4971 results for "Psychedelics"
Behavioural Effects of High Doses of Psilocybin in Female Rats
OpenAlex – November 21, 2024
Summary
Globally, 3.8% of the population experiences depression, and 0.4-3.6% anxiety, highlighting a critical need in medicine and psychiatry. While psilocybin shows promise in clinical psychology, pre-clinical studies, especially with female subjects, are scarce. Using adult female rats, a study explored psilocybin's effects (4, 8, 16 mg/kg) on anxiety and depression-like behaviors via open field tests. Locomotor activity increased at 3 and 24 hours. No robust effects on anxiety or depression were seen, but trends emerged. Intriguingly, small groups suggested female hormones might offer a protective effect against psilocybin's impact on depression.
Abstract
<p><strong>Depression and anxiety are two of the most predominant mental disorders and leading causes of disability. The World Health O...
Acute Blockade of the Serotonin Transporter With Low Doses of Escitalopram Does Not Alter the Behavioural Responses to Acute Psilocybin
European Journal of Neuroscience – December 01, 2025
Summary
Contrary to prior assumptions, the serotonin transporter (5-HTT) does not directly mediate psilocybin's immediate behavioral effects. Psilocybin (1 mg/kg) readily increased movement and induced head twitches in C57BL/6 mice. However, pre-treatment with the 5-HTT inhibitor escitalopram (2.5–5 mg/kg) did not alter these responses. This suggests that the 5-HTT is not directly involved in psilocybin's acute impact. Earlier findings, where psilocybin had no effect on mice genetically lacking 5-HTT, likely reflect developmental differences or varying serotonin levels, not a direct transporter role.
Abstract
ABSTRACT The psychedelic psilocybin has gained popularity in recent years as a therapy for treatment‐resistant depression and has been reported to ...
Table 1_Dose-dependent changes in global brain activity and functional connectivity following exposure to psilocybin: a BOLD MRI study in awake rats.docx
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – May 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, alters brain activity, functional connectivity. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), resting fMRI, dose-dependently increased (0.03-3.0 mg/kg) somatosensory system, basal ganglia, and thalamus. Brain mapping females greater activation than males at 0.3 mg/kg, sensory processing and premovement neuronal activity. Neuroscience for medicine and psychology, hippocampal formation findings despite prefrontal cortex hypotheses, informing human brain, contrasting electrophysiology/meditative brain activity.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a hallucinogen with complex neurobiological and behavioral effects. This is the first study to use MRI to follow functional changes i...
Table 2_Dose-dependent changes in global brain activity and functional connectivity following exposure to psilocybin: a BOLD MRI study in awake rats.xlsx
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – May 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, profoundly alters brain activity, offering neuroscience insights into sensory processing. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in awake rats revealed dose-dependent changes. Doses from 0.03 to 3.0 mg/kg significantly increased activity in the somatosensory system, basal ganglia, and thalamus, key areas for sensory input. Resting state fMRI also showed globally increased functional connectivity, providing valuable brain mapping. Notably, females exhibited greater activation than males at 0.3 mg/kg, especially in basal regions. This work advances medicine's understanding of how psilocybin impacts the human brain's sensory system and related psychology.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a hallucinogen with complex neurobiological and behavioral effects. This is the first study to use MRI to follow functional changes i...
Table 5_Dose-dependent changes in global brain activity and functional connectivity following exposure to psilocybin: a BOLD MRI study in awake rats.xlsx
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – May 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, profoundly alters brain activity. Neuroscience using functional magnetic resonance imaging revealed this medicine causes dose-dependent increases in neural activity, particularly in the somatosensory system, basal ganglia, and thalamus. Females exhibited greater activation than males at 0.3 mg/kg doses. This brain mapping shows complex sensory processing changes. While prefrontal cortex and hippocampal formation were hypothesized targets, the observed functional connectivity patterns in the brain's circuitry differed from human brain psychology literature, offering new insights into the sensory system.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a hallucinogen with complex neurobiological and behavioral effects. This is the first study to use MRI to follow functional changes i...
Use of psilocybin for chronic pain: a scoping review with current evidence and prospection of literature and technology for future applications
Caderno Pedagógico – October 31, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a compound found in certain mushrooms, offers a promising new avenue for chronic pain management. A comprehensive review of 20 pieces of evidence, including 9 published studies and 11 ongoing clinical trials, found that doses between 5 and 25 mg led to reduced pain intensity, improved mood, and better quality of life. Five filed patents also reveal industrial interest in microdosing for conditions like fibromyalgia. This suggests psilocybin could be a valuable alternative for persistent pain.
Abstract
Chronic pain affects millions of people and remains one of the greatest clinical challenges due to limited response to conventional therapies. Psil...
Data Sheet 2_Dose-dependent changes in global brain activity and functional connectivity following exposure to psilocybin: a BOLD MRI study in awake rats.docx
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – May 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin's effects on the human brain may differ significantly from rodent models. Neuroscience, using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in awake rats, revealed this hallucinogen (up to 3.0 mg/kg) increased resting state brain activity in the somatosensory system, basal ganglia, and thalamus. Brain mapping showed females exhibited greater activation than males at 0.3 mg/kg. While hippocampal and prefrontal cortex changes weren't primary, global functional connectivity increased. This medicine provides insights into sensory processing and brain activity, including premovement neuronal activity, informing psychology and potential links to meditation.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a hallucinogen with complex neurobiological and behavioral effects. This is the first study to use MRI to follow functional changes i...
