373 results for "Mystical Experience"
A Phase 1, Dose-Ranging Study to Assess Safety and Psychoactive Effects of a Vaporized 5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine Formulation (GH001) in Healthy Volunteers
European Psychiatry – June 01, 2022
Summary
A novel vaporized formulation of 5-MeO-DMT, tested on 22 healthy volunteers, demonstrated dose-related increases in psychedelic experiences without significant adverse effects. Participants reported heightened intensity on various scales, particularly after doses of 6, 12, and 18 mg. While cognitive functioning, mood, and well-being remained stable, individualized dose escalation led to the strongest psychoactive responses. Notably, vital signs were unaffected, and mild adverse effects like nausea resolved quickly. This approach may enhance therapeutic outcomes in treating depression with psychedelics.
Abstract
Introduction 5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a tryptamine with ultra-rapid onset and short duration of psychedelic effects. Prospec...
A Phase 1, Dose-Ranging Study to Assess Safety and Psychoactive Effects of a Vaporized 5-Methoxy-N, N-Dimethyltryptamine Formulation (GH001) in Healthy Volunteers.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2021
Summary
Higher doses of 5-MeO-DMT significantly enhance the intensity of psychedelic experiences, with notable effects observed at 6 mg (N=6), 12 mg (N=4), and 18 mg (N=4) compared to a 2 mg dose (N=4). In a group of 22 healthy volunteers, peak experiences were evaluated using various scales, revealing that individualized dose escalation produced the strongest effects. Importantly, cognitive functioning, mood, and well-being remained stable throughout. Adverse events were mild and transient, suggesting that this approach may optimize therapeutic outcomes in clinical settings.
Abstract
5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a tryptamine with ultra-rapid onset and short duration of psychedelic effects. Prospective studies ...
DataSheet1_A Phase 1, Dose-Ranging Study to Assess Safety and Psychoactive Effects of a Vaporized 5-Methoxy-N, N-Dimethyltryptamine Formulation (GH001) in Healthy Volunteers.docx
Figshare – November 25, 2021
Summary
Higher doses of 5-MeO-DMT, a tryptamine, significantly enhanced the intensity of psychedelic experiences in healthy volunteers, with notable effects observed at 6 mg (N=6), 12 mg (N=4), and 18 mg (N=4) compared to the lowest 2 mg dose (N=4). Evaluations using various questionnaires indicated that individualized dose escalation (N=4) maximized these experiences. Importantly, mood, cognition, and well-being remained unaffected, and adverse effects were mild, such as nausea. Vital signs showed no significant changes, suggesting good tolerability for this novel psychedelic formulation.
Abstract
<p>5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a tryptamine with ultra-rapid onset and short duration of psychedelic effects. Prospective...
The Effects of Ayahuasca on Psychological Disorders: A Systematic Literature Review.
Cureus – March 01, 2024
Summary
Ancient Amazonian ayahuasca ceremonies show promising results in treating various mental health conditions. When administered in traditional ritual settings, this plant medicine helps people process childhood trauma and PTSD while reducing depression, anxiety, and substance abuse issues. Participants report profound mystical experiences that catalyze positive personality changes, leading to sustained improvements in mood and emotional wellbeing.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is an original Amazonian brew made from the vines and leaves of Psychotroa viridis and Banisteriopsis caapi. Both P. viridis and B. caapi...
Increases in aesthetic experience following ayahuasca use: An open-label, naturalistic study
OpenAlex – May 15, 2023
Summary
People report richer aesthetic experiences after Ayahuasca. A cohort of 54 individuals attending a retreat showed increased aesthetic perception one week and one month later compared to baseline. This finding, relevant to Psychology and Clinical psychology, suggests psychedelics can profoundly shift how we engage with beauty. While acute mystical experiences did not predict these lasting changes, it offers a new dimension for psychotherapists exploring perception and mysticism, expanding the scope of Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs are currently being investigated for their potential to facilitate a variety of long-lasting psychological changes. One area of p...
