Psilocybin

A new study suggests that consuming psilocin directly—rather than its precursor, psilocybin—provides a similar psychedelic experience with fewer side effects. Researchers also found that taking the drug under the tongue produced emotional breakthroughs despite milder effects.

Psilocin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, promotes the rapid growth of neural connections in laboratory settings. A new study reveals how these structural changes match the effects of established psychiatric drugs like ketamine and lithium.

Two new studies suggest psychedelic compounds could help treat cocaine addiction. A human trial found psilocybin combined with therapy reduced cocaine use, while an animal study indicated that environmental support is needed to prevent long-term relapse.

Two low doses of psilocybin helped chronically stressed rats recover their ability to experience pleasure while reducing anxiety. The psychedelic compound also promoted the birth of new neurons and normalized stress hormone levels.

A single dose of psilocybin rapidly relieved both chronic pain and depression-like symptoms in mice. Researchers discovered the psychedelic compound works by calming hyperactive neurons in a specific brain region associated with both conditions.

A new study reveals that daily doses of psilocin mucate, a stable derivative of the psychedelic compound psilocybin, significantly reduced anxiety and stress hormones in rats. However, weekly dosing did not produce the same anti-anxiety benefits.

Anorexia nervosa is notoriously difficult to treat, often resisting standard care. Now, a new pilot study suggests that psilocybin therapy, paired with psychological support, could safely help reduce eating disorder symptoms and boost the motivation to recover.

New research indicates that psilocybin treatment for PTSD involves very little talking. Instead of traditional psychotherapy, data suggests patients benefit most from the quiet, unobtrusive presence of support staff.

A single dose of psilocybin can alter brain communication for up to a month. New research suggests the psychedelic increases brain flexibility and shifts information flow, offering clues to its lasting effects on mental health.

Researchers analyzing nationwide survey data found that adults using psilocybin infrequently alongside alcohol reported less anxiety and depression than non-psilocybin users, suggesting potential benefits outside clinical settings.

A pilot clinical trial suggests that psilocybin combined with psychotherapy is safe and well-tolerated by veterans with severe, treatment-resistant PTSD. The study found that most participants no longer met the diagnostic criteria for PTSD.

New research indicates that psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, might protect human skin cells from premature aging. In laboratory tests, the psychedelic compound reduced inflammation and cellular stress caused by high sugar and fat levels.

A single dose of psilocybin reduces the drive to seek out rewards by increasing the activity of inhibitory brain cells. These findings help explain how psychedelics might induce long-lasting changes in brain circuits to treat substance use disorders.

Psilocybin could help patients with chronic cluster headaches sleep better, according to a recent study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology. Researchers also noted subtle shifts in brain microstructure that tend to accompany these improvements in rest.