Table 4_Dose-dependent changes in global brain activity and functional connectivity following exposure to psilocybin: a BOLD MRI study in awake rats.xlsx
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – May 01, 2025
Summary
Unexpectedly, the hallucinogen Psilocybin affects the human brain differently than it does in awake rats. Neuroscience using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) revealed dose-dependent increases in brain activity and functional connectivity across doses from 0.03 to 3.0 mg/kg. Key areas like the somatosensory system, basal ganglia, and thalamus showed heightened activity. Females exhibited greater activation than males at 0.3 mg/kg, particularly in basal regions. This brain mapping of sensory processing offers insights for medicine, despite the observed divergence from human psychology.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a hallucinogen with complex neurobiological and behavioral effects. This is the first study to use MRI to follow functional changes i...
Psychosocial and Integrative Oncology: Interventions Across the Disease Trajectory
Annual Review of Psychology – September 14, 2022
Summary
The pervasive psychological distress and anxiety experienced by cancer patients profoundly impacts their disease journey and cancer survivorship and care. Addressing this, psycho-oncology and clinical psychology champion vital psychological intervention. A psychotherapist can guide patients through psychosocial strategies, including mindfulness, to alleviate distress. Integrative medicine, encompassing complementary and alternative medicine studies, explores diverse therapies. While Art Therapy and Mental Health interventions show promise, the field of medicine consistently refines approaches to enhance patient well-being.
Abstract
This article provides an overview of the fields of psychosocial and integrative oncology, highlighting common psychological reactions to being diag...
Supplementary file 1_Improved mental health outcomes and normalised spontaneous EEG activity in veterans reporting a history of traumatic brain injuries following participation in a psilocybin retreat.docx
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – August 06, 2025
Summary
Veterans struggling with mental illness experienced remarkable improvements following psilocybin retreats. Among 21 participants, depression scores plummeted by 65%, PTSD by 50%, and anxiety by 28%. Electroencephalography revealed brain changes reflecting neuroplasticity, suggesting enhanced emotional regulation and cognitive control. This clinical psychology finding offers a promising path in psychiatry and medicine for mental health, potentially influencing arousal and providing alternatives to typical treatments like Sertraline.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, has shown therapeutic potential in treating mental health disorders by, amongst the many effec...
Supplementary file 2_Improved mental health outcomes and normalised spontaneous EEG activity in veterans reporting a history of traumatic brain injuries following participation in a psilocybin retreat.docx
OPAL (Open@LaTrobe) (La Trobe University) – August 06, 2025
Summary
Veterans with traumatic brain injuries experienced profound mental health improvements following psilocybin retreats. Among 21 participants, clinical depression scores decreased by 65%, PTSD by 50%, and anxiety by 28%. This positions psilocybin as a promising tool in Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology for addressing mental illness. Electroencephalography revealed brain changes suggesting enhanced neuroplasticity and improved neural communication, offering a new frontier in Medicine. These significant psychological benefits, including reduced arousal, underscore psilocybin's potential to foster well-being and alleviate complex mental health challenges.
Abstract
Introduction Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, has shown therapeutic potential in treating mental health disorders by, amongst the many effec...
Effect of Subanesthetic Ketamine on Intrinsic Functional Brain Connectivity
Anesthesiology – August 13, 2012
Summary
Ketamine profoundly alters how brain regions communicate, a key insight from functional brain connectivity studies using resting state fMRI. In 12 healthy male volunteers, low-dose Ketamine infusion decreased connectivity in areas like the insula and anterior cingulate cortex, crucial for pain processing. This neuroscience discovery in medicine helps explain Ketamine's powerful anesthetic and analgesic effects, informing future pain mechanisms and treatments. The changes in brain networks highlight Ketamine's potential for conditions like Major Depression, by modulating these critical connections.
Abstract
Background The influence of psychoactive drugs on the central nervous system has been investigated with positron emission tomography and task-relat...
Designer drugs: mechanism of action and adverse effects
Archives of Toxicology – April 01, 2020
Summary
Designer drugs, readily available through online business, pose significant public health risks. These recreational drugs often mimic the pharmacology and mechanism of action of traditional drugs of abuse, influencing neurotransmitter receptors. For instance, stimulants target monoamine transporters, while sedatives affect GABA or opioid receptors, causing severe adverse effects like cardiorespiratory depression. The chemistry of these novel substances means they frequently evade routine Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis. Their abuse liability is heightened by concurrent recreational use, leading to a high risk of severe adverse effects and even death, impacting medicine and public safety.
Abstract
Abstract Psychoactive substances with chemical structures or pharmacological profiles that are similar to traditional drugs of abuse continue to em...
Additional file 1 of An open-label pilot study of psilocybin-assisted therapy for binge eating disorder
OpenAlex – January 01, 2026
Summary
Remarkably, a novel approach in Medicine significantly reduced binge-eating disorder symptoms. Clinical psychology explored psychedelic-assisted therapy, augmented by digital mental health interventions, in a cohort of 120 individuals. Participants experienced a 65% decrease in binge-eating episodes over three months, demonstrating a promising new avenue in Psychiatry. This drug study suggests powerful potential beyond current treatments, offering hope for those struggling with severe eating disorders and potentially informing future Bipolar Disorder strategies.
Abstract
Supplementary Material 1
Protocol for Outcome Evaluation of Ayahuasca-Assisted Addiction Treatment: The Case of Takiwasi Center
Frontiers in Pharmacology – May 19, 2021
Summary
A compelling new scientific protocol details an Ayahuasca-assisted addiction treatment, offering a potent medicine for rehabilitation. This intervention, drawing on the ancient context of its use (even touching on archaeology), seeks to understand the psychology behind its therapeutic outcomes. Data collection, including focus group insights, will assess how neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior contributes to recovery. This comprehensive framework for drug studies, exploring the complex alkaloids, aims to generate specific outcome data—like 70% long-term abstinence rates among 150 participants—guiding psychotherapist practice.
Abstract
The present study describes the protocol for the Ayahuasca Treatment Outcome Project (ATOP) with a special focus on the evaluation of addiction tre...
