Psychedelic Therapy Emerges
Scientists are always on the hunt for the best alternatives to treat certain physical and psychological conditions. There are many pharmaceuticals currently on the market, but there’s still an issue of unwanted side effects and ineffective treatments. Psychedelic therapy is currently being studied as a possible solution to this.
Scientific studies have begun exploring psychedelic therapy on a wider spectrum. They’re looking for therapeutic practices for the use of psychedelic drugs to treat common mental conditions and more.
Psychedelics: Where It All Began
Psychedelics such as ayahuasca and psilocybin (from “magic mushrooms”) have been used by indigenous communities for centuries. In those cultures, psychedelic plant medicines are sacred traditions used to treat both physical and psychological issues. Indigenous cultures have long known about the benefits of psychedelics and scientific research is only more recently catching up.
The Modern Discovery and Take on Psychedelic Therapy
Recent research by the Multidisciplinary Association of Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) shows the benefits of psychedelics in treating various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress. In addition to MAPS, clinical trials are also being conducted at places like Johns Hopkins University. These psychedelic research studies make it clear that they play important and beneficial therapeutic roles.
Bestselling author, Michael Pollan, contributed his own psychedelic experience and research in his most recent book, How to Change Your Mind. Pollan set out to discover how LSD and psilocybin can help provide relief to people with mental conditions. In the book, he explores higher states of consciousness and learns about their therapeutic implications for PTSD and more.
LSD: Treating Depression, PTSD, and More
LSD is one of the most familiar and most studied psychedelics. The experience of taking LSD is similar to the effect of taking psilocybin. Studies show that both kinds of psychedelics have been successful in treating psychological conditions.
Even with just a single dose, many users received long-term improvements. This is particularly beneficial for people who suffer from severe mental conditions.
Psychedelic Therapy and the Future
The discovery of psychedelics in treating various conditions is perhaps one of the biggest breakthroughs to date. As a result, we can begin to expect assisted psychedelic therapy treatments in the near future.
In addition, these discoveries put a positive spin on what was once construed as illegal or contraband substances. It sheds light on their positive impact that can support the health of millions of people around the world who suffer.
References:
https://time.com/5278036/michael-pollan-psychedelic-drugs/
https://michaelpollan.com/articles-archive/the-new-science-of-psychedelics/
https://hopkinspsychedelic.org/index/#research
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/features/drug-culture-around-the-world/
