Researchers are studying a new mushroom species that induces fairytale-like hallucinations, raising questions about the evolution of psychoactive compounds in fungi and their ecological roles, which may include attracting animals or deterring predators, rather than serving as a defense mechanism.
The review of Tame Impala's album 'Deadbeat' criticizes it for lacking the craft and innovation of previous works, with many tracks feeling like half-measures and misfires, despite Parker’s efforts to explore dance music. The album is seen as a disappointing departure that fails to capture the potential of its concept, resulting in an exhausting listening experience.
A new study reveals that different mushroom species independently evolved the ability to produce the same psychoactive compound, psilocybin, through distinct enzymatic pathways, highlighting a rare case of convergent evolution in fungi with implications for medical research.
Researchers have discovered that two unrelated groups of mushrooms independently evolved the ability to produce the psychedelic compound psilocybin through different biochemical pathways, highlighting convergent evolution. The purpose of psilocybin in fungi remains unknown, but it may serve as a defense mechanism. This discovery expands biotechnological tools for producing psilocybin, which is being studied as a potential antidepressant, and prompts further investigation into its evolutionary role.
A small but growing number of athletes and veterans are turning to ibogaine, a psychedelic derived from a West African shrub, for potential treatment of traumatic brain injury, PTSD, and addiction. While promising results from studies and personal testimonies suggest significant benefits, experts caution that more research and clinical trials are needed due to safety concerns and legal restrictions. The treatment is currently unregulated in the U.S., but interest and funding for further research are increasing.
A recent clinical trial suggests that a single higher dose of LSD (100 micrograms) may significantly reduce anxiety symptoms for at least three months in some patients, with minimal side effects, highlighting its potential as a treatment option for anxiety disorders, especially for those unresponsive to traditional medications.
Research shows that high ventilation breathwork combined with music can induce psychedelic-like altered states of consciousness, activating brain regions linked to emotion and memory, and reducing negative emotions, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits.
Compass Pathways' psilocybin drug for treatment-resistant depression met its primary goal by reducing symptoms, but fell short of investor expectations, leading to a significant drop in stock price. The trial showed a modest 3.6-point improvement, with sustained benefits observed six weeks after a single dose, highlighting potential in psychedelic therapy for mental health treatment.
Scientists at UC Davis developed JRT, a modified LSD compound that promotes brain cell growth and repair without causing hallucinations, showing promise for treating brain disorders like schizophrenia and depression in animal studies.
Ibogaine is a naturally occurring psychoactive compound derived from the iboga tree, primarily found in Central Africa. It has shown promise in treating opioid addiction, PTSD, and traumatic brain injuries, with some studies indicating a high success rate in achieving sobriety after a single session. Ibogaine is illegal in the United States but is available in countries such as Mexico, Brazil, New Zealand, Canada, and South Africa for those seeking therapy.
Actor Josh Radnor's wedding to psychologist Jordana Jacobs, which took place on January 6 in the midst of a snowstorm, stranded 59 people at the venue overnight, including a 10-piece wedding band, event planners, and a New York Times reporter and photographer. The couple proceeded with their outdoor ceremony despite meteorologists' warnings, leaving 164 guests shivering in the snow as they read their vows for a bone-chilling 20 minutes. Radnor even knelt on the ground to blow-dry his wife's cold feet, and the stranded guests received generous swag bags filled with incense sticks, a CBD tincture, and an "intention kit."