Psychonaut Guides

22/10/2024

In recent years, psychedelic mushroom growers have developed much more potent strains through advanced genetic manipulation and sequencing techniques. These mushrooms, like those produced by Julian Mattucci, can contain up to 5% psychoactive alkaloids, a significantly higher amount than traditional varieties, leading to much more intense experiences, even with small doses. This increase in potency has been driven by the professionalization of cultivation, leaving behind the amateur methods of previous decades.

However, this increase in mushroom strength poses risks. The lack of clear instructions on dosage can lead users to accidentally consume more than necessary, resulting in unexpectedly intense and sometimes unsettling 'trips.' Although some users report fewer adverse physical effects with more potent species, access to stronger mushrooms without proper preparation could heighten the risk of unpleasant experiences, emphasizing the need for greater focus on education and responsible use.

You can read the full article at: https://www.wired.com/story/breeding-stronger-magic-mushrooms/

If you want to discover more about the potential therapeutic effects of , we recommend Psychedelics and Mental Health by Irene de Caso, as well as Your Brain on Psychedelics by Genís Oña, where you'll learn the key effects of psychedelics, capable of producing significant changes in perception, thought processes, and consciousness. The book also includes a foreword by one of the leading experts in the field, José Carlos Bouso, Scientific Director of ICEERS.

The Psychonaut Guides book series is now available on Amazon in both physical and eBook formats and in major bookstores.

Cultivators are turning to genetic sequencing and cellular-manipulation techniques to breed highly potent mushrooms—leaving some unprepared psychonauts in distress.

30/09/2024

A psilocybin-based drug developed by biotech company Psilera has passed a key milestone for human safety, the company announced last week. Psilocybin is an active ingredient in psychedelic or "magic" mushrooms, although this pharmaceutical version will not make anyone travel.

The drug, called PSIL-006, could treat frontotemporal dementia (FTD), the second most common form of early onset dementia after Alzheimer's disease. According to the Alzheimer's Association, FTD affects about 60,000 Americans at any given time. There is currently no FDA-approved treatment for FTD.

In its latest studies, Tampa-based Psilera found that PSIL-006 had a "robust" safety profile, suggesting it may be safe for human use. In models mimicking FTD, PSIL-006 improved memory, sleep and learning. However, the FDA will need more studies (which could take years) before giving the drug the green light, including extensive studies in live human patients.

It is this last part - the human trials - where PSIL-006 may succeed where other psychedelic treatments have failed: in double-blind placebo trials. It is also why Psilera designed PSIL-006 to lack the intoxicating effects of psilocybin.

Modifying the psilocybin trip also has additional benefits. For example, anyone with certain mental disorders or sensitivity to psilocybin, who is unable or unwilling to take mushrooms, could benefit from PSIL-006.

If you want to discover more about the potential therapeutic effects of , we recommend Psychedelics and Mental Health by Irene de Caso, as well as Your Brain with Psychedelics, by Genís Oña, where you will learn the keys to the effects of psychedelics, capable of producing significant changes in the processes of perception, thought and consciousness. The book also includes a prologue written by one of the greatest eminences in this field, José Carlos Bouso, scientific director of ICEERS.

*Text extracted from the DoubleBlindMag.com article: https://doubleblindmag.com/biotech-firm-makes-trip-free-psilocybin-drug-to-treat-dementia/

23/09/2024

A senior official has indicated that lessons learned from Colorado's cannabis legalisation will guide regulators in the development of the state's new psychedelics programme. Dominique Mendiola, senior director of Colorado's Ma*****na Enforcement Division (MED) and Division of Natural Medicine, explained that past experiences with cannabis will be critical in establishing the new regulations for psychedelics.

Despite the similarities in regulatory approach, Mendiola stressed that cannabis and psychedelics are "very different". For example, unlike cannabis, psilocybin businesses will not sell psychedelics directly to consumers to take home.

So far, Colorado Governor Jared Polis has shown his support for the state's new psychedelics law, noting in his State of the State address in January that Colorado "is leading the nation in natural medicine". Polis stressed that, just as Colorado pioneered the legalisation of recreational cannabis use, it is now also leading the way in regulating psychedelics, setting a standard for innovation, safety and economic mobility.

In May last year, Polis signed a psychedelic regulation bill into law, following the 2022 ballot initiative, making Colorado the first state to allow adults to legally produce, possess and use substances such as psilocybin, ibogaine, mescaline and DMT, which may set an example for the regulation of these substances in other countries around the world.

