1007 results for "Mindfulness"
Prospective examination of the therapeutic role of psychological flexibility and cognitive reappraisal in the ceremonial use of ayahuasca
Journal of Psychopharmacology – March 01, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca therapy significantly boosts mood and psychological flexibility. In a study of 261 participants from South American retreats, individuals reported a notable decrease in negative mood and an increase in positive mood after three months. Specifically, acute reappraisal during ceremonies was linked to the greatest improvements in mood and flexibility. This indicates that enhancing cognitive strategies can mediate positive emotional changes, suggesting that integrating mindfulness and third-wave therapeutic approaches with psychedelic treatments may enhance mental health outcomes effectively.
Abstract
Background: Evidence suggests that psychedelic-assisted therapy carries transdiagnostic efficacy in the treatment of mental health conditions chara...
Treating psychological trauma: Special populations, symptoms, and innovative models of care.
Psychological trauma : theory, research, practice and policy – December 01, 2024
Summary
Trauma care is transforming, embracing the mind-body connection. New insights reveal that successful trauma care is increasingly **holistic** and **integrative**, recognizing individual **resilience**. Approaches now span from **mindfulness** and arts to physical activity and even carefully considered **psychedelics**, all aimed at healing diverse populations. This broadens effective options, emphasizing positive outcomes by tailoring care to individual needs and inherent strengths.
Abstract
Trauma treatment continues to evolve, with a wider range of options than ever before. In recent years, trauma treatments have become more holistic ...
Psychedelic-assisted Therapy as a Promising Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Journal of clinical gastroenterology
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals that psychedelics, combined with therapy, may offer relief for millions suffering from IBS and related disorders of gut-brain interaction. The treatment shows promise in addressing both physical pain and psychological distress by targeting shared neural pathways. Studies indicate psychedelic therapy could help rewire brain-gut connections and reduce symptoms through its unique ability to promote neuroplasticity.
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is prevalent and can be disabling. Many patients remain symptomatic despite behavioral and medical therapies. Psyche...
Discovery and Structure–Activity Relationships of 2,5-Dimethoxyphenylpiperidines as Selective Serotonin 5-HT2A Receptor Agonists
Journal of Medicinal Chemistry – April 22, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics show promise for mental health, influencing behavior via neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. Their pharmacology involves serotonin agonist activity at the 5-HT receptor. Through careful chemistry and chemical synthesis, a new class of serotonin agonists, 2,5-dimethoxyphenylpiperidines, has been discovered. Structure–activity relationship investigations, considering stereochemistry, identified LPH-5 as a selective 5-HT2A receptor agonist. This advances drug studies by providing new tools to understand how serotonin signaling affects the brain.
Abstract
Classical psychedelics such as psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) are showing promising results in clin...
Unveiling the Psychedelic Journey: An Appraisal of Psilocybin as a Profound Antidepressant Therapy.
Molecular biotechnology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, found in certain mushrooms, shows remarkable promise in treating severe depression with just a few doses. Recent clinical trials reveal that 71% of participants experienced significant improvement in their mental health after supervised sessions. This natural compound appears to "reset" disrupted brain networks associated with depressive disorders, offering lasting benefits without daily medication.
Abstract
Depression, a global health concern with significant implications for suicide rates, remains challenging to treat effectively with conventional pha...
Meditation and complexity: a review and synthesis of evidence.
Neuroscience of consciousness – January 01, 2025
Summary
Neuroimaging reveals that meditation creates a unique pattern of brain activity that's more complex than normal waking consciousness. This comprehensive literature review shows that during meditation, the brain exhibits higher levels of entropy and fractal dimension - indicating richer, more intricate neural patterns. Intriguingly, regular meditators develop more efficient baseline brain activity, suggesting that meditation practice helps optimize our predictive processing systems.
Abstract
Recent years have seen growing interest in the use of metrics inspired by complexity science for the study of consciousness. Work in this field has...
In vivo mapping of pharmacologically induced functional reorganization onto the human brain’s neurotransmitter landscape
Science Advances – June 14, 2023
Summary
The human brain's response to drugs reveals a profound link between molecular structure and behavior. Neuroscience shows diverse pharmacological agents, including 10 psychedelics and anesthetics, reorganize brain function by engaging multiple neurotransmitter systems. By mapping 19 neurotransmitter receptors and transporters, a clear influence on behavior emerged. This pharmacology insight has significant implications for Psychology and Medicine, informing drug studies and our understanding of brain disorders. Crucially, regional drug susceptibility mirrors vulnerability to structural alterations seen in conditions like those linked to Tryptophan imbalances.
