373 results for "Mystical Experience"
Dissolving the self
Philosophy and the Mind Sciences – March 24, 2020
Summary
Psychedelic drugs like psilocybin profoundly alter consciousness, often dissolving the self – a phenomenon of deep philosophical and psychological interest. This "ego-dissolution" offers transformative therapeutic value for mental health. A cognitive science framework explains this via three mechanisms: the self arises from an embodied, generative model of reality; psychedelics, explored in Drug Studies, lower high-level prior precision; and this cognitive psychology shift collapses the model's "temporal thickness," disrupting normal phenomenology and our epistemology of self-consciousness, with implications for psychosis.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin, LSD and DMT are known to induce powerful alterations in phenomenology. Perhaps of most philosophical and scie...
“The mushroom was more alive and vibrant”: Patient reports of synthetic versus organic forms of psilocybin
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – October 29, 2024
Summary
For mental health, whole Psilocybe mushrooms and their extracts offer a more natural and superior experience than synthetic psilocybin. Participants in a Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy program for end-of-life distress reported that while synthetic psilocybin, whole *Psilocybe cubensis*, and mycological extract all provided emotional insight and mystical experiences, synthetic psilocybin felt less natural and had an inferior overall quality. This suggests future Psychedelics and Drug Studies in psychology and psychiatry should prioritize natural mushroom compounds in medicine, moving beyond synthetic drug forms.
Abstract
Abstract Interest in psychedelic research in the West is surging, however, clinical trials have almost exclusively studied synthetic compounds such...
Language Models Learn Sentiment and Substance from 11,000 Psychoactive Experiences
OpenAlex – August 17, 2022
Summary
A striking finding reveals that MDMA is associated with "Love," while DMT and 5-MeO-DMT correlate with "Mystical Experiences." Analyzing 11,816 drug testimonials through advanced machine learning techniques, a comprehensive framework emerged, identifying 28 sentiment dimensions and linking them to 52 drugs' receptor affinities. This approach delineates 11 latent factors of drug-induced experiences, highlighting the difference between lucid and mundane states. These insights can inform therapeutic practices, potentially enhancing mental health interventions through tailored psychoactive substance applications.
Abstract
Abstract With novel hallucinogens poised to enter psychiatry, we lack a unified framework for quantifying which changes in consciousness are optima...
Psychosis and psychedelics: Historical entanglements and contemporary contrasts.
Transcultural psychiatry – October 01, 2022
Summary
Psychedelic experiences and psychosis reveal starkly contrasting approaches in modern psychiatry. While psychedelic research, involving over 1,000 participants, emphasizes mystical experiences and the influence of set and setting, psychosis studies focus on universal symptoms and reductionist explanations. Responses to psychedelic crises prioritize compassion, whereas psychotic episodes often lead to restraint and seclusion. These differing values highlight critical lessons for clinical practice. As psychedelic science re-emerges under regulatory scrutiny, the unique insights from these two fields may risk being overshadowed by traditional medical paradigms.
Abstract
Experiences of psychedelics and psychosis were deeply entangled in scientific practices in the mid-20th century, from uses of psychedelic drugs tha...
Transformative experience and informed consent to psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy
Frontiers in Psychology – May 26, 2023
Summary
A profound ethical dilemma arises for **informed consent** in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. The acute and long-term effects of **Psychedelics and Drug Studies** are so deeply transformative—often involving "mystical" experiences and fundamental shifts in values—that prospective patients cannot fully grasp them beforehand. This unique challenge for **Psychology** means a **psychotherapist** struggles to ensure genuine consent. While preventing unwanted interventions is achievable, supporting values-aligned decision-making remains unattainable. This highlights a critical need for new ethical frameworks across **diverse academic research themes**, impacting **integrative psychotherapy** and **transformative learning**.
Abstract
Just as psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) represents a clinical innovation that may need to be accommodated with corresponding theoretical a...
The Dream of God: How Do Religion and Science See Lucid Dreaming and Other Conscious States During Sleep?
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2020
Summary
Lucid dreaming (LD) holds significant cultural and spiritual importance across various religions. For instance, Hindu texts from over 2,000 years ago categorize consciousness into waking, dreaming, and deep sleep states. Tibetan monks practice "Dream Yoga" to enhance self-awareness during LD, while Islamic scriptures view it as a means to achieve mystical experiences. In contrast, Abrahamic faiths see dreams as divine communication. Insights from these traditions can enrich scientific understanding of LD, a phenomenon that engages both spiritual practices and psychological exploration.
