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We've compiled some of the most compelling studies done that highlight the profoundly promising therapeutic potential of psilocybin. We recommend you spend a little time and get familiar with this landscape of disocvery.
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1. "Psilocybin-assisted mindfulness training modulates self-consciousness and brain default mode network connectivity with lasting effects," This study was published in Scientific Reports in 2020.
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The research found that combining psilocybin with mindfulness training led to lasting changes in self-consciousness and brain connectivity, supporting greater self-awareness and mindfulness.
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In simple terms, this means that one week after taking psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms):
- Negative emotions and stress-related brain activity (especially in the amygdala, which processes fear and anxiety) decreased when people saw emotional facial expressions.
- Positive emotions increased—meaning people felt generally better and had a more positive outlook.
- Brain activity in areas linked to emotional regulation and decision making (the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and medial orbitofrontal cortex) increased when people faced emotionally challenging situations. This suggests improved emotional control and resilience.
Overall, it implies that psilocybin might reduce negative emotional reactions while enhancing the brain's ability to manage emotions and stress more effectively.
- Negative emotions and stress-related brain activity (especially in the amygdala, which processes fear and anxiety) decreased when people saw emotional facial expressions.
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2. Health Advisory for Long-term Microdosers:
In 2024 a research study found that long-term or high-dose use of psilocybin may carry a theoretical risk of cardiac fibrosis, primarily due to its action on serotonin 5-HT2B receptors, which are found in heart tissue. Activation of these receptors has been linked in other drugs (like fenfluramine) to valvular heart disease and fibrosis. While psilocybin primarily targets 5-HT2A for its psychedelic effects, it can also stimulate 5-HT2B at higher or chronic doses. Research is limited, and typical therapeutic or occasional use appears low-risk, but frequent high dosing or microdosing over extended periods may warrant caution and further study regarding heart valve health.
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3. Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder:In a randomized clinical trial published in JAMA Psychiatry in 2023, researchers examined the efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depressive disorder. The study demonstrated that a single dose of psilocybin, combined with supportive psychotherapy, resulted in rapid and substantial antidepressant effects, with participants experiencing significant mood improvements sustained over several weeks.
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4. Psilocybin vs. Escitalopram for Depression:
A 2021 study published in The New England Journal of Medicine compared the effects of psilocybin to escitalopram, a conventional antidepressant, in patients with moderate-to-severe major depressive disorder. The results showed that psilocybin was at least as effective as escitalopram in reducing depressive symptoms, with participants reporting enhanced emotional well-being and fewer side effects.
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5. Psilocybin for Cancer-Related Psychiatric Distress:
A study published in The Journal of Psychopharmacology in 2016 investigated the effects of psilocybin on anxiety and depression in patients with life-threatening cancer diagnoses. The findings revealed that a single dose of psilocybin led to significant reductions in anxiety and depressive symptoms, along with improvements in quality of life and spiritual well-being, effects that persisted for several months.
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6. Psilocybin-Assisted Treatment for Alcohol Dependence:A pilot study published in The Journal of Psychopharmacology in 2015 explored the use of psilocybin-assisted therapy for alcohol dependence. The results indicated that participants receiving psilocybin experienced a significant reduction in alcohol consumption and an increased likelihood of abstinence, suggesting potential benefits for substance use disorders.
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7. Psilocybin and Smoking Cessation:Research published in The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse in 2014 examined the efficacy of psilocybin assisted therapy for smoking cessation. The study found that 80% of participants remained abstinent from smoking six months after treatment, highlighting psilocybin's potential as an aid in overcoming nicotine addiction.
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8. Psilocybin-Induced Neuroplasticity:A preclinical study published in Cell Reports in 2021 investigated the effects of psilocybin on neuroplasticity. The findings suggested that psilocybin promotes structural and functional neural plasticity, potentially underlying its therapeutic effects on mood and behavior.
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9. Psilocybin and Emotional Face Processing:A study published in Biological Psychiatry in 2014 explored how psilocybin affects emotional processing. The results showed that psilocybin reduced amygdala reactivity to negative emotional stimuli, which may contribute to its mood-enhancing properties.
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10. Psilocybin for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD):A pilot study published in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry in 2006 examined the effects of psilocybin on patients with OCD. The findings indicated that psilocybin administration led to a significant reduction in OCD symptoms, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits.
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11. Psilocybin and Personality Change:Research published in The Journal of Psychopharmacology in 2011 investigated the long-term effects of psilocybin on personality traits. The study found that a single high dose of psilocybin could lead to lasting increases in openness to experience, a personality trait associated with creativity and imagination.
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Collectively, these studies highlight psilocybin’s profoundly promising therapeutic potential.
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