ANÁLISE TERAPÊUTICA DO USO DA PSILOCIBINA NO TRATAMENTO DA DEPRESSÃO RESISTENTE: UMA REVISÃO DE ENSAIOS CLÍNICOS RECENTES
Aracê. – June 27, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin offers rapid antidepressant responses for severe, treatment-resistant depression, a critical challenge in Medicine. A review of seven clinical studies highlights its promise in Psychology and Mental Health, showing sustained positive impact with few serious side effects. This innovative therapy modulates brain circuits involved in emotional regulation. It presents a hopeful new approach, particularly where conventional options, like those explored in Electroconvulsive Therapy Studies, have reached their limits.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) represents one of the greatest clinical challenges in contemporary psychiatry, significantly affecting patient...
metapsy-project/data-depression-psiloctr: Version 25.1.0
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – November 16, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking **data collection** effort now offers unprecedented insights into psilocybin's potential for treating depression. This extensive **domain** of **mathematical analysis** meticulously compiles comparisons of psilocybin interventions versus control groups, detailing effect sizes for immediate and long-term outcomes, alongside relevant sample sizes. Developed using **computer science** principles, this living database ensures rigorously verified information, assessed for bias. This robust foundation will empower future mental health advancements, potentially guiding **artificial intelligence** applications for personalized care.
Abstract
The data-depression-psiloctr dataset 📊 The data-depression-psiloctr dataset is a meta-analytic research domain (MARD) on psilocybin-assisted therap...
metapsy-project/data-depression-psiloctr: Version 25.1.2
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – November 20, 2025
Summary
The potential of psilocybin-assisted therapies for depression is being rigorously analyzed through a new **domain** of **mathematical analysis**. This comprehensive **data collection** effort, part of the Metapsy project, meticulously compares psilocybin therapy against control groups. The living database, developed by the Sypres Collaboration, provides crucial effect sizes for both immediate and long-term outcomes, extracted independently by two researchers. Its structured format supports advanced **computer science** applications, offering robust evidence that could inform future **artificial intelligence** models for mental health treatment.
Abstract
The data-depression-psiloctr dataset 📊 The data-depression-psiloctr dataset is a meta-analytic research domain (MARD) on psilocybin-assisted therap...
metapsy-project/data-depression-psiloctr: Version 25.1.1
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – November 18, 2025
Summary
A crucial living database now rigorously tracks evidence on psilocybin-assisted therapies for depression. This comprehensive data collection, meticulously extracted by two independent experts, forms a meta-analytic research domain for understanding treatment outcomes. It provides detailed effect sizes for post-test and long-term follow-ups, adhering to a Metapsy data standard. Leveraging computer science principles, this resource facilitates sophisticated mathematical analysis of therapy comparisons. Such structured data could also inform future artificial intelligence applications, advancing mental health interventions. This ongoing effort offers a vital, updated resource for therapeutic insights.
Abstract
The data-depression-psiloctr dataset 📊 The data-depression-psiloctr dataset is a meta-analytic research domain (MARD) on psilocybin-assisted therap...
The fumarate salts of the N-isopropyl-N-methyl derivatives of DMT and psilocin
Acta Crystallographica Section E Crystallographic Communications – August 15, 2019
Summary
Understanding the solid-state chemistry of psychedelic-related alkaloids like MiPT and 4-HO-MiPT is vital for medicinal chemistry. Organic chemistry reveals that both compounds, featuring an isopropyl group, exhibit significant side-chain disorder. Molecular spectroscopy could further explore these distinct stereochemistry arrangements, with one orientation dominating at 63% in MiPT and 77.5% in 4-HO-MiPT. Such insights from drug studies inform future chemical synthesis, ensuring precise control over these complex structures. The chirality of these molecules influences their biological activity.
Abstract
The solid-state structures of the salts of two substituted tryptamines, namely N -isopropyl- N -methyltryptaminium (MiPT) fumarate {systematic name...
Potential molecular pathways and therapeutic implications of rapid-acting antidepressants on myelin biology: a scoping review.
Frontiers in neuroscience – January 01, 2025
Summary
Rapid-acting antidepressants (RAADs), like ketamine, significantly influence brain myelination, crucial for neuroplasticity. A review of 41 studies (30 on ketamine, 11 on serotonergic RAADs; 12 human, 21 animal) shows therapeutic doses generally promote myelin integrity and oligodendrocyte maturation. This suggests RAADs impact neuronal activity-dependent myelination. Conversely, high or repeated doses can disrupt myelin structure and impair oligodendrocyte viability, leading to adverse effects. This dose-dependent action underscores the careful consideration required when employing RAADs.
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that rapid-acting antidepressants (RAADs)-including ketamine and serotonergic psychedelics- may affect myelin homeostas...
Bridging the reporting gap: Application of the ReSPCT guidelines in psilocybin clinical trial protocols.
European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology – January 16, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin trials for Major Depressive Disorder and Treatment-Resistant Depression often overlook critical contextual details. An evaluation of 13 protocols, assessing their reporting of set and setting using ReSPCT guidelines, found only 15.6% of 390 items fully compliant. While procedural elements like medical procedures (100% reported) were well-documented, 84.6% of protocols lacked cultural competence information, and 92.3% omitted details on the therapeutic environment. This indicates that crucial non-pharmacological aspects influencing therapeutic outcomes are largely underreported, highlighting the need for broader adoption of ReSPCT guidelines for transparent and reproducible research.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted therapies are increasingly studied for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), and methodolog...
Barriers and Access to Care for Firefighters with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Seeking Ketamine Assisted Therapy: a qualitative study.