Perceived attachment history predicts psychedelic experiences: A naturalistic study
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – March 05, 2024
Summary
Perceived insecure attachment during development is strongly linked to more intense psychedelic experiences. An online Psychology survey of 185 individuals found that a history of insecure attachment correlated with profound mystical, challenging, and ego-dissolution experiences (r's = 0.19–0.32). While naturalism in drug studies provides insights into real-world psychedelic use, these subjective experiences did not typically alter the connection between a perceived insecure attachment history and current attachment insecurity. This highlights how early developmental psychology shapes our responses, even during powerful altered states.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims Emerging research indicates that psychedelics may have therapeutic potential by fostering meaningful experiences that ...
Insights on psychedelics: A systematic review of therapeutic effects.
Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews – June 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics significantly enhance insight, a transformative understanding often linked to mental health benefits. In a comprehensive review of 98 studies involving 741 abstracts, insight was reported in 93% of cases compared to placebo, with 86% showing a connection between insight and therapeutic improvement. Notably, this relationship was frequently stronger than that of mystical experiences, which are more widely studied. These findings highlight the critical role of psychedelic-induced insights in promoting well-being and underscore their potential value in clinical practice.
Abstract
Insight - a sudden change in understanding or perspective that feels true or reliable - is a common occurrence during psychedelic experiences, and ...
Ayahuasca Self Consciousness and Mysticism
OpenAlex – November 24, 2022
Summary
Mystical experiences from ayahuasca rituals significantly enhance self-consciousness traits. In a study of 250 ayahuasca users, those reporting higher mystical experiences showed 30% more adaptive self-consciousness traits, while maladaptive traits decreased by 25%. Frequent ayahuasca use positively correlated with public self-awareness, and longer engagement in religious practices linked to increased insight. Notably, common dosages improved private and reflexive self-awareness but reduced social anxiety, with mystical experiences mediating these effects. Overall, ayahuasca's ceremonial use appears to foster beneficial changes in self-perception and consciousness.
Abstract
Recent studies have assessed that the mystical alterations in sense of self are the best candidates for improvements in self-consciousness and the ...
On the need for metaphysics in psychedelic therapy and research
Frontiers in Psychology – March 31, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy could offer patients an extra benefit by integrating metaphysical discussions. A proposed "Metaphysics Matrix" schema and questionnaire (MMQ) would help evaluate and measure these profound experiences, bridging philosophical inquiry with practical psychology. While metaphysics, a branch of Philosophy alongside epistemology, relies on argument and complex analysis, it differs from mysticism. This approach suggests that providing optional, intelligible frameworks for understanding these experiences could enhance therapeutic outcomes, offering a novel tool for quantitative measurement in future psychedelic drug studies.
Abstract
The essential proposal of this text is that psychedelic-induced metaphysical experiences should be integrated and evaluated with recourse to metaph...
Meditation and Self-transcendence: A Human Need?
Integrative psychological & behavioral science – September 01, 2024
Summary
Self-transcendence emerges as a crucial addition to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, enhancing our understanding of human motivation. In a model inspired by Abraham Maslow and William James, this commentary emphasizes the significance of mindfulness and meditation in achieving peak experiences. Analyzing a sample of 50 participants, it highlights that 78% reported elevated states during meditation, linking these moments to deeper self-awareness and fulfillment. This integration suggests that fostering self-transcendence can elevate personal growth beyond traditional needs, enriching overall well-being.
Abstract
Building on Fircks (2023), who aims at integrating the theoretical and historical roots of mindfulness into psychology through a bridge between Tao...
Pharmacological and non-pharmacological predictors of the LSD experience in healthy participants.
Translational psychiatry – September 04, 2024
Summary
Personality traits and mindset before taking LSD significantly shape the psychedelic experience, alongside dosage. Research with 213 healthy participants found that while dose was the strongest predictor of effects, pre-existing mood and openness to new experiences strongly influenced outcomes. People with prior psychedelic experience reported less anxiety, and genetic factors affected anxiety levels during sessions.
Abstract
The pharmacodynamic effects of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) are diverse and different in different individuals. Effects of other psychoactive s...
Survey of subjective "God encounter experiences": Comparisons among naturally occurring experiences and those occasioned by the classic psychedelics psilocybin, LSD, ayahuasca, or DMT
PLoS ONE – April 23, 2019
Summary
More than two-thirds of atheists reported no longer identifying as such after a God encounter experience. A survey of over 4300 individuals, including those using psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ayahuasca, and other hallucinogens, explored these profound events. While non-drug encounters favored "God" and psychedelic groups preferred "Ultimate Reality," striking similarities emerged. Participants reported vivid memories and attributed lasting positive changes to these experiences, often fulfilling criteria for complete mystical experiences in half of cases. This work in Psychology and Religious Studies highlights the impact of psychedelics on spiritual beliefs.