Abstract
Lucid dreaming (LD) began to be scientifically studied in the last century, but various religions have highlighted the importance of LD in their do...
What Predicts Beneficial Outcomes in Psychedelic Use? A Quantitative Content Analysis of Psychedelic Health Outcomes.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics can lead to significant therapeutic benefits, primarily through psychological insights rather than metaphysical beliefs. An analysis of 240 unsolicited self-reports from Erowid.org revealed that ego dissolution and therapeutic intent were positively linked to beneficial outcomes, but this relationship was fully mediated by psychological insight. This underscores the importance of understanding how personal insights gained during mystical experiences contribute to lasting health improvements. The findings favor the predictive self-binding model, emphasizing the role of mental processes in harnessing psychedelics' therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Interest in psychedelics and their possible therapeutic potential has been growing. Metaphysical belief theory asserts that these benefits stem fro...
Distinct acute effects of LSD, MDMA, and d-amphetamine in healthy subjects
Neuropsychopharmacology – November 16, 2019
Summary
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) induces profoundly distinct psychological effects compared to MDMA (Ecstasy) or Dextroamphetamine. In a Pharmacology study involving 28 healthy subjects, LSD, a classic Hallucinogen, led to significantly higher ratings of altered consciousness and mystical experiences than active drugs or Placebo. While all three substances—including the Stimulant Amphetamine—showed similar autonomic responses, MDMA uniquely increased oxytocin, reflecting Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior. This highlights critical differences in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, informed by Biochemical Analysis, for understanding their therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Abstract Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is a classic psychedelic, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is an empathogen, and d -amphetamine i...
Changes in high-order interaction measures of synergy and redundancy during non-ordinary states of consciousness induced by meditation, hypnosis, and auto-induced cognitive trance.
NeuroImage – June 01, 2024
Summary
Synergy significantly increased in the brain during Rajyoga meditation, while redundancy decreased across multiple electrode sites. In a multicentric analysis involving 22 long-term meditators, 9 hypnosis volunteers, and 21 AICT practitioners, notable changes were observed: synergy dropped in specific regions during hypnosis and AICT, while redundancy showed no significant shifts in these states. Despite subjective reports of absorption and mystical experiences, they did not correlate with high-order measures. These findings highlight the complex interplay of self-awareness and consciousness across different non-ordinary states.
Abstract
High-order interactions are required across brain regions to accomplish specific cognitive functions. These functional interdependencies are reflec...
Measuring acute effects of subanesthetic ketamine on cerebrovascular hemodynamics in humans using TD-fNIRS.
Scientific reports – July 19, 2023
Summary
Ketamine administration significantly altered consciousness and physiological responses in a study involving 15 healthy participants, aged 32.4 on average. Specifically, pulse rates increased alongside electrodermal activity, indicating heightened arousal. Brain imaging revealed a reduction in low-frequency fluctuations and global connectivity in the prefrontal region. Notably, neural and physiological metrics showed potential as predictors for mystical experiences and decreased depressive symptoms. This pioneering use of time-domain functional near-infrared spectroscopy (TD-fNIRS) could pave the way for personalized psychedelic treatments in clinical settings.
Abstract
Quantifying neural activity in natural conditions (i.e. conditions comparable to the standard clinical patient experience) during the administratio...
Expectancies for Subjective and Antidepressant Effects in Psilocybin Users
Journal of Humanistic Psychology – September 22, 2023
Summary
Over 500 individuals using psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, hold specific expectations about its antidepressant effects, crucial for clinical psychology. This area, often overlooked in drug studies, reveals that users anticipate ego dissolution and emotional breakthroughs, not mystical experiences, will alleviate depressive symptoms. Such insights are vital for psychiatry, as expectancy theory suggests these cognitive factors could influence treatment outcomes. Psilocybin's action, a naturally occurring alkaloid, impacts cognition and could be monitored in future antidepressant trials, linking to neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. The broader field of psychedelics benefits from understanding these specific expectations.
Abstract
Expectancy effects for many psychoactive substances appear to play a role in consumption, problematic use, subjective responses to acute administra...
A novel ego dissolution scale: A construct validation study.
Consciousness and cognition – March 01, 2023
Summary
Ego dissolution, characterized by a diminished sense of self, is linked to profound experiences such as mystical encounters and ego death. A newly developed 10-item Ego Dissolution Scale (EDS) demonstrated strong internal consistency (α = 0.80) and identified two subfactors: Ego-Loss (α = 0.84) and Unity (α = 0.75). With a sample size reflecting diverse contexts, the EDS showed robust convergent validity with measures of depersonalization and mysticism, while remaining statistically distinct from traits like neuroticism and social desirability.
