5439 results for "Psychedelics"
Peculiar plants and fantastic fungi: An ethnobotanical study of the use of hallucinogenic plants and mushrooms in Slovenia
PLoS ONE – January 07, 2021
Summary
Most individuals using hallucinogens seek personal growth, not problematic drug use. A study of 68 users revealed 91% consumed Psilocybin-containing mushrooms, with 50% using no other natural psychedelics. Initial use, often in their 20s and driven by curiosity, involved 26 different plants. This pattern, observed in Slovenia, highlights the complex psychology behind ethnobotany and these substances. It shifts drug studies' focus, suggesting motivations beyond recreation, relevant to traditional medicine and the inherent biochemical makeup of these alkaloids.
Abstract
The present study examined the patterns of use among a sample of 68 users of hallucinogenic plants and mushrooms in Slovenia. In compiling the list...
Alterations of consciousness and mystical-type experiences after acute LSD in humans
Psychopharmacology – October 07, 2016
Summary
Mystical experiences were surprisingly infrequent after Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). This hallucinogen's impact on consciousness appears dose-dependent; a 200 µg dose, utilized by psychotherapists in clinical psychology in Switzerland, may induce greater alterations in the level of consciousness than 100 µg. Ego dissolution might correlate with LSD plasma levels, suggesting specific neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. These insights advance psychedelics in drug studies, distinguishing them from placebo effects, and offer comparisons to psilocybin and even cannabis research.
Abstract
Mystical-type experiences were infrequent after LSD, possibly because of the set and setting used in the present study. LSD may produce greater or ...
High dose psilocybin is associated with positive subjective effects in healthy volunteers
Journal of Psychopharmacology – June 27, 2018
Summary
High doses of psilocybin elicit lasting positive subjective effects, even without a complete mystical experience. In a study with 12 healthy participants, escalating psilocybin doses (up to 0.6 mg/kg) produced a significant linear dose-related response in mysticism scores. A significant difference in "transcendence of time and space" occurred between the highest and lowest doses. Thirty days post-treatment, positive well-being scores were significantly higher, indicating potential for psychology and psychiatry. This advances medicine, internal medicine, and the broad field of psychedelics and drug studies, including complementary and alternative medicine and cannabis research.
Abstract
Aim: The aim of the current study was to investigate the relationship between escalating higher doses of psilocybin and the potential psilocybin oc...
Examining changes in personality following shamanic ceremonial use of ayahuasca.
Sci Rep – March 23, 2021
Summary
Imagine a single, powerful experience reshaping your very personality. Researchers investigated whether shamanic ayahuasca ceremonies could alter an individual's traits. Participants completed personality assessments before and after their ceremonial use. Results indicated significant positive changes, particularly in areas like openness and conscientiousness, suggesting a unique path to personal growth and enhanced well-being.
Abstract
Examining changes in personality following shamanic ceremonial use of ayahuasca.
Genetic influence of CYP2D6 on pharmacokinetics and acute subjective effects of LSD in a pooled analysis.
Sci Rep – May 25, 2021
Summary
Your genes shape how your body processes substances like LSD. Research shows a specific gene, CYP2D6, significantly influences how quickly LSD is broken down and its immediate effects. By analyzing combined data, scientists found variations in this gene dictate both the drug's metabolism and how intensely individuals experience its subjective effects. This genetic insight helps explain diverse responses, paving the way for more personalized and predictable outcomes.
Abstract
Genetic influence of CYP2D6 on pharmacokinetics and acute subjective effects of LSD in a pooled analysis.
Ayahuasca: Psychological and Physiologic Effects, Pharmacology and Potential Uses in Addiction and Mental Illness
Current Neuropharmacology – March 02, 2018
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian medicine, shows significant promise in psychiatry, potentially aiding addiction and various psychological disorders. This powerful hallucinogen, derived from plants rich in specific alkaloids, has a long history in traditional medicine. A comprehensive review of its pharmacology and behavioral effects indicates a generally mild adverse effect profile. Experts advocate for easing regulations to advance psychedelics and drug studies, allowing deeper exploration of its therapeutic potential, particularly understanding the complex chemical synthesis of its active compounds.
Abstract
Background: Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian decoction with psychoactive properties, is made from bark of the Banisteriopsis caapi vine (containi...
The Altered States Database: Psychometric Data of Altered States of Consciousness
Frontiers in Psychology – July 02, 2018
Summary
A groundbreaking database now centralizes questionnaire data on altered states of consciousness, offering unprecedented insight into human psychology. This resource compiles psychometric assessments from diverse experimental inductions, including psychedelics and drug studies, biofield effects, and olfactory and sensory function studies. It allows cognitive and clinical psychology to directly compare effects across numerous participants and induction methods. This applied psychology tool will facilitate meta-analyses, revealing dose-response relationships and linking subjective experiences to underlying biophysical mechanisms.
Abstract
The experimental induction of altered states of consciousness (ASC) constitutes a research opportunity to relate changes in phenomenological states...
Ayahuasca and tobacco smoking cessation: results from an online survey in Brazil.
Psychopharmacology (Berl) – February 18, 2022
Summary
Remarkably, an online survey in Brazil revealed many individuals successfully quit tobacco after using ayahuasca. It investigated whether ayahuasca use correlated with smoking cessation. Positive results showed a high rate of reported tobacco abstinence following ayahuasca use. These findings suggest ayahuasca could be a promising aid for quitting smoking.
Abstract
Ayahuasca and tobacco smoking cessation: results from an online survey in Brazil.
Psilocybin with psychological support for treatment-resistant depression: six-month follow-up.
Psychopharmacology (Berl) – November 08, 2017
Summary
Many struggling with severe depression, for whom standard treatments fail, found significant, lasting relief. Researchers explored if a single psilocybin dose, combined with extensive psychological support, could offer sustained improvement. Participants with treatment-resistant depression received this novel intervention. Remarkably, a substantial number maintained reduced depression symptoms for six months. This indicates psilocybin-assisted therapy holds promise as a durable treatment option for severe, persistent mood disorders.
Abstract
Psilocybin with psychological support for treatment-resistant depression: six-month follow-up.
Examining mystical experiences as a predictor of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for treatment-resistant depression
Journal of Psychopharmacology – July 01, 2025
Summary
For 31 individuals with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, a single 25 mg dose of psilocybin, administered in a therapeutic context with a psychotherapist, yielded a greater antidepressant effect when accompanied by profound mystical experiences. This insight from clinical psychology and medicine suggests the subjective aspects of psychedelics, derived from an alkaloid, are crucial. While psilocybin influences neurotransmitter receptors, this link between mysticism and symptom relief was specific to the initial dosing. This highlights the unique role of such experiences in psychiatry for treating severe depression.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) is a promising treatment for various psychiatric disorders. However, the exact biological and p...
The Potential Role of Psilocybin in Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery: A Narrative Review
Brain Sciences – May 26, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen and alkaloid often produced via chemical synthesis, offers significant promise for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) recovery. A review of 45 articles in neuroscience and medicine suggests this psychedelic may reduce inflammation, promote neuroplasticity, and alleviate mood disorders common after TBI. These findings, crucial for psychology and drug studies, underscore psilocybin's pharmacology and therapeutic potential. Benefits observed in related conditions like depression further highlight its role in modern medicine.
Abstract
Background: This narrative review explores psilocybin’s potential use as a therapeutic agent in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods...
A cell-permeable fluorescent probe reveals temporally diverse PI(4,5)P2 dynamics evoked by distinct GPCR agonists in neurons.
Chemical science – June 18, 2025
Summary
Hallucinogenic effects may stem from subtle, rapid changes in brain cell signaling. To explore this, a novel chemical probe was developed, permeating neurons to track specific lipids in cell-membranes. This probe successfully revealed that hallucinogenic compounds cause a distinct, slower yet sustained change in a key lipid compared to non-hallucinogenic ones, within seconds. This powerful tool successfully uncovers rapid lipid changes, providing valuable insights into how different substances affect brain cells.
Abstract
Lipids, key constituents of cell-membranes, are the first responders to cell signals. At the crux of spatiotemporal dynamics of lipid-signaling res...
Effect of Hallucinogens on Unconditioned Behavior
CORE – January 01, 2016
Summary
Animal behavior offers a surprising window into how hallucinogens affect the brain. Researchers explored rodent head twitches, startle responses, and exploratory behavior. These models effectively show how these substances primarily activate specific brain receptors (5-HT2A), consistently mirroring human effects. This provides valuable insights into fundamental mechanisms, bridging molecular action to observable behavior.
Abstract
Because of the ethical and regulatory hurdles associated with human studies, much of what is known about the psychopharmacology of hallucinogens ha...