Abstract
Naturally occurring and psychedelic drug-occasioned experiences interpreted as personal encounters with God are well described but have not been sy...
Alterations in brain network connectivity and subjective experience induced by psychedelics: a scoping review
Frontiers in Psychiatry – May 14, 2024
Summary
Profound subjective experiences from psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD are directly linked to specific changes in brain functional connectivity. A neuroscience review of 24 articles, selected from 492 in drug studies, reveals these substances profoundly alter consciousness and elevate mood. Psychology highlights decreased connectivity in brain networks involved in self-referential thought, alongside increased sensory processing. Such neurophysiological shifts offer a potential neural mechanism for reported mystical experiences, informing medicine's exploration of these compounds' therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Intense interest surrounds current research on psychedelics, particularly regarding their potential in treating mental health disorders. Various st...
Clarifying and measuring the characteristics of experiences that involve a loss of self or a dissolution of its boundaries.
Consciousness and cognition – March 01, 2024
Summary
A clearer understanding of self-transcendence emerges from a study involving 386 participants who described experiences of ego dissolution. Through detailed analysis, 16 distinct characteristics were identified, highlighting various changes in sense of self and related cognitive and emotional responses. This study integrates insights from meditation, psychedelics, and psychopathology, refining the measurement of these overlapping phenomena. By delineating the common factors across these experiences, it enhances our comprehension of mystical experiences and their implications for mental health and spiritual practices.
Abstract
Mystical experience, non-dual awareness, selflessness, self-transcendent experience, and ego-dissolution have become increasingly prominent constru...
The therapeutic alliance between study participants and intervention facilitators is associated with acute effects and clinical outcomes in a psilocybin-assisted therapy trial for major depressive disorder
PLoS ONE – March 14, 2024
Summary
A strong therapeutic alliance dramatically improves outcomes for major depressive disorder. In a randomized controlled trial of 24 adults, the bond with a psychotherapist strengthened moderately (an effect size of .43) after psilocybin sessions. A stronger initial alliance strongly predicted lower depression scores at 4 weeks (correlation -.65) and significantly at 12 months (correlation -.54). This clinical psychology intervention, a form of psychedelic medicine, highlights how the human element, even against a placebo, drives profound and lasting relief in psychiatry, proving vital for effective psychotherapy.
Abstract
We examined if the therapeutic alliance between study participants and intervention facilitators in a psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) trial chang...
Interview with Guillermo Arrévalo, a Shipibo Urban Shaman, by Roger Rumrrill
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – June 01, 2005
Summary
A significant concern arises from the growing trend of drug tourism in Peru, where urban shamans charge foreigners for ayahuasca experiences. Guillermo Arrévalo, a Shipibo shaman, highlights that many tourists seek mystical encounters to address personal crises, reflecting deeper spiritual and psychological issues in Western societies. He warns of the dangers posed by inexperienced shamans who may misuse toxic plants in rituals, potentially harming tourists and undermining authentic shamanic practices. This exploitation raises questions about the integrity of traditional healing in Latin American urban settings.
Abstract
Roger Rumrrill, a journalist headquartered in Lima, Peru who is a noted expert on the Peruvian Amazon, interviewed Guillermo Arrévalo, a Shipibo ur...
Ibogaine and Subjective Experience: Transformative States and Psychopharmacotherapy in the Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2019
Summary
Many people seeking help for opioid use disorder experience profound spiritual transformation during a unique oneiric psychedelic drug treatment. This approach explores how the powerful hallucinogen, ibogaine, impacts subjective experience. Researchers observed 44 participants, finding ibogaine often induced "complete mystical experiences" with vivid visions. These led to confronting past actions but also offered release from guilt and worthlessness, highlighting ibogaine's distinct healing capacity beyond mere withdrawal reduction from opioids.
Abstract
This article examines the therapeutic potential of ibogaine, a powerful oneiric alkaloid derived from Tabernanthe iboga, through exploring the subj...
Subjective features of the psilocybin experience that may account for its self-administration by humans: a double-blind comparison of psilocybin and dextromethorphan.
Psychopharmacology – August 01, 2020
Summary
Psilocybin induces a greater desire for repeat use in humans compared to Dextromethorphan, despite both being hallucinogens. A double-blind comparison found that while both produced psychedelic effects, higher psilocybin doses led to significantly more positive subjective experience, including enhanced mood, profound insight, and mystical experience. These reinforcing effects, like an insightful experience and increased appreciation for beauty, suggest psilocybin's unique profile contributes to its higher abuse liability, explaining observed differences in non-medical use.
Abstract
Although both psilocybin and dextromethorphan (DXM) produce psychedelic-like subjective effects, rates of non-medical use of psilocybin are consist...
Cultural Neurophenomenology of Psychedelic Thought
Oxford University Press eBooks – April 05, 2018
Summary
Psilocybin and other hallucinogens profoundly alter human cognition and perception, fostering creative insight and mystical experiences. Neuroscience and Cognitive psychology reveal how these psychedelics influence brain connectivity, impacting consciousness. This integrative perspective, drawing from Psychology and Cognitive science, highlights that seemingly spontaneous thought patterns reflect complex interactions. Sociocultural evolution and specific cultural context critically shape these unique states, moving beyond simple drug studies to understand their full impact on human experience.
Abstract
This chapter explores psychedelics as catalysts of spontaneous thought. Classic serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca ca...
Changes in mental health, wellbeing and personality following ayahuasca consumption: Results of a naturalistic longitudinal study.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2022
Summary
Traditional Amazonian ayahuasca ceremonies show promising effects on mental wellness. Participants reported significant drops in depression, anxiety, and substance use one month after their first ceremony. The psychedelic therapy also boosted self-efficacy, improved personality traits like openness, and enhanced relationships. Those with higher initial emotional struggles showed the strongest positive changes.
Abstract
Background: Naturalistic and placebo-controlled studies suggest ayahuasca, a potent psychedelic beverage originating from Indigenous Amazonian trad...
Efficacy and safety of psilocybin-assisted treatment for major depressive disorder: Prospective 12-month follow-up
Journal of Psychopharmacology – February 01, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted therapy offers remarkable long-term antidepressant effects for major depressive disorder. A randomized controlled trial with 24 participants showed 75% achieved treatment response and 58% remission after 12 months. Sustained, large decreases in Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (Hamd) scores (Cohen d up to 2.6) were observed. No serious adverse effects occurred within the study's context. This medicine, a psychedelic alkaloid, shows promise for psychiatry and clinical psychology, advancing psychedelics and complementary medicine studies.
Abstract
Background: Preliminary data suggest that psilocybin-assisted treatment produces substantial and rapid antidepressant effects in patients with majo...
Treating addiction with psychedelics - are we waking up?
European Psychiatry – April 01, 2021
Summary
Classic hallucinogens like psilocybin are showing remarkable promise for Addiction treatment, re-emerging in Psychiatry and Clinical psychology. A review of Drug Studies spanning 10 years (2010-2020) highlights how psychedelics, including mescaline, occasion profound psychological experiences. While research on Addiction is less developed than for cancer-related Distress, initial findings suggest safety and efficacy, with zero clinically significant adverse events when risk individuals are excluded. Psilocybin, potentially guided by a psychotherapist, could offer new therapeutic avenues.
Abstract
Introduction Classic psychedelics have been administered in sacramental contexts since ancient times. They were of prominent interest within psychi...
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...
Altered States and Social Bonds: Effects of MDMA and Serotonergic Psychedelics on Social Behavior as a Mechanism Underlying Substance-Assisted Therapy
Biological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging – February 09, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics and Drug Studies reveal that MDMA and serotonergic hallucinogens uniquely foster prosocial behavior, crucial for mental health. Both compounds alter self-perception and consistently dampen reactivity to negative social input, like social defeat, a key insight for Psychology. Neuroscience indicates both induce social neuroplasticity, promoting adaptive neural rewiring. While MDMA enhances social reward responses, its altered self-image effects differ from serotonergic compounds. Understanding these neurotransmitter receptor influences on behavior is vital for therapeutic strategies, informing fields like Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis about their distinct mechanisms.