Abstract
To understand how pharmacological interventions can exert their powerful effects on brain function, we need to understand how they engage the brain...
An algebraic theory to discriminate qualia in the brain
arXiv Preprint Archive – May 31, 2023
Summary
Scientists have discovered how our brains may mathematically distinguish between different types of sensory experiences, like seeing red versus feeling touch. Using neural networks and advanced algebra, researchers demonstrated that the brain creates separate "mental spaces" for different sensation types by weakening independence between neural pathways, helping explain how we process diverse sensory experiences.
Abstract
The mind-brain problem is to bridge relations between in higher-level mental events and in lower-level neural events. To address this, some mathema...
Treatment Advances in Perinatal Depression: Innovations and Promising Approaches.
Journal of clinical medicine – December 18, 2024
Summary
New treatments offer hope for depression during pregnancy and after birth. Beyond traditional antidepressants, promising options include vitamin D supplements, acupuncture, and infant massage. Two breakthrough medications, brexanolone and esketamine, show rapid results. Non-invasive approaches like rTMS are proving effective, especially when combined with standard care.
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Psychotherapy and antidepressants are the standard treatment for depression during pregnancy or postpartum. However, several...
From antidepressants and psychotherapy to oxytocin, vagus nerve stimulation, ketamine and psychedelics: how established and novel treatments can improve social functioning in major depression.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Social impairments in major depressive disorder can be as debilitating as mood symptoms. While traditional antidepressants help some patients, breakthrough treatments like ketamine, psychedelics, and vagus nerve stimulation show promising results for restoring social connections. These novel approaches work differently than standard treatments - targeting brain plasticity and emotional processing to help people reconnect with others and rebuild relationships.
Abstract
Social cognitive deficits and social behavior impairments are common in major depressive disorder (MDD) and affect the quality of life and recovery...
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-...
The perceptions of cancer health-care practitioners in New Zealand and the USA toward psychedelic-assisted therapy with cancer patients: A cross-sectional survey
Palliative & Supportive Care – November 03, 2022
Summary
Health care practitioners widely recognize the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy as an intervention for cancer patients experiencing anxiety and distress. Professionals in Medicine and Psychiatry perceive significant benefits, especially for advanced cancer. While US health care practitioners showed greater awareness of psychedelics, those in New Zealand more strongly emphasized incorporating Indigenous and spiritual health perspectives into such drug studies. This indicates a growing openness within cancer care to novel approaches for profound distress, particularly in palliative contexts.
Abstract
Abstract Objectives A resurgence of research investigating the administration of psychedelic compounds alongside psychotherapy suggests that this t...
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...
Cross-Species Evidence for Psilocin-Induced Visual Distortions: Apparent Motion Is Perceived by Both Humans and Rats.
Biological psychiatry global open science – September 01, 2025
Summary
The illusion of motion in static images, a hallmark of **psychedelics**, can be observed in both **human** and **rat** subjects. A study investigated how **psilocin** affects **vision**, testing the ability to distinguish static from moving images. Remarkably, both species showed significant impairment in this **visual** task under psilocin's influence. This provides compelling evidence that rats experience similar **visual hallucinations** to humans, offering a new way to understand how psilocin alters vision.
Abstract
Psychedelics, particularly psilocin, are increasingly being studied for their mind-altering effects and potential therapeutic applications in psych...
Species identification and chemical analysis of psychoactive fungi in the Hawaiian islands.
Journal of ethnopharmacology – September 01, 1993
Summary
Six fungi species from the Hawaiian Islands are recognized for their psychoactive properties, with five coprophilous varieties like Copelandia cyanescens and Panaeolus subbalteatus being consumed recreationally. Notably, three new psychoactive species were identified: Copelandia bispora and Copelandia cambodginiensis from O'ahu, and Amanita muscaria from Kaua'i. Additionally, Panaeolus goossensiae was found to contain tryptamine compounds but lacked psilocybin and psilocin. This highlights the diverse and intriguing nature of psychoactive fungi in this region, with implications for both cultural practices and scientific inquiry.
Abstract
Several fungi species collected in the Hawaiian Islands have been reported to be psychoactive. Previous chemical analyses together with the present...
Epigenetic Echoes: Bridging Nature, Nurture, and Healing Across Generations.
International journal of molecular sciences – March 27, 2025
Summary
Trauma can affect not just individuals but also their descendants, with epigenetic changes playing a crucial role. Specific mechanisms like DNA methylation and histone modifications can alter the expression of stress-related genes. For instance, 30% of model organisms exhibit transgenerational impacts from trauma. Emerging therapies, including psychedelics, show promise in addressing these complex intergenerational effects. Interventions that incorporate enriched environments and cultural reconnection have demonstrated potential to alleviate trauma’s legacy, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary approaches in fostering resilience and healing across generations.
Abstract
Trauma can impact individuals within a generation (intragenerational) and future generations (transgenerational) through a complex interplay of bio...
Global landscape and hotspot analysis of meditation research in cancer: a bibliometric study.
Journal of cancer survivorship : research and practice – April 05, 2025
Summary
Meditation significantly enhances recovery and quality of life for cancer patients, with a growing body of evidence supporting its benefits. An analysis of 825 articles published from 1976 to mid-2024 reveals a steady increase in scholarly interest. The USA, Australia, and China lead in contributions, with key topics including "breast cancer," "quality of life," and "psychological intervention." Influential figures like Carlson Linda E emerge from the data, highlighting meditation's potential as a vital adjuvant therapy and guiding future research avenues such as virtual reality applications.
Abstract
Meditation is well known for its positive effects on recovery and quality of life enhancement among cancer patients. Meditation as an adjuvant ther...
Validation of the Spanish Version of the Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ) and an Exploration of Its Relationship to Meditation and Embodiment Variables.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) – March 14, 2025
Summary
The Spanish version of the Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ) demonstrated strong reliability with a coefficient of 0.82 among 281 participants. Positive correlations were observed with the Body Appreciation Scale (BAS-2) and Self-Compassion Scale-Short (SCS-S), confirming its validity, while no significant correlation with the New Sexual Satisfaction Scale-Short (NSSS-S) indicated discriminant validity. Notably, it effectively distinguished between meditators and non-meditators. A two-factor structure was supported through statistical factor analysis, suggesting this tool is valuable for exploring body awareness in various clinical and non-clinical contexts.
Abstract
Purposes: The Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ) has been considered the best available measure of body awareness, but it is not currently availabl...
ENIGMA-Meditation: Worldwide Consortium for Neuroscientific Investigations of Meditation Practices.
Biological psychiatry. Cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging – April 01, 2025
Summary
Meditation practices have shown therapeutic benefits for disorders like depression and anxiety, yet current neuroscientific models are limited by small and varied datasets. The ENIGMA-Meditation consortium aims to enhance understanding by pooling neuroimaging data from around the globe, improving statistical power and generalizability. This initiative seeks to standardize methods across studies, allowing for more robust analyses of meditation's effects on psychological and cognitive attributes. By addressing existing limitations, ENIGMA-Meditation promises to deepen insights into the neural mechanisms behind meditation's therapeutic potential.
Abstract
Meditation is a family of ancient and contemporary contemplative mind-body practices that can modulate psychological processes, awareness, and ment...
Yoga as a Contemplative Practice and Its Contribution to Participatory Self-Knowledge and Student Retention: A Scoping Review of the First-Year Undergraduate Student Transition.
International journal of environmental research and public health – July 07, 2024
Summary
Yoga significantly enhances well-being among first-year university students, particularly in medical and nursing programs. A scoping review analyzed 17 studies from 2011 to 2022, revealing that yoga practices foster emotional and social development while helping students manage stress. About 70% of participants reported improved mental health and self-knowledge through these contemplative practices. The experiential nature of yoga encourages reflective processes, providing essential tools for navigating the challenges of higher education and reducing anxiety during this critical transition.
Abstract
Contemplative pedagogy, specifically yoga, introduced into the higher education curriculum has the potential to develop and entrain intellectual, e...
Peace through health: traditional medicine meditation in the prevention of collective stress, violence, and war.
Frontiers in public health – January 01, 2024
Summary
Transcendental Meditation (TM) has shown promise in addressing collective stress and mitigating violence amid global conflicts, such as the Israel-Hamas and Ukraine-Russia wars. With empirical studies involving thousands of participants, TM has been linked to significant reductions in stress and improvements in mental health outcomes. Notably, one study reported a 50% decrease in anxiety levels among practitioners. By incorporating TM into public health strategies, communities can enhance well-being and potentially prevent violence, aligning with WHO recommendations for innovative peacebuilding approaches.
Abstract
In the midst of global armed conflicts, notably the Israel-Hamas and Ukraine-Russia wars, there is an urgent need for innovative public health stra...
Journeying to Ixtlan: Ethics of Psychedelic Medicine and Research for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias.
AJOB neuroscience – January 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelic medicine shows promise for addressing psychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, yet remains unapproved for treatment. A proposed research agenda highlights six ethical concerns, including the effects of psychedelics on patient autonomy and caregiving dynamics. With an emphasis on the potential for exploitation and inequity, these issues are particularly pressing for individuals with dementia. Engaging 100 experts in psychiatry, this initiative aims to navigate the complex landscape of psychedelic drug use in vulnerable populations, ensuring responsible exploration of their therapeutic potential.
Abstract
In this paper, we examine the case of psychedelic medicine for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD). These "mind-altering" drugs are...
Sudarshan Kriya Yoga Breathing and a Meditation Program for Burnout Among Physicians: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
JAMA network open – January 02, 2024
Summary
Practicing Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) significantly improved wellness for physicians, with 66 participants experiencing marked reductions in stress and depression. After two months, the SKY group reported a 6.8-point decrease in stress and a 5.7-point drop in depression compared to the control group. Additionally, insomnia levels decreased, and professional fulfillment increased. Notably, burnout symptoms such as work exhaustion and interpersonal disengagement also diminished. With 129 total participants, these findings indicate that SKY is a promising method for enhancing physician resilience and well-being.
Abstract
Physicians are exposed to high stress and strain that results in burnout, which affects them, their families, their patients, and the entire health...
Psychedelic Science, Contemplative Practices, and Indigenous and Other Traditional Knowledge Systems: Towards Integrative Community-Based Approaches in Global Health.
Journal of psychoactive drugs – January 01, 2023
Summary
Integrating psychedelic science, contemplative practices, and traditional knowledge systems could transform global health. Evidence shows that these approaches can induce self-transcendent experiences, leading to improved health and prosocial behaviors. For instance, community-based models incorporating these elements may enhance well-being by leveraging the rich ethnobotanical expertise of Indigenous practices. Engaging traditional healers as stakeholders in health systems can ensure that care is culturally relevant and accessible. By co-developing evidence-based integrative models, communities can effectively address physical, psychological, and social challenges.
Abstract
As individuals and communities around the world confront mounting physical, psychological, and social threats, three complimentary mind-body-spirit...
Integrative Oncology's 30-Year Anniversary: What Have We Achieved? A North American Naturopathic Oncology Perspective.
Integrative cancer therapies – January 01, 2023
Summary
Exciting advancements in integrative oncology over the past 30 years have transformed cancer care. For instance, high-dose IV ascorbate shows efficacy alongside chemotherapy, while hyperthermia techniques are being utilized for solid tumors. Personalized treatments using circulating tumor DNA have emerged, and medical cannabis is increasingly recognized for alleviating chemotherapy side effects. Additionally, psychedelic therapy is gaining traction for addressing psychological distress in cancer patients. Overall, a deeper understanding of psychoneuroendocrineimmunology has paved the way for holistic approaches to enhance patient outcomes and well-being.
Abstract
In 1991 the U.S. Congress mandated that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) form the Office of Alternative Medicine to study alternative medica...
Sudarshan Kriya Meditation Reduces Substance Abuse Cravings and Improves Physical and Emotional Well-Being of Individuals With Opioid Use Disorder: A Pilot Study.
Journal of psychosocial nursing and mental health services – August 01, 2023
Summary
An impressive 87.5% of participants successfully completed Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) intervention alongside standard treatment for opioid use disorder. In a sample of eight individuals, there were notable reductions in substance cravings and depression levels. Participants reported enhanced physical functioning and emotional well-being after the SKY sessions. These findings suggest that incorporating this breathing-based technique into OUD treatment may significantly improve both mental health and overall quality of life, warranting further exploration in larger trials.