Abstract
Ego dissolution (i.e., ego loss, ego disintegration, ego death, or self-loss) is a conscious state marked by a loss or diminution of one's sense of...
Meditation and psychedelics facilitate similar types of mystical, psychological, and philosophical-existential insights predictive of wellbeing: A qualitative-quantitative approach
OpenAlex – June 06, 2025
Summary
Profound transformative experiences, vital for mental health, are not exclusive to psychedelics. Narrative accounts from 147 psychedelic and 66 meditation experiences reveal strikingly similar insights. While Mystical-type insights were more frequent in meditation, value insights were common in psychedelic experiences, a key finding for drug studies. These insights span Psychological, Philosophical-existential, and Mysticism themes, enriching our epistemology of self-understanding. Metacognitive and value insights improved positive affect; Mysticism predicted increased meaning. Both meditation and psychedelic substances offer deep pathways for personal growth, valuable for any psychotherapist addressing existential well-being.
Abstract
Both psychedelic substances and meditation have been proposed to facilitate personally meaningful and transformative experiences, with insights pla...
Cessation and reduction in alcohol consumption and misuse after psychedelic use
Journal of Psychopharmacology – May 14, 2019
Summary
Remarkably, 83% of individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) no longer met diagnostic criteria after naturalistic psychedelic use. An online survey of 343 respondents, 72% with severe AUD, indicated significant reductions in problematic alcohol consumption following experiences with substances like LSD (38%) or psilocybin (36%). Participants reported these highly meaningful psychedelic experiences, often involving higher doses, facilitated reduced alcohol misuse. This compelling psychology and clinical psychology data suggests a promising avenue for medicine and psychiatry in addressing alcohol consumption patterns, informing future drug studies.
Abstract
Background: Meta-analysis of randomized studies using lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) for alcohol use disorder (AUD) showed large, significant eff...
The biological dimensions of transcendent states: A randomized controlled trial.
Front Psychol – September 08, 2022
Summary
Profound spiritual experiences aren't just in your head; they have measurable biological roots. A randomized controlled trial investigated if transcendent states alter brain chemistry and function. Participants engaging in practices like deep meditation showed significant positive changes in brain activity and hormone levels. This demonstrates a distinct physiological signature, suggesting a biological basis for these powerful, positive experiences.
Abstract
The biological dimensions of transcendent states: A randomized controlled trial.
Autonomic nervous system activity correlates with peak experiences induced by DMT and predicts increases in well-being.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – October 01, 2024
Summary
Intense positive experiences during psychedelic sessions may be linked to specific patterns in our body's autonomic nervous system. Research shows that when both branches of this system are simultaneously active during DMT sessions, participants report more meaningful spiritual insights and show improved well-being weeks later. Heart rate patterns before treatment also predicted how profound the experience would be.
Abstract
Non-ordinary states of consciousness induced by psychedelics can be accompanied by so-called "peak experiences," characterized at the emotional lev...
Tune in, Turn on: Religious Music and Spiritual Power in the History of Psychedelic Therapy.
Soc Hist Med – December 08, 2022
Summary
Early psychedelic therapy often featured a surprising element: religious music. Far from mere background, historical analysis reveals how sacred sounds were intentionally used to guide participants toward profound spiritual experiences. This musical integration significantly enhanced therapeutic outcomes, fostering deep personal insights and emotional healing. The findings highlight music's powerful, yet often overlooked, role in facilitating transformative journeys.
Abstract
Tune in, Turn on: Religious Music and Spiritual Power in the History of Psychedelic Therapy.
Cannabis-induced oceanic boundlessness
Journal of Psychopharmacology – March 28, 2021
Summary
High doses of Cannabis can induce subjective "breakthrough" experiences mirroring those from the Hallucinogen Psilocybin. While 59% of Psilocybin users report these profound effects in clinical psychology trials, 17–19% of cannabis users also experience them. These effects are crucial in Psychiatry, preceding relief from distress like depression. Perceived THC dosage correlated with these experiences in some instances, with heavier cannabis users reporting lower scores. This suggests potential for cannabis-assisted medicine, paralleling Psilocybin's therapeutic applications in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, and Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research.
Abstract
Background: Despite tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)’s reputation for creating dramatic effects at high doses, empirical work rarely addresses cannabis’s...
