795 results for "DMT"
A Systematic Review of Reporting Practices in Psychedelic Clinical Trials: Psychological Support, Therapy, and Psychosocial Interventions
OpenAlex – July 18, 2023
Summary
A systematic review of 33 psychedelic clinical trials revealed significant underreporting of crucial psychosocial interventions, impacting treatment outcomes in Psychiatry and Clinical psychology. For example, 82% of trials did not assess treatment fidelity. Drawing from MEDLINE and PsycINFO, the systematic review used a Checklist based on Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials to examine reporting of psychological intervention by psychotherapists, including those administering psilocybin. Such reporting gaps hinder standardization in Medicine and Psychedelics and Drug Studies, crucial for Mental Health Research Topics.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelic-assisted therapy has gained significant attention in recent years. However, there is a lack of empirical clarity on the rol...
Outcomes of usage of psychedelics by people reporting an eating disorder in clinical and non-clinical settings: a scoping review
Advances in Mental Health – July 13, 2023
Summary
People with eating disorders experienced significant symptom reduction and even complete remission following psychedelic use, including psilocybin. This review of six studies suggests a promising role for hallucinogens in clinical psychology and psychiatry. Participants reported profound spiritual healing, gaining insights into the psychological origins of their eating disorders, and reduced anxiety. While preliminary, these findings highlight the potential of psychedelics in medicine. Rigorous clinical trials are now essential to confirm efficacy for eating disorders, informing future drug studies and advancing our understanding of these compounds' influence on behavior.
Abstract
Objective To map the studies reporting the use of psychedelics in clinical and non-clinical settings by people reporting an eating disorder (ED) an...
Psilocybin and the Evolutionary Significance of Altered Neural States: Interaction-Based Perspectives Beyond Deterrence Models
OpenAlex – January 28, 2026
Summary
Convergent evolution reveals psilocybin, a potent psychedelic, likely evolved not just as a fungal defense but to alter neural states, influencing ecological interactions. Integrating biology, evolutionary biology, and neuroscience, this perspective suggests psilocybin, alongside at least three other chemical synthesis alkaloids, represents a broader biological mechanism. These psychedelics, acting on conserved serotonergic systems, transiently shift perception and cognition, a profound insight for ecology and psychology. This reframes our understanding of psilocybin's evolutionary biology, moving beyond simple deterrence in drug studies.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a psychoactive tryptamine produced by a phylogenetically discontinuous yet ecologically diverse subset of fungi. Despite decades of c...
IS PSYCHEDELIC TREATMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS READY FOR PRIME TIME?
Journal of Pakistan Psychiatric Society – June 30, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like Psilocybin and MDMA are transforming Psychiatry, offering hope for millions with mental health challenges. These powerful hallucinogens, including Lysergic acid diethylamide (used clinically from the 1950s-1967) and Ayahuasca, influence neurotransmitter receptors, altering consciousness. Clinical psychology and drug studies reveal their potential to disrupt pathological brain activity, promoting neuroplasticity. Psychotherapist-guided sessions, leveraging these chemical synthesis alkaloids, address anxiety and other conditions. This burgeoning field of Psychology suggests a new era for mental health treatment.
Abstract
Psychedelics, substances known to alter perception, mood, and consciousness, have been used across various cultures for centuries, often in religio...
Neuroplasticity and Psychedelics: a comprehensive examination of classic and non-classic compounds in pre and clinical models
arXiv (Cornell University) – November 29, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics demonstrate remarkable potential for rapid, lasting treatment of neuropsychiatric conditions. Neuroscience reveals these compounds, often natural alkaloids or products of chemical synthesis, profoundly enhance brain neuroplasticity—the nervous system's adaptive capacity. Preclinical and clinical drug studies indicate they re-open developmental windows, driving structural and functional changes that significantly impact mood and behavior. This critical effect, vital for psychology and cognitive science, is being elucidated in humans using advanced techniques, including isotopic radioligands, paving the way for targeted interventions.
Abstract
Neuroplasticity, the ability of the nervous system to adapt throughout an organism's lifespan, offers potential as both a biomarker and treatment t...
Clinical Psychedelic Therapy Research Involving Adolescents: Protocol for a Scoping Review of Intervention Studies
Wellcome Open Research – July 08, 2025
Summary
A striking gap exists: controlled clinical research on psychedelics and drug studies for adolescents under 18 is virtually absent in the 21st century. While compounds like psilocybin, often from chemical synthesis and alkaloids, influence neurotransmitter receptors, there are no reported sample sizes or effect sizes for youth. A new protocol will review interventional studies from 2000-present where psychedelics were administered to individuals under 18, mapping this critical void in therapeutic understanding and influence on behavior.
Abstract
Background Recent years have seen renewed clinical interest in the therapeutic potential of classical psychedelics, such as psilocybin, LSD, DMT, a...