Effects of Psilocin and Psilocybin on Human 5-HT4 Serotonin and H2 Histamine Receptors in Perfused Hearts of Transgenic Mice
Pharmaceuticals – July 06, 2025
Summary
The hallucinogen psilocybin dramatically boosts heart muscle contraction, increasing it by up to 152% in genetically modified hearts. This pharmacology insight reveals psilocybin and psilocin, a related psychedelic, enhance contraction by increasing phospholamban phosphorylation through the 5-HT4 serotonin receptor. This chemical mechanism, relevant to internal medicine and endocrinology, wasn't observed in wild-type hearts. Other alkaloids like ergotamine showed varied effects, highlighting complex neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. This work advances drug studies and our understanding of chemical synthesis.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hallucinogenic substances such as psilocybin, psilocin, ergometrine, ergotamine, and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) have b...
Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Psilocybe Mushrooms: Gaps and Perspectives
Pharmaceuticals – July 01, 2025
Summary
Sixty-six articles confirm psychoactive tryptamine alkaloid psilocybin in the *Psilocybe* genus, underscoring its mental health potential. A review of 74 articles revealed 37 chemical compounds, 23 being alkaloids. Despite traditional medicine's use, these psychedelics' full biological chemistry is underexplored. Only four works showed antimicrobial activity, indicating untapped potential beyond drug studies. Future chemical synthesis and alkaloid isolation could reveal new applications, potentially impacting cholinesterase and neurodegenerative diseases, expanding biological understanding.
Abstract
The Psilocybe genus is known for producing tryptamine alkaloids, specifically the compounds psilocybin and psilocin, which have shown antidepressan...
Psilocybin in the treatment of eating disorders: a systematic review of the literature and registered clinical trials
Eating and Weight Disorders - Studies on Anorexia Bulimia and Obesity – July 29, 2025
Summary
With Fluoxetine the only pharmacological treatment approved for Bulimia Nervosa, and no drugs for other eating disorders like Anorexia Nervosa, new options are crucial. A systematic review of medicine and psychiatry literature, including the Cochrane Library, reveals promising early insights into psilocybin. One open-label clinical trial involving 10 individuals with Anorexia Nervosa, plus a single case report, suggests this psychedelic might be safe and well-tolerated. Six additional registered clinical trials are underway, exploring psilocybin's potential in these challenging behaviors.
Abstract
Abstract Background Fluoxetine remains the only pharmacological treatment approved for Bulimia Nervosa, and no other drugs have been approved for e...
Psilocybin in alcohol use disorder and comorbid depressive symptoms: Results from a feasibility randomized clinical trial
Addiction – July 24, 2025
Summary
Patients with severe alcohol use disorder and depression showed remarkable improvements with psilocybin. In a randomized controlled trial, 55% of 20 adults receiving 25 mg psilocybin remained abstinent at 12 weeks, versus 11% of 9 given 1 mg. This psychedelic medicine, an alkaloid, significantly reduced craving and drinking days for those with addiction and alcohol dependence. Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy, rooted in psychology, offers promising relapse prevention, addressing depression (Beck Depression Inventory scores) within psychiatry's drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background and Aims Psilocybin has emerged as a potential treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), but early efficacy data are inconsiste...
Psilocybin as a psychophysical adaptogen in chronic pain rehabilitation.
The journal of pain – July 21, 2025
Summary
Living with chronic pain often reshapes identity, hindering one's ability to find meaning. A new perspective suggests psilocybin could help individuals reframe their experience, fostering meaning-making and reducing self-pain enmeshment. By modulating self-perception, this approach aims to enhance engagement in rehabilitation, offering a novel path to improved physical and psychological well-being for those with chronic pain.
Abstract
Those living with chronic pain and comorbid functional disabilities are often confronted by a physically and emotionally transformative experience,...
Mapping psilocybin therapy: A systematic review of therapeutic frameworks, adaptations, and standardization across contemporary clinical trials
Journal of Affective Disorders – July 18, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin offers rapid, sustained clinical benefits when combined with psychological support. A systematic review of 22 clinical trials, identified via databases like MEDLINE, revealed consistent therapeutic structure. Yet, less than half reported standardization measures for psychotherapist training or Psychotherapy Techniques. This gap in Standardization within Psychedelics and Drug Studies, impacting Medicine and Psychology, undermines replicability. Robust standardization, vital for all mental health interventions including Digital Mental Health Interventions, is crucial for advancing psilocybin's clinical potential.
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that psilocybin can produce rapid and sustained clinical benefits when administered in conjunction with psychologica...
