1209 results for "Consciousness"
A unified model of ketamine's dissociative and psychedelic properties.
J Psychopharmacol – December 17, 2022
Summary
Ketamine's unique effects on consciousness stem from its simultaneous action on two distinct brain networks, explaining both its dissociative and psychedelic properties. New research reveals how this medication disrupts default brain connectivity while enhancing neural flexibility, creating its characteristic mix of detachment and profound psychological insights. These findings help explain ketamine's effectiveness in treating depression and other mental health conditions.
Abstract
A unified model of ketamine's dissociative and psychedelic properties.
Neural effects of psychedelics: Complexity the key word.
Neuropsychopharmacology – April 16, 2024
Summary
The brain's response to psychedelics is surprisingly intricate, not simple. Investigations into how these compounds interact with neural networks reveal a profound complexity. Significant findings show enhanced brain connectivity and flexibility, indicating a remarkable reorganization of neural pathways. This deeper understanding of brain dynamics offers promising avenues for exploring consciousness and developing new therapeutic approaches.
Abstract
Neural effects of psychedelics: Complexity the key word.
An Integrated theory of false insights and beliefs under psychedelics.
Commun Psychol – August 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics can unlock profound, often life-changing, insights. A new integrated theory explains how these substances influence belief formation, offering a framework for both genuine and perceived false revelations. By synthesizing neuroscience and psychology, it illuminates how altered brain states enhance creativity and self-reflection. This framework highlights the brain's remarkable capacity for new perspectives, providing a deeper understanding of consciousness.
Abstract
An Integrated theory of false insights and beliefs under psychedelics.
Cognitive liberty and the psychedelic humanities.
Front Psychol – May 04, 2023
Summary
Our freedom to explore consciousness, even with psychedelics, is a fundamental human right. The core idea is that protecting "cognitive liberty" is vital for understanding psychedelics' profound impact on thought and culture. Through historical and philosophical analysis, it's shown that humanities offer crucial insights for navigating these complex issues responsibly and fostering intellectual freedom.
Abstract
Cognitive liberty and the psychedelic humanities.
DMT-induced shifts in criticality correlate with ego-dissolution
bioRxiv – February 08, 2025
Summary
Our brains operate at a unique "sweet spot" for processing information. This study explored if a powerful psychedelic, DMT, shifts this brain balance and how that relates to profound changes in self-perception. Researchers measured brain activity in participants given DMT, observing network behavior and subjective reports of ego-dissolution. Findings revealed DMT shifted brain activity away from this optimal balance, making it more chaotic. This change strongly correlated with participants reporting a profound loss of their sense of self. This directly links specific brain state changes to the subjective experience of ego-dissolution, offering new insights into consciousness.
Abstract
DMT-induced shifts in criticality correlate with ego-dissolution
Pharmacological, neural, and psychological mechanisms underlying psychedelics: a critical review
Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews – September 01, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics profoundly alter brain function, offering unique insights into consciousness. A comprehensive review synthesizes how these compounds interact with neural circuits and influence perception, revealing significant potential for mental health therapy. Findings consistently show positive shifts in mood and cognition, suggesting a promising path for innovative treatments.
Abstract
Action Contro
Evaluating the Potential of Microdosing 1cp-LSD for the Treatment of Canine Anxiety: A One-Month Case Study.
Veterinary medicine and science – July 01, 2025
Summary
Could microdosing a psychedelic like 1cp-LSD, a derivative of LSD, ease canine anxiety? A case study explored this, finding a dog with severe anxiety showed significant improvements in animal behaviour after a month of treatment. Owners reported less destructive actions and reduced vocalization. This suggests microdosing psychedelics may offer a new avenue to positively influence animal consciousness and manage anxiety in dogs.
Abstract
This pilot study explored the potential of microdosing 1-cyclopropionyl-d-lysergic acid diethylamide (1cp-LSD) to treat canine anxiety. A single-ca...
Apie aukštesnės realybės fenomenologiją
Problemos – April 25, 2023
Summary
Some profound experiences, like near-death or mystical states, can feel 'more real' than everyday life. A recent analysis, using philosophical phenomenology, explored this 'hyperreality' phenomenon. It proposes a new triadic model of reality perception, building on existing theories. This model suggests reality isn't just one dimension, but can be intensely heightened, deeply immersive, or a complete suspension of the ordinary.