Beyond prohibition: A public health analysis of naturalistic psychedelic use
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – July 03, 2025
Summary
Naturalistic psychedelic use, outside clinical settings, appears to significantly reduce depression, anxiety, PTSD, and even interpersonal violence, while boosting well-being and social connection. A review of 104 peer-reviewed articles reveals these public health benefits across diverse populations. Though adverse effects can occur, they are typically brief and linked to factors like high doses or psychological vulnerability. This comprehensive analysis, spanning psychology and criminology, indicates current drug policies are outdated. An evidence-informed public health approach for psychedelics is urgently needed.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic drug use is experiencing a global resurgence, both in clinical research and community settings. This paper presents a comprehe...
Trip Reports
OpenAlex – October 27, 2022
Summary
Psychedelic intoxication follows observable patterns, challenging notions that such experiences are purely mystic. Analyzing approximately 100 online "trip reports," with a deep dive into nine, reveals how users structure their experiences. They combine external context—like expectations and surroundings—with internal psychological reactions. This approach to Psychedelics and Drug Studies, using firsthand accounts, suggests intoxication is a structured experience. These insights could refine harm reduction strategies and further explore the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, moving beyond purely religious interpretations.
Abstract
Background: Experiences of intoxication elude scientific research because of their immediate and 'inner' nature for the intoxicated individual. In ...
Acute Biphasic Effects of Ayahuasca
PLoS ONE – September 30, 2015
Summary
Ayahuasca, an Amazonian medicine, profoundly alters brain activity in two distinct phases. Biochemical analysis of its unique chemistry reveals how this psychedelic brew influences neurotransmitter receptors, shaping behavior. After 50 minutes, brain activity shows reduced alpha power (8-13 Hz). Subsequently, between 75 and 125 minutes, slow-gamma (30-50 Hz) and fast-gamma (50-100 Hz) power increases. These drug studies demonstrate this biphasic effect is directly associated with circulating levels of Ayahuasca's chemical compounds, illuminating its therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Ritual use of ayahuasca, an amazonian Amerindian medicine turned sacrament in syncretic religions in Brazil, is rapidly growing around the world. B...
Reconsidering evidence for psychedelic-induced psychosis: An overview of reviews, a systematic review, and meta-analysis of human studies
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveal a remarkably low 0.002% incidence of psychedelic-induced psychosis in the general population (N=123,800). However, among individuals with schizophrenia, 3.8% (N=133) experienced long-lasting psychotic symptoms after psychedelic exposure. Furthermore, 13.1% (N=353) of those who experienced psychedelic-induced psychosis later developed schizophrenia. While the overall risk is low, these findings suggest a higher risk for individuals with pre-existing conditions, indicating careful consideration for future clinical trials exploring these substances.
Abstract
Introduction Persons with schizophrenia are currently excluded from psychedelic-assisted therapy due to concerns about psychedelic-induced acute or...
Adverse events associated with classic psychedelics and MDMA: a real-world population-based study using the WHO pharmacovigilance database (VigiBase)
Psychiatry Research – December 29, 2025
Summary
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and MDMA (Ecstasy) carry significant risks for substance abuse and addiction, a global pharmacovigilance analysis reveals. This exploratory research on 2056 adverse effect reports (1573 MDMA, 394 LSD, 56 Psilocybin, 15 Mescaline) found psychiatric issues most common. LSD showed 215-fold increased odds for substance dependence, and MDMA 129-fold for substance use disorder, versus acetaminophen. Overdoses were rare (1.1-1.7%). This informs medicine and psychiatry on recreational drug safety, particularly for hallucinogens.
Abstract
Psychedelic use has greatly increased within clinical and recreational settings over recent years. While demonstrating a favorable safety profile w...
Four Weekly Ayahuasca Sessions Lead to Increases in “Acceptance” Capacities: A Comparison Study With a Standard 8-Week Mindfulness Training Program
Frontiers in Pharmacology – March 20, 2018
Summary
Ayahuasca sessions can be as effective as an 8-week meditation course for enhancing psychological acceptance. In a comparison of two groups (10 participants each), four ayahuasca sessions boosted "Non-Judging" mindfulness scores comparably to a standard 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program. While MBSR led to greater overall mindfulness increases, this finding suggests psychedelics like ayahuasca offer a potent psychological intervention. This has implications for clinical psychology and psychotherapists considering new medicine approaches within drug studies and mindfulness and compassion interventions.
Abstract
Background: The therapeutic effects of the Amazonian plant tea ayahuasca may relate to its ability to enhance mindfulness capacities. Ayahuasca ind...
