A comprehensive study reveals that classical psychedelics interact with multiple brain receptors beyond the well-known 5-HT2A serotonin receptor, including dopamine and adrenergic receptors, which may explain their diverse effects and therapeutic potential. The research highlights the importance of receptor polypharmacology in understanding psychedelic effects and safety, providing a valuable dataset for future drug development.
A new study suggests that full-spectrum psychedelic mushroom extract produces more potent and prolonged effects on synaptic plasticity compared to chemically synthesized psilocybin alone, indicating a potential entourage effect similar to cannabis. The findings have implications for psychedelic-assisted therapy and highlight the therapeutic potential of natural psychedelic compounds. The study, conducted on mice, found that the mushroom extract increased synaptic proteins in the brain more than psilocybin alone, suggesting a quantitatively stronger therapeutic mechanism. Further research is needed to identify the specific molecules responsible for these enhanced effects. This study parallels growing research on the entourage effect in cannabis, indicating that a better understanding of the relationships between various chemical components is crucial for unraveling the complete therapeutic potential of both psychedelic mushrooms and marijuana.
The relationship between consciousness and interoception (the sense of the body from within) is gaining attention in the field of psychedelic science. Neuroscientist Antonio Damasio argues that feelings and homeostatic sensations are the source of consciousness, and interoception plays a crucial role in this process. Psychedelics may offer a unique window into the intricate dance between interoception and consciousness, potentially leading to novel therapeutic benefits. Studies have shown that psychedelics can improve symptoms across a range of mental illnesses and even physical ailments, suggesting a connection between the brain and body. Further research is needed to explore the link between interoception and psychedelics, but the somatic effects of psychedelic therapy and the reported sense of self-connection indicate the importance of embodied aspects in the therapeutic process.