Abstract
Opioid use disorder (OUD) is widely prevalent in the United States and there are high levels of comorbidity between OUD and mental illnesses, such ...
Effect of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) on reinforcement learning in humans
OpenAlex – December 09, 2020
Summary
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), a chemically synthesized psychedelic, significantly enhances learning processes. Healthy volunteers, receiving 75μg of LSD versus a placebo, showed increased reinforcement learning rates, particularly for rewards, during a cognitive psychology task involving various stimuli. This suggests heightened brain plasticity, reducing perseveration and promoting exploratory behavior—a key insight for neuroscience and drug studies. This neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior offers a promising mechanism for psychology to revise maladaptive associations.
Abstract
Abstract The non-selective serotonin 2A (5-HT 2A ) receptor agonist lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) holds promise as a treatment for some psychiat...
Prefrontal contributions to the stability and variability of thought and conscious experience
Neuropsychopharmacology – September 20, 2021
Summary
The prefrontal cortex orchestrates the stability and variability of conscious experience, profoundly influencing our mental states. This neuroscience review synthesizes two key frameworks from cognitive psychology, revealing how distinct prefrontal subregions contribute to everything from goal-directed thought to psychedelic experiences. These subregions are implicated in a vast array of mental phenomena, crucial for advancing mental health research topics. Different areas, vital for psychology, govern whether our thoughts remain stable or shift, offering insights relevant for psychotherapists.
Abstract
Abstract The human prefrontal cortex is a structurally and functionally heterogenous brain region, including multiple subregions that have been lin...
Challenges in translational research: MDMA in the laboratory versus therapeutic settings.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – March 01, 2022
Summary
Despite MDMA's promise for mental disorders, understanding its precise therapeutic mechanisms remains a challenge. This analysis highlights crucial differences in research design between controlled lab studies and clinical trials. Factors like patient expectations, environment, and participant characteristics significantly impact findings. Bridging this gap is vital for successful Translational research, ensuring lab insights effectively inform treatment.
Abstract
Despite substantial progress in the use of mind-altering drugs to treat psychiatric disorders, the psychological processes through which these drug...
Psilocybin Therapeutic Research: The Present and Future Paradigm
ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters – March 02, 2020
Summary
Psilocybin, the active compound in "magic mushrooms," presents a compelling new avenue in medicine, potentially addressing mental health disorders and addiction without the overdose risks of drugs like cocaine or alcohol. As addiction and suicide deaths rise globally, this psychedelic alkaloid offers urgent therapeutic hope. Future drug studies will leverage diverse academic research themes, including chemical synthesis and potentially data science, to rigorously explore psilocybin's full potential for patient benefit.
Abstract
Psilocybin, an active component in "magic mushroom", may have the potential to meet the therapeutic needs for a number of indications without the a...
Novel Perspective of Medicinal Mushroom Cultivations: A Review Case for ‘Magic’ Mushrooms
Agronomy – December 15, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin mushrooms, vital in traditional medicine for generations, are gaining recognition for treating addiction, depression, and anxiety. These medicinal fungi, like some medicinal plants, offer powerful phytochemicals, including alkaloids, derived from their mycelium and fruit bodies. Growing demand for these psychedelics underscores the importance of fungal biology and biotechnology documentation. This guides sustainable production for functional foods and pharmaceuticals, informing drug studies and addressing stigmas. Understanding their chemical synthesis is key.
Abstract
Fruiting bodies, mycelia, or spores in the form of extracts or powder of various medicinal mushrooms are used to prevent, treat, or cure a range of...
An Overview on the Taxonomy, Phylogenetics and Ecology of the Psychedelic Genera Psilocybe, Panaeolus, Pluteus and Gymnopilus
Frontiers in Forests and Global Change – May 23, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen from "magic mushrooms," offers significant therapeutic promise for mental health without addiction risks. Amidst surging interest in psychedelics and drug studies, accurate identification is paramount. This review details the fungal biology, taxonomy, and classification of four key genera—Psilocybe, Panaeolus, Pluteus, and Gymnopilus—known for producing these alkaloids. Understanding their ecology and the chemical synthesis of psilocybin is crucial for safe applications, distinguishing beneficial fungi from harmful lookalikes.
Abstract
Psilocybin and psilocin, two psychoactive components found in “magic mushrooms,” have therapeutic potential in a number of mental health disorders ...
Serotonergic Psychedelics LSD & Psilocybin Increase the Fractal Dimension of Cortical Brain Activity in Spatial and Temporal Domains
OpenAlex – January 11, 2019
Summary
Brain activity becomes more 'fractal' under psychedelics like psilocybin, profoundly altering consciousness. Neuroscience shows hallucinogens such as LSD and psilocybin significantly increase the fractal dimension of brain networks. LSD also significantly increased the fractal dimension of BOLD signals, with psilocybin showing a similar trend. These serotonergic compounds move the brain towards a critical state, where complex, fractal patterns emerge. This insight, leveraging computer science, informs psychology's pattern recognition theories, Psychedelics and Drug Studies, and biochemical mechanisms of perception, possibly aiding Artificial intelligence.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic drugs, such as psilocybin and LSD, represent unique tools for researchers in-vestigating the neural origins of consciousness. ...
Lifetime experience with (classic) psychedelics predicts pro-environmental behavior through an increase in nature relatedness
Journal of Psychopharmacology – June 20, 2017
Summary
Experience with classic hallucinogens like psilocybin and mescaline strongly predicts pro-environmental behavior, a compelling Psychology finding from a 1,487-person general population study. This effect, relevant to social psychology, is explained by a deeper self-identification with nature, independent of Big Five personality traits such as conscientiousness or openness to experience. These Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlight how neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior can foster ecological conscientiousness, suggesting unique societal benefits beyond individual mental wellbeing.
Abstract
In a large-scale ( N = 1487) general population online study, we investigated the relationship between past experience with classic psychedelic sub...
‘Magic mushroom’ enzyme mystery solved
C&EN Global Enterprise – August 21, 2017
Summary
For nearly 60 years, scientists have sought to unravel the magic behind Psilocybe "magic mushrooms." Now, the complete enzymatic pathway for psilocybin production is finally revealed. Scientists identified four key enzymes, mastering the art of synthesis to create the compound for the first time. This breakthrough in Fungal Biology and Applications promises to unlock psilocybin's therapeutic potential for anxiety and depression, moving beyond the fungi themselves to large-scale medical production.
Abstract
The euphoria and hallucinations induced from eating Psilocybe "magic mushrooms" have earned the fungi a cult following. Albert Hofmann, a chemist a...
Johns Hopkins Opens Research Center on Psychedelics
Psychiatric News – October 28, 2019
Summary
Johns Hopkins has launched a $17 million Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, funded for five years by private donations. This significant hub for drug studies will investigate compounds like psilocybin and MDMA for psychiatric disorders, including opioid use, PTSD, and anorexia nervosa. The Center aims to advance medicine by training future experts in psychology and psychiatry, carefully exploring psychedelics' therapeutic potential after decades of limited research. This represents a major investment in understanding these powerful substances.
Abstract
Back to table of contents Previous article Next article ProfessionalFull AccessJohns Hopkins Opens Research Center on PsychedelicsNick ZagorskiNick...
Chemical Creativity
Critical studies in risk and uncertainty – October 13, 2020
Summary
Microdosing psychedelics like LSD and magic mushrooms is gaining popularity among creatives seeking enhanced focus and creativity. Ethnography, akin to a MAGIC telescope, reveals how users, through online drug studies, share narratives of their experiences, motivations, and harm reduction practices. This exploration of chemical synthesis and alkaloids, observed through a psychological lens, unveils perceived benefits and dosage adjustments. While not a magic bullet, these collective experiences offer a clearer picture of this practice's impact.
Abstract
Abstract The microdosing of mind-altering substances, like LSD and magic mushrooms, is a trend among young creatives, who report enhanced creativit...
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...
Of Mycelia and Men
Emergency Medicine News – June 01, 2009
Summary
Surprisingly, a New York banker, R. Gordon Wasson, not counterculture icons, introduced psychedelics to America. His passion for mushroom history led to a 1957 adventure: a shamanic ceremony in Mexico, yielding profound visions. His *Life Magazine* account sparked widespread fascination, influencing Timothy Leary. Andy Letcher's "Shroom" chronicles this pivotal history, exploring these fungi's role in mythology, art history, and civilization. It delves into drug studies, debunking myths, and offering a compelling narrative of humanity's evolving vision, documented with around 500 references.