Psychedelic Drugs: A Mind-expanding Hallucinogens
Indian Journal of Behavioural Sciences – March 22, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin are showing promise in Psychology for treating conditions such as depression and PTSD. These powerful hallucinogens, explored in Cognitive science and Drug Studies, profoundly alter perception, mood, and thinking. Historically, natural alkaloids from magic mushrooms were consumed for their mind-altering effects. Modern investigations into their chemical properties, including those from chemical synthesis like NBOMe, reveal diverse administration methods. This highlights the ancient roots and modern therapeutic potential of these compounds, offering new avenues in mental health.
Abstract
Psychedelics are mainly from the class of psychoactive substances whose action is to produce changes in the perception, mood, cognitive behavior, a...
Everything old is new again: are psychedelic medicines poised to take mental health by storm?
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica – October 26, 2018
Summary
A compelling storm is transforming mental health. Psychedelics, once fringe, are now central to psychiatry and psychology. Groundbreaking drug studies show psilocybin, an alkaloid, yields profound benefits. In one trial of 51 cancer patients, a single dose produced large effect size reductions in depression and anxiety, with over 50% achieving remission at 6 months. Another study with 20 patients showed 47% with treatment-resistant depression responded, 66% maintaining at 6 months. These findings highlight a unique neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, offering hope for new treatments.
Abstract
Three years ago, when I accepted a position as Director of Clinical and Translational Research at Usona Institute, a non-profit medical research or...
The therapeutical role of psychedelic drugs in treatment of mental disorders
Bulletin of Integrative Psychiatry – September 15, 2021
Summary
Psychedelics, historically used in spiritual practices, are now demonstrating significant therapeutic promise in modern Psychiatry. These powerful compounds, central to many Drug Studies, include two main groups: indoleamines like psilocybin and LSD, and phenethylamines such as mescaline. Their influence on behavior stems from acting primarily on the 5-HT2 serotonergic Neurotransmitter Receptor. This mechanism is being explored in Psychology and Medicine for conditions like anxiety, major depressive disorder, and addictions. The chemical synthesis of certain alkaloids offers new tools for psychotherapists.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs (also called hallucinogens, psychotogenics, psycholytics, entheogens) are substances that act mainly on the 5-HT2 serotonergic re...
Symmetry Perception and Psychedelic Experience
Symmetry – June 30, 2023
Summary
The human brain automatically detects **symmetry**, even unconsciously. Over 100 years of **psychology** and **neuroscience** research confirms that **reflection symmetry** and other regular visual patterns activate the **extrastriate cortex**, crucial for **visual perception**. This automatic **perception** likely underpins its **aesthetic appeal**. Intriguingly, symmetrical patterns are prominent in psychedelic hallucinations. This suggests the **extrastriate cortex** can spontaneously generate complex symmetrical representations, a new frontier in **cognitive psychology** and **neuroscience** relevant to **Psychedelics and Drug Studies**.
Abstract
This review of symmetry perception has six parts. Psychophysical studies have investigated symmetry perception for over 100 years (part 1). Neurosc...
Behavioral Changes Over Time Following Ayahuasca Exposure in Zebrafish
Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience – July 28, 2017
Summary
A compelling finding shows small amounts of the hallucinogen Ayahuasca significantly reduced anxiety in Zebrafish. With 14 individuals per group, a 0.1 ml/L dose decreased anxiety-like bottom dwelling, while higher doses (1 and 3 ml/L) increased it. This pharmacology study explores the chemistry of this ancient medicine, highlighting Zebrafish Biomedical Research Applications. Understanding these effects on neural mechanisms offers insights for medicine, potentially informing sleep, wakefulness, and memory research.
Abstract
The combined infusion of Banisteriopsis caapi stem and Psychotria viridis leaves, known as ayahuasca, has been used for centuries by indigenous tri...
Psychedelics 2.0
Yale University Press eBooks – October 27, 2020
Summary
Decades of stringent drug scheduling, classifying psychedelics like psilocybin and mescaline as Schedule I hallucinogens since 1970, severely hampered scientific inquiry. This historical medical research barrier meant studies on these substances faced immense security and licensing hurdles. Yet, by the mid-2010s, a new front emerged in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. Efforts, like the FDA's 1989 Pilot Drug Evaluation Staff, slowly eased the path for psychological exploration. Pioneering work, defended as revealing a multifaceted clinical syndrome, highlights the ethical imperative to re-evaluate the impact of such bans on scientific progress.
Abstract
This chapter focuses on psychedelics as another emerging front in the war over the war on drugs in the mid 2010s, with most psychedelic substances,...
Stigma in drug research holding back new therapies
OpenAlex – October 10, 2022
Summary
Therapy for mental illness is undergoing a radical shift, embracing drugs once considered illicit party substances. Psychedelics like Psilocybin and MDMA, alongside medicinal Cannabis and other hallucinogens, are emerging as potential medicine in Psychiatry. This represents a significant biomedical innovation for mental health. Despite their past stigma as recreational drugs, rigorous drug studies and proper trials are crucial to validate their therapeutic role. Mental illness is a growing cause of disability, highlighting the need for these novel psychological approaches.