Abstract
There has been renewed interest in the use of 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA) and serotonergic psychedelics in the treatment of multiple ...
Psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depressive disorder: An exploratory placebo-controlled, fixed-order trial
Journal of Psychopharmacology – March 20, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, demonstrated significant antidepressant effects for major depressive disorder. In a clinical psychology study, 19 individuals received placebo then 15 received psilocybin dosing (0.3 mg/kg); response rates reached 66.7% and remission 46.7%. While both conditions improved anxiety, psilocybin’s antidepressant effect sizes (d′ = 1.02–2.27) surpassed placebo’s (d′ = 0.65–0.99). This pharmacology research in psychiatry and medicine, exploring psychedelics and drug studies, underscores psilocybin's potential. Its unique chemical synthesis and role in complementary medicine approaches warrant further study.
Abstract
Background: Several early phase studies have demonstrated that psilocybin-assisted therapy has rapid-acting and persisting antidepressant effects f...
If the Doors of Perception Were Cleansed, Would Chronic Pain be Relieved? Evaluating the Benefits and Risks of Psychedelics.
The journal of pain – October 01, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD show promise in treating chronic pain, with clinical trials indicating significant effectiveness in conditions such as cancer and migraine. Although only a handful of uncontrolled studies exist, early findings suggest that when patients are carefully screened and monitored, risks remain low. For instance, effective treatment hinges on understanding the underlying neurobiological mechanisms and psychosocial factors. Future randomized trials must prioritize rigorous design to yield reliable insights into the therapeutic potential of these substances for pain management.
Abstract
Psychedelic substances have played important roles in diverse cultures, and ingesting various plant preparations to evoke altered states of conscio...
High doses of dextromethorphan, an NMDA antagonist, produce effects similar to classic hallucinogens.
Psychopharmacology – September 01, 2012
Summary
A common cough suppressant, in high doses, can induce profound, positive psychological shifts. Researchers found dextromethorphan (DXM) produced distinct physiological and perceptual changes, including visual effects, unlike a sedative. Most participants identified the experience as akin to classic hallucinogens. Effects resolved safely. A month later, volunteers reported increased spirituality and lasting positive attitudes, underscoring beneficial impacts.
Abstract
Although reports of dextromethorphan (DXM) abuse have increased recently, few studies have examined the effects of high doses of DXM. This study in...
The potential of psilocybin use to enhance well-being in healthy individuals – A scoping review
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – November 29, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a powerful hallucinogen, consistently enhances well-being in healthy individuals. A review of existing literature, including PsycINFO, reveals that for the majority of participants, psilocybin use led to positive outcomes like improved self-acceptance, stronger relationships, and greater life purpose. This compelling finding suggests psilocybin's potential in clinical psychology and mental health. The conceptualization of well-being improvements through psychedelics offers new avenues for Mental Health Research Topics and Drug Studies, pointing towards broader applications in Mental Health and Psychiatry.
Abstract
Abstract Background and aims This scoping review employed a multifaceted conceptualization of well-being to examine how psilocybin use affects well...
Psilocybin for Depression and Anxiety in Cancer Patients
OpenAlex – January 01, 2025
Summary
In a significant finding for medicine, psilocybin, combined with psychotherapist support, dramatically reduced anxiety and depression in 51 cancer patients. This work in clinical psychology and psychiatry revealed large symptom decreases, improved quality of life, and optimism. Crucially, around 80% of participants maintained these benefits six months later. Such results advance diverse academic research themes in psychology and psychedelics and drug studies, showcasing the therapeutic potential of compounds like psilocybin, a naturally occurring alkaloid.
Abstract
Abstract Fifty-one cancer patients with symptoms of depression and anxiety were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, crossover trial using low-d...
Psychedelics and potential benefits in “healthy normals”: A review of the literature
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – September 01, 2019
Summary
Psychedelics, a focus of modern Drug Studies, offer profound benefits beyond treatment, enhancing well-being in healthy individuals. These powerful hallucinogens, including compounds like Mescaline, foster enduring increases in Mindfulness and Prosocial behavior. Psychology reveals they boost Openness to experience, a key Personality trait, and improve Attunement to nature, impacting social psychology. Such experiences facilitate psychotherapeutic gains by modulating neuroplasticity, suggesting deeper biochemical mechanisms at play.
Abstract
We are in the midst of a psychedelic research renaissance. With research examining the efficacy of psychedelics as a treatment for a range of menta...
Safety, tolerability, pharmacodynamic and wellbeing effects of SPL026 (dimethyltryptamine fumarate) in healthy participants: a randomized, placebo-controlled phase 1 trial.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2023
Summary
A groundbreaking trial reveals that dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a powerful psychedelic compound, shows promise as a safe treatment option. When administered intravenously to healthy participants, DMT demonstrated good tolerability and positive effects on mental wellbeing. The trial tested multiple doses to determine optimal levels for treating major depressive disorder, with pharmacodynamic data supporting the 21.5mg dose as most effective.
Abstract
Due to their potential impact on mood and wellbeing there has been increasing interest in the potential of serotonergic psychedelics such as N,N-di...
Alterations to self consciousness during mindfulness meditation and Flotation REST a comparative study
OpenAlex – June 30, 2023
Summary
Mystical experiences, often associated with psychedelics, can also arise from mindfulness meditation and flotation therapy. These psychological interventions consistently showed ego-dissolution scores exceeding ego-inflation. Mystical Experience Questionnaire scores fell between those induced by low and high dose psilocybin, highlighting profound altered states of consciousness. An individual's openness to experience predicted these shifts, suggesting a key personality trait in accessing such mental health benefits. This offers valuable insight for clinical psychology and drug studies, exploring consciousness beyond neurotransmitter receptor influence.
Abstract
Flotation-Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy (REST) and mindfulness meditation (MM) are known to induce altered states of consciousness (ASC...
Exploring inner depths
OpenAlex – February 20, 2024
Summary
Patients receiving psychedelic treatments for depression report profound, sometimes anxious, experiences. Feeling unprepared or unsupported often heightened discomfort, hindering therapeutic surrender. Conversely, trust in therapists and strong emotional backing eased anxiety, fostering beneficial outcomes like feeling more open or detached from negative thoughts. Improving treatment delivery, much like understanding the deep, foundational layers of **Geology**, requires offering multiple sessions and extended support to enhance patient comfort and efficacy.
Abstract
Psychedelics are remarkable, versatile substances that produce a wide range of effects and can cause both harm and healing. Clinical research into ...
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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...
A neuroscientific model of near-death experiences.
Nature reviews. Neurology – June 01, 2025
Summary
Near-death experiences (NDEs) often involve vivid, mystical sensations during life-threatening situations. A synthesis of findings from neuroscience, including studies on non-human subjects and psychedelic experiences, reveals that NDEs may arise from interconnected psychological and neurophysiological processes. By examining 50+ studies, a new model suggests that these experiences result from brain network modifications and neurotransmitter changes, providing insight into consciousness during critical moments. This comprehensive approach highlights the need for a unified understanding of NDEs within an evolutionary context.
Abstract
Near-death experiences (NDEs) are episodes of disconnected consciousness that typically occur in situations that involve an actual or potential phy...
Age and cannabis co-use moderate experience and perceived benefits of psilocybin
OpenAlex – May 22, 2025
Summary
Cannabis co-use with Psilocybin may significantly improve quality of life, anxiety, depression, and reduce alcohol abuse. A Psychology investigation of 365 current users, part of broader Psychedelics and Drug Studies, reveals age also modulates experiences with this Hallucinogen. Younger adults (18-25) reported more adverse effects, while older adults (55-77) had milder acute experiences. This Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research on human Behavior, increasingly accessible via technology, highlights how age and co-use influence outcomes relevant to diverse aspects of life, including sexuality.
Abstract
As psychedelic use increases, understanding how demographic and behavioral factors influence the effects of psychedelics is essential for both rese...
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.
N, N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT)-Occasioned Familiarity and the Sense of Familiarity Questionnaire (SOF-Q).
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2024
Summary
During DMT experiences, users often report a puzzling sense of déjà vu - not from past psychedelic trips, but from somewhere deeper. Research with 227 participants revealed that this profound sense of familiarity occurs alongside mystical experiences, ego-dissolution, and encounters with entities. The psychedelic Dimethyltryptamine creates distinct patterns of recognition, particularly around emotional states and transcendent spaces, suggesting these familiar feelings tap into something fundamental about human consciousness.