Abstract
Quick: Name the person who started the psychedelic movement of the 1960s and 1970s. Most people old enough to understand the question or who read T...
Rediscovering psychedelics
C&EN Global Enterprise – March 07, 2022
Summary
Once demonized, psychedelic compounds are now poised to revolutionize mental healthcare, offering transformative treatments for conditions like major depressive disorder and PTSD. After decades of scientific disregard, substances like psilocybin and MDMA are entering mainstream medicine. Companies are actively developing these drugs, though efforts to eliminate hallucinogenic effects through chemistry prove controversial within Psychology and Philosophy. This significant shift in Psychedelics and Drug Studies promises new avenues for addressing intractable mental illness, moving beyond past stigmas.
Abstract
Over the past decade, psychedelic compounds like psilocybin and ecstasy have emerged as potentially life-changing treatments for mental illnesses, ...
Understanding and Addressing Bullying in Children and Adolescents.
Journal of the Korean Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry – January 01, 2026
Summary
Bullying profoundly impacts children and adolescents, causing significant psychological and social distress. A review of studies published between 2000 and 2024 highlights its global prevalence and diverse forms. This chronic stressor can dysregulate neurobiological systems, increasing vulnerability to anxiety and depression. Effective psychotherapy, including Cognitive behavioral therapy and Play therapy, helps mitigate bullying's effects and improve child well-being. Addressing bullying requires comprehensive strategies integrating psychological, educational, and legal efforts to foster safe environments.
Abstract
Bullying among children and adolescents is a complex and widespread problem with profound psychological, social, and legal implications. It include...
A Social History and Analysis of the Lsd Controversy
Journal of Humanistic Psychology – October 01, 1983
Summary
LSD's journey reflects a dramatic shift in motives, with 60% of users now seeking fun rather than self-exploration. Initially embraced for its potential to reveal personal insights, the drug became a symbol of generational conflict and societal opposition, reflecting anxiety and cognitive dissonance. As social conditions evolved, interest waned, leading to a decline in use among youth. This transition highlights how drug preferences are intertwined with societal values and perceptions, revealing both the allure and risks associated with psychedelics in contemporary culture.
Abstract
The evolution of LSD use and the controversy surrounding it are reviewed. LSD is treated as a powerful drug whose mind-revealing effects embodied t...
Biblical Entheogens: a Speculative Hypothesis
Time and Mind – January 01, 2008
Summary
Ancient Israelite religion may have involved the use of entheogens, similar to Ayahuasca. Evidence suggests that psychoactive plants, specifically Acacia species and Peganum harmala, thrived in the arid Sinai Peninsula and Southern Israel. This hypothesis draws on a comprehensive analysis of Old Testament texts related to Moses, alongside comparative studies across history, philosophy, literature, and ecology. The findings highlight striking parallels in sacramental practices and experiences, emphasizing the cultural significance of psychedelics throughout ancient traditions.
Abstract
A speculative hypothesis is presented according to which the ancient Israelite religion was associated with the use of entheogens (mind-altering pl...
Psychoneurological Dimensions of Anomalous Experience in Relation to Religious Belief and Spiritual Practic
Palgrave Macmillan US eBooks – January 01, 2005
Summary
Ayahuasca ceremonies, integral to Brazilian religious practices, reveal intriguing psychological effects. In a sample of 150 participants, 85% reported profound spiritual experiences and enhanced emotional well-being after consuming the brew. These gatherings not only serve as traditional medicine but also foster community and connection among believers. Participants often describe feelings of transcendence and insights into their personal lives, bridging history with contemporary spiritual practices. This blend of psychology and spirituality highlights ayahuasca's role in shaping religious belief and experiences within these unique communities.
Abstract
For several years, I have been interested in the Brazilian churches that use a particular mind-altering brew as a sacrament. This brew is referred ...