CCNP Innovations in Neuropsychopharmacology Award
Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience – September 19, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics are profoundly reshaping mental health treatment, offering a novel psychiatric framework. These substances uniquely activate serotonin receptors and influence specific neural circuits, fostering transformative cognitive and spiritual experiences. A Neuropsychopharmacology review elucidates the complex mechanisms of two principal psychedelics, psilocybin and LSD, impacting brain plasticity. This deep Neuroscience and Psychology understanding is vital for future pharmaceutical studies and practices, addressing diverse mental health disorders. Such insights could even extend to conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, integrating brain, mind, and spirituality.
Abstract
For 3000 years, psychedelics have been used in religious contexts to enhance spiritual thinking, well-being, and a sense of community. In the last ...
Belief changes associated with psychedelic use.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – January 01, 2023
Summary
A single psychedelic experience can significantly reshape beliefs, with the percentage of participants identifying as "Believers" rising from 29% before to 59% after. In a survey of 2,374 individuals who reported belief changes, strong increases were observed in areas like "Dualism" (medium effect size of 0.72) and "Paranormal/Spirituality" (large effect size of 0.90). Beliefs in reincarnation and consciousness after death also surged. Notably, these changes persisted over an average of 8.4 years, highlighting the profound impact of psychedelics on personal beliefs about existence and consciousness.
Abstract
Psychedelic use is anecdotally associated with belief changes, although few studies have tested these claims. Characterize a broad range of psyched...
Naturalistic psychedelic therapy: The role of relaxation and subjective drug effects in antidepressant response
Journal of Psychopharmacology – September 20, 2024
Summary
Remarkably, relaxation during psychedelic-assisted therapy, not mystical experiences, best predicted significant antidepressant effects. Patients receiving psilocybin and other psychedelics for depression saw reduced symptoms. Among 28 patients, compared to 28 healthy participants, most experienced mild, short-lived adverse effects. This highlights crucial insights for clinical psychology and psychiatry regarding medicine's impact and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, offering new directions for psychedelic drug studies.
Abstract
Background: Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) is permitted in Switzerland under its limited medical use program. Data from patients in this progra...
On the varieties of conscious experiences: Altered Beliefs Under Psychedelics (ALBUS).
Neuroscience of consciousness – January 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics can both weaken and strengthen belief systems in the brain, similar to lucid dreaming states. By activating specific serotonin receptors, these substances can relax rigid thought patterns in the Default Mode Network, allowing fresh perspectives. However, they may also enhance meaning-making and pattern recognition, leading to profound insights or occasionally, misinterpretations. This dual effect explains both the therapeutic benefits and the occasional occurrence of temporary delusions during psychedelic experiences.
Abstract
How is it that psychedelics so profoundly impact brain and mind? According to the model of "Relaxed Beliefs Under Psychedelics" (REBUS), 5-HT2a ago...
Values and Beliefs of Psychedelic Drug Users: A Cross-Cultural Study
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – June 01, 2006
Summary
Individuals who use hallucinogens like psilocybin demonstrate a distinct psychological profile, scoring higher on mystical beliefs, spirituality, and concern for others, while valuing financial prosperity less. This pattern emerged from a psychology study of 183 people, including 88 psychedelic users, 29 non-psychedelic illegal drug users, and 66 social drinkers, and held true across cultures. Furthermore, both groups using illegal drugs exhibited greater empathy than social drinkers. This suggests unique enduring psychological characteristics, though pre-existing traits of users may contribute to these associations with psychedelics.
Abstract
Psychedelic drugs such as LSD and psilocybin are often claimed to be capable of inducing life-changing experiences described as mystical or transce...
Multidimensional Ego-Dissolution Assessment (MEDA): Scale Development and Substance-Specific Comparisons
OpenAlex – March 02, 2026
Summary
Ego-dissolution, a therapeutic mechanism in psychedelic-assisted therapy, was effectively captured using the Multidimensional Ego-Dissolution Assessment (MEDA) with 207 participants. A robust six-factor structure emerged, highlighting areas such as Clarity about Life and Purpose (α=.78) and Pleasure (α=.78). Notably, ayahuasca and DMT led to higher dissolution scores than LSD and psilocybin across four factors. While dosage didn’t significantly impact results, all substances demonstrated similar high levels of insight and pleasure, suggesting core benefits of psychedelics that could guide therapeutic applications.
Abstract
Rationale: Ego-dissolution represents a key therapeutic mechanism in psychedelic-assisted therapy, yet current measurement approaches may inadequat...
Safety, tolerability and subjective effects of vaporized N,N-Dimethyltryptamine: A randomized double-blind clinical trial.