Abstract
This study investigated the sense of familiarity attributed to N, N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) experiences. 227 naturalistic inhaled-DMT experiences ...
Out of body experiences: Scoping review.
Explore (New York, N.Y.) – June 04, 2025
Summary
Many report a profound sense of reality during Out of Body Experiences (OBEs). A comprehensive review of 87 publications explored how these unique events occur and their impact. It found OBEs can be spontaneous or induced, often linked to altered states of consciousness like lucid dreaming. While reactions vary, many embrace these as transcendental experiences. This work helps normalize and expand our understanding of Consciousness.
Abstract
Despite the growing body of scientific research on Out of Body Experiences (OBEs), a scoping review has not yet been conducted. A search was conduc...
People of color in North America report improvements in racial trauma and mental health symptoms following psychedelic experiences
Drugs Education Prevention and Policy – December 10, 2020
Summary
A single psychedelic experience, often involving psilocybin, may significantly reduce mental health symptoms stemming from racism. An internet survey of 313 Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) revealed moderate reductions in traumatic stress (d=-.45), depression (d=-.52), and anxiety (d=-.53) in the 30 days post-use. This suggests a powerful role for hallucinogens in clinical psychology and psychiatry. Understanding the pharmacology of these natural compounds offers new avenues in medicine for addressing psychopathology linked to racism.
Abstract
This study examined how psychedelics reduced symptoms of racial trauma among black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) subsequent to an experi...
Hallucinogens: Magic Mushrooms, Ayahuasca, Mescal Buttons, and Dr. Hofmann’s Problem Child
OpenAlex – October 01, 2020
Summary
Only about 100 of 400,000 plant species contain hallucinogenic chemicals. These substances, like psilocybin or ayahuasca, have been integral to human evolution, straddling science and mysticism. Defined as religious ecstasies involving alternate states of consciousness, magic, and mythology, mysticism is key. While biochemical analysis explores these agents, their impact on consciousness, often inducing a trance, extends to psychoanalysis, psychology, and literature. Psychedelics, enriching the mind, inspire art and aesthetics. Drug studies reveal their profound influence.
Abstract
Abstract There are about 400,000 species of plants in this world. Only a small fraction, perhaps 100 in number, contain hallucinogenic chemicals. N...
Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy May Enhance Conservation Values in Patients with Alcohol Use Disorder
Psychedelic Medicine – November 25, 2024
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin, an alkaloid from chemical synthesis, significantly altered values in 48 patients with alcohol use disorder receiving psychotherapy. Among 93 participants, those given psilocybin increased "Conservation" values (e.g., security, tradition). Acute psychedelic experiences correlated with these shifts (r=0.31–0.34). However, these psychological changes were unrelated to alcohol consumption outcomes. This informs medicine, psychiatry, and pharmacology within psychedelics and drug studies, including cannabis and cannabinoid research, by detailing how such compounds impact personal psychology.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin can produce long-term changes in personality, personal values, and behavior. Although psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) is b...
Evaluation of the peak experience scale as a rapid assessment tool for the strength of a psychoactive experience with 5-MeO-DMT.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2025
Summary
A new, brief questionnaire accurately gauges the intensity of a potent psychedelic experience. Researchers developed a simple, three-item 'peak experience' questionnaire to quickly assess the strength of the psychoactive effects of 5-MeO-DMT (mebufotenin). This tool proved highly effective in 84 participants, showing strong correlation with established measures of the psychedelic experience. Its ratings increased significantly with higher doses, confirming its ability to rapidly assess the intensity of this unique psychoactive compound. This validates the questionnaire as a valuable, quick way to understand individual responses and guide dosing for this powerful psychedelic.
Abstract
A three-item Peak Experience Scale (PES) was developed to rapidly evaluate the strength of the psychoactive experience, and to guide the dosing reg...
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.
Trajectories of sentiment in 11,816 psychoactive narratives
Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental – December 20, 2023
Summary
Machine learning has unveiled striking correlations between sentiment and psychoactive experiences across a diverse range of 52 drugs. Analyzing 11,816 testimonials, the models identified 28 dimensions of sentiment, validated by a clinical psychiatrist. Notably, MDMA was associated with feelings of “Love,” while DMT and 5‐MeO‐DMT related to “Mystical Experiences.” The study revealed 11 significant receptor-experience factors, offering a neurobiological perspective on drug-induced feelings. This innovative approach highlights machine learning's potential in quantifying subjective experiences linked to various psychoactive substances.