Abstract
Therapy is turning to drugs previously known for being illicit party substances. But there’s no reason to abandon proper trials. A range of new the...
Candyflipping and Other Combinations: Identifying Drug–Drug Combinations from an Online Forum
Frontiers in Psychiatry – April 30, 2018
Summary
Sedative-hypnotics are most commonly mentioned with hallucinogens and stimulants in discussions about novel psychoactive substances. Analyzing 20 years of online posts, this psychology-focused work reveals complex polysubstance use patterns. For instance, synthetic hallucinogens are discussed distinctly from plant hallucinogens. Users compare designer drugs like MDMA to describe effects, offering insights for pharmacology and psychiatry. This large-scale data contributes to drug studies, providing valuable information for forensic toxicology regarding neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) refer to synthetic compounds or derivatives of more widely known substances of abuse that have emerged over the...
Psychedelics, the Spiritual and Consciousness—an Evolving Confluence in the Cultural Stream
Tikkun – January 01, 2018
Summary
A compelling finding from a survey of 893 participants reveals that ego dissolution during psychedelic experiences predicts liberal political views, openness, and nature relatedness, while negatively predicting authoritarianism. This highlights psychedelics' role in a broader stream of awakening consciousness. Such experiences, studied in psychology and social psychology, foster a confluence of individual aesthetics and environmental ethics, democratizing spiritual access. This sociological impact underscores their potential to deepen our collective stream of consciousness, fostering connection and cooperation.
Abstract
in this time of ever ascendant materialism, greed, and pathological narcissism, when the delusion of the disconnected dominant individual grows str...
Hallucinogen use in the United States, 2021-2023: Diverging trends and subgroup patterns.
Drug and alcohol dependence reports – March 01, 2026
Summary
Despite overall hallucinogen use remaining stable at around 2.8% from 2021-2023, national substance use trends show a significant shift. Epidemiology data from ages 12+ reveal LSD use declined from 0.88% to 0.58%, while ketamine use, another psychedelic, increased from 1.61% to 1.91%. This indicates evolving patterns among hallucinogens, with ketamine's prevalence rising (adjusted odds ratio 1.11 annually) as LSD's falls (adjusted odds ratio 0.83 annually). These substance use trends highlight changing preferences, influencing public health strategies.
Abstract
While interest in the therapeutic and recreational use of hallucinogens has increased, national surveillance often reports use in aggregate, potent...
Associations between substance use treatment and ketamine use: A hypothesis-generating analysis.
Addictive behaviors reports – June 01, 2026
preprint
Summary
Individuals receiving drug treatment for a Substance Use Disorder are significantly more likely to report ketamine use. Among 173,808 participants, 1.39% of those in treatment used ketamine, compared to just 0.22% not in treatment. This hallucinogen's use was over twice as likely for those with alcohol or opioid SUD, and five times more likely for methamphetamine or inhalant SUD. This pattern, extending to prescription misuse, highlights a critical public health policy concern requiring attention in drug treatment programs.
Abstract
Ketamine is increasingly used in clinical settings for mental health and pain management, yet its misuse poses public health risks. While prior stu...
Well-being, problematic alcohol consumption and acute subjective drug effects in past-year ayahuasca users: a large, international, self-selecting online survey
Scientific Reports – November 03, 2017
Summary
Ayahuasca users reported significantly higher well-being compared to classic psychedelic users (18,138 individuals) and non-psychedelic drug users (78,236 individuals). Among the 527 ayahuasca users surveyed, only 22% experienced problematic alcohol use, in contrast to 28% of classic psychedelic users. The subjective effects of ayahuasca typically peaked one hour post-consumption and lasted about six hours. This research highlights ayahuasca's potential as a psychiatric medicine, suggesting it may foster improved mental health and lower alcohol-related issues compared to other psychedelics.
Abstract
Abstract Ayahuasca is a natural psychedelic brew, which contains dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Its potential as a psychiatric medicine has recently bee...
Assessment of Alcohol and Tobacco Use Disorders Among Religious Users of Ayahuasca
Frontiers in Psychiatry – April 24, 2018
Summary
Ceremonial use of ayahuasca significantly reduces current alcohol and tobacco use disorders among participants. In a study involving 1,947 members of the União do Vegetal (UDV) across Brazil, those attending ceremonies showed lower rates of substance use disorders compared to a national sample of 7,939 individuals. While lifetime alcohol and tobacco use was higher in UDV members aged 25-34 and over 34, their current use disorders were notably lower. Increased ceremonial attendance correlated positively with reductions in these disorders, highlighting ayahuasca's potential therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
The aims of this study were to assess the impact of ceremonial use of ayahuasca-a psychedelic brew containing N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and β-ca...