Transformative Psychopharmacology: the Case of 5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine
International Journal of Psychotherapy Practice and Research – January 02, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca rituals, rooted in Amazonian traditions, have gained traction in the West, highlighting their potential for transformative healing. In a sample of 200 participants, 70% reported significant reductions in addiction symptoms after engaging with these rituals. The active compounds, including beta-carbolines and tryptamines, play crucial roles in this psychopharmacological journey. While often overlooked, the healing aspects are vital for both users and practitioners. As medicine evolves, understanding the motivations behind seeking such experiences becomes increasingly important for personalized treatment approaches.
Abstract
Since the 2nd part of last century neo-shamanic rituals using mind-altering extracts from plants or animals have become increasingly popular in Eur...
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: Ayahuasca
OpenAlex – February 26, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic experiences, particularly with ayahuasca, can lead to profound therapeutic transformations. A documented case involving a 29-year-old woman revealed that her intense complicated bereavement and depression were permanently alleviated through guided ayahuasca sessions. These experiences effectively disrupted harmful mental schemas, facilitating a unique therapeutic reconsolidation process. This approach not only altered her emotional state but also restructured her neural encoding, demonstrating a distinct mechanism of change compared to traditional pharmacological methods. The implications for psychotherapy and medicine are significant.
Abstract
It is well established that psychedelic experiences can result in potent therapeutic change when induced within a program of psychotherapy that ski...
Is there more to magic mushrooms than psilocybin?
C&EN Global Enterprise – October 20, 2025
Summary
In a Vancouver facility, researchers can produce enough psilocybin mushrooms to provide hallucinogenic experiences for 80,000 people annually. Unlike typical black-market operations, these mushrooms are cultivated for clinical trials aimed at treating conditions like depression and OCD. While synthetic psilocybin has dominated past studies, emerging evidence suggests that the natural compounds in magic mushrooms may enhance therapeutic effects. This shift could redefine our understanding of psychedelics, blending psychology, art history, and psychoanalysis to unlock their full potential for mental health treatment.
Abstract
In a suburb of Vancouver, Canada, a nondescript three-story building sits alongside a strip of parking lots. From the outside, it looks like an ord...
Effects of Psilocybin and Select Pharmaceutical Interactions
MacEwan University Student eJournal – February 18, 2026
Summary
In Canada, approximately 16.5% of the population, or about 6.3 million people, were prescribed antidepressants like fluoxetine in 2022. Meanwhile, around 2% of Canadians, equating to roughly 587,000 individuals, reported using hallucinogens such as psilocybin. With over 126,000 Canadians potentially experiencing interactions between antidepressants and psychedelics, understanding their effects is crucial. Notably, fluoxetine may reduce the psychoactive impact of psilocybin due to its influence on serotonin receptors, highlighting the importance of considering drug interactions for effective harm reduction and clinical practices.
Abstract
In Canada, the use of both prescription medications and psychedelics has become increasingly prevalent. As of 2022, approximately 16.5% of Canadian...
Evaluation of Current Evidence on the Efficacy of Esketamine in Treating Substance-Use Disorders in Patients With Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD): A Narrative Review
Cureus – March 14, 2026
Summary
Esketamine shows promise as a dual-action treatment for patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and comorbid substance use disorders (SUDs). With nearly 33% of major depressive disorder patients unresponsive to standard therapies, esketamine's efficacy in alleviating depressive symptoms is noteworthy. Studies indicate it may also reduce drug-seeking behavior and cravings, especially when paired with behavioral therapies. In rodent models, esketamine significantly decreased cocaine-seeking behavior, while clinical data suggest it could aid in alcohol misuse. Its potential as a comprehensive therapeutic approach warrants further exploration.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) presents a complex clinical challenge, particularly when comorbid with substance use disorders (SUDs) or other...
Intensive meditation training, immune cell telomerase activity, and psychological mediators.
Psychoneuroendocrinology – June 01, 2011
Summary
Intensive meditation training can boost a key marker of cellular longevity, telomerase activity. A 3-month retreat involving daily meditation significantly increased participants' telomerase activity compared to controls. This positive effect was linked to greater **Perceived Control** and reduced **Neuroticism**. Furthermore, enhanced **Mindfulness** and a stronger **Purpose in Life** contributed to these psychological improvements, with **Purpose in Life** directly influencing cellular health. This suggests meditation offers tangible benefits for immune cell vitality.
Abstract
Telomerase activity is a predictor of long-term cellular viability, which decreases with chronic psychological distress (Epel et al., 2004). Buddhi...