MDMA-assisted therapy and current treatment options for chronic, treatment-resistant, moderate or higher severity post-traumatic stress disorder: Systematic literature review.
PloS one – January 01, 2025
Summary
Many with chronic post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) achieved a loss of diagnosis (LOD) with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT). A review compared MDMA-AT to current treatments for severe, resistant PTSD, using the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). MDMA-AT consistently showed significantly greater, durable improvements in CAPS and BDI, and high LOD rates, outperforming most standard options. This highlights MDMA-AT's strong, consistent positive results.
Abstract
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) is currently being evaluated for treatment of patients with moderate or higher severit...
Structure Elucidation and Spectroscopic Analysis of Chromophores Produced by Oxidative Psilocin Dimerization
Chemistry - A European Journal – June 01, 2021
Summary
The iconic blue hue of psilocybin mushrooms, a natural product central to psychedelics and drug studies, has been precisely identified. Advanced chemistry reveals the blue color stems from a specific 7,7'-coupled quinoid dimer of psilocin, psilocybin's active metabolite. Previous assumptions pointed to a 5,5'-coupled dimer. Through chemical synthesis of alkaloid derivatives and spectroscopic absorbance analysis, the true chromophore was characterized. This finding refines our understanding of the stereochemistry and chemical processes behind this striking natural phenomenon.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocin ( 1 ) is the dephosphorylated and psychotropic metabolite of the mushroom natural product psilocybin. Oxidation of the phenolic h...
Psychoactive Substances of Natural Origin: Toxicological Aspects, Therapeutic Properties and Analysis in Biological Samples.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) – March 05, 2021
Summary
Many natural plants possess powerful compounds with diverse psychoactive effects. A comprehensive review investigated twelve such nps of natural origin, delving into their historical traditional uses and promising therapeutic properties. It also meticulously detailed their toxicological aspects and the advanced analytical methodologies essential for their detection in biological samples. The work illuminates the complex balance of benefits and risks these unique substances present.
Abstract
The consumption of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) has been increasing, and this problem affects several countries worldwide. There is a class o...
“Hallucinations” Following Acute Cannabis Dosing: A Case Report and Comparison to Other Hallucinogenic Drugs
Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research – April 02, 2018
Summary
A healthy 30-year-old male experienced significant hallucinations after inhaling a 25 mg Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) dose of vaporized Cannabis. His Hallucinogen Rating Scale scores for Volition, Intensity, and Perception exceeded maximums seen with Psilocybin or Salvinorin A in other Psychedelics and Drug Studies. While the effects of cannabis typically differ from classic hallucinogens, this unique cannabinoid pharmacology can induce profound psychological experiences. This finding is crucial for Psychiatry and Medicine, informing careful dosing and understanding potential adverse events from cannabis.
Abstract
Introduction: Cannabis has been historically classified as a hallucinogen. However, subjective cannabis effects do not typically include hallucinog...
Bad trip due to 25I-NBOMe: a case report from the EU project SPICE II plus.
Clinical toxicology (Philadelphia, Pa.) – September 01, 2017
Summary
A unique case reveals how the body processes potent new psychoactive substances. A man accidentally ingested 25i-nbome, a powerful hallucinogen, from a mislabeled bottle. Medical analysis confirmed the presence of 25i-nbome, along with its metabolic byproducts 2c-i and trace amounts of 25i-nboh in his system. Despite severe initial symptoms, he recovered fully within hours. This incident provides crucial insight into the rapid metabolic breakdown of such compounds, highlighting the body's ability to process these substances efficiently.
Abstract
The potent hallucinogenic drug 25I-NBOMe has recently emerged on the drug market. We present a case with analytically confirmed 25I-NBOMe intoxicat...
Pharmacology and Toxicology of N-Benzylphenethylamine ("NBOMe") Hallucinogens.
Current topics in behavioral neurosciences – January 01, 2017
Summary
A class of potent psychedelic research chemical compounds, NBOMes, exhibit subnanomolar affinity for brain receptors. While affecting locomotor activity and inducing a head twitch response in models, their extreme potency has been linked to severe toxicity, including serotonin syndrome and rhabdomyolysis. Gaining insight into these compounds' pharmacology is crucial for public health and safety.
Abstract
Serotonergic hallucinogens induce profound changes in perception and cognition. The characteristic effects of hallucinogens are mediated by 5-HT2A ...
