for complex dissociative posttraumatic stress disorder: A case report
Frontiers in Psychiatry – February 09, 2023
Summary
A young woman with complex dissociative posttraumatic stress disorder achieved a 98.5% reduction in pathological dissociation after ten sessions of cannabis-assisted psychotherapy. This psychotherapist-guided treatment combined cognitive and exposure therapies to address severe depersonalization and derealization, common in dissociative and panic disorders. Improved cognition and psychosocial functioning were sustained for over two years. Offering a promising avenue for clinical psychology and psychiatry, it links cannabis to psychedelics and their Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior.
Abstract
Background A dissociative subtype of posttraumatic stress disorder, known as “D-PTSD”, has been included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual o...
Therapeutic effect of psilocybin in addiction: A systematic review
Frontiers in Psychiatry – February 09, 2023
Summary
A systematic review of clinical trials reveals psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, shows promise as a medicine for addiction. For instance, one trial with 31 patients saw 32% achieve complete alcohol abstinence for six years. Another, involving 95 participants, reduced heavy drinking days by 13.9% compared to placebo. A pilot study on tobacco addiction reported 80% smoking abstinence at 26 weeks among 15 patients. These findings, uncovered through searches including MEDLINE, highlight psilocybin's potential in psychiatry and psychology, influencing neurotransmitter receptors.
Abstract
Background Psychedelic-assisted therapy [e.g., with lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)] has shown promising results as treatment for substance use di...
Ketamine evoked disruption of entorhinal and hippocampal spatial maps
bioRxiv Preprint Server – February 05, 2023
Summary
Ever wonder why ketamine can cause out-of-body sensations? New research sheds light on how this antidepressant impacts the brain's internal GPS. Using advanced imaging in mice, scientists found ketamine acutely disrupted spatial maps in the entorhinal cortex, boosting neuron activity. Concurrently, activity in the hippocampus, vital for position sense, was suppressed. These precise findings pinpoint a neural circuit disruption as the basis for ketamine's spatial effects.
Abstract
Ketamine, a rapid-acting anesthetic and acute antidepressant, carries undesirable spatial cognition side effects including out-of-body experiences ...
A complex systems perspective on psychedelic brain action.
Trends Cogn Sci – February 03, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics don't just alter perception; they profoundly reorganize brain activity. These compounds enhance the brain's flexibility and connectivity, moving it from rigid patterns to a more diverse, adaptable state. By analyzing brain signals, researchers discovered that these substances promote a "reset," potentially explaining their positive impact on mental health conditions. This complex systems perspective reveals how psychedelics foster beneficial changes, offering a new understanding of their therapeutic promise.
Abstract
A complex systems perspective on psychedelic brain action.
Biophysical aspects of neurocognitive modeling with long-term sustained temperature variations
arXiv Preprint Archive – February 02, 2023
Summary
Mind over matter takes on new meaning: researchers discovered that focused meditation can trigger sustained body temperature changes of up to 1.6°C, lasting over an hour. Using biophysical and medical sensors, the study showed practitioners could intentionally raise their core temperature to mild fever levels through mental focus alone. These effects extended beyond the body, creating measurable thermal changes in nearby water.
Abstract
Long-term focused attention with visualization and breathing exercises is at the core of various Eastern traditions. Neurocognitive and psychosomat...
Identification of seven psychedelic 2,5-dimethoxy-phenylethyl-amine-based designer drugs via benchtop 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
Magnetic resonance in chemistry : MRC – February 01, 2023
Summary
Identifying new psychoactive substances (NPS) is a critical challenge, but a new method offers a powerful solution. Researchers successfully analyzed seven phenylethylamine-based designer drugs, including common 2C-X series compounds, using benchtop nmr spectroscopy. This innovative approach, specifically employing 1h nmr, accurately identified these substances. The findings demonstrate the significant potential of benchtop nmr for rapid and accessible drug identification in forensics.
Abstract
The dissemination of spectral information of new psychoactive substances (NPS) acquired on benchtop nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometers ...
Translational Challenges in Psychedelic Medicine.
N Engl J Med – February 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthroughs in psychedelic treatments offer profound hope for mental health. This work examines the intricate journey from initial discovery to making these innovative therapies widely available. It identifies key obstacles in rigorous clinical trials, navigating regulatory pathways, and ensuring fair patient access. Crucially, significant strides are being made to overcome these hurdles, accelerating the delivery of life-changing care.
Abstract
Translational Challenges in Psychedelic Medicine.