If you want to discover more about the potential therapeutic effects of , we recommend Psychedelics and Mental Health by Irene de Caso, as well as Your Brain on Psychedelics, by Genís Oña, where you will learn the keys to the effects of psychedelics, capable of producing significant changes in the processes of perception, thought and consciousness. The book also includes a prologue written by one of the greatest eminences in this field, José Carlos Bouso, scientific director of ICEERS.

The Psychonaut's Guide series of books is now available on Amazon in physical and eBook format.

A top official says that the lessons learned from Colorado's legal cannabis roll out will guide regulators in developing the state's new psychedelics program.

16/09/2024

In an effort to find alternatives to traditional treatments for depression, a recent study has once again put psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in hallucinogenic mushrooms, in the spotlight. Published in the medical journal BMJ, the study compared the efficacy of psilocybin with that of escitalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and one of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants.

Unlike conventional treatments, which require continuous administration, psilocybin could offer lasting benefits with just one or a few sessions. This approach could represent a paradigm shift in how we treat mood disorders.

The study looked at the efficacy of psilocybin compared to escitalopram in patients with depressive symptoms. The results showed that psilocybin, at high doses, not only outperformed placebo, but was also slightly more effective than escitalopram in relieving depressive symptoms.

Importantly, this superiority does not suggest that psilocybin should replace escitalopram. On the contrary, it points out that both treatments have unique characteristics that can complement each other. While escitalopram reduces symptoms gradually and requires continuous use, psilocybin acts more quickly and its effects can last for months or even years.

If you want to discover more about the potential therapeutic effects of , we recommend Psychedelics and Mental Health by Irene de Caso, as well as Your Brain on Psychedelics, by Genís Oña, where you will learn the keys to the effects of psychedelics, capable of producing significant changes in the processes of perception, thought and consciousness. The book also includes a prologue written by one of the greatest eminences in this field, José Carlos Bouso, scientific director of ICEERS.

The Psychonaut's Guide series of books is now available on Amazon in physical and eBook format.

Objective To evaluate the comparative effectiveness and acceptability of oral monotherapy using psychedelics and escitalopram in patients with depressive symptoms, considering the potential for overestimated effectiveness due to unsuccessful blinding. Design Systematic review and Bayesian network me...

09/09/2024

🚨 Shipibo-Conibo Leaders on Alert: Ayahuasca in Danger of Extinction 🌿

More than 100 ancestral healers from the Shipibo people in Peru have come together on an emergency basis to address the serious threats facing Ayahuasca due to spiritual tourism and corporate exploitation. Growing international demand is depleting sacred plants such as Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis, fundamental in the preparation of Ayahuasca.

In addition to overexploitation of natural resources, communities face lack of government support and labour exploitation in foreign-run retreat centres. Shipibo-Conibo leaders are taking action to protect their territories, culture and ancestral knowledge that is under threat.

It is vital that the world becomes aware of these threats and supports indigenous communities in defending their land and traditions. 🌱✊

If you want to discover more about the potential therapeutic effects of , we recommend Psychedelics and Mental Health by Irene de Caso, as well as Your Brain on Psychedelics, by Genís Oña, where you will learn the keys to the effects of psychedelics, capable of producing significant changes in the processes of perception, thought and consciousness. The book also includes a prologue written by one of the greatest eminences in this field, José Carlos Bouso, scientific director of ICEERS.

The Psychonaut's Guide series of books is now available on Amazon in physical and eBook format.

Ancestral medicine masters from the Shipibo nation of Peru recently gathered for an urgent meeting to address the effects of spiritual tourism and corporate exploitation.

26/08/2024

From **A to treat trauma stress in dogs to treatments to stimulate neurogenesis in humans: this is the new Research Center at the University of Colorado.

The University of Colorado has taken a bold step into the emerging field of psychedelic research with the creation of the University of Colorado Denver Psychedelic Research Center. This new centre, based in downtown Denver, signals the university's commitment to exploring the potential medical benefits, legal implications and social aspects of psychedelics.

https://www.cpr.org/2024/07/15/cu-psychedelic-research-center/

If you are interested in learning more about this exciting world, we invite you to consult the Psychonaut’s Guides by Argonowta. These books will give you a broad and balanced view of psychedelics and their potential therapeutic effects. Remember, however, that these substances are not a panacea or a magic solution to all your problems. Their use requires professional guidance, an appropriate context and a responsible attitude. Psychedelics can be a powerful tool for personal change, but they can also be dangerous if used inappropriately or irresponsibly.