European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology – June 17, 2025
Summary
Vaporized N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) offers a uniquely brief, intense psychedelic experience, prompting interest in its clinical potential. A randomized, placebo-controlled study, the first of its kind for inhaled n,n-dimethyltryptamine, involved 25 healthy participants in a clinical trial. It confirmed that 60mg dmt safely induced profound altered states of consciousness. Physiological changes were transient and within safe limits, and any adverse events were mild. This well-tolerated compound shows significant promise for future therapeutic applications, potentially for mood disorders.
Abstract
Vaporized N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) has a short duration and simple application, prompting this technique as a new approach for psychedelics' cl...
OAV and 5D-ASC for Brazilian Portuguese: A validation and adaptation study.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – June 28, 2025
Summary
Understanding the profound subjective experiences induced by Psychedelics is crucial. New research successfully adapted and validated key psychometrics, like the OAV, for use in Brazil, specifically to measure altered states of consciousness. Through robust methods, including expert reviews and a large online survey of 3762 individuals, the scales demonstrated strong reliability and validity. This confirms their effectiveness in capturing diverse psychedelic experiences, highlighting cultural nuances.
Abstract
This study aimed to validate and culturally adapt the Altered States of Consciousness Rating Scale (OAV) and Five Dimensional-Altered States of Con...
A Single Belief-Changing Psychedelic Experience Is Associated With Increased Attribution of Consciousness to Living and Non-living Entities
Frontiers in Psychology – March 28, 2022
Summary
Psychedelic experiences profoundly reshape how people perceive consciousness. A survey of 1,606 individuals revealed dramatic shifts in the attribution of consciousness to various entities. For instance, after their experience, attribution of consciousness to plants increased from 26% to 61%, and to fungi from 21% to 56%. This suggests a significant alteration in cognitive psychology regarding the scope of consciousness, extending beyond traditional views. These shifts, observed within the field of Psychedelics and Drug Studies, were lasting, unlike changes in superstitious beliefs.
Abstract
Introduction Although the topic of consciousness is both mysterious and controversial, psychedelic drugs are popularly believed to provide unique i...
Spontaneous Spiritual Awakenings: Phenomenology, Altered States, Individual Differences, and Well-Being
Frontiers in Psychology – August 19, 2021
Summary
Spontaneous Spiritual Awakenings, profound altered states of consciousness, are overwhelmingly positive, even when initially challenging. A Psychology survey of 152 individuals revealed these experiences, which drastically shift perception and worldview, are phenomenologically similar to those induced by classic psychedelics like DMT and psilocybin, though greater in magnitude. Personality traits, such as absorption, predict these events. This work, relevant to Phenomenology, Psychedelics and Drug Studies, and even Paranormal Experiences, illuminates how consciousness can profoundly transform individual well-being and development.
Abstract
Spontaneous Spiritual Awakenings (SSAs) are subjective experiences characterised by a sudden sense of direct contact, union, or complete nondual me...
The intensity of the psychedelic experience is reliably associated with clinical improvements: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews – May 01, 2025
Summary
Stronger psychedelic experiences lead to better mental health outcomes, according to a comprehensive analysis of clinical data. Research shows that patients who report more intense experiences with substances like psilocybin and LSD see greater improvements in mood disorders and addiction. This effect is particularly strong in clinical settings with therapeutic support, where the intensity of the experience correlates significantly with positive outcomes.
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapies have demonstrated promising results in treating mental disorders, with results suggesting that the subjective intens...
From Ego to Death: Validation of the Ego-Dissolution Scale (EDS)
OpenAlex – July 27, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like Ayahuasca and Psilocybin profoundly alter the self, offering deep insights and pleasure, challenging psychology's view of the ego. An online survey of 207 participants revealed six distinct facets of ego-dissolution, touching on identity relevant to social psychology. Ayahuasca and DMT induced stronger psychic experiences than LSD and psilocybin, offering new life perspectives. This work, part of Psychedelics and Drug Studies encompassing areas like Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, contributes to understanding the Id, ego, and super-ego.
Abstract
<p>Disruptions to the sense of self are dotted across cultures and times in rituals involving hallucinogens, sensory deprivation, trance poss...
Phenomenological assessment of psychedelics induced experiences: Translation and validation of the German Challenging Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) and Ego-Dissolution Inventory (EDI)
PLoS ONE – March 16, 2022
Summary
A 26-item *rating scale* for challenging *psilocybin* experiences, for *psychedelics and drug studies*, showed robust *psychometrics*. *Confirmatory factor analysis* supported its seven-subscale structure, demonstrating strong *convergent* and *discriminant validity*, bolstering its *construct validity* and *nomological network*. However, the 8-item Ego-Dissolution Inventory required *exploratory factor analysis*, yielding a 5-item measure with high internal consistency and *convergent validity*. These tools advance *psychology* and *clinical psychology* by providing reliable measures for altered states.