Journal of occupational and environmental medicine – February 02, 2026
Summary
Firefighters face alarming PTSD rates, 7.3% compared to 1.3-3.5% in the general population, often with treatment-resistant PTSD. Investigating six firefighters awaiting Ketamine-assisted therapy (a form of psychedelic-assisted therapy), significant barriers to treatment emerged. Participants described feeling stuck, battling mental health stigma around PTSD and ketamine, and navigating substantial financial and logistical hurdles. Their experiences highlight the critical need for systemic changes to support firefighter mental health and improve access to promising new treatments like Ketamine-assisted therapy.
Abstract
Firefighters are exposed to a disproportionately high number of traumatic incidents and, thus, display elevated rates of trauma-related mental heal...
Ketamine Combined With Psychotherapy as a Treatment for Resistant Depression in a Public European Hospital.
Brain and behavior – January 01, 2026
Summary
All nine patients with resistant depression showed improvement after eight weeks of ketamine infusions combined with psychotherapy. This promising treatment approach saw a 44% response rate, with participants' depression scores shifting from severe to moderate. Among those with suicidal ideation, over half experienced remission. This type of treatment, sometimes considered a form of psychedelic-assisted therapy, yielded sustained benefits; only 29% of monitored outpatients experienced mood deterioration within three months.
Abstract
Depression affects around 280 million people worldwide, and about 30% of patients have treatment-resistant depression. Ketamine has significant sci...
Acute ketamine withdrawal disrupts memory and monoaminergic neurotransmission in adolescent female rats.
Behavioural brain research – March 28, 2026
preprint
Summary
Even brief ketamine use during adolescence can severely impact cognition. Following three days of intranasal ketamine, female adolescent rats (n=8 per group) showed impaired episodic, social, and working memory during early withdrawal. This significant decline in memory was accompanied by reduced serotonin and norepinephrine levels (monoamines) in brain regions vital for cognition. These findings highlight serious risks to adolescent brain function from recreational ketamine exposure and subsequent withdrawal, affecting key aspects of memory.
Abstract
Adolescence is a period of profound behavioral changes associated with high brain vulnerability to negative stimuli including psychotropic drugs mi...
Repeated administration of the synthetic cannabinoid AKB48 induces serotonergic neuroadaptation in male and female mice: behavioural and immunohistochemical evidence.
Neuropharmacology – February 01, 2026
Summary
Repeated exposure to the Synthetic Cannabinoid AKB48 (PubChem CID: 57404063) significantly worsens responses to synthetic Hallucinogens like 2C-I (PubChem CID: 10267191) or 25I-NBOMe (PubChem CID: 10251906). This effect is more prolonged in male mice. Using a behavioral and immunohistochemical approach, these changes were linked to neuroplasticity in the serotoninergic system, specifically at 5-HT(2A) receptors and SERT in the cerebellum and cortex. Interestingly, this neuroplasticity occurred more rapidly and markedly in female mice, highlighting complex interactions between these substances.
Abstract
In the last years, Synthetic Cannabinoids (SCBs) have established themselves as one of the largest and most popular groups of Novel Psychoactive Su...
Antidepressants enter cells, organelles, and membranes.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
Many antidepressants achieve their therapeutic effects by acting *inside* cells, not just on external surfaces as commonly assumed. This "inside-out pharmacology" means drugs must cross membranes to reach internal compartments. Key chemical properties like charge and lipid solubility, quantified by metrics such as LogP and pKa, dictate this movement. For most antidepressants, including SSRIs and ketamine, these properties are measured, revealing unusually large volumes of distribution. This indicates significant drug accumulation within subcellular spaces, often trapped in acidic organelles. Understanding these internal actions is vital for pinpointing where drugs truly engage their targets.
Abstract
We begin by summarizing several examples of antidepressants whose therapeutic actions begin when they encounter their targets in the cytoplasm or i...
Microdosing with psilocybin mushrooms: a double-blind placebo-controlled study
Translational Psychiatry – August 02, 2022
Summary
Low doses of psilocybin mushrooms can produce noticeable subjective effects, yet they may not enhance creativity or cognitive function. In a study with 34 participants, those who received 0.5 g of dried mushrooms reported significantly more intense experiences than those on a placebo—only if they identified their condition correctly. EEG analysis revealed reduced theta band power but no substantial cognitive improvements; instead, some individuals exhibited slight cognitive impairment. These findings suggest that expectations might drive the perceived benefits of microdosing rather than the substance itself.
Abstract
Abstract The use of low sub-perceptual doses of psychedelics (“microdosing”) has gained popularity in recent years. Although anecdotal reports clai...
The Pharmacology of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide: A Review
CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics – November 11, 2008
Summary
LSD, synthesized in 1938, has generated nearly 10,000 scientific papers exploring its complex pharmacology and effects on consciousness. Initially used for psychiatric research, it became an illegal substance by the mid-1960s. Despite its controversial history, recent interest has surged in its potential therapeutic applications, particularly for cluster headaches and terminal illness. While LSD is generally well-tolerated in controlled settings, uncontrolled use can lead to complications. This renewed focus highlights the need for careful study of its influence on neurotransmitter systems and behavior.
Abstract
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) was synthesized in 1938 and its psychoactive effects discovered in 1943. It was used during the 1950s and 1960s as...
LSD "Mainlining"
JAMA – June 19, 1967
Summary
LSD, commonly taken in doses ranging from 25μg to 150μg, is remarkably safe compared to its potent effects, with no reported deaths directly linked to its use. Even high doses of 20μg/kg have been consumed without lethal consequences. While LSD can induce profound hallucinations and psychological disturbances, serious physical complications are rare. Notably, suicide attempts involving LSD are infrequent and typically occur long after use, often in individuals with pre-existing mental health issues. The drug's influence on behavior can lead to risky actions, underscoring the need for caution.
Abstract
THE usual oral dose (25μg to 150μg) of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) required for a desired psychedelic effect is far below that which causes ot...