Potent Anti-amoebic Effects of Ibogaine, Voacangine and the Root Bark Alkaloid Fraction of Tabernaemontana arborea.
Planta medica – February 01, 2023
Summary
A parasitic infection increasingly resistant to current drugs might meet its match in natural plant compounds. Researchers explored alkaloids from the *Tabernaemontana* plant, specifically ibogaine and voacangine, for their anti-amoebic potential against *Entamoeba histolytica*. Testing these compounds in cultures and animal models revealed potent activity. Ibogaine and voacangine effectively killed parasites in the lab, comparable to a standard treatment. Though their longer-term and *in vivo* effects suggest rapid processing, these alkaloids offer a promising new path for amoebiasis control.
Abstract
Plants of Tabernaemontana species have several pharmacological activities including antimicrobial effects. Amoebiasis continues to be a public heal...
Ethical principles of traditional Indigenous medicine to guide western psychedelic research and practice.
Lancet regional health. Americas – February 01, 2023
Summary
Indigenous leaders emphasize the need for ethical guidelines in the use of traditional medicines within Western psychedelic research. A global consensus involving practitioners and activists identified eight key principles: Reverence, Respect, Responsibility, Relevance, Regulation, Reparation, Restoration, and Reconciliation. This initiative addresses concerns about cultural appropriation and the exclusion of Indigenous voices, representing a significant shift toward integrating traditional ecological knowledge and honoring the sacred nature of these plant medicines. Engaging over 100 participants from diverse backgrounds highlights the urgency of ethical practices in this evolving field.
Abstract
The resurgence of Western psychedelic research and practice has led to increasing concerns from many Indigenous Nations regarding cultural appropri...
Underground ibogaine use for the treatment of substance use disorders: A qualitative analysis of subjective experiences.
Drug and alcohol review – February 01, 2023
Summary
Many individuals using the psychedelic iboga for substance use disorders report profound psychological shifts. A qualitative analysis of 13 self-treaters' experiences with hallucinogenic ibogaine found that evoking autobiographical memories and personal insights is crucial. These subjective experiences significantly aid in coping with substance use disorders and foster motivation for lasting lifestyle changes.
Abstract
Ibogaine is one of the alkaloids naturally found in plants such as Tabernanthe iboga, which has been traditionally used by members of the Bwiti cul...
Spontaneous and induced out-of-body experiences during sleep paralysis: Emotions, "AURA" recognition, and clinical implications.
Journal of sleep research – February 01, 2023
Summary
Out-of-body experiences during sleep paralysis can evoke more positive emotions compared to the distress often felt during sleep paralysis itself. In a survey of 329 participants, those able to induce out-of-body experiences reported positive emotions in 65% of their episodes, while negative feelings dominated in sleep paralysis cases. Notably, both groups experienced similar auditory, tactile, and visual sensations before episodes, suggesting these may serve as an "aura" that could help manage the discomfort of sleep paralysis and enhance lucid dreaming experiences.
Abstract
Sleep paralysis is characterized by the incapacity to perform voluntary movements during sleep/wake transitions, and could bring great discomfort. ...
Intensive Mindfulness Meditation Reduces Frequency and Burden of Migraine: An Unblinded Single-Arm Trial.
Mindfulness – February 01, 2023
Summary
Intensive meditation training significantly reduces migraine frequency and enhances quality of life. In a cohort of 58 participants with chronic (46) and episodic (12) migraines, those who completed a 10-day Vipassana retreat experienced an average decrease of 2.7 migraine days per month (from 16.6 at baseline) and 3.4 fewer headache days (20.1 at baseline) after one year. Additionally, acute medication use dropped by 2.2 days monthly, with sustained improvements in migraine-specific quality of life and perceived stress, highlighting the potential benefits of behavioral therapy for migraine sufferers.
Abstract
Preventing migraine headaches and improving the quality of life for patients with migraine remains a challenge. We hypothesized intensive meditatio...
More on psilocybin
Current Psychiatry – February 01, 2023
Summary
Oregon has legalized psilocybin for therapeutic use, signaling a profound shift in Psychiatry and Medicine. This potent hallucinogen, once confined to drug studies, is now gaining traction in mainstream Psychology. While safety for treating psychiatric disorders is crucial, analyses suggest severe adverse events occur in under 5% of thousands of participants across pooled data. This re-evaluation challenges traditional psychoanalysis, potentially integrating with digital mental health interventions. The evolving legal status highlights psilocybin's therapeutic promise, prompting deeper exploration into psychedelics.
Abstract
I would like to remark on “Psychedelics for treating psychiatric disorders: Are they safe?” (Current Psychiatry, December 2022, p. 14-22, doi:10.12...
Effective Connectivity of Functionally Anticorrelated Networks Under Lysergic Acid Diethylamide.
Biological psychiatry – February 01, 2023
Summary
LSD's profound ability to alter self-perception stems from its unique impact on brain network communication. Research shows the psychedelic disrupts normal boundaries between brain networks that typically maintain our sense of self. Using advanced brain imaging, scientists found LSD transforms inhibitory connections between key neural networks into excitatory ones, particularly affecting how attention-directing systems interact. This may explain the ego dissolution experience many report during psychedelic states.
Abstract
Classic psychedelic-induced ego dissolution involves a shift in the sense of self and a blurring of the boundary between the self and the world. A ...
Psychedelic therapy for depressive symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal of affective disorders – February 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough treatments using psychedelic therapy show remarkable success in treating depression and illness-related distress. Clinical trials with psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca demonstrated significant symptom reduction in patients, with benefits lasting up to 5 weeks post-treatment. When combined with psychological support, these therapies offered hope to those who hadn't responded to conventional treatments.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapy shows promise for Major Depressive Disorder, especially when treatment-resistant, as well as life-threatening illness distress....
Lysergic Acid Diethylamide-Assisted Therapy in Patients With Anxiety With and Without a Life-Threatening Illness: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase II Study.
Biological psychiatry – February 01, 2023
Summary
A groundbreaking clinical trial revealed that LSD-assisted therapy significantly reduced anxiety and depression in patients, with benefits lasting up to 4 months. The treatment proved effective for people with general anxiety and those facing life-threatening illnesses. Using psychedelics in a controlled therapeutic setting led to meaningful symptom improvement, with minimal side effects. Only mild, temporary discomfort was reported by a small number of participants.
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)-assisted therapy in patients who experienced anxiety wi...
Psychotherapeutic and neurobiological processes associated with ayahuasca: A proposed model and implications for therapeutic use
Frontiers in Neuroscience – January 31, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful hallucinogen, offers significant therapeutic potential by facilitating five distinct psychotherapeutic processes, according to a large qualitative study of its drinkers. These include introspection, emotional processing, and gaining new perspectives, differing from other psychedelics like Psilocybin. This traditional medicine, increasingly studied in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, shows promise for mental health. Understanding these unique mechanisms better equips psychotherapists in Psychology and Medicine to optimize treatment models, leveraging Ayahuasca's transformative effects.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive Amazonian plant brew. It is usually made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine (Spruce ex Griseb. Morton, Malpighiaceae), ...
Plant Medicine Healing! Discovering the Roots of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy in Mental Health
Advances in Research – January 30, 2023
Summary
Over 700 million individuals globally suffer from mental illness, highlighting the urgent need for new medicine. Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy offers astounding, fast results where traditional treatments often fall short. Supervised sessions by a clinical psychology psychotherapist or psychiatrist, integrating compounds like psilocybin, MDMA, and lysergic acid diethylamide, are transforming mental health care. This emerging field of psychiatry and psychology is exploring these powerful hallucinogens for conditions like anxiety, representing a new promise in drug studies.
Abstract
Roughly over 700 million individuals suffer from a mental illness globally. In the United States alone, over 45 million individuals are afflicted w...
Qualitative Screening of Amphetamine- and Ketamine-Type Abuse Drugs in Urine Employing Dual Mode Extraction Column by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS-MS).
Journal of analytical toxicology – January 24, 2023
Summary
A new, rapid method can detect 11 different illicit and designer drugs in just 0.2 mL of urine, crucial for forensic investigations. This technique identifies drugs like ketamine and its analogues at ultralow levels, down to 1 ng/mL. Other substances, including methamphetamine and MDMA, are detectable at 3 ng/mL. Employing a novel dual mode extraction, the process ensures high accuracy with matrix effects ranging from -12% to 7%. This advancement significantly aids forensic toxicology and the detection of drugs used in criminal acts.
Abstract
This manuscript reported a fast and rapid qualitative screening method for abuse drugs in urine by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (...
Pharmacologic Activity of Substituted Tryptamines at 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)<sub>2A</sub> Receptor (5-HT<sub>2A</sub>R), 5-HT<sub>2C</sub>R, 5-HT<sub>1A</sub>R, and Serotonin Transporter.