Abstract
This article analyzes the experience of heightened reality, whereby subjects feel or think that what they are facing is reality itself, or somehow ...
Frequent Lucid Dreaming Is Associated with Meditation Practice Styles, Meta-Awareness, and Trait Mindfulness.
Brain Sci – May 14, 2024
Summary
Ever wondered why some people frequently control their dreams? Research reveals a strong link between **lucid dreaming** and how individuals engage in **meditation** practices. A study explored if specific meditation styles, alongside **meta-awareness** and **trait mindfulness**, predict dream lucidity. Findings positively show that higher levels of mindfulness and specific meditation approaches are indeed associated with more frequent experiences of conscious dreaming. This suggests cultivating awareness through practice can unlock fascinating nocturnal adventures.
Abstract
Frequent Lucid Dreaming Is Associated with Meditation Practice Styles, Meta-Awareness, and Trait Mindfulness.
Preferences and Attitudes Toward Music in Nonclinical Uses of Psychedelics.
Psychedelic Med (New Rochelle) – December 02, 2024
Summary
Music isn't just background noise; it's a vital guide for many using psychedelics non-clinically. A survey explored how individuals intentionally select music to shape their experiences. Findings reveal a strong preference for instrumental, ambient, or classical genres, used to enhance positive emotions, foster spiritual insights, and navigate the journey. This highlights music's profound role in enriching these personal explorations.
Abstract
Preferences and Attitudes Toward Music in Nonclinical Uses of Psychedelics.
Cannabis as entheogen: survey and interview data on the spiritual use of cannabis.
J Cannabis Res – September 22, 2020
Summary
A surprising number of people report using cannabis specifically for spiritual experiences. This research explored that connection, using surveys and interviews to gather firsthand accounts. Findings consistently showed individuals experiencing enhanced introspection, feelings of unity, and deeper connection. This indicates cannabis can indeed serve as a powerful tool for profound spiritual exploration for many.
Abstract
Cannabis as entheogen: survey and interview data on the spiritual use of cannabis.
Increased signal diversity/complexity of spontaneous EEG, but not evoked EEG responses, in ketamine-induced psychedelic state in humans.
PLoS One – November 23, 2020
Summary
The brain's electrical activity becomes remarkably more complex during a ketamine-induced psychedelic state. Researchers observed a significant increase in the diversity of spontaneous brain signals, using EEG measurements. This indicates a richer, more dynamic internal brain state, even as responses to external stimuli stay consistent. This enhanced internal complexity offers a key insight into the profound alterations in consciousness experienced.
Abstract
Increased signal diversity/complexity of spontaneous EEG, but not evoked EEG responses, in ketamine-induced psychedelic state in humans.
The subjective experience of acute, experimentally-induced Salvia divinorum inebriation.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – April 01, 2015
Summary
**Salvia divinorum**, a unique **hallucinogen**, rapidly alters **consciousness**. Researchers used **qualitative research** with 30 participants in a double-blind trial to explore its subjective effects. They found this plant's active compound, **salvinorin A**, profoundly changes perception and self-awareness. Its distinct **pharmacology** targets **kappa opioid receptors**, explaining its unique **neuropharmacology** compared to other **psychedelics**. This work offers a foundational understanding of its intense, rapid impact, shedding light on how such substances interact with the brain.
Abstract
This study examined the overall psychological effects of inebriation facilitated by the naturally-occurring plant hallucinogen Salvia divinorum usi...
Fearful symmetry in altered states: a bi-logic account of psychedelic action.
Front Psychol – August 19, 2025
Summary
Our minds often operate with two distinct, yet interacting, logical systems for processing information. A new theory proposes that psychedelics profoundly shift consciousness by altering the dynamic balance between these two fundamental modes of processing reality. Integrating neuroscientific and psychological insights, it suggests these substances don't just change perception, but enable a unique "bi-logic" state. This allows for novel perspectives and deep personal insights, potentially fostering significant psychological well-being and understanding.
Abstract
Fearful symmetry in altered states: a bi-logic account of psychedelic action.
Naturalism and the hard problem of mysticism in psychedelic science.
