Mar 19 2025 42 mins 119
In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman explore the complex world of psilocybin, or magic mushrooms. The scientists examine the substance's historical significance and neurobiological mechanisms, while discussing the emerging practice of microdosing and psilocybin's evolving legal status across different jurisdictions. They investigate the potential therapeutic applications of psilocybin for various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Throughout the conversation, the experts emphasize contextual factors that influence psychedelic experiences and highlight the critical need for continued research to better understand psilocybin's full therapeutic potential.
(00:00) Intro
(02:25) Understanding Psilocybin: Definition and Classification
(03:51) Historical Context of Psilocybin
(10:59) Mechanism of Action: How Psilocybin Works in the Brain
(14:58) Microdosing: Trends and Effects
(17:00) Legal Status and Policy Changes
(33:37) Therapeutic Potential and Research Findings
https://www.rand.org/news/press/2024/06/27.html
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41429-020-0311-8
https://www.cuttersguide.com/pdf/Periodical-Publications/life-by-time-inc-published-may-13-1957.pdf
https://tripsitter.com/magic-mushrooms/legal/
https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Psilocybin-2020.pdf
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10069558/
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-017-0542-y
https://doi.org/10.1080/14740338.2022.2047929
https://doi.org/10.2147/DDDT.S443177
https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.124.002237
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1359088
https://doi.org/10.1192/j.eurpsy.2023.1767
https://doi.org/10.1021/acsmedchemlett.0c00048
https://doi.org/10.1177/02698811221092508
https://doi.org/10.1111/jnc.16017
https://doi.org/10.1177/02698811231190858
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