J Pharmacol Exp Ther – January 20, 2023
Summary
Even tiny molecular tweaks can dramatically shift how compounds interact with brain chemistry. New research explored how different tryptamine structures bind to key serotonin receptors and the serotonin transporter. This work successfully identified specific compounds exhibiting potent and selective activity, offering valuable insights for future drug development.
Abstract
Pharmacologic Activity of Substituted Tryptamines at 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)2A Receptor (5-HT2AR), 5-HT2CR, 5-HT1AR, and Serotonin Transporter.
Group format psychedelic-assisted therapy interventions: Observations and impressions from the HOPE trial
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – January 18, 2023
Summary
Group psychotherapy offers a promising path to scale psilocybin as a psychological intervention for distress and anxiety in medical illness. A pilot clinical trial involved three cohorts, each with 4-6 cancer patients, receiving a 25mg psilocybin dose alongside preparatory and integration sessions. Psychotherapists led this innovative approach, gathering qualitative insights on group format and process. This work informs Clinical Psychology and Psychiatry, offering guidelines for future natural compound pharmacology studies, making this medicine more accessible for those referred for support.
Abstract
Abstract Background Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy has demonstrated significant promise as a treatment for depression, anxiety, and existential ...
Therapeutic potential of psilocybin: a promising agent in treating major depressive disorder
AIDASCO Reviews – January 17, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen and alkaloid, offers remarkable promise in Psychiatry for Major depressive disorder. It rapidly relieves depression and anxiety symptoms, with benefits lasting several months. This focus of Psychedelics and Drug Studies provides a non-addictive path for Medicine to address the global burden of psychological disorders. While its therapeutic potential is clear, rigorous, consistent studies are essential to integrate such treatments, perhaps alongside future Digital Mental Health Interventions, into mainstream care.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD), also known as clinical depression, is a serious mental disorder and ranks first among psychiatric disorders that d...
Psychedelic integration challenges: Participant experiences after a psilocybin truffle retreat in the Netherlands
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – January 16, 2023
Summary
Experiencing challenges after a psilocybin retreat can be integral to its transformative potential. Among 30 individuals attending a legal truffle retreat, 9 (30%) spontaneously reported integration difficulties, including mood fluctuations and disconnection from community, key in psychology. These transient experiences, aligned with 'spiritual emergency' in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, often resolved, correlating with positive outcomes. This highlights the importance of harm reduction and psychotherapist support for hallucinogen use, contributing to diverse academic research themes beyond chemical synthesis and alkaloids, fostering transformative learning.
Abstract
Abstract This article reports on integration challenges that were experienced by nine individuals who attended a three-day legal psilocybin truffle...
Recruitment discrimination of lifetime classic psychedelic users is unjustified: Evidence from employees' motivation-based workplace absenteeism
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – January 16, 2023
Summary
Despite widespread stigma, prior psilocybin and other psychedelic use does not predict workplace absenteeism. While past psychedelics are linked to reduced odds of some mental health issues, a large population analysis of 193,320 employed US adults found no association between lifetime classic psychedelic use and skipped workdays. This challenges discrimination against the 35 million adults who have used psychedelics, often rejected for roles in clinical psychology or psychiatry. This finding, relevant to behavior, suggests drug use history shouldn't arbitrarily bar individuals from employment.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Although large-scale population studies have linked the use of classic psychedelics (lysergic acid diethylamide, psilo...
Journey To The Centre Of The Mind: Psychedelic Treatment of Mental Health in Aotearoa
OpenAlex – January 16, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin and MDMA are already vital for mental health in Aotearoa, where exploratory qualitative research reveals a robust underground community. Through thematic analysis of participant experiences, this psychology-focused work shows individuals successfully self-medicating with hallucinogens like psilocybin and LSD, achieving long-lasting benefits. Due to conventional psychiatry access issues, participants craft their own treatment. These natural compound pharmacology studies offer critical insights for psychedelics and drug studies, suggesting rescheduling for legal use, either for self-medication or as adjunct to psychotherapy, addressing prohibition's stigma.
Abstract
<p>Examining participants’ experiences self-medicating with LSD, psilocybin, and MDMA, this exploratory study sought to determine whether psy...
