Psychedelic and nutraceutical interventions as therapeutic strategies for military-related mild traumatic brain injuries

Concussion, a common acquired brain injury among military personnel, civilians, and contact sport athletes, causes transient mental impairment but poses a significant health burden, with a minority experiencing persistent symptoms and repetitive sub-concussive head injury increasing risk for neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. Treatment is challenging due to varied symptom profiles. Classic psychedelics show promise by aiding brain rewiring and providing anti-inflammatory effects. Nutraceutical interventions, which are widely available, cost-effective, and well tolerated, may support recovery when combined with psychedelic compounds. This review discusses studies on classical psychedelics and nutraceuticals as potential therapeutic strategies for concussions and persistent symptoms.

Study at a glance

Abstract

LAY SUMMARY Concussion is a type of acquired brain injury that is common in the military, as well as among civilians and contact sport athletes, and is defined by a transient impairment in mental function. Nevertheless, concussion presents a considerable health burden, and a small minority of people suffer from continued impairment. Repetitive sub-concussive head injury is a known risk factor for neurodegenerative disease, including dementias. Concussions are difficult to treat because symptom profiles vary, but psychedelic therapies may help address some of the neurological issues that occur after brain injury. Classic psychedelics show promise as an emerging pharmacological intervention because they appear to help the brain to rewire, and they have anti-inflammatory effects. Nutraceutical interventions are widely available, cost-effective, and well tolerated, and they could also support recovery when combined with psychedelic compounds. Here, studies presenting classical psychedelics and nutraceuticals that may be combined with psychedelics as therapeutic strategies for the treatment of concussions and persistent symptoms are discussed.