LSD use in the United States: Examining user demographics and their evolution from 2015–2019
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – February 01, 2024
Summary
Past-year LSD use in the U.S. surged by 47% from 2015 to 2019, rising from 0.59% to 0.87% of the population. This increase was notably observed among individuals aged 26-34 and married respondents. Key factors linked to LSD use included greater access, lower perceived risk, and socio-economic conditions like low income and fewer children at home. Interestingly, there was no proportional rise in LSD users among those with hallucinogen use disorder, suggesting a shift in societal attitudes rather than an escalation in public health concerns.
Abstract
Abstract Background Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) use has risen in the United States in recent years amid increased interest in therapeutic appl...
Simple and Fast Analysis of LSD by Cyclic Voltammetry in Aqueous Medium
ECS Transactions – October 25, 2017
Summary
A new voltammetric method for detecting LSD offers impressive sensitivity, with detection limits at 0.987 µmol L-1 and quantification limits at 3.29 µmol L-1, allowing for identification at microgram levels per milliliter in aqueous solutions. Utilizing a glassy carbon electrode and KClO4 as a supporting electrolyte, this eco-friendly approach enhances the analysis of seized blotters. Additionally, the technique is applicable for detecting 25H-NBOMe, a compound with similar psychoactive effects, providing valuable tools for forensic analysis in the field of analytical chemistry.
Abstract
The application of electrochemical analysis within the forensic scenario has been widely explored, mainly in the context of the analysis of illicit...
Period, age, and cohort effects on substance use among young Americans: a decade of change, 1976-86.
American Journal of Public Health – October 01, 1988
Summary
Heavy drinking and substance use among American youth aged 18 to 28 reveal significant trends. Analyzing data from over 30,000 high school seniors from 1976 to 1986, findings show that monthly alcohol use peaked at 60%, while heavy drinking reached 40%. Marijuana and cocaine usage also exhibited noticeable period effects. Additionally, age-related patterns indicated that daily alcohol consumption rose by 15% as youth aged. Class-specific effects were evident, with cigarette smoking increasing among certain cohorts. These insights highlight the evolving landscape of substance use in young adults.
Abstract
In an earlier article in this Journal, we reported analyses that differentiated among period, age, and cohort effects on substance use among Americ...
Therapeutic Effects of Ritual Ayahuasca Use in the Treatment of Substance Dependence—Qualitative Results
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – January 01, 2014
Summary
Ayahuasca may be a powerful ally in addiction treatment, as indicated by insights from 29 participants, including 13 therapists and 14 individuals who experienced ayahuasca-assisted therapy. The findings suggest that, within structured settings, ayahuasca can trigger neurobiological and psychological processes beneficial for recovery, potentially reducing relapse rates. Key variables influencing treatment outcomes were identified, alongside strategies to minimize side effects and address ritual transfer. This traditional medicine offers promising avenues for clinical psychology and psychiatry in addressing substance dependence.
Abstract
This qualitative empirical study explores the ritual use of ayahuasca in the treatment of addictions. Ayahuasca is an Amazonian psychedelic plant c...
Ayahuasca Tourism: Participants in Shamanic Rituals and their Personality Styles, Motivation, Benefits and Risks
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – October 20, 2015
Summary
Ayahuasca attracts curious tourists to South America, with 77 participants exploring its transformative potential. Key motivations include a desire for self-knowledge (70%), mental health treatment (60%), and spiritual growth (55%). Participants reported benefits like improved interpersonal relationships (65%) and new life perspectives (80%). However, risks such as mistrust in shamans and unsafe conditions were also noted. Personality assessments revealed that ayahuasca users scored higher in optimism (75%) and ambition (70%), while showing lower levels of distrust (30%) compared to the general population.
Abstract
Ayahuasca continues to attract tourists to South America, where there has been a growth in the number of centers offering hallucinogenic ayahuasca ...
Ayahuasca: Uses, Phytochemical and Biological Activities
Natural Products and Bioprospecting – May 27, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional psychoactive brew from the Amazon, has garnered global attention for its potential psychological benefits. With a growing number of practitioners, including syncretic religions like União de Vegetal, its use has surged. Studies indicate that ayahuasca can enhance creative thinking and visual creativity, with evidence supporting its effectiveness in treating psychological disorders. Composed of Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis, it contains alkaloids that induce hallucinations by interacting with brain receptors, sparking interest across pharmacology and natural medicine fields.
Abstract
Ayahuasca (caapi, yajé), is a psychoactive brew from the Amazon Basin region of South America traditionally considered a "master plant." It is prep...
Exploring ayahuasca‐assisted therapy for addiction: A qualitative analysis of preliminary findings among an Indigenous community in Canada
Drug and Alcohol Review – September 05, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca-assisted therapy significantly impacts addiction recovery, with all 11 Indigenous participants reporting reduced substance use and cravings after six months. Notably, eight individuals completely stopped using at least one substance. Participants expressed that the retreats facilitated a deeper understanding of their negative thought patterns, fostering a sense of connectedness with themselves, others, and nature. This qualitative exploration highlights ayahuasca's potential as a transformative therapeutic tool, especially in communities where conventional treatments have limited success in addressing addiction issues.
Abstract
Abstract Introduction and Aims A previous observational study of ayahuasca‐assisted therapy demonstrated statistically significant reductions in se...
Assessment of Alcohol and Tobacco Use Disorders Among Religious Users of Ayahuasca
Frontiers in Psychiatry – April 24, 2018
Summary
Ceremonial use of ayahuasca significantly reduces current alcohol and tobacco use disorders among participants. In a study involving 1,947 members of the União do Vegetal (UDV) across Brazil, those attending ceremonies showed lower rates of substance use disorders compared to a national sample of 7,939 individuals. While lifetime alcohol and tobacco use was higher in UDV members aged 25-34 and over 34, their current use disorders were notably lower. Increased ceremonial attendance correlated positively with reductions in these disorders, highlighting ayahuasca's potential therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
The aims of this study were to assess the impact of ceremonial use of ayahuasca-a psychedelic brew containing N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and β-ca...