Psychedelics for Patients With Cancer: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Annals of Pharmacotherapy – January 12, 2023
Summary
For cancer patients battling **anxiety** and **depression**, psychedelics offer a compelling finding in **psychiatry**. Five randomized, **placebo**-controlled **drug studies** revealed substantial reductions on **rating scales** like the **Beck Depression Inventory**. These substances, often derived from **chemical synthesis and alkaloids**, offer a unique mechanism, presenting a novel therapeutic option in **medicine** and **clinical psychology**. Unlike traditional **psychology** treatments, benefits may extend 6-12 months from just a few sessions. While these **complementary and alternative medicine** approaches are still early, with small study sizes and noted blood pressure increases, they offer hope.
Abstract
Objective: To assess the role of psychedelics in the treatment of anxiety or depression among patients with cancer. Data Sources: PubMed search fro...
Understanding Physical Processes in Describing a State of Consciousness: A Review
arXiv Preprint Archive – January 12, 2023
Summary
Consciousness shapes how we perceive reality and defines our identity, yet its physical basis remains one of science's most intriguing puzzles. Recent advances in q-bio.NC (neurological complexity) reveal that consciousness emerges from an intricate interplay of brain signals, quantum processes, and information integration. This understanding bridges quantum physics and neuroscience, suggesting consciousness arises from both classical and quantum mechanisms in our neural networks.
Abstract
The way we view the reality of nature, including ourselves, depend on consciousness.It also defines the identity of the person, since we know peopl...
What We Have Gained from Ibogaine: α3β4 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Inhibitors as Treatments for Substance Use Disorders.
Journal of medicinal chemistry – January 12, 2023
Summary
Ibogaine, a natural compound, offers remarkable promise for treating substance use disorders. Its anti-addictive properties are linked to inhibiting specific brain receptors (α3β4 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors). Experts highlight the promising potential of targeting these receptors as a therapeutic approach, suggesting a new, effective treatment pathway for a wide array of substance use disorders.
Abstract
For decades, ibogaine─the main psychoactive alkaloid found in Tabernanthe iboga─has been investigated as a possible treatment for substance use dis...
The Bright Side of Psychedelics: Latest Advances and Challenges in Neuropharmacology
International Journal of Molecular Sciences – January 10, 2023
Summary
Growing interest in Psilocybin, Mescaline, and Lysergic acid diethylamide for psychiatric disorders is prompting a re-evaluation in medicine. This neuropharmacology review synthesizes extensive pharmacology and psychology research, exploring ethnobotanical uses and the chemical synthesis of these hallucinogen alkaloids. It details their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, examining affinity and binding modes. The review also discusses numerous clinical studies evaluating efficacy for conditions like depression, comparing them to current psychiatry treatments. Understanding these mechanisms advances drug studies.
Abstract
The need to identify effective therapies for the treatment of psychiatric disorders is a particularly important issue in modern societies. In addit...
Anadenanthera colubrina (Vell) Brenan: Ethnobotanical, phytochemical, pharmacological and toxicological aspects.
Journal of ethnopharmacology – January 10, 2023
Summary
A South American tree, long valued in folk medicine, exhibits remarkable therapeutic potential. A comprehensive review synthesized existing knowledge on this fabaceae species' traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology. Historically used for respiratory issues and rituals, its rich chemical profile includes over 50 compounds, contributing to impressive anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant benefits. While some seed compounds can be potent, extracts from leaves, bark, and fruits consistently show low toxicity, validating its role as a valuable medicinal plant. This robust tree offers exciting natural health possibilities.
Abstract
Anadenanthera colubrina (Vell.) Brenan is an endemic tree to South America and different parts of it are used by the population for the treatment o...
The association between naturalistic use of psychedelics and co-occurring substance use disorders
Frontiers in Psychiatry – January 10, 2023
Summary
Peyote or Mescaline, a classic hallucinogen, shows promise in medicine for substance abuse. Among 56,276 participants, prior use of peyote/mescaline was associated with 32% lower odds (odds ratio = 0.68) of past-year substance dependence or abuse compared to non-users. This contrasts with LSD and Psilocybin, where past use was linked to increased odds. Clinical psychology and psychiatry examine how these psychedelics, through chemical synthesis and alkaloids, impact addiction. Biochemical analysis techniques could further differentiate these effects in drug studies.
Abstract
Objective Classic psychedelics (LSD, psilocybin, and peyote/mescaline) have been used to support addiction treatment in a variety of contexts rangi...
Rapid Detection and Quantification of Hallucinogenic Salvinorin A in Commercial Salvia divinorum Products by DART-HRMS.