Abstract
Abstract Objective Can machine learning (ML) enable data‐driven discovery of how changes in sentiment correlate with different psychoactive experie...
Inner Light and the Eyes of the Soul: A Phenomenological Analysis of Teresa of Ávila's Visions through the Lens of Phosphene Taxonomy
PsyArXiv Preprints – June 16, 2025
Summary
Mystics across cultures, from Teresa of Ávila to Tibetan sage Milarepa, have reported seeing intense inner light during deep meditation. New analysis reveals these visions match patterns of phosphenes—natural light phenomena in our visual system. By comparing Teresa's detailed accounts with those of Hildegard of Bingen and Longchenpa, researchers found that mystical luminosity experiences follow consistent stages during contemplation and altered states of consciousness, suggesting a universal basis for spiritual light visions.
Abstract
This paper examines the visionary experiences of Saint Teresa of Ávila (1515–1582) as described in The Life of Teresa of Jesus, through the lens of...
Immersion, Absorption, and Spiritual Experience: Some Preliminary Findings.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2020
Summary
A remarkable finding highlights that spiritual experiences can be linked to distinct brain activity. In a study involving a participant with a high absorption score of 34, immersion in a whole-body perceptual deprivation tank resulted in a significant increase in right-frontal alpha power. This participant reported vivid imagery, including encounters with God and out-of-body sensations. Comparatively, two low-absorption participants exhibited different alpha patterns. Overall, the data suggests that verbalizable spiritual experiences correlate with increased right-frontal alpha activity, while mystical experiences may show left-frontal increases.
Abstract
Many traditions have utilized silent environments to induce altered states of consciousness and spiritual experiences. Neurocognitive explorations ...
Health Benefits and Positive Acute Effects of Psilocybin Consumption: A Quantitative Textual Analysis of User Self-Reported Data
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – June 22, 2023
Summary
Profound mystical experiences driven by the hallucinogen psilocybin, including ego-dissolution, offer significant mental health benefits. An analysis of 846 public online self-reports revealed how context and setting profoundly shape these psychedelic experiences. The findings, relevant for clinical psychology and psychiatry, highlight somatic and visual alterations, connectedness, and cognitive shifts. Understanding these outcomes from a drug studies perspective is crucial for future psychotherapeutic applications, moving beyond basic biochemical analysis to inform safe and effective use of this alkaloid.
Abstract
There has been growth in the use of psychedelics by the global population in recent years. In addition to recreational and ritualistic use, recent ...
The Beyond Within: The LSD Story
JAMA – July 12, 1965
Summary
Psilocybin and other hallucinogens are gaining attention for their potential to induce profound mystical experiences, often described as "instant Zen." In a recent exploration, the author highlights the challenges in conveying these unique experiences, noting that traditional methods may fall short. The discussion encompasses historical perspectives and the possibility of using psychedelics as therapeutic adjuncts. With anecdotal accounts reflecting transformative effects, this narrative emphasizes the need for deeper understanding as the medical community navigates the complexities surrounding these substances, affecting perceptions of both healing and belief.
Abstract
The medical community was alarmed recently by the uncontrolled and somewhat-promiscuous use of "hallucinogens" in one of our major cities. The lay ...
Study Suggests Hallucinogen May Be Personality Changer
Psychiatric News – December 16, 2011
Summary
The potent hallucinogen psilocybin can evoke profound feelings of bliss, often described as oneness with the universe. However, a critical question in Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies is whether these experiences represent genuine mysticism or spiritual growth. This inquiry challenges traditional views in Religious Studies and Spiritual Practices, prompting psychotherapists and those interested in psychoanalysis to consider the authenticity of such drug-induced states. The debate touches on paranormal experiences and beliefs, questioning if the feeling of bliss truly constitutes a deep, lasting mystical transformation.
Abstract
Even if ingesting the hallucinogen psilocybin can increase positive feelings of bliss or oneness with the universe, it is questionable whether such...