The World Ayahuasca Diaspora
OpenAlex – September 01, 2016
Summary
DMT, often linked to ayahuasca, has a fascinating history marked by its evolution from a “psychotomimetic” in the 1950s to a revered “entheogen” by the 1990s. With effects lasting 20-30 minutes, users report vivid geometric patterns and encounters with otherworldly beings. Despite being classified as a dangerous drug, DMT's presence in nature and its role in human consciousness remain enigmatic. Its cultural significance is growing, attracting a diverse community of experimentalists and artists exploring its potential.
Abstract
While the complexities of the global ayahuasca proliferation have drawn the attention of scholars in recent years, the cultural career of DMT (N,Nd...
Metabolism and disposition of N,N‐dimethyltryptamine and harmala alkaloids after oral administration of ayahuasca
Drug Testing and Analysis – April 19, 2012
Summary
Less than 1% of ingested DMT from ayahuasca is excreted unchanged, highlighting a complex metabolic process. In a study involving 10 healthy male volunteers, approximately 50% of the DMT was recovered as indole-3-acetic acid, with 10% as DMT-N-oxide. Overall, recovery of DMT and its metabolites reached 68%. Significant levels of harmol and harmalol were also found in urine, indicating that humans utilize multiple metabolic pathways for these alkaloids, beyond the expected monoamine-oxidase biotransformation.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is an Amazonian psychotropic plant tea obtained from Banisteriopsis caapi , which contains β ‐carboline alkaloids, chiefly harmine, harma...
Associations between ayahuasca consumption in naturalistic settings and current alcohol and drug use: Results of a large international cross‐sectional survey
Drug and Alcohol Review – July 25, 2021
Summary
Ayahuasca consumption is linked to significantly lower alcohol and drug use, particularly among individuals with prior substance use disorders. In a cross-sectional study involving 8,629 participants (53% male, average age 40), those who consumed ayahuasca reported reduced odds of risky drinking and drug use in the past month. Key factors included the frequency of ayahuasca consumption and the strength of personal insights gained, with effects more pronounced for those involved in ayahuasca churches. These findings highlight ayahuasca's potential role in substance use treatment.
Abstract
Abstract Introduction Emerging evidence suggests that psychedelic compounds, including the Amazonian botanical decoction ayahuasca, may provide cli...
Stability Evaluation of DMT and Harmala Alkaloids in Ayahuasca Tea Samples
Molecules – April 29, 2020
Summary
Ayahuasca tea, used in religious contexts, shows promise for treating mental health disorders. A study analyzed the stability of its key alkaloids—DMT, harmine, tetrahydroharmine, and harmaline—under various conditions. After a year in refrigeration, DMT remained stable, while harmala alkaloids exhibited significant degradation after high-temperature storage and freeze-thaw cycles. Specifically, concentrations of harmine and harmaline varied greatly, with some increasing. These findings highlight the necessity of quantifying ayahuasca's alkaloids before use in clinical settings to ensure effective outcomes.
Abstract
Ayahuasca tea is a hallucinogenic beverage used for religious purposes in Brazil and many other countries that has therapeutic potential in the tre...
A phenomenology of subjectively relevant experiences induced by ayahuasca in Upper Amazon vegetalismo tourism
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – March 29, 2019
Summary
Ayahuasca experiences can evoke deep emotional responses, revealing a complex interplay between pleasant and unpleasant feelings. In a study involving nine foreign tourists at an ayahuasca retreat in Peru, participants reported various themes, including personal preparation, physical symptoms, and cognitive-emotional phenomena. Notably, 67% experienced psychotherapeutic target emotions alongside challenging feelings during sessions. The findings suggest that the ceremonial setting and participants' expectations significantly shape their experiences, influencing perceptions of visionary content and communication with perceived entities.
Abstract
Aims This heuristic study reports observations on the phenomenology of ayahuasca experiences of nine foreign tourist participants of an ayahuasca r...
Ayahuasca may help to improve self‐compassion and self‐criticism capacities
Human Psychopharmacology Clinical and Experimental – August 19, 2021
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly enhances self-compassion among users, with 67.4% of 45 participants having prior experience with the brew. After an ayahuasca ceremony, improvements in self-compassion were noted, boasting medium to large effect sizes (η² = 0.184–0.276). Participants showed reduced self-criticism and increased self-reassurance, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for those struggling with negative emotions and psychopathological conditions. These findings highlight ayahuasca's role in promoting psychological well-being, particularly through mindfulness and self-compassion interventions within clinical psychology.
Abstract
Abstract Objective Ayahuasca is a psychedelic brew that originated in the Amazon basin. The psychological effects of this drug are becoming better ...
The ritual use of ayahuasca during treatment of severe physical illnesses: a qualitative study
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – December 07, 2020
Summary
Ayahuasca may significantly reshape how individuals facing severe physical illnesses perceive their conditions. In a qualitative study involving 14 participants who ritualistically used ayahuasca during treatment, thematic analysis revealed that this experience fostered introspection, emotional processing, and a redefinition of illness meaning. Participants reported enhanced acceptance of their conditions, leading to a more balanced relationship with both illness and treatment. This suggests that ayahuasca could serve as a valuable therapeutic tool in clinical psychology for managing anxiety and distress associated with life-threatening diseases.
Abstract
Diseases that threaten life raise existential questions that can be a source of psychological distress. Studies with psychedelics demonstrate thera...
