Ross Dillon In this week’s Psychedelic news roundup, we look at a new study that shows how psilocybin may trigger the “inner healing” mechanisms in depression patients. Other news includes Jack Black discussing psychedelic use in his teens and a new tool to track psychedelic-induced neuroplasticity.
Psilocybin Activates ‘Inner Healing’ Mechanisms in Depression Patients
A recent study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology investigates the impact of a single high dose of psilocybin, the active component in “magic mushrooms,” on the sensation of “inner healing” in patients with moderate-to-severe depression. The research, led by Joseph Peill and colleagues, involved 59 participants who were given either a high dose of psilocybin (25 mg) or a placebo (1 mg). The study aimed to determine whether psilocybin could elicit a genuine sense of self-healing and whether this sensation was associated with improved depressive symptoms.
Key Findings in the Study:
This study provides preliminary evidence that psilocybin may activate mechanisms of inner healing in individuals with depression, contributing to its therapeutic potential. Although the findings are promising, the study’s small sample size and reliance on self-reported measures warrant further research to validate and expand on these results. The research advances our understanding of psilocybin’s psychological effects and supports its exploration as a tool for mental health treatment.
UC Davis Develops Rapid Tool to Track Psychedelic-Induced Neuroplasticity
Key Findings
The development of the CaST tool represents a significant advancement in neuroscience, providing a rapid and noninvasive method to study the effects of psychedelics on brain cells. This innovative approach speeds up the research process and opens new avenues for developing targeted therapies for brain disorders. By understanding the cellular mechanisms of psychedelics, scientists can design more effective treatments with fewer side effects, potentially transforming the landscape of mental health care. (2)
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Oregon Issues First License for Psilocybin Edibles
According to Oregon Live, in July 2024, Spiritus Oregon made history by becoming the first company licensed to produce psilocybin edibles in Oregon. This landmark achievement is notable as psilocybin must be consumed at licensed service centers under the supervision of trained facilitators, with previous options limited to capsules, tea, or dried mushrooms. Spiritus Oregon’s new edibles, branded as Horizon Edibles, aim to enhance the psilocybin experience by offering precise dosing and improved digestibility.
Key Insights
Introducing psilocybin edibles significantly advances Oregon’s psilocybin program, expanding consumption options and improving user experience. As Spiritus Oregon prepares to launch its products, it has the potential to set new industry standards for taste, digestibility, and dosing accuracy. (3)
Jack Black Opens Up on Psychedelic Use in His Youth
During a recent appearance on Dax Shepard’s “Armchair Expert” podcast, Jack Black candidly discussed his teenage experiences with psychedelics and other substances like cocaine. Reflecting on his early experimentation, Black found that an early LSD trip offered profound insights and a sense of wholeness, allowing him to explore new dimensions of his consciousness. However, he shared it would later turn into a difficult experience, describing it as being “locked in this insane brain prison where all I could see was chess pieces going off into infinity.” Black was later enrolled in a school for at-risk youth, where he discovered his passion for theater. This new focus provided a therapeutic outlet and set him on a successful path in acting and music.
Key Insights from the Podcast:
Jack Black’s journey to healing in his youth highlights the complex nature of psychedelic experiences and the potential for positive change when confronted with adversity. His story underscores the importance of finding constructive outlets for personal struggles and demonstrates how transformative experiences, both positive and negative, can ultimately shape a successful and fulfilling life. (4)
Sources
1. Peill J, Marguilho M, Erritzoe D, et al. Psychedelics and the ‘inner healer’: Myth or mechanism? Journal of Psychopharmacology. 2024;38(5):417-424. Doi: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/02698811241239206
2. Fell, A. (2024, August 5). New Tool Rapidly Tracks Psychedelic Effects in Brain Neurons. Neuroscience News. https://neurosciencenews.com/cast-psychedelics-neurons-27516/
3. Acker, L. (2024, August 7). Psychedelic mushroom edibles could soon be legally available in Oregon for the first time. Oregon Live. https://www.oregonlive.com/pacific-northwest-news/2024/08/psychedelic-mushroom-edibles-could-soon-be-legally-available-in-oregon-for-the-first-time.html&subscribed=google-oauth2%7C117583988626150591125
4. Bashian, L. (2024, August 6). Jack Black felt ‘whole for the first time’ after trying psychedelic drugs at 13. Fox News. https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/jack-black-felt-whole-first-time-trying-psychedelic-drugs-13
This material is not intended as a replacement or substitute for any legal or medical advice. Always consult a medical professional about your health needs. Psychedelics are widely illegal in the United States, and readers should always be informed about local, state, and federal regulations regarding psychedelics or other drugs.
David Connell
