Participants in an ayahuasca retreat reported a significant, sustained increase in aesthetic appreciation one week and one month post-consumption.
Researchers recently explored the potential of psilocybin, a compound from magic mushrooms, to combat diabetes. The findings suggest that psilocybin might protect pancreatic β-cells from damage.
LSD increases neural complexity and reduces certain brain wave frequencies, which correlates with feelings of elation, according to new research.
A pivotal study explored how patient expectations affect psilocybin therapy outcomes, discovering no significant impact. Interestingly, suggestible individuals showed enhanced benefits, suggesting a unique interplay between mindset and psychedelic therapy effectiveness.
A new study provides evidence that mushroom extract containing psilocybin may offer superior therapeutic effects for psychiatric disorders compared to synthetic psilocybin, suggesting an "entourage effect" of additional compounds enhancing treatment outcomes.
Psilocybin therapy alters brain activity in patients with alcohol use disorder, according to new research, increasing activity in areas associated with emotional regulation and reducing activity in regions linked to craving.
A groundbreaking study sheds light on psilocybin therapy's success in treating depression, highlighting the crucial roles of mystical experiences and ego dissolution, enhanced by music, in surpassing traditional treatments. The findings were published in the International Journal of Mental Health...
A JAMA Psychiatry study explores the link between psychedelic use in adolescents and mental health, finding an association with fewer psychotic symptoms and a correlation with increased manic symptoms in those with genetic risks for schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
A study found ketamine's rapid antidepressant effects in rats hinge on activating the brain's opioid system, particularly β-endorphin in the prefrontal cortex. Blocking this pathway negates ketamine's benefits, unveiling potential targets for new depression treatments.
A twin study found cannabis use has limited direct impact on psychological outcomes, attributing most associations to genetics and environment. However, modest effects on cannabis disorder and illicit drug use were noted, challenging simplistic narratives about cannabis's negative effects.
A meta-analysis of over 200,000 participants found prenatal cannabis exposure significantly increases the risk of ADHD symptoms in offspring and suggests a possible risk for ASD. This highlights the need for caution regarding cannabis use during pregnancy.
Ayahuasca was found to speed up the extinction of fear memories in rats by affecting serotonin receptors in the brain. This effect, consistent across new and old memories, points to potential therapeutic uses for anxiety and trauma-related conditions.
Scientists have identified how cannabis vapor triggers increased eating in rats and mice by activating the brain's "hunger neurons." Inhibiting these neurons negates the munchies effect, providing insight into the neural mechanisms of cannabis-induced appetite stimulation.
A study revealed psilocybin diminishes the amygdala response to angry faces, potentially impacting emotion processing. This discovery underscores its potential for treating conditions like depression and anxiety, highlighting the profound effects of psychedelics on the brain.
Northwestern University researchers have uncovered how ketamine delivers rapid and prolonged depression relief by activating new neurons for immediate effects and increasing their production for lasting benefits. This breakthrough could lead to safer, ketamine-inspired antidepressants.