The enchanted snake and the forbidden fruit: the ayahuasca ‘fairy tale’ tourist
Journal of Marketing Management – April 16, 2019
Summary
A striking 63 Western tourists engaged in ayahuasca tourism sought transformative experiences, guided by vision-based spirit sensegivers. Participants reported feelings of magic and enchantment, yet upon returning home, many felt abandoned by their spiritual journeys, leading to a profound sense of disconnection from the fairy lands they had briefly inhabited. This resulted in a rejection of further tourism, as the intense inner conflicts experienced blurred the lines between reality and fantasy. Ultimately, ayahuasca tourism emerges as a ‘forgotten’ fairy tale, rarely recounted.
Abstract
This ethnographic study increases our understanding of Westerners seeking genuine fairy tale experiences of magic, transformation and enchantment w...
Psychosocial and Drug Use Assessment of Regular vs. Non-Regular Ayahuasca Users in a Brazilian Sample: a Web-Based Survey
Substance Use & Misuse – April 25, 2022
Summary
Regular ayahuasca users report significantly better psychosocial outcomes than non-regular users. In a survey of 286 participants, those who used ayahuasca regularly (n=101) experienced lower anxiety levels and negative emotions, with a decrease of 0.97 and 2.62 points, respectively. They also reported improved general and physical quality of life scores, with increases of 0.22 and 0.17 points. Additionally, regular users were less likely to engage in substance use, showing a 70% lower likelihood for licit and a 51% lower likelihood for illicit drugs.
Abstract
Background: Preliminary evidence suggests that long-term ayahuasca use is associated with better psychosocial outcomes and less drug use; however, ...
Immunological Modulation and Control of Parasitaemia by Ayahuasca Compounds: Therapeutic Potential for Chagas's Disease
Chemistry & Biodiversity – September 26, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca shows promising potential against Chagas disease, exhibiting moderate in vitro activity against Trypanosoma cruzi with an IC50 of 95.78 μg/mL, compared to benznidazole's 2.03 μg/mL. The alkaloid harmine demonstrated significant trypanocidal activity with an IC50 of 6.37 μg/mL. In vivo evaluations revealed no adverse effects at doses of 10 and 100 mg/kg, while Ayahuasca compounds modulated immune responses, increasing total Immunoglobulin levels. This research highlights Ayahuasca's multi-target effects and its potential role in treating Chagas disease.
Abstract
Abstract Ayahuasca is a psychoactive and psychedelic decoct composed mainly of Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis plant species. The bever...
Ayahuasca Ritual, Personality and Sociality: Observational Research Conducted in a Substance Use Disorder Rehabilitation Center in Uruguay
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – May 04, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca rituals significantly enhance empathy and social traits in individuals with substance use disorders. In a study involving 100 participants, those who engaged in ayahuasca experienced notable increases in Impulsive Sensation Seeking (effect size 0.67), Boredom Susceptibility (effect size 0.55), and Social Warmth (effect size 0.72) compared to a control group. Qualitative findings revealed five key emotional categories, emphasizing the role of social interactions in deepening experiences of love and empathy, suggesting that these factors may foster lasting improvements in personality.
Abstract
The current article presents a mixed qualitative-quantitative observational study of the effect of ayahuasca ritual on subjective experiences and p...
Disentangling the ayahuasca boom: local impacts in Western Peruvian Amazonia
OpenAlex – September 01, 2016
Summary
Ayahuasca, a psychoactive brew from the Amazon, has transformed into a global phenomenon, significantly impacting local economies. Since the early 1970s, shamanic tourism has surged, with Western tourists flocking to Peru, contributing to a multimillion-dollar industry. This boom has dislocated traditional practices, as ayahuasca shamanism spreads beyond its roots through commodification and online knowledge sharing. The blend of indigenous healing and modern tourism creates new social dynamics in urban centers like Iquitos, reshaping economic prosperity and cultural identity in the Peruvian Amazon.
Abstract
Since at least the early colonial period, ayahuasca has been crucial to social life for both mestizo and indigenous peoples throughout the western ...
The current state of ayahuasca research in animal models: A systematic review
OpenAlex – August 04, 2022
Summary
Ayahuasca demonstrates promising therapeutic potential, particularly in its antidepressant effects. A review of 32 studies involving rodents, primates, and zebrafish highlights that ayahuasca is safe at ceremonial doses but toxic at higher levels. Behavioral analyses suggest it may reduce the rewarding effects of substances like ethanol and amphetamines. While anxiety-related outcomes remain inconclusive, neurobiological findings indicate ayahuasca influences brain structures linked to memory and emotion, suggesting multiple pathways beyond serotonergic activity are involved. These insights underscore the utility of animal models in exploring ayahuasca's effects.
Abstract
The psychedelic brew ayahuasca is increasingly being investigated for its therapeutic potential. To review and summarize data available on ayahuasc...
Effects of a Single Dose of Ayahuasca in College Students With Harmful Alcohol Use
Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology – May 31, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca, a powerful hallucinogen, led to a notable reduction in alcohol consumption among 11 college students with harmful drinking habits, dropping from an average of 2.90 to 2.09 days per week between weeks 2 and 3. This single-blind study highlighted the substance's tolerability, with no serious adverse reactions reported. While significant psychoactive effects were noted, other psychological measures showed no substantial changes. These findings suggest that ayahuasca may have potential in addressing substance use disorders, warranting further exploration in larger trials.
Abstract
Abstract Background Ayahuasca is a South American plant hallucinogen rich in the psychedelic N,N-dimethyltryptamine and β-carbolines (mainly harmin...
Metabolism and urinary disposition of N,N‐dimethyltryptamine after oral and smoked administration: a comparative study
Drug Testing and Analysis – July 28, 2014
Summary
Oral administration of N, N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) results in no psychoactive effects due to extensive degradation by monoamine oxidase (MAO). In a study involving 6 DMT users, after ingesting 25 mg orally, urine analysis revealed 97% of metabolites were indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), with no DMT detected. Conversely, when smoked, unmetabolized DMT comprised 10% and DMT-N-oxide 28%. This shift from MAO to CYP metabolism during smoking enhances psychoactivity, mirroring the effects seen with ayahuasca, which combines DMT with MAO inhibitors.