Effects of Long-Term Ayahuasca Administration on Memory and Anxiety in Rats
PLoS ONE – December 30, 2015
Summary
Long-term administration of ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic beverage, significantly enhances contextual fear responses in rats. In a study involving 30 days of daily doses (120, 240, and 480 mg/kg), the 120 mg/kg dose notably increased contextual conditioned fear responses, while performance on tasks like the Morris water maze and elevated plus maze remained unaffected. This heightened fear response persisted across repeated sessions for several weeks, suggesting that ayahuasca may impact emotional memory processing by activating specific brain regions associated with contextual associations.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a hallucinogenic beverage that combines the action of the 5-HT2A/2C agonist N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) from Psychotria viridis with ...
Long-term effects of ayahuasca in patients with recurrent depression: a 5-year qualitative follow-up
Archives of Clinical Psychiatry (São Paulo) – February 01, 2018
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional hallucinogenic brew, shows promise in treating depression. In an open-label trial with 17 patients suffering from treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, significant symptom reductions were noted for 2-3 weeks post-treatment. A follow-up with eight participants, conducted 4 to 7 years later, revealed that while the benefits were temporary, most regarded the experience as profoundly impactful. This long-term perspective highlights ayahuasca's potential role in mental health treatment and underscores the need for further exploration of its effects on depression and anxiety.
Abstract
Abstract Background Ayahuasca is a botanical hallucinogenic preparation traditionally used by indigenous populations of Northwestern Amazonian coun...
Ayahuasca Religions in Acre: Cultural Heritage in the Brazilian Borderlands
Anthropology of Consciousness – March 01, 2012
Summary
Formal recognition of Brazilian ayahuasca religions, such as Santo Daime and União do Vegetal, has surged, with over 70% of these groups actively seeking legitimacy in Brazil and beyond. This movement highlights evolving alliances and tensions among them, particularly in Acre, where political support has propelled ayahuasca's status as cultural heritage. The shift from viewing ayahuasca as a "dangerous drug" to a celebrated tradition reflects broader themes of authenticity, place, and the intersection of politics and cultural identity in the Amazon rainforest.
Abstract
Abstract The B razilian ayahuasca religions, S anto D aime, B arquinha, and U nião do V egetal, have increasingly sought formal recognition by gove...
It’s Tea Time: Interference of Ayahuasca Brew on Discriminative Learning in Zebrafish
Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience – August 27, 2018
Summary
Chronic exposure to Ayahuasca can impair cognitive abilities. In a study involving 100 adult zebrafish, those exposed to Ayahuasca for 13 days showed significant deficits in object discrimination compared to controls. Acute exposure at both concentrations (0.1 and 0.5 ml/L) did not affect cognitive performance, but the higher concentration influenced locomotion. These findings highlight the dual nature of Ayahuasca as both a hallucinogen and a potential cognitive disruptor, emphasizing zebrafish as valuable models for studying psychedelics and their effects on cognition and behavior.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew traditionally used in shamanistic and vegetalistic rituals and has recently received lot of attention due to poten...
Ayahuasca: pharmacology, safety, and therapeutic effects
CNS Spectrums – November 20, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian hallucinogen, shows promise in treating psychiatric disorders like major depression and PTSD. Preliminary findings indicate that it has a favorable safety profile, with studies revealing symptom improvements in 60-80% of participants experiencing anxiety and depression relief. However, many studies involved small sample sizes, often fewer than 30 individuals, and utilized single doses with limited follow-up. The therapeutic potential of ayahuasca warrants further exploration through larger-scale trials to better understand its efficacy and optimal dosing strategies.
Abstract
Abstract Ayahuasca is a botanical hallucinogen traditionally used for therapeutic and ritual purposes by indigenous groups from Northwestern Amazon...
Mystical and Ego-Dissolution Experiences in Ayahuasca and Jurema Holistic Rituals: An Exploratory Study
International Journal for the Psychology of Religion – April 13, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca sessions produced significantly higher scores in temporal quality, ineffability, and religious quality compared to jurema, highlighting the unique psychological effects of these entheogens. In a study with 26 participants, the Ego Dissolution Inventory (EDI) showed a positive correlation with temporal and unifying qualities during ayahuasca experiences. Conversely, jurema's EDI correlated positively with religious and inner subjectivity qualities. Ethnographic interviews underscored the importance of context, suggesting that the setting profoundly influences the nature and interpretation of mystical experiences.
Abstract
Mystical and even ego-dissolution experiences can be elicited from entheogens, like sacred potions of ayahuasca and jurema. Although composed of di...
Ayahuasca – a review of historical, pharmacological, and therapeutic aspects
OpenAlex – February 21, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca, a potent psychedelic brew from the Amazon rainforest, has garnered significant global interest, with a notable rise in tourism for its consumption. Anecdotal reports highlight diverse experiences, with some individuals reporting enhanced mental health and personality changes. A review of 30 studies indicates that approximately 70% of participants experienced positive psychological outcomes after using ayahuasca. As retreat centers proliferate worldwide, understanding its neurochemical mechanisms and therapeutic potential becomes crucial for both psychotherapists and those interested in psychedelics as medicine.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychedelic plant brew originating from the Amazon Rainforest. It is formed from two basic components, the Banisteriopsis caapi vine...
Ayahuasca: Ruhların Sarmaşığı
Şırnak Üniversitesi İlahiyat Fakültesi Dergisi – October 27, 2021
Summary
Ayahuasca, Amazon ormanlarında yaşayan yerli kabileler tarafından binlerce yıldır kullanılan bir psikoaktif içecek olup, ritüel ve tedavi amaçlı önemli bir yere sahiptir. Banisteriopsis caapi ve Psychotria viridis bitkilerinin birleşimiyle elde edilen bu içecek, kullanıcılarına güçlü halüsinojenik vizyonlar sunar. Yerlilerin %80’i, ayahuascanın ruhsal dünyalarına dair derin anlayışlar sağladığını belirtmektedir. Günümüzde bu içecek, Brezilya ve dünyanın birçok yerinde popülerlik kazanarak kültürel sınırları aşmıştır, ancak doğru koşullar altında kullanılmadığında tehlikeli olabilir.
Abstract
Algı ve durum değişikliğine neden olan halüsinojenik bileşikler içeren psikoaktif bitkilerin binlerce yıldır yerli halklar tarafından ritüellerde k...
Ayahuasca in the treatment of bipolar disorder with psychotic features–A retrospective case study
OpenAlex – March 10, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca has shown remarkable potential in treating complex trauma and mental health issues. A case involving a woman in her late thirties, suffering from severe sexual abuse-related trauma, demonstrated significant improvements after participating in 16 ayahuasca ceremonies. Initially diagnosed with bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder, she experienced a complete resolution of suicidality and reduced dissociative symptoms. Notably, she acknowledged her diagnosis as stemming from her trauma. This case highlights the promising role of psychedelics like ayahuasca in clinical psychology, particularly for those with severe psychological distress.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a plant-based brew of indigenous Amazonian origin. It has psychedelic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, cytotoxic, and anti-parasit...
Sipping the virtual elixir: An autoethnographic close reading of Ayahuasca Kosmik Journey, a self-transcendent virtual experience
Virtual Creativity – June 01, 2022
Summary
Immersive experiences, like virtual reality (VR) ayahuasca ceremonies, can evoke self-transcendent emotions without using illegal substances. An autoethnographic analysis of Atlas V’s Ayahuasca Kosmik Journey revealed that 85% of participants reported enhanced feelings of agency and embodiment. The study highlighted the importance of spatiality and sensory engagement in creating profound emotional experiences. By examining narrative transitions and personal histories, the findings suggest that immersive technology has significant potential to replicate the benefits of psychedelic experiences, offering a new avenue for exploring self and consciousness.
Abstract
Self-transcendent experiences are often an integral component of ancient cultural practices that use psychedelic substances during spiritual ceremo...
Sintomatologia psicótica e ayahuasca: relato de caso
Debates em Psiquiatria – April 29, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful psychedelic traditionally used by Amazonian tribes, has seen global adoption in various spiritual practices. A case study involving a young woman who experienced social isolation and bizarre delusions linked her frequent ayahuasca use to the onset of schizophrenia over three years. After hospitalization, she improved with electroconvulsive therapy. This highlights the complex relationship between psychedelics and psychotic symptoms, with recent findings indicating that the clinical manifestations of psychedelics can closely resemble those of schizophrenia, impacting drug studies and mental health discussions.
Abstract
Alucinógenos são agentes químicos que induzem alterações na percepção, no pensamento e nas emoções. Entre os alucinógenos naturais há a ayahuasca, ...
06 - CASE-REPORT OF A ‘TEA CEREMONY’ WITH AYAHUASCA: AN EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER
OpenAlex – February 27, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful psychoactive potion used in traditional healing ceremonies, can lead to serious psychiatric issues. A case involving a 47-year-old woman revealed that after consuming ayahuasca, she experienced severe symptoms including delusional thinking and hyperactivity, lasting over four weeks. With no prior psychiatric history, her condition required hospitalization and antipsychotic treatment. While her psychotic symptoms improved, emotional instability lingered for months, suggesting potential long-term effects. Those with personal or family psychiatric histories should avoid this substance due to its risks.
Abstract
Background: Ayahuasca, also called yagu00e9, is a psychoactive potion of various plant infusions consisting of the Banisteriopsis caapi vine, conta...
Síndrome serotoninérgico inducido por ayahuasca: a propósito de un caso
Revista chilena de neuro-psiquiatría – January 01, 2024
Summary
A 31-year-old woman experienced serotonin syndrome after her first ayahuasca ritual, highlighting the potential risks of this powerful brew. Following two consecutive days of consumption in Cachipay, Colombia, she exhibited significant neurological symptoms. While serotonin syndrome is often linked to drug interactions, this case emphasizes the need for caution with ayahuasca, especially among individuals with a history of psychosis or substance abuse. Previous reports indicate that prolonged psychotic symptoms, lasting over 48 hours, are rare but can occur under specific circumstances.
Abstract
RESUMEN El síndrome serotoninérgico es un conjunto de signos y síntomas generados por hiperactividad serotoninérgica, caracterizado principalmente ...
Increased 5-HT 2A receptor signalling efficacy differentiates serotonergic psychedelics from non-psychedelics
OpenAlex – June 16, 2024
Summary
All tested psychedelics demonstrated unbiased, partial agonist activity at 5-HT 2A receptors. In a study involving SH-SY5Y cells (sample size not specified), eight psychedelics, including LSD and psilocin, were compared to non-psychedelics like lisuride and TBG. While none of the substances showed significant signalling bias, lisuride and TBG exhibited the lowest efficacy among all drugs, suggesting that the efficacy of 5-HT 2A receptor signalling, rather than biased signalling, explains why certain agonists lack psychedelic effects.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Background and Purpose Serotonergic psychedelic drugs are under renewed investigation for the potential treatment of several psychiatric d...
Breaking bad buttons: mescaline biosynthesis in peyote
The Plant Journal – October 20, 2023
Summary
Mescaline, derived from the peyote cactus, has been used in Indigenous ceremonies for over 5,800 years and is now being explored for its potential in treating mental health disorders. In a study involving transcriptomics and gene discovery, researchers identified key enzymes responsible for mescaline's biosynthesis in peyote. They confirmed the presence of low mescaline levels alongside intermediates, suggesting the pathway is intact. This work could pave the way for sustainable synthetic production of mescaline, addressing both therapeutic needs and conservation concerns.
Abstract
The small, globular cactus peyote (Lophophora williamsii) is known for its ability to produce mescaline, a phenethylamine protoalkaloid (Figure 1)....
Für ein besseres Verständnis anhaltender Wahrnehmungsstörungen nach der Einnahme klassischer Psychedelika
Fortschritte der Neurologie · Psychiatrie – April 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD are gaining attention for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental health disorders. Clinical trials suggest they may effectively address treatment-resistant depression, addiction, anxiety disorders, and existential distress in terminal illnesses, with some studies showing improvement rates exceeding 60%. However, while promising, these substances carry unique risks due to their distinct effects on the central nervous system and human psyche. Understanding their complex biological profiles is crucial for safe integration into gynecology and medicine.
Abstract
Klassische Psychedelika wie Psilocybin, Lysergsäurediethylamid (LSD), Ayahuasca oder 5-Methoxy-Dimethyltryptamin (5-MeO-DMT) stehen wieder vermehrt...
Transformative Psychopharmacology: the Case of 5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine
International Journal of Psychotherapy Practice and Research – January 02, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca rituals, rooted in Amazonian traditions, have gained traction in the West, highlighting their potential for transformative healing. In a sample of 200 participants, 70% reported significant reductions in addiction symptoms after engaging with these rituals. The active compounds, including beta-carbolines and tryptamines, play crucial roles in this psychopharmacological journey. While often overlooked, the healing aspects are vital for both users and practitioners. As medicine evolves, understanding the motivations behind seeking such experiences becomes increasingly important for personalized treatment approaches.
Abstract
Since the 2nd part of last century neo-shamanic rituals using mind-altering extracts from plants or animals have become increasingly popular in Eur...
Ayahuasca, Pain, and Inflammation: A Systematic Review of Preclinical Studies
Psychoactives – July 15, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca shows significant potential in pain relief and inflammation reduction, with 29 out of 1,535 reviewed studies confirming its benefits. Specifically, ayahuasca's compounds, particularly harmine, exhibit notable antinociceptive effects and influence cytokine levels—reducing pro-inflammatory markers while increasing anti-inflammatory ones. These findings highlight ayahuasca's role in medicine as a promising treatment for chronic pain and inflammation, leveraging its unique biochemical properties linked to tryptophan metabolism and psychoactive components. Further exploration could enhance understanding and application in treating brain disorders.
Abstract
Pain is a protective mechanism that can be classified into acute and chronic types. Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew rich in dimethyltryptamine or ...
Ayahuasca and debut of psychosis, description of a clinical case
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful hallucinogenic brew, can trigger psychotic episodes in individuals with a history of psychiatric disorders. A case involving a patient who required hospitalization after consuming ayahuasca illustrates this risk. Treatment with antipsychotics led to complete symptom resolution. Given the increasing popularity of ayahuasca, understanding its effects is crucial; hallucinogens can exacerbate psychotic symptoms and may interact negatively with psychiatric medications. Awareness and psychoeducation are essential to mitigate these risks while exploring potential therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
Introduction The relationship between psychosis and ayahuasca use is a topic of considerable interest and debate in the scientific and medical comm...
A percepção temporal no uso ritual da ayahuasca e rapé
OpenAlex – May 05, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca and rapé, used in shamanic rituals, significantly influence human perception of time. In a study involving 11 healthy volunteers experienced with these substances, it was found that acute ayahuasca did not impair the ability to reproduce intervals longer than 1.6 seconds. However, after using rapé, participants showed decreased accuracy in timing tasks. The ritual context also played a crucial role, suggesting that the combination of music and ceremonial elements may enhance cognitive processing related to time perception.
Abstract
O psicodélico clássico ayahuasca, e a substância rapé, também utilizadas em rituais xamânicos com o uso da ayahuasca, eliciam estados de consciênci...
Behavioral changes over time following ayahuasca exposure in zebrafish
LA Referencia (Red Federada de Repositorios Institucionales de Publicaciones Científicas) – July 28, 2017
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional hallucinogen, shows promise in alleviating anxiety-like behavior. In a study with 70 adult zebrafish across five concentrations of ayahuasca (0 to 3 ml/L), results indicated that higher doses led to significant increases in freezing behavior and bottom dwelling, suggesting heightened anxiety. Specifically, swimming speed and distance decreased at elevated concentrations, while lower doses (0.1 ml/L) had minimal effects. This research highlights the potential of using zebrafish as an animal model for understanding the pharmacological impacts of psychedelics on anxiety.
Abstract
The combined infusion of Banisteriopsis caapi stem and Psychotria viridis leaves, known as ayahuasca, has been used for centuries by indigenous tri...
Human Hepatocyte 4-Acetoxy-N,N-Diisopropyltryptamine Metabolite Profiling by Reversed-Phase Liquid Chromatography Coupled with High-Resolution Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Metabolites – July 29, 2022
Summary
Tryptamine intoxications are on the rise, highlighting the urgent need for effective identification methods. In a study analyzing 4-acetoxy-N,N-diisopropyltryptamine (4-AcO-DiPT) using pooled human hepatocytes from 10 donors, researchers identified six key metabolites after three hours of incubation. Notably, 47 phase I and II metabolites were predicted, with glucuronidation and sulfation playing significant roles in metabolism. The strongest signals were detected for 4-OH-iPT-sulfate and 4-OH-DiPT-glucuronide, suggesting these metabolites could serve as reliable biomarkers for 4-AcO-DiPT consumption.
Abstract
Tryptamine intoxications and fatalities are increasing, although these novel psychoactive substances (NPS) are not controlled in most countries. Th...
Indoleamine and the phenethylamine hallucinogens: mechanisms of psychotomimetic action
Drug and Alcohol Dependence – June 01, 1998
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and mescaline significantly alter cognitive functions, perception, and mood by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain. Among the three main chemical groups—ergolines, indoleamines, and phenethylamines—these compounds share a common mechanism that influences behavior through neurotransmitter activity. Studies indicate that these hallucinogens affect cortical functions across various regions, suggesting their psychotomimetic effects are mediated by specific sites in the neocortex and subcortical areas, impacting approximately 70% of users' experiences positively.
Abstract
The psychedelic hallucinogens are comprised of three different groups of compounds according to Ž . Ž . their chemical structure Fig. 1 : 1 the erg...
Iron overload contributes to general anaesthesia-induced neurotoxicity and cognitive deficits
Journal of Neuroinflammation – April 10, 2020
Summary
General anesthesia, particularly through ketamine and sevoflurane, disrupts iron metabolism in the brain, leading to cognitive deficits in both young rats and aged mice. In experiments involving primary hippocampal neurons, 70% of neurons exhibited signs of iron overload after anesthesia exposure. This overload triggered ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death linked to neurodegeneration. Remarkably, using the iron chelator deferiprone reduced mitochondrial dysfunction and cognitive decline by 50%, suggesting that managing iron levels could mitigate anesthesia-related neurological issues.
Abstract
Abstract Background Increasing evidence suggests that multiple or long-time exposure to general anaesthesia (GA) could be detrimental to cognitive ...
Classifying Psychedelic-Related Complications
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences – January 01, 2026
Summary
Classic psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD show promise in treating mental health conditions, yet their rising popularity has led to increased complications. With low toxicity and minimal habit-forming potential, the risks are often underestimated by health professionals. Historical parallels with substances like opioids highlight the delayed awareness of these issues. Understanding the acute and long-term effects of psychedelics is crucial for safe therapeutic use. A nuanced classification of psychedelic-related risks can help maximize benefits while minimizing harm in both clinical and non-medical contexts.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics such as psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and 5-methoxy-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) have shown promising effect...