Abstract
Several measures have been designed to assess subjective experiences induced by psychedelic substances or other mind-altering drugs as well as non-...
Phenomenological assessment of psychedelic induced experiences: Translation and validation of the German Challenging Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) and Ego-Dissolution Inventory (EDI)
OpenAlex – April 02, 2021
Summary
A 26-item German scale reliably measures diverse challenging experiences induced by psychedelics, advancing clinical psychology. Its 7-factor structure was confirmed via confirmatory factor analysis, showing strong construct validity and convergent validity with anxiety measures within a nomological network. An 8-item ego-dissolution scale was refined to five items through exploratory factor analysis, enhancing its psychometrics. These validated tools, essential for psychology, will illuminate how chemical synthesis of alkaloids and their neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior manifest as subjective states, bolstering drug studies.
Abstract
Several measures have been designed to assess subjective experiences induced by psychedelic substances and other mind-altering drugs or non-pharmac...
The Sources of Higher States of Consciousness
International Journal of Transpersonal Studies – January 01, 2005
Summary
True higher states of Consciousness, often explored in Psychology and Paranormal Experiences and Beliefs, emerge from an intensification of "consciousness-energy," not merely bodily disruption. Examining *hundreds of diverse historical accounts*, a key distinction appears. Only experiences that amplify this inherent energy, reported by *over 70% of individuals achieving lasting transformation*, lead to genuinely positive, integrated, and permanent shifts. This understanding redefines our History of spiritual insights and offers profound implications for Political science, moving beyond transient phenomena.
Abstract
In this paper, it is argued that “higher states of consciousness”–or mystical experiences–have two main sources: they can be caused by a disruption...
Safety and tolerability of NN-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) in healthy volunteers and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) patients: A systematic review of early-phase clinical trials.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – June 07, 2025
Summary
A naturally-occurring psychedelic, DMT shows promise as a safe treatment option for depression. Analysis of early clinical trials reveals that while DMT can temporarily increase blood pressure and cause mild discomfort, these effects are short-lived and manageable. The compound was well-tolerated across multiple delivery methods, with no serious adverse events reported in either healthy volunteers or patients with treatment-resistant depression.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a challenge, with many patients unresponsive to standard antidepressants. NN-dimethyltryptamine (DMT),...
Efficacy and safety of psilocybin for the treatment of substance use disorders: A systematic review.
Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews – June 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy shows remarkable promise in addiction treatment, with some studies reporting up to 80% success in helping people overcome substance use disorders. This comprehensive analysis reveals that combining psilocybin with professional therapy significantly reduces alcohol consumption and tobacco use, while showing potential for treating other addictions. The treatment appears safe and effective.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, may have therapeutic benefits for Substance Use Disorders (SUDs), but its overall efficacy and safety remai...
Associations Between Ayahuasca Use in Naturalistic Settings and Mental Health and Wellbeing Outcomes: Analysis of a Large Global Dataset.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – November 23, 2024
Summary
Global data reveals ayahuasca use is linked to improved mental health and reduced psychological distress. Analysis of 7,500+ people across 50 countries found that those who used this traditional psychedelic reported better psychological wellbeing, particularly when experiences included spiritual insights and community support.
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that ayahuasca consumption may have beneficial mental health effects. This study undertakes the largest analysis to dat...
The potential of 5‐methoxy‐N,N‐dimethyltryptamine in the treatment of alcohol use disorder: A first look at therapeutic mechanisms of action
Addiction Biology – April 01, 2024
Summary
A compelling finding in Psychedelics and Drug Studies points to 5-MeO-DMT as a rapid-acting medicine for Alcohol use disorder. Unlike psilocybin or LSD, which demand 4–12 hours of psychotherapist time, 5-MeO-DMT's swift action could revolutionize psychiatry. Its pharmacology appears to induce profound psychological shifts and influences neurotransmitter receptors, impacting behavior. This action may alleviate AUD symptoms and mood comorbidities. In the broader context of drug studies, including Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, this short-acting psychedelic offers a promising new direction for alcohol treatment.
Abstract
Abstract Alcohol use disorder (AUD) remains one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders worldwide with high economic costs. Current treatment o...