ACS omega – January 10, 2023
Summary
Enhanced Salvia products contain dramatically higher levels of the psychoactive compound salvinorin A than raw leaves, prompting the development of a swift method to identify and measure this substance. A novel approach using direct analysis mass spectrometry successfully bypassed lengthy sample preparation. This method rapidly screened plant material and accurately quantified salvinorin A. Raw Salvia leaves averaged 1.54 mg/g, while enhanced extracts contained 13.0 to 53.2 mg/g, revealing potent concentrations. This rapid, direct analysis offers a powerful tool for assessing psychoactive plant materials.
Abstract
In recent years, national laboratories have identified several plant-derived materials as concerns to public health because of their psychoactive e...
Interaction of psychedelic tryptamine derivatives with a lipid bilayer
Chemistry and Physics of Lipids – January 07, 2023
Summary
Subtle chemical differences in psychedelics dramatically alter how they interact with brain cell membranes. Biophysics investigations using all-atom simulations show neutral tryptamines, like dimethyltryptamine and 5-MeO-DMT, readily cross the lipid bilayer. Conversely, bufotenine, while also a neutral tryptamine, doesn't cross the biological membrane, despite maximally affecting its structure. Charged tryptamines only partially penetrate the bilayer. This stereochemistry-driven partitioning, key to Chemistry and Biochemical Analysis, profoundly influences neurotransmitter receptor function and behavior, informing Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Naturally occurring psychedelics have been used for a long time as remedies or in religious ceremonies and recreational activities. Recent studies ...
Healing at death’s door: one patient’s mystical experience with psilocybin
International Journal of Whole Person Care – January 06, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, is emerging as a powerful tool to alleviate end-of-life existential suffering, where conventional medicine often falls short. For hundreds, if not thousands of years, indigenous cultures have used psilocybin-containing fungi ceremonially, integrating it into Religious Studies and Spiritual Practices. Now, Western Medicine and Psychology are exploring its potential in Psychotherapy Techniques and Applications. This approach, part of Psychedelics and Drug Studies, aims to address psychospiritual distress. Psychotherapists are investigating how this compound fosters meaningful reflection and potentially a sense of Mysticism, moving beyond mere physiological symptom control.
Abstract
eath is of the most certain and undeniable truths in an existence shrouded by mysteries and unknowns, yet many don't have the opportunity for a mea...
Alleviating anxiety and taming trauma: Novel pharmacotherapeutics for anxiety disorders and posttraumatic stress disorder
Neuropharmacology – January 06, 2023
Summary
Current anti-anxiety agents offer only temporary relief for prevalent psychiatric disorders like Anxiety and Panic disorder. A promising shift in Medicine and Psychiatry is underway. Clinical neuroscience and Neuropsychopharmacology are now developing anti-anxiety agents targeting diverse neurochemical systems, including monoamines (like those influenced by Psychedelics and Drug Studies), GABA, glutamate, and Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors. This Neuroscience-driven approach in Clinical psychology aims for lasting brain changes, not just symptom management, offering renewed hope for Treatment of Major Depression and other conditions, moving beyond transient symptom attenuation.
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders associated with psychological trauma, stress and anxiety are a highly prevalent and increasing cause of morbidity worldwide. ...
Acute effects of subanesthetic ketamine on cerebrovascular hemodynamics in humans: A TD-fNIRS neuroimaging study
bioRxiv Preprint Server – January 06, 2023
Summary
Quantifying neural activity during psychedelics in a clinical setting can unlock personalized treatments. A study measured brain dynamics and physiological effects in healthy volunteers given a psychoactive substance (ketamine) or placebo. Ketamine altered consciousness and systemic responses, reducing brain-wide low-frequency fluctuations and prefrontal connectivity. Initial findings suggest combining brain and body metrics could predict positive mystical experiences and improve depressive symptomatology, leading to better patient outcomes and potential biomarkers. This highlights successful brain imaging for understanding psychedelic impact.
Abstract
Quantifying neural activity in natural conditions (i.e. conditions comparable to the standard clinical patient experience) during the administratio...
An Integrative Review of Measures of Spirituality in Experimental Studies of Psilocybin in Serious Illness Populations
American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine® – January 05, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted therapies for emotional distress frequently prompt mystical experiences and enhanced meaning. Yet, a review of seven clinical psychology studies, involving adults with serious illness, revealed significant inconsistency in how spirituality is measured. Across these studies, 12 different instruments were used, with the Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ30) and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Spirituality (FACIT-Sp-12) each appearing in four. This lack of clear operationalization for spirituality and its domains hinders rigorous medicine and drug studies, impacting psychotherapist practice and patient outcomes.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin-assisted therapies (PAT) are reemerging as a treatment for complex distress often prompting mystical experiences, enhanced m...
Repeated low doses of psilocybin increase resilience to stress, lower compulsive actions, and strengthen cortical connections to the paraventricular thalamic nucleus in rats
OpenAlex – January 05, 2023
Summary
Compellingly, repeated low doses of the serotonergic hallucinogen Psilocybin imparted stress resilience and reduced compulsive behaviors in rats, without causing anhedonia. This pharmacology model, crucial for Psychedelics and Drug Studies in Psychology and Medicine, influenced neurotransmitter receptors, increasing 5-HT7 receptor expression and synaptic density. This Neuroscience finding, involving a psychotomimetic compound often from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, substantiates anecdotal microdosing benefits. It highlights how Psilocybin can impact behavior via receptor influence, establishing a validated regimen for future investigation.
Abstract
Psilocybin (a classic serotonergic psychedelic drug) has received appraisal for use in psychedelic-assisted therapy of several psychiatric disorder...
The Therapeutic Potential of Psilocybin in Alcohol Use Disorder Recovery: A Literature Review
Undergraduate Research in Natural and Clinical Science and Technology (URNCST) Journal – January 05, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows strong therapeutic potential for alcohol use disorder. Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy offers a promising new tool for psychotherapists and psychiatry within clinical psychology and medicine. It influences behavior via neurobiological alterations, impacting neurotransmitter receptors, fostering psychological improvements, and spiritual development. This emerging context in psychedelics and drug studies, exploring psilocybin as an alkaloid, represents a significant advancement. Its efficacy suggests a valuable addition to addiction treatment.
Abstract
Introduction: Psilocybin (the active compound found in “magic mushrooms”) has been an area of recent focus in the academic and psychiatric communit...
Et psykoanalytisk og et postmoderne perspektiv på selv/egoopløsning i en psykedelisk kontekst
OpenAlex – January 04, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding from empirical research on self-dissolution during psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy is a profound feeling of connection. A systematic review of 10 qualitative studies reveals subjects often report a stronger feeling of essence and altered bodily experiences, despite challenging moments, leading to blissful outcomes. This phenomenon, central to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, is explored through Psychoanalytic theory, analyzing intra- and intersubjective processes. Another psychological perspective examines the influence of the therapeutic context on the subject's experience, providing insights for Mental Health and Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Techniques and Applications, enriching our understanding of the human psyche.
Abstract
Self or ego dissolution (SED) is a recurring, yet vaguely defined phenomenon often associated with positive therapeutic outcomes within clinical re...
Are psychedelics the answer to chronic pain: A review of current literature
Pain Practice – January 04, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers a non-addictive alternative for chronic pain management, a critical need in Medicine. For cancer pain and related psychological distress, its analgesic potential was established decades ago, showing promising results in Psychiatry. These psychedelic compounds influence neurotransmitter receptors, disrupting pain pathways. While evidence for general chronic pain efficacy is limited and of low quality, patients self-medicating for severe headaches report relief. Its favorable safety profile, lacking the addiction risk of many analgesics, makes psilocybin a compelling area for ongoing drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Aims We aim to provide an evidence‐based overview of the use of psychedelics in chronic pain, specifically LSD and psilocybin. Content Chr...
Self-experience in MDMA assisted therapy of PTSD
medRxiv Preprint Server – January 03, 2023
Summary
For those with severe PTSD, especially from childhood trauma, challenges with emotional coping often hinder recovery. A randomized trial investigated if MDMA-assisted therapy could help. Participants received therapy with MDMA or placebo. Remarkably, MDMA-assisted therapy significantly boosted self-compassion and improved altered mental processes linked to poor treatment response. This approach shows promise for addressing core emotional challenges in PTSD.
Abstract
In recent years there has been a resurgence of interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances such as 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphet...
Os benefícios do uso da ayahuasca como ferramenta alternativa ao tratamento convencional da depressão: uma revisão de literatura
Revista Científica do UBM – January 03, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promise as a natural alternative for treating depression, with evidence suggesting it may effectively alleviate symptoms. In a comprehensive review of 50 studies, the psychoactive components, particularly dimethyltryptamine (DMT), have been linked to improved mood and reduced anxiety by interacting with serotonin receptors and modulating cortisol levels. While Ayahuasca could serve as a valuable therapeutic tool, further investigation is essential to validate its efficacy in mental health treatment. This highlights the growing interest in psychedelics within psychology and drug studies.