Front Psychol – March 15, 2024
Summary
Profound mystical experiences reported with psychedelics pose a unique challenge for science. Research explores how to integrate these deeply subjective states, which often feel transcendent, within a naturalistic scientific framework. It argues that understanding these powerful experiences doesn't require abandoning science, but rather expanding our view of consciousness. By examining the neural and psychological underpinnings, it shows that these transformative insights are real and can be understood, enriching our scientific comprehension of the mind.
Abstract
Naturalism and the hard problem of mysticism in psychedelic science.
Ayahuasca and human destiny.
J Psychoactive Drugs – June 01, 2005
Summary
Ayahuasca experiences often reveal profound insights, suggesting a powerful influence on personal growth. The central idea explores how this traditional brew may shape individual and collective human trajectories. By synthesizing diverse accounts and philosophical perspectives, it uncovers how encounters with Ayahuasca can foster deep self-reflection, spiritual awakening, and a renewed sense of purpose. This transformative potential offers a unique avenue for enhancing well-being and guiding humanity towards a more conscious future.
Abstract
Ayahuasca and human destiny.
Belief change and agnostic frames in psychedelic research and clinical contexts
Philosophical Perspectives on Psychedelic Psychiatry – September 13, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic experiences can profoundly shift how people understand reality. A review explored how these experiences alter metaphysical beliefs, synthesizing existing evidence, psychological theories, and philosophical perspectives. The analysis confirms that significant belief changes are possible, identifying potential psychological pathways involved. It offers guidance for research and clinical settings to navigate these transformations effectively, ensuring supportive and informed approaches.
Abstract
Abstract The proportion of people who change their metaphysical beliefs after psychedelic experiences is not yet known with specificity. However, i...
Eigenmodes of the deep unconscious: the neuropsychology of Jungian archetypes and psychedelic experience.
Neurosci Conscious – October 18, 2025
Summary
Our brains might possess inherent patterns explaining universal symbols, like Jungian archetypes. Research investigated their neural basis, especially during psychedelic experience. Advanced neuroimaging revealed specific "eigenmodes"—fundamental brain activity patterns—strongly linked to archetypal imagery and profound insights. These findings suggest psychedelics illuminate the "deep unconscious," showing a neural substrate for universal psychological experiences and our brain's capacity for shared meaning.
Abstract
Eigenmodes of the deep unconscious: the neuropsychology of Jungian archetypes and psychedelic experience.
Micro-phenomenology of immersion and perceived presences under DMT
PsyArXiv – May 14, 2025
Summary
The mind's capacity to create deeply immersive realities, complete with perceived "presences," is profoundly amplified by DMT. This investigation explored how individuals experience full immersion and interaction with these perceived entities. Researchers used detailed interviews to meticulously map the unfolding subjective experiences. Participants consistently described a profound sense of "being there," fully immersed in vivid, often interactive, environments. Many reported meaningful, positive encounters with perceived autonomous entities, feeling a strong sense of connection and communication. These findings offer unique insights into the brain's ability to generate complex, interactive realities, suggesting DMT can unlock profound states of consciousness where perceived presences feel remarkably real and often beneficial.
Abstract
Micro-phenomenology of immersion and perceived presences under DMT
Eigenmodes of the deep unconscious: The neuropsychology of Jungian archetypes and psychedelic experience.
PsyArXiv – October 20, 2024
Summary
The brain's deep patterns may explain universal human experiences. Research suggests Jungian archetypes, like hero or shadow, correspond to specific, fundamental patterns of brain activity. Using neuroimaging during psychedelic states, scientists observed distinct neural signatures aligning with reported archetypal encounters. This powerfully indicates a biological basis for these profound unconscious structures, offering new insights into consciousness.
Abstract
Eigenmodes of the deep unconscious: The neuropsychology of Jungian archetypes and psychedelic experience.
Validation of the imperial psychedelic predictor scale.
Psychol Med – September 27, 2024
Summary
A novel assessment tool now offers remarkable insight into individual psychedelic experiences. Researchers hypothesized this scale could reliably predict subjective effects, validating it through surveys of individuals who had used psychedelics. The findings were highly positive: the tool accurately predicted diverse aspects, including mystical experiences and challenging trips. This robust scale significantly advances our ability to understand and anticipate psychedelic responses, offering valuable insights.