Naltrexone but Not Ketanserin Antagonizes the Subjective, Cardiovascular, and Neuroendocrine Effects of Salvinorin-A in Humans
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – February 12, 2016
Summary
Salvinorin-A, a potent hallucinogen, acts via kappa opioid receptor agonism, not serotonin-2A, a key finding for Psychedelics and Drug Studies. This pharmacology insight, vital for medicine development, including anesthesia, clarifies this unique chemical synthesis and alkaloid. In studies (n=25), 80% reported profound alterations. An opioid receptor antagonist like Naltrexone significantly reduced effects by 65%. Conversely, serotonin antagonists (e.g., Ketanserin, Ritanserin) in a placebo-controlled design did not alter the experience, confirming the specific neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Results support kappa opioid receptor agonism as the mechanism of action underlying the subjective and physiological effects of salvinorin-A in hum...
Salvinorin-A Induces Intense Dissociative Effects, Blocking External Sensory Perception and Modulating Interoception and Sense of Body Ownership in Humans
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – June 05, 2015
Summary
A potent hallucinogen, Salvinorin-A, profoundly alters human perception. It dose-dependently gates external audio-visual information and causes an inverted-U dose-response effect on body awareness, highlighting dissociative experiences. These pharmacological insights suggest the κ-opioid receptor plays a key role in regulating sensory perception and interoception. This neuroscience finding has significant implications for Psychology, Psychedelics and Drug Studies, and understanding Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, potentially informing Medicine, including Pain Mechanisms and Treatments.
Abstract
Salvinorin-A induced intense psychotropic effects characterized by a dose-dependent gating of external audio-visual information and an inverted-U d...
Pharmacological profile of novel psychoactive benzofurans
British Journal of Pharmacology – March 13, 2015
Summary
A critical *Pharmacology* finding reveals benzofurans, emerging substances in *Psychedelics and Drug Studies*, activate a *receptor* linked to heart valve fibrosis. This *Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior* is a key concern for *Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis*. Their *chemistry* shows these 8 compounds affect *monoamine neurotransmitter* systems, inhibiting noradrenaline and serotonin uptake *more than dopamine*. Similar to *MDMA* but unlike *methamphetamine* or typical *amphetamine*, this profile indicates MDMA-like effects with added cardiac risk.
Abstract
Background and Purpose Benzofurans are newly used psychoactive substances, but their pharmacology is unknown. The aim of the present study was to p...
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...
Novel use patterns of Salvia divinorum: unobtrusive observation using YouTube™.
Journal of ethnopharmacology – December 08, 2011
Summary
While Salvia divinorum has long held ethnopharmacological interest, its global use reveals a novel use pattern distinct from traditional Mazatec practices. Researchers employed unobtrusive observation of YouTube videos to analyze user experiences. A significant finding was that most videos depicted a positive Salvia divinorum experience, challenging common media portrayals. This innovative method effectively captures evolving human-plant interactions online.
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE AND AIMS: The traditional use of the Hallucinogenic sage, Salvia divinorum has been of ethnopharmalogical interest f...
The natural hallucinogen 5-MeO-DMT, component of Ayahuasca, disrupts cortical function in rats: reversal by antipsychotic drugs.
The international journal of neuropsychopharmacology – August 01, 2014
Summary
A natural hallucinogen, found in Ayahuasca, profoundly disrupts brain activity. Researchers discovered this substance altered rat brain function, reducing vital neural oscillations. Significantly, common antipsychotic drugs successfully reversed these disruptions. This suggests the brain changes are tied to the hallucinogen’s mind-altering effects, providing a valuable model for understanding hallucinations and advancing new treatment development.
Abstract
5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a natural hallucinogen component of Ayahuasca, an Amazonian beverage traditionally used for ritual,...
Stimulus control by 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine in wild-type and CYP2D6-humanized mice.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – September 01, 2011
Summary
A fascinating finding reveals that a compound called harmaline can significantly boost the perceptual effects of another substance, 5-MeO-DMT. This research investigated how mice, including some genetically modified to mimic human drug metabolism, learned to recognize 5-MeO-DMT's unique sensations. While a related substance, bufotenine, had no such effect, a modified form, acetylbufotenine, showed an intermediate response. Crucially, harmaline enhanced 5-MeO-DMT's effects in both mouse groups, and even produced similar sensations on its own in the modified mice, highlighting its potent influence.
Abstract
In previous studies we have observed that, in comparison with wild type mice, Tg-CYP2D6 mice have increased serum levels of bufotenine [5-hydroxy-N...
Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion Pharmacogenomics of Drugs of Abuse
Pharmacogenomics – February 01, 2011
Summary
Individual genetics profoundly dictate how drugs, from potent opioids like Alfentanil and Oxycodone to medicines like Hydrocodone, affect the body. This variability stems from differences in drug metabolism, where enzymes like CYP2D6 process substances. Understanding these pharmacokinetic pathways is crucial for safe pharmacology, especially with drugs like Methadone or Dextromethorphan, and for Psychedelics studies. Such knowledge is vital for predicting drug interactions, assessing toxic risks, improving Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, and understanding how drugs influence behavior via neurotransmitter receptors.
Abstract
Pharmacologic and toxic effects of xenobiotics, such as drugs of abuse, depend on the genotype and phenotype of an individual, and conversely on th...
Differential contributions of serotonin receptors to the behavioral effects of indoleamine hallucinogens in mice
Journal of Psychopharmacology – December 08, 2010
Summary
A compelling finding in psychedelic drug studies: 1-methylpsilocin, a potential therapeutic, shows greater pharmacological selectivity than the hallucinogen psilocin (from psilocybin). Both acted as agonists on the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor to induce head twitches in C57BL/6J mice, yet 1-methylpsilocin (0.6–9.6 mg/kg) was inactive in other behavioral tests. Psilocin, however, influenced behavior via 5-HT1A and 5-HT2C receptors. This chemistry, clarified using specific receptor antagonists, suggests 1-methylpsilocin could offer targeted neurotransmitter receptor influence, avoiding broader effects of a less selective agonist.
Abstract
Psilocin (4-hydroxy- N, N-dimethyltryptamine) is a hallucinogen that acts as an agonist at 5-HT 1A , 5-HT 2A , and 5-HT 2C receptors. Psilocin is t...
Mannitol in Amanita muscaria--an osmotic blood-brain barrier disruptor enhancing its hallucinogenic action?
Medical hypotheses – November 01, 2013
Summary
Why does *Amanita muscaria* deliver a stronger hallucinogenic punch than its isolated compounds? One fascinating hypothesis suggests the mushroom's natural mannitol content helps its psychoactive substances cross the blood-brain barrier more easily. This enhanced brain penetration significantly boosts their total activity, explaining the surprisingly potent hallucinogenic effects experienced. This mechanism highlights how natural co-factors can amplify drug action within the brain.
Abstract
Hypothesis have been made that relatively high level of mannitol present in the tissues of fly agaric (Amanita muscaria) enables more efficient tra...
Salvia divinorum: a psychopharmacological riddle and a mind-body prospect.
Current drug abuse reviews – March 01, 2013
Summary
A sacred plant, traditionally used for divination, offers unique insights into consciousness. Researchers investigated its active compound, salvinorin A, observing it induces short-lived sensory shifts and vivid imagery. While its specific brain receptor activity is understood, the full range of effects points to broader neural network engagement. This work holds promise for understanding the mind-body connection and developing new analgesics, antidepressants, and drug-abuse treatments.
Abstract
The multidisciplinary research on Salvia divinorum and its chemical principles is analyzed concerning whether the ethnobotany, phytochemistry, ment...
Salvinorin A fails to substitute for the discriminative stimulus effects of LSD or ketamine in Sprague-Dawley rats.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – September 01, 2010
Summary
The brain processes hallucinogens like Salvinorin A differently than LSD or ketamine. To explore this, rats were trained to distinguish LSD or ketamine from a control. When given Salvinorin A, the rats did not perceive its effects as similar to either LSD or ketamine. This highlights Salvinorin A's distinct pharmacological profile, setting it apart from more traditional hallucinogenic compounds.
Abstract
Salvia divinorum is a small perennial shrub that has gained recent popularity among the drug-using subculture as a legal alternative to hallucinoge...
Unique and potent effects of acute ibogaine on zebrafish: the developing utility of novel aquatic models for hallucinogenic drug research.
Behavioural brain research – January 01, 2013
Summary
Zebrafish exposed to ibogaine, a potent hallucinogen, surprisingly reversed their natural tendency to dive, instead swimming towards the top of their tank. Researchers explored ibogaine's effects on zebrafish behavior across various tests. They found the drug significantly altered spatial exploration, reduced preference for dark environments, promoted mirror interaction, and disrupted social grouping. These unique, dose-dependent changes highlight zebrafish as a highly sensitive and valuable model for understanding complex drug profiles and advancing hallucinogenic drug research, especially for high-throughput screening.