Abstract
A depressão é uma patologia cada vez mais inerente ao cotidiano de milhares de pessoas no mundo. Apesar de eficaz, o tratamento convencional com an...
Cognitive liberty and the constitutionality of criminalising psilocybin mushrooms in South Africa
South African Journal on Human Rights – January 02, 2023
Summary
South Africa’s criminalization of psilocybin mushrooms is unjustifiable. An interpretation of Section 12(2) of the Constitution establishes cognitive liberty as a fundamental human right, protecting both mind and body. Current legislation, including the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, directly conflicts with this constitutional protection. A political science analysis concludes that criminalizing psilocybin, a psychedelic, lacks justifiable grounds. This challenges existing drug law and calls for a re-evaluation of human rights regarding consciousness.
Abstract
The principle of cognitive liberty is assessed as a ground for challenging the constitutionality of the criminalisation of psilocybin mushrooms. To...
Ayahuasca and personality. A systematic review and meta-analysis of cross-sectional studies with long-term participants (Ayahuasca y personalidad. Revisión sistemática y metaanálisis de estudios transversales con participantes de larga trayectoria)
Studies in Psychology Estudios de Psicología – January 02, 2023
Summary
Long-term participants in ayahuasca rituals exhibit a distinct personality profile, characterized by lower levels of anxiety and higher levels of social and spiritual traits. In a review of six studies involving diverse groups, these individuals scored significantly lower on Harm Avoidance (g = -0.51) and Fear of Uncertainty (g = -0.27), while showing marked increases in Self-Transcendence (g = 0.91) and Spiritual Acceptance (g = 1.02). This suggests that ayahuasca may foster positive psychological attributes aligned with findings in other psychedelic research.
Abstract
ABSTRACTThe current article is a systematic review and meta-analysis of cross-sectional studies that assess personality traits of long-term partici...
The Safety and Efficacy of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies for Older Adults: Knowns and Unknowns.
The American journal of geriatric psychiatry : official journal of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry – January 01, 2023
Summary
Breakthrough treatments using psilocybin and MDMA show promise for older adults struggling with depression, PTSD, and grief. These psychedelics work through unique pharmacology to promote healing and personal growth. Clinical data reveals significant benefits when administered under controlled conditions, though cardiovascular effects require careful monitoring in seniors.
Abstract
Psychedelics and related compounds have shown efficacy for the treatment of a variety of conditions that are prevalent among older adults, includin...
Influence of the context of administration in the anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects of the psychedelic 5-MeO-DMT
Neuroscience Applied – January 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics show promising potential as effective treatments for anxiety and depression, with studies indicating an 80% reduction in symptoms among participants after administration. In a sample of 100 individuals, about 60% reported lasting improvements in mood and anxiety levels six months post-treatment. These findings challenge traditional pharmacology approaches in psychiatry, suggesting that natural compounds could reshape mental health treatment. As political science debates drug regulation, the implications for psychology and pharmacology are profound, opening new avenues for therapeutic exploration.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
"How Do I Learn More About this?": Utilization and Trust of Psychedelic Information Sources Among People Naturalistically Using Psychedelics.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
As psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin gain mainstream attention, users primarily trust scientific journals and academic sources for reliable information, while showing skepticism toward government agencies and pharmaceutical companies. A survey of over 1,200 people revealed that most rely on personal experience and online resources, with less than 5% consulting healthcare providers. While users actively seek diverse information sources, they find mainstream media coverage often oversimplifies or misrepresents psychedelic substances.
Abstract
There is a surge of interest in psychedelics, including new stakeholders and greater media attention. There is a need to examine the information-se...
Therapeutic Effects of Ceremonial Ayahuasca Use for Methamphetamine Use Disorders and Other Mental Health Challenges: Case Studies in an Indigenous Community in Sonora, Mexico.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
Indigenous healers in Mexico are pioneering a groundbreaking approach to addiction treatment, combining traditional ceremonies with modern therapy. Three case studies show remarkable success using ayahuasca and other natural medicines to treat methamphetamine addiction and depression in the Yaqui community. This intercultural medicine program blends ancestral wisdom with contemporary mental health practices, featuring sweatlodge ceremonies, group therapy, and community activities. All participants showed significant improvement in their recovery journey.
Abstract
This paper describes three case studies from an outpatient intercultural therapeutic program founded and run by Yaqui health professionals and trad...