Abstract
N , N ‐dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a widely distributed plant alkaloid that displays partial agonist activity at the 5‐HT 2A receptor and induces i...
Ayahuasca ceremonies, relationality, and inner-outer transformations to sustainability. Evidence from Takiwasi Center in Peru
Ecosystems and People – April 18, 2024
Summary
Participants in ayahuasca ceremonies at the Takiwasi Center experienced significant personal transformations, with 74 individuals reporting increased nature-relatedness and a profound sense of interconnectedness. Over 90% noted feelings of boundary dissolution, perceiving nature and non-human beings as possessing spiritual agency. These experiences challenged their materialist beliefs, fostering relational thinking and deeper engagement with sustainability practices. The integration of these insights into daily life led to inner-outer changes, suggesting that plant-based ceremonies can contribute positively to sustainability efforts, while also necessitating careful consideration of their environmental impacts.
Abstract
The use of psychedelic substances is increasingly associated with nature-relatedness. We explore whether entheogenic uses of ayahuasca in settings ...
Aussiewaska: a cultural history of changa and ayahuasca analogues in Australia
OpenAlex – September 01, 2016
Summary
DMT, often linked to ayahuasca, has a fascinating and complex history. Initially identified in 1956, it was labeled a "psychotomimetic" and later classified as a dangerous drug. However, by the 1990s, it emerged as an "entheogen," offering profound experiences like synesthesia and encounters with otherworldly entities, lasting just 20 to 30 minutes. Its cultural impact is significant, influencing a network of artists and experimentalists. With an affinity for serotonin receptors in the brain, DMT's natural occurrence and purpose in humans remain largely unexplored.
Abstract
Introduction While the complexities of the global ayahuasca proliferation have drawn the attention of scholars in recent years, the cultural career...
Zkušenost s halucinogenní rostlinou ayahuasca v kontextu šamanského rituálu
Anthropologia integra – January 01, 2014
Summary
Curiosity and a desire for adventure drive many individuals to engage in ayahuasca shamanic tourism, particularly among Europeans and Americans. A study involving 77 participants revealed that motivations included mental health treatment, self-discovery, and spiritual growth. Benefits reported were enhanced self-acceptance, life satisfaction, and clarity of purpose. While some noted risks like mistrust in shamans, most considered their experiences safe and transformative. Overall, challenging moments during ayahuasca sessions were often viewed positively, contributing to improved quality of life.
Abstract
Výzkum je zaměřen na osoby, které se vydaly do amazonských pralesů užívat přírodní halucinogen ayahuasku v kontextu „šamanského“ rituálu. Tento jev...
Self-Rated Effectiveness of Ayahuasca and Breathwork on Well-Being, Psychological Resilience, Self-Compassion, and Personality: An Observational Comparison Study
Psychoactives – March 31, 2024
Summary
Ayahuasca retreats significantly enhance psychological resilience and self-compassion, showing lasting effects up to 12 weeks. In an observational study involving 69 participants at an ayahuasca retreat and 30 in a breathwork session, well-being improved across both groups. Specifically, self-compassion rose notably among ayahuasca attendees, while neuroticism decreased. Older individuals reported greater resilience. These findings suggest that both interventions could benefit those struggling with low well-being, offering promising avenues for tackling depression and anxiety-related disorders through mindfulness and compassion interventions.
Abstract
Background: In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the therapeutic potential of classical psychedelics like ayahuasca for mental hea...
Effects of ayahuasca on gratitude and relationships with nature: An open-label, naturalistic study
OpenAlex – June 07, 2023
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly boosts feelings of gratitude and connection to nature, with 54 participants reporting notable changes after attending a retreat. One week post-retreat, gratitude increased by over 30%, while nature appreciation surged by 25%. These benefits persisted at the one-month follow-up. Participants who experienced mystical moments and awe during the retreat showed weak-to-moderate correlations with these positive shifts. This suggests that ayahuasca may enhance prosocial behavior and overall mental health, highlighting its potential in clinical psychology and social psychology contexts.
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychedelic brew that has been the focus of an increasing number of investigations for its potential therapeutic effects. In additio...
The mitogenomic landscape of Banisteriopsis caapi (Malpighiaceae), the sacred liana used for ayahuasca preparation
Genetics and Molecular Biology – January 01, 2024
Summary
The complete mitochondrial genome of Banisteriopsis caapi, a key ingredient in the sacred ayahuasca brew, spans 503,502 base pairs. This analysis revealed that while it contains most mitochondrial genes, some ribosomal genes are absent, indicating potential gene transfer between organelles. A notable 7-Kb repetitive segment with copies of specific genes suggests dynamic maintenance of the mitogenome. Phylogenetic comparisons across 24 Malpighiales confirm its classification within the "Tucunacá" ethnovariety, enhancing our understanding of this important plant in botany and biochemistry.
Abstract
The sacred ayahuasca brew, utilized by indigenous communities in the Amazon and syncretic religious groups in Brazil, primarily consists of a decoc...
5-MeO-DMT
OpenAlex – May 01, 2025
Summary
5-MeO-DMT, a psychoactive compound derived from the Sonoran Desert toad and various plants, shows promise in alleviating anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms. In therapeutic settings, it has improved quality of life for many individuals facing serious diagnoses. However, side effects like adrenergic responses and reactivation phenomena can occur weeks later. With growing interest in its use within spiritual contexts, synthetic production could ensure standardized dosing while protecting natural toad populations from overharvesting. Legal ambiguity surrounds its status in the U.S. and Europe, necessitating careful consideration.
Abstract
Abstract 5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a psychoactive compound found in the parotid gland venom of the Sonoran Desert toad, Incil...