Abstract
An indole alkaloid, ibogaine is the principal psychoactive component of the iboga plant, used by indigenous peoples in West Africa for centuries. M...
Simple and Rapid Screening for Psychotropic Natural Products Using Direct Analysis in Real Time (DART)-TOFMS
YAKUGAKU ZASSHI – June 01, 2009
Summary
A rapid screening method, leveraging a DART ion source and mass spectrometry, revealed that 21 of 36 plant products (58%) contained significant hallucinogenic constituents. This advance in Analytical Chemistry and Chromatography quickly identified six compounds, including harmine and harmaline, without sample preparation. The DART technique offers a powerful tool for Psychedelics and Drug Studies, detecting these substances at concentrations from 0.05 to 45 micrograms/milligram. This innovative application of Mass Spectrometry Techniques and Applications streamlines the identification of psychotropic plants, improving public safety.
Abstract
Direct Analysis in Real Time (DART) is a novel ionization technique that provides for the rapid ionization of small molecules under ambient conditi...
Evaluation of the transport, in vitro metabolism and pharmacokinetics of Salvinorin A, a potent hallucinogen.
European journal of pharmaceutics and biopharmaceutics : official journal of Arbeitsgemeinschaft fur Pharmazeutische Verfahrenstechnik e.V – June 01, 2009
Summary
Salvinorin A, a potent hallucinogen, rivals LSD in strength. Research explored how the body handles this unique compound. Using cell models and animal studies, scientists investigated its transport and breakdown. Findings revealed it is rapidly transported across cell membranes and metabolized by several key enzymes. In animals, it was quickly eliminated from the body, with a short brain half-life, explaining its fast onset and brief effects. This clarifies the mechanisms behind its potent, fleeting action.
Abstract
Salvinorin A is an unregulated potent hallucinogen isolated from the leaves of Salvia divinorum. It is the only known non-nitrogenous kappa-opioid ...
Modification of the effects of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine on exploratory behavior in rats by monoamine oxidase inhibitors.
Psychopharmacology – November 01, 2008
Summary
Ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic tea from psychoactive plants, combines 5-MeO-DMT with MAO inhibitors (harmine, harmaline) for its unique effects. Rats' locomotor/exploratory behavior was studied via a behavioral pattern monitor. 5-MeO-DMT alone reduced activity. Harmaline induced biphasic locomotor activity, including late hyperactivity. MAO(A) inhibition (clorgyline, not MAO(B) inhibitor (-)-deprenyl) drove this. The 5-HT(2A) antagonist MDL 11,939 blocked late hyperactivity, identifying 5-HT(2A) receptors. WAY-100635 (5-HT(1A) antagonist) had no impact. This clarifies MAO inhibitors' role in 5-MeO-DMT's behavior.
Abstract
The hallucinogenic tea known as ayahuasca is made from a combination of psychoactive plants that contribute the active components N,N-dimethyltrypt...
Discriminative stimulus effects of 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)-2-aminopropane in rhesus monkeys.
The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics – February 01, 2008
Summary
Serotonin receptors are key to how some hallucinogens are perceived. Monkeys learned to distinguish a psychoactive drug from placebo. Blocking serotonin 2A receptors fully prevented the drug's stimulus. Human hallucinogens substituted, confirming 5-HT2A's role. Other hallucinogens did not, demonstrating distinct mechanisms for different classes.
Abstract
Discriminative stimulus effects of 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylphenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOM) and related drugs have been studied extensively in rodents...
Subjective effects of Salvia divinorum.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – June 01, 2007
Summary
Understanding traditional ritualistic context significantly enhances the visionary effects of Salvia divinorum. Researchers gathered insights from 10 users via email interviews to explore these subjective experiences. While individual effects vary, a key finding suggests that familiarity with the plant's indigenous use fosters a richer, more profound encounter. This highlights how cultural immersion can positively shape individual perception.
Abstract
Salvia divinorum is a hallucinogenic plant native to Mexico, where the Mazatec Indians use it in divinatory rituals as a facilitator for contacting...
Psilocybin-induced stimulus control in the rat.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – October 01, 2007
Summary
Rats trained to recognize psilocybin revealed its unique brain effects involve a complex interplay of receptors. The 5-HT2A receptor plays a prominent role in mediating psilocybin's distinct internal signal, yet it's not the sole factor. Other hallucinogens like LSD and psilocin produced similar responses, often blocked by 5-HT2A antagonists. Significantly, 5-HT1A receptors, active with some related compounds, were not involved in psilocybin's specific effects. This advances our understanding of psilocybin's precise mechanisms.
Abstract
Although psilocybin has been trained in the rat as a discriminative stimulus, little is known of the pharmacological receptors essential for stimul...
Salvinorin A: from natural product to human therapeutics.
Molecular interventions – October 01, 2006
Summary
The hallucinogenic compound from "magic mint" surprisingly targets the kappa opioid receptor (KOR), a finding confirmed in laboratory and living systems. This breakthrough identification is unlocking significant avenues for drug discovery, promising new treatments for various psychiatric and non-psychiatric conditions.
Abstract
The hallucinogenic plant Salvia divinorum (i.e., "magic mint") is a member of the Sage family that has been used for divination and shamanism by th...
The roles of 5-HT1A and 5-HT2 receptors in the effects of 5-MeO-DMT on locomotor activity and prepulse inhibition in rats.
Psychopharmacology – December 01, 2006
Summary
Challenging a long-held belief, research revealed the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor significantly influences how the hallucinogen 5-MeO-DMT impacts movement and startle reflexes. In rats, 5-MeO-DMT reduced activity and altered startle responses. Crucially, blocking the 5-HT1A receptor completely reversed these effects, underscoring its pivotal role. This discovery highlights the 5-HT1A receptor's importance in understanding hallucinogen mechanisms, moving beyond the previous focus solely on 5-HT2 receptors.
Abstract
The hallucinogen 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is structurally similar to other indoleamine hallucinogens such as LSD. The present s...
Pharmepéna-Psychonautics: Human intranasal, sublingual and oral pharmacology of 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyl-tryptamine.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2001
Summary
Ancient shamanic wisdom about potent compounds finds modern validation. Human self-experiments confirmed the psychoactive effects of 5-MeO-DMT via intranasal, sublingual, and oral routes. Crucially, combining it with beta-carbolines significantly enhances its intranasal effects, validating a long-held hypothesis mirroring traditional practices.
Abstract
Summarized are psychonautic bioassays (human self-experiments) of pharmepéna--crystalline 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT; O-Me-bufoten...
Fatalities after taking ibogaine in addiction treatment could be related to sudden cardiac death caused by autonomic dysfunction.
Medical hypotheses – January 01, 2006
Summary
Mysterious deaths after ibogaine use for addiction, even with small doses, have been linked to heart rhythm issues. The drug affects the body's involuntary nervous system. Small amounts can trigger a 'fight or flight' response, while larger doses induce a 'feigned death' state. Both can heighten dangerous heart rhythm risks. This insight clarifies potential dangers and highlights traditional isolation practices as a safer approach.
Abstract
Ibogaine is the most important alkaloid of the Central African Iboga-shrub. It is the central drug in Gabonian initiation ceremonies in which it is...
Identification of 5-hydroxy-tryptamine (bufotenine) in takini (Brosimumacutifolium Huber subsp. acutifolium C.C. Berg, Moraceae), a shamanic potion used in the Guiana Plateau.
Journal of ethnopharmacology – June 30, 2006
Summary
A potent shamanic potion from the Guiana Plateau, takini, contains bufotenine, a powerful hallucinogen. Historically, the plant's psychotropic properties were a mystery. Through detailed chemical and botanical analysis, researchers successfully identified bufotenine as the active ingredient within the latex of a specific *Brosimum acutifolium* subspecies. This groundbreaking finding fully explains the potent effects of this traditional medicine.
Abstract
This paper is the first thorough analysis of takini, a hallucinogen used by the shamans of several peoples in Suriname, French Guiana, and the regi...
Distribution of the hallucinogens N,N-dimethyltryptamine and 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine in rat brain following intraperitoneal injection: application of a new solid-phase extraction LC-APcI-MS-MS-isotope dilution method.
Journal of chromatography. B, Biomedical sciences and applications – February 10, 2001
Summary
Understanding how hallucinogens like DMT distribute within the brain is now clearer. A new, highly accurate method was developed to precisely detect and measure the levels of these compounds in different rat brain areas after injection. This advanced technique successfully demonstrated its capability, providing an effective tool for mapping the distribution of these potent substances. This positive development offers unprecedented clarity in neurochemistry.
Abstract
A method for the solid-phase extraction (SPE) and liquid chromatographic-atmospheric pressure chemical ionization-mass spectrometric-mass spectrome...