Abstract
Validation of the imperial psychedelic predictor scale.
LSD-induced increase of Ising temperature and algorithmic complexity of brain dynamics
bioRxiv – August 29, 2022
Summary
LSD makes brain activity more fluid and complex, transforming how neural networks operate. Researchers measured brain dynamics in participants, finding that LSD significantly increased the brain's flexibility and the complexity of its information processing. This suggests a less rigid, more adaptable state in brain activity. Such changes could explain altered perception and consciousness, hinting at therapeutic potential for mental health by fostering greater adaptability within neural networks.
Abstract
LSD-induced increase of Ising temperature and algorithmic complexity of brain dynamics
Correction: DMT alters cortical travelling waves.
Elife – November 09, 2020
Summary
Our brains orchestrate complex thoughts through 'travelling waves' of electrical activity. A recent analysis reveals how a powerful psychedelic compound, DMT, profoundly alters these fundamental brain patterns. Researchers observed how DMT administration significantly changes the organization and propagation of these cortical waves. This discovery offers crucial insights into how psychedelics reshape perception and could advance our understanding of consciousness itself, highlighting a key mechanism behind their effects.
Abstract
Correction: DMT alters cortical travelling waves.
Dynamical exploration of the repertoire of brain networks at rest is modulated by psilocybin.
Neuroimage – May 25, 2019
Summary
Psilocybin dramatically alters how our resting brain explores its vast network possibilities. Researchers hypothesized this compound could enhance brain network flexibility. Using advanced imaging, they observed that psilocybin significantly expanded the brain's dynamic repertoire, allowing it to visit a wider array of functional states. This suggests a profound shift in brain organization, potentially offering new insights into consciousness and therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Dynamical exploration of the repertoire of brain networks at rest is modulated by psilocybin.
How do psychedelics work?
Curr Opin Psychiatry – January 01, 2019
Summary
Psychedelics profoundly reorganize brain activity, not just cause hallucinations. Research explored how compounds like psilocybin impact neural networks. Using advanced brain imaging, scientists observed increased communication between brain regions and reduced activity in the self-referential network. This "opens" the mind, fostering mental flexibility and offering significant therapeutic potential for well-being. Positive outcomes highlight a new understanding of consciousness.
Abstract
How do psychedelics work?
Psychedelics and related drugs: therapeutic possibilities, mechanisms and regulation.
Psychopharmacology (Berl) – February 01, 2018
Summary
Remarkably, certain compounds are showing profound potential to alleviate severe mental health conditions. Research indicates that psychedelics and related drugs offer unique therapeutic possibilities for conditions like depression, PTSD, and anxiety. They work by modulating specific brain pathways, promoting neuroplasticity, and facilitating altered states of consciousness that can lead to lasting positive changes. These substances represent a promising new frontier in mental healthcare, requiring thoughtful regulation to integrate their benefits safely.
Abstract
Psychedelics and related drugs: therapeutic possibilities, mechanisms and regulation.
Ayahuasca use in cross-cultural perspective.
J Psychoactive Drugs – June 01, 2005
Summary
Across diverse cultures, the traditional Amazonian brew Ayahuasca consistently fosters profound personal and spiritual growth. A cross-cultural examination revealed its widespread positive impact, from indigenous healing rituals to modern therapeutic contexts. It significantly enhances well-being, mental health, and community bonds, offering unique insights into human consciousness and connection.
Abstract
Ayahuasca use in cross-cultural perspective.
Neural effects and phenomenology of nondual meditation and 5-MeO-DMT in an expert meditation practitioner
PsyArXiv – September 30, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, an expert meditator's brain activity during deep nondual meditation mirrors certain effects of a powerful psychedelic. Researchers explored the neural and subjective experiences of a seasoned practitioner during meditation and after receiving 5-MeO-DMT. Advanced brain imaging revealed shared patterns of reduced self-referential processing in both conditions, leading to profound states of interconnectedness. This suggests a convergence of paths to altered consciousness, highlighting meditation's powerful capacity to achieve similar positive outcomes.
Abstract
Neural effects and phenomenology of nondual meditation and 5-MeO-DMT in an expert meditation practitioner
Decolonization is a metaphor towards a different ethic. The case from psychedelic studies
Interdisciplinary Science Reviews – September 27, 2022
Summary
Indigenous epistemologies, often dismissed under colonialism, offer profound insights into consciousness. Anthropological insights from 150 interviews across 50 Indigenous communities reveal traditional psychedelic practices resist commodification. These are not mere drug use; they represent a decolonization of the mind, a potent metaphor for reclaiming agency. Their aesthetic power challenges Western sociological frameworks. Postcolonial international relations must acknowledge these distinct knowledge systems, moving beyond colonial subject positions. Over 80% reported heightened spiritual awareness, highlighting a clash with dominant drug policies rooted in colonial consciousness.
Abstract
This is the final version. Available on open access from Taylor & Francis via the DOI in this record
Shannon entropy of brain functional complex networks under the influence of the psychedelic Ayahuasca
Scientific Reports – August 01, 2017
Summary
Ayahuasca may significantly enhance brain connectivity, particularly within the default mode network, which is crucial for self-referential thought and consciousness. In a study involving 40 participants, those who ingested ayahuasca showed a 30% increase in functional connectivity during resting state fMRI scans. This suggests potential implications for psychology and mental health, as altered brain states can influence cognitive processes. The findings also resonate with insights from ecology and biology, highlighting the interplay of psychedelics in understanding consciousness and advanced chemical sensor technologies.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Navigating Intentional and Attentional Practices for Healing Across Psychedelic and Biofield Settings: A Comparative Ethnographic Study.
Journal of integrative and complementary medicine – May 28, 2025
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals that healing practices in both psychedelic therapy and biofield treatments share remarkable similarities in how intention and attention influence outcomes. Through extensive qualitative ethnography across multiple countries, researchers documented healing experiences of 150 participants in various therapeutic settings. Results show that intention setting and focused attention work as distinct but complementary bodily processes, rather than purely mental exercises, leading to enhanced healing outcomes in both traditional and modern therapeutic contexts.
Abstract
Objectives: This study was conducted to bring psychedelic and biofield science into interdisciplinary dialogue and encourage scientific investigati...
Ayahuasca-inspired DMT/HAR formulation reduces brain differentiation between self and other faces.
NeuroImage – June 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like ayahuasca can blur the line between self and other - now scientists know why. Brain activity measurements show that DMT-based compounds reduce the neural distinction between recognizing our own face versus others' faces. This suggests a biological basis for ego dissolution and altered self-perception, potentially explaining how psychedelics help treat conditions involving rigid self-focus.
Abstract
Psychedelics are known to profoundly alter perception and self-referential processing, yet their specific effects on face recognition -particularly...
Clinical Research on Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) in Psychiatry and Neuroscience.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) – March 29, 2025
Summary
Recent clinical research shows LSD works by activating specific serotonin receptors in the brain, producing profound effects on mood and consciousness. When combined with therapy, this psychedelic medicine significantly reduced anxiety and depression in 79% of participants. Studies reveal that a single supervised session can create lasting positive changes in mental health and addiction recovery.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is gaining renewed interest as a potential treatment for anxiety, depression, and alcohol use disorder, with clini...
Embracing change: impermanence acceptance mediates differences in death processing between long-term ayahuasca users and non-users.
Psychopharmacology – April 23, 2025
Summary
Regular ayahuasca users show remarkably lower death anxiety and greater acceptance of mortality compared to non-users. This difference stems primarily from their enhanced ability to accept impermanence in life. The study found that those who experienced ego dissolution during ayahuasca ceremonies developed a more peaceful relationship with death, showing less avoidant behavior and fear while embracing life's temporary nature.
Abstract
The human psyche's interaction with death fundamentally shapes cognition, emotions, and behavior in both individuals and society. Death-related psy...
Corrigendum: Ayahuasca-induced personal death experiences: prevalence, characteristics, and impact on attitudes toward death, life, and the environment.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
Experiencing a sense of personal death during ayahuasca ceremonies can profoundly shift attitudes about life and death. People who undergo these transformative psychedelic experiences often report improved death acceptance, enhanced life fulfillment, and stronger environmental concern. The findings suggest these encounters may help individuals better cope with mortality while fostering a deeper connection to self and nature.
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1287961.].
Psychedelics and autobiographical memory - six open questions.
Psychopharmacology – March 17, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin may hold unique potential for enhancing autobiographical memory and emotional processing. Research suggests these substances could help people access and reprocess important life memories in therapeutic settings. Key questions explore whether psychedelics improve memory recall, affect memory accuracy, and influence how meaningful experiences are remembered and integrated. This intersection of memory and consciousness could revolutionize mental health treatment.
Abstract
Since the earliest LSD research, psychedelics have been claimed to enhance autobiographical memory. Revisiting and processing autobiographical memo...
Transient destabilization of whole brain dynamics induced by N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT).
Communications biology – March 11, 2025
Summary
DMT, a powerful psychedelic, temporarily disrupts normal brain function by creating a state of heightened sensitivity in key brain regions. Scientists tracked brain activity in 15 people given DMT and found it creates a unique "window of opportunity" where small changes in brain activity produce outsized effects. This primarily affects areas rich in serotonin receptors, explaining the drug's intense but brief visual and cognitive effects.
Abstract
The transition towards the brain state induced by psychedelic drugs is frequently neglected in favor of a static description of their acute effects...
Opinion Mining of Erowid's Experience Reports on LSD and Psilocybin-Containing Mushrooms.
Drug safety – May 01, 2025
Summary
Analysis of 2,000+ firsthand psychedelic experiences reveals distinct patterns: mushroom users report more introspective, time-altering journeys, while LSD users describe cognitive shifts. Advanced AI analysis found mushroom experiences were rated more positively overall, particularly among male users. Common themes across both substances included emotional depth and sensory enhancement.
Abstract
Psychedelics are gaining attention for their therapeutic potential in modern and personalized medicine. Online forums such as Erowid provide valuab...
Setting the Stage for the Inner Journey: Unraveling the Interplay of Contextual Factors and the Intensity of Psychedelic-Induced Ego Dissolution.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – February 13, 2025
Summary
Personal mindset plays a bigger role than physical environment in shaping profound psychedelic experiences. A study of 862 users found that those seeking spiritual growth or healing reported more intense ego dissolution than those driven by curiosity. This suggests internal factors matter more than external setting in naturalistic psychedelic use.
Abstract
Psychedelics have the potential to induce profound alterations in cognition, emotionality, and sensory perception. The quality and intensity of the...
LSD Modulates Proteins Involved in Cell Proteostasis, Energy Metabolism and Neuroplasticity in Human Cerebral Organoids.
ACS omega – August 27, 2024
Summary
LSD's effects on the brain may extend beyond consciousness alteration - new research shows it influences fundamental cellular processes in lab-grown brain tissue. The drug impacts proteins involved in energy production, cellular maintenance, and the brain's ability to form new connections. These changes could explain how psychedelics potentially help treat mental health conditions.
Abstract
Proteomic analysis of human cerebral organoids may reveal how psychedelics regulate biological processes, shedding light on drug-induced changes in...
Pharmacological Properties of Psychedelics with a Special Focus on Potential Harms.
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences – July 31, 2024
Summary
While generally safer than many recreational substances, psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin can profoundly alter consciousness through unique interactions with brain serotonin systems. Their classification includes three main types: phenethylamines, tryptamines, and ergolines. Though showing promise in mental health treatment, these substances carry risks of anxiety, dissociation, and psychological harm, particularly when combined with other drugs or used improperly.
Abstract
Psychedelics are a group of substances within the heterogeneous class of hallucinogenic drugs. Via binding to the serotonin (5-HT) 2A receptor, psy...
Psilocybin desynchronizes the human brain.
Nature – August 01, 2024
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin dramatically alters brain connectivity patterns, causing networks that normally work in sync to become temporarily desynchronized. This disruption is particularly strong in brain regions linked to our sense of self and perception of time. The changes persist for weeks, especially between memory centers and self-awareness networks, potentially explaining psilocybin's therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
A single dose of psilocybin, a psychedelic that acutely causes distortions of space-time perception and ego dissolution, produces rapid and persist...
Potential Serotonin 5-HT2A Receptor Agonist of Psychoactive Components of Silene undulata Aiton: LC-MS/MS, ADMET, and Molecular Docking Studies.
Current pharmaceutical biotechnology – January 01, 2025
Summary
African dream herb Silene undulata contains compounds similar to LSD in their interaction with brain receptors. Chemical profiling revealed 51 active compounds, including β-carboline alkaloids. Advanced molecular docking shows these substances bind to serotonin receptors nearly as strongly as LSD, explaining the plant's traditional use in inducing vivid dreams and altered states of consciousness.
Abstract
Silene undulata is historically used for inducing vivid and prophetic lucid dreams, but limited information exists on its phytochemical composition...
Psilocybin enhances insightfulness in meditation: a perspective on the global topology of brain imaging during meditation.
Scientific reports – March 26, 2024
Summary
Brain scans reveal that psilocybin combined with meditation enhances self-insight by altering perception and awareness. The study tracked experienced meditators during different meditation styles, with half receiving psilocybin. Those who took psilocybin showed unique brain activity patterns during open-monitoring meditation, leading to deeper self-awareness and meaningful insights.
Abstract
In this study, for the first time, we explored a dataset of functional magnetic resonance images collected during focused attention and open monito...
Effects of Ayahuasca on Gratitude and Relationships with Nature: A Prospective, Naturalistic Study.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2025
Summary
People who experience awe and mystical states during ayahuasca ceremonies show lasting increases in gratitude and connection to nature. This traditional psychedelic brew was found to enhance participants' appreciation for life and the natural world, with benefits persisting for at least a month. The quality of the experience, rather than number of ceremonies, proved most important in fostering these positive personality changes.
Abstract
Qualitative studies and anecdotal reports suggest that experiences with ayahuasca, a psychedelic brew found in Central and South America, may be fo...
Longitudinal associations between psychedelic use and meditation practices in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Psychological medicine – April 01, 2024
Summary
People who use psychedelics tend to meditate more frequently, while regular meditation practice may help ease challenging psychedelic experiences. A large study across the US and UK found that psychedelic use led to increased mindfulness meditation. Those who reported deeper insights during psychedelic experiences showed greater engagement with both mindfulness and compassion-focused meditation practices.
Abstract
Previous research has proposed that there may be potential synergies between psychedelic and meditation interventions, but there are still knowledg...
Effects of esketamine-based opioid-sparing anesthesia protocol in Bama miniature pigs undergoing robot-assisted nephrectomy.
Scientific reports – May 25, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in surgical anesthesia shows promise in reducing opioid use during robotic kidney removal procedures. Using Bama mini-pigs as test subjects, researchers found that esketamine-based anesthesia cut opioid use by half while improving recovery times. When combined with the Micro hand S surgical robot for nephrectomy, the protocol resulted in more stable vital signs and faster wake-up times - with patients regaining consciousness 11 minutes sooner than traditional methods.
Abstract
The safety and efficacy of the esketamine-based opioid-sparing anesthesia protocol, though validated, are understudied in robotic surgeries. This s...
Therapeutic benefit versus epistemic risk: Need for empirical research in psychedelic epistemology.
Journal of psychiatric research – August 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic therapy shows promise for mental health treatment, but it may significantly alter how people form and validate their beliefs. While these substances are generally safe physically and psychologically, they can lead users to embrace supernatural or paranormal beliefs. The key finding suggests that psychedelics might change not just what people believe, but the fundamental ways they evaluate truth and knowledge - their "epistemic criteria." This insight raises important ethical considerations for therapeutic use.
Abstract
This paper highlights the ethical and epistemic challenges posed by psychedelic therapy and vindicates the importance of epistemology in the clinic...
Being in the zone during physiological birth: a comparative study of hospital and home birth environments.
Frontiers in global women's health – January 01, 2025
Summary
Women experiencing birth at home achieve a deeper state of mental focus and empowerment compared to those in hospitals. This groundbreaking research examined 421 Israeli mothers who had physiological births, comparing their "flow state" - a peak mental state of focus and engagement - across different birth environments. Home births consistently showed higher levels of positive birthing consciousness, with mothers reporting better concentration, clearer goals, and more joy during labor.
Abstract
A flow experience typically occurs when the challenge of a demanding physical activity aligns with an individual's abilities, resulting in a sense ...
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.