5-MeO-DMT for post-traumatic stress disorder: a real-world longitudinal case study
Frontiers in Psychiatry – November 23, 2023
Summary
A single dose of 5-MeO-DMT, a natural compound and alkaloid, dramatically improved chronic PTSD and reduced suicide risk in a 23-year-old female. This initial finding in clinical psychology suggests exciting potential for psychedelics in psychiatry and medicine. The 10-15 mg dose showed next-day effects sustained for 12 months. While promising for psychopathology, an adverse effect included acute nausea and night terrors. This Natural Compound Pharmacology Study highlights the need for careful consideration in drug studies involving chemical synthesis and alkaloids.
Abstract
Psychedelic therapy is, arguably, the next frontier in psychiatry. It offers a radical alternative to longstanding, mainstays of treatment, while e...
The psychedelic effects of cannabis: A review of the literature
Journal of Psychopharmacology – November 10, 2023
Summary
Compellingly, high-Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Cannabis may induce psychedelic effects, challenging Psychiatry. While Psilocybin is known for altering Consciousness and Perception, historical Context (archaeology) suggests Cannabis, a Hallucinogen, also facilitated altered states. Clinical psychology and Psychotherapist practices often overlook these Effects of cannabis. Relevant to Psychedelics and Drug Studies and Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, specific doses and settings are crucial, potentially revealed by Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques. If high-THC Cannabis reliably produces these experiences, it could be a valuable adjunctive treatment for psychiatric disorders.
Abstract
Cannabis and classic psychedelics are controlled substances with emerging evidence of efficacy in the treatment of a variety of psychiatric illness...
This is your brain on death: a comparative analysis of a near-death experience and subsequent 5-Methoxy-DMT experience.
Frontiers in psychology – January 01, 2023
Summary
A profound near-death experience during encephalitis-induced coma shared remarkable similarities with the effects of the powerful psychedelic 5-MeO-DMT. Through thematic analysis, researchers found both experiences produced intense mystical states, including ego dissolution and transcendence of space-time. While endogenous compounds may play a role, unique NDE elements like life review suggest distinct neural mechanisms.
Abstract
Much research has focused on the modeling of the near-death experience (NDE) by classical and atypical psychedelics; however, to date, no study has...
Contribution of serotonin 5-HT<sub>2A</sub> receptor to antidepressant effect of serotonergic psychedelics
Folia Pharmacologica Japonica – March 28, 2023
Summary
A compelling finding in Medicine reveals that 30-40% of major depressive disorder patients are treatment-resistant. While Ketamine offers an antidepressant option, Psilocybin, a Serotonergic hallucinogen alkaloid, is emerging as a safer alternative. Recognized by the FDA as a "breakthrough therapy," Psilocybin shows fast, lasting effects, even for treatment-resistant cases. This "psychedelic renaissance" in Psychiatry explores how these compounds, including Lysergic acid diethylamide, influence Serotonin receptors. Psychology and Pharmacology are delving into their mechanisms, offering hope for Anxiety and depression via Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, advancing Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder presents a substantial global health burden, and at least 30-40% of patients exhibit treatment resistance to antidepressa...
Lower-dose psycholytic therapy – A neglected approach
Frontiers in Psychiatry – December 02, 2022
Summary
Psychedelic compounds like LSD, initially explored in 1949, were extensively integrated into European medicine for psychotherapy. From 1960, "psycholytic therapy" involved serial lower-dose sessions, a distinct Psychology-informed approach contrasting with North American high-dose methods. Developed over 15 years, this Psychotherapy Technique was applied at 30 clinical centers and by over 100 outpatient psychotherapists. This history in Drug Studies offers a compelling case for psycholytic approaches in modern substance-assisted applications, guided by a psychotherapist.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and similar psychoactive drugs have been used in psychotherapy since 1949, when the first clinical study with lowe...
Default Mode Network Modulation by Psychedelics: A Systematic Review
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – October 21, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin profoundly alter brain activity, consistently disrupting the Default Mode Network (DMN), a key brain region for self-referencing and linked to various psychological conditions. This acute modulation of the DMN, crucial in neuroscience and drug studies, involves increased connectivity across brain networks. Understanding the chemical synthesis of these compounds and their psychological effects, perhaps alongside insights from nicotinic acetylcholine receptors studies and computational analyses, is vital to fully grasp their impact on brain function.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelics are a unique class of drug that commonly produce vivid hallucinations as well as profound psychological and mystical experien...
The Altered States Database: Psychometric data from a systematic literature review
Scientific Data – January 01, 2022
Summary
A new open-science database compiles subjective experiences from 165 studies on altered states of consciousness, induced by various methods. Researchers systematically gathered self-reported experience data from validated questionnaires, making it freely available. This resource allows for direct comparison of experiences and analysis of dose-response relationships, significantly advancing understanding of these profound states.
Abstract
In this paper, we present the development of the Altered States Database (ASDB), an open-science project based on a systematic literature review. T...
This is your brain on death: a comparative analysis of a near-death experience and subsequent 5-Methoxy-DMT experience
CORE – June 29, 2023
Summary
A singular case reveals striking parallels between a profound near-death experience and a powerful psychedelic journey. Researchers interviewed an individual who survived a coma and later experienced 5-Methoxy-DMT, comparing the two events. The analysis uncovered significant overlap in themes, including ego dissolution and transcendence of time and space. Yet, the near-death event uniquely featured elements like life review and encounters with deceased loved ones. This suggests that while some brain mechanisms may overlap, the near-death experience might involve distinct processes, potentially linked to its specific medical origin.
Abstract
Introduction: Much research has focused on the modeling of the near-death experience (NDE) by classical and atypical psychedelics; however, to date...
The Past and Future of Psychedelic Science: An Introduction to This Issue
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – March 15, 2019
Summary
A compelling resurgence in psychedelics and drug studies is transforming psychiatry. After decades of suppression, psychological intervention using substances like psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) is showing remarkable promise. Modern trials, often involving hundreds of participants, demonstrate significant reductions in anxiety and addiction, with some reporting over 60% success rates. These hallucinogens also inspire creativity and profound psychic experiences. From chemical synthesis and alkaloids to psychotherapist-led sessions, psychology is embracing these tools for healing.
Abstract
Psychedelic plants and fungi have been used in indigenous medicinal traditions for millennia. Modern psychedelic research began when Albert Hofmann...
The Watts Connectedness Scale: a new scale for measuring a sense of connectedness to self, others, and world
Psychopharmacology – August 08, 2022
Summary
Psychedelic experiences significantly boost feelings of connectedness, a vital psychological construct. An observational study of 1226 participants using psychedelics revealed a substantial increase in a new Watts Connectedness Scale's scores (η² = 0.339), which demonstrated strong construct validity. This scale measures connection to self, others, and the wider world. In a clinical psychology trial, psilocybin therapy led to greater increases in these social connectedness feelings (η² = 0.133) compared to escitalopram, highlighting its potential for mental health improvements.
Abstract
Abstract Rationale A general feeling of disconnection has been associated with mental and emotional suffering. Improvements to a sense of connected...
Classic psychedelics: past uses, present trends, future possibilities
OpenAlex – September 08, 2022
Summary
A scientific renaissance is unfolding, revealing psychedelics' profound potential for conditions like depression and addiction. Decades of investigations highlight these compounds, products of chemical synthesis, and their action on serotonin receptors, influencing behavior and consciousness. This review, broad in scope, explores their historical context and shifting epistemology, emphasizing psychological flexibility. Cognitive science is advancing through these drug studies, examining how neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior offers surprising efficacy, promising new understandings of the mind.
Abstract
Here we consider psychedelics with respect to their mechanisms of action, use, and implications for our understandings of brain and mind. This revi...
Rapid and sustained symptom reduction following psilocybin treatment for anxiety and depression in patients with life-threatening cancer: a randomized controlled trial
Journal of Psychopharmacology – November 30, 2016
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin, a naturally occurring alkaloid, offers profound relief for cancer patients struggling with anxiety and depression. In a randomized controlled trial involving 29 patients, this psychedelic medicine, combined with psychotherapy, significantly reduced psychological distress and improved quality of life. Compared to a placebo, 60-80% of participants maintained anxiolytic and antidepressant benefits for over six months. This promising finding in psychiatry and clinical psychology suggests psilocybin's potential in complementary medicine.
Abstract
Background: Clinically significant anxiety and depression are common in patients with cancer, and are associated with poor psychiatric and medical ...
A Phase I trial to inform clinical protocols for the safe administration of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy
OpenAlex – April 19, 2023
Summary
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring alkaloid, appears physiologically safe, suggesting its potential in medicine. A clinical trial among 14 healthy individuals found no unexpected adverse effects from 25 mg. While vital signs like blood pressure (peaking at 145.93 systolic, 93.93 diastolic) and heart rate increased, these returned to normal as the drug's neurotransmitter receptor influence waned. Internal medicine specialists and cardiologists confirm such transient changes are well-tolerated. This supports focused screening for future psychedelic drug studies, avoiding extensive anesthesia-like monitoring. Participants also reported reduced depression symptoms.
Abstract
Abstract This Phase I trial aims to inform the development of safety protocols for psilocybin-assisted therapy. Psychedelics, including psilocybin,...