The Psychonaut’s Guides from Argonowta Publishing is a collection of books that explain in a rigorous and accessible way the scientific, historical, cultural and experiential aspects of psychedelic substances. These guides offer updated and contrasted information on the therapeutic and neuroscientific applications of psilocybin, L*D, DMT and M**A, as well as practical advice on how to prepare, carry out and take advantage of psychedelic experiences. The Psychonaut’s Guides are a must-have reference for anyone interested in learning about the psychedelic renaissance that is transforming mental health and changing lives.

The center will look into not just the medical side of psychedelics, but also their legal and social aspects.

19/08/2024

Psychedelics, substances known for causing psychological effects such as hallucinations, have been used for millennia by Indigenous peoples as healing tools. Today, Canadian researchers are exploring the impact of substances like psilocybin (the active compound in magic mushrooms), L*D, and ketamine on mental health conditions.

Although these substances are controlled, Health Canada permits their use in medical trials, which has spurred interest in their therapeutic potential.

The new centre in Kingston not only seeks to advance this research but also plans to train healthcare professionals in the therapeutic use of psychedelics. Additionally, it will host community workshops to share knowledge and combat the stigma surrounding these substances. The centre is also focusing on chronic pain and palliative care, highlighting its commitment to exploring the broad spectrum of therapeutic applications for psychedelics.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/kingston-ontario-queens-psychedelics-research-1.7286865

If you are interested in learning more about this exciting world, we invite you to consult the Psychonaut’s Guides by Argonowta. These books will give you a broad and balanced view of psychedelics and their potential therapeutic effects. Remember, however, that these substances are not a panacea or a magic solution to all your problems. Their use requires professional guidance, an appropriate context and a responsible attitude. Psychedelics can be a powerful tool for personal change, but they can also be dangerous if used inappropriately or irresponsibly.

The Psychonaut’s Guides from Argonowta Publishing is a collection of books that explain in a rigorous and accessible way the scientific, historical, cultural and experiential aspects of psychedelic substances. These guides offer updated and contrasted information on the therapeutic and neuroscientific applications of psilocybin, L*D, DMT and M**A, as well as practical advice on how to prepare, carry out and take advantage of psychedelic experiences. The Psychonaut’s Guides are a must-have reference for anyone interested in learning about the psychedelic renaissance that is transforming mental health and changing lives.

The partnership including Queen's University and Providence Care Hospital will look into using the drug in mental health, substance use, chronic pain and palliative care.

12/08/2024

On 9 August 2024, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has dealt a significant blow to the movement advocating M**A-assisted therapy for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Lykos Therapeutics, the pharmaceutical company leading the M**A approval effort, received a "complete response letter" from the FDA, indicating that the agency will not approve the treatment until further research is conducted. This decision has sent shockwaves through the psychedelic therapy advocacy community, raising questions about the future of M**A and other psychedelic treatments.

While M**A may not be available for PTSD treatment in the near future, ongoing research and broader interest in psychedelics suggest that this is not the end of the road for psychedelic therapy, and is even positive news among some in the industry, who believe this news will give more room for new companies and investors to enter the market, diversifying the competition. For those interested in learning more about the responsible use of psychedelics, the Psychonaut's Guides provide a comprehensive resource for navigating this complex and ever-evolving field.

**A

The much-anticipated decision has rattled supporters of psychedelic therapies. The drugmaker says it will ask the agency to reconsider.

28/07/2024

Recent research is revealing the potential benefits of psychedelics on brain health, particularly in the cognitive and emotional domain. A recent meta-analysis published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology has identified that people who use psychedelics have significantly higher levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) compared to non-users. This increase in BDNF suggests that psychedelics may enhance the brain's ability to adapt and reorganise itself, offering new opportunities to treat mental disorders.

BDNF is a crucial protein for brain health and function, as it promotes the survival of existing neurons and stimulates the growth and differentiation of new neurons and synapses. It is essential for long-term memory, learning and brain plasticity - the brain's ability to change and adapt to new experiences.

Alterations in BDNF levels have been linked to several neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Elevated levels of BDNF are often associated with improved cognitive function and mental health, making it a prime area of interest for brain researchers.

The research team conducted a meta-analysis to examine the relationship between psychedelics and BDNF levels, addressing an important gap in the existing literature. While individual studies have investigated the effects of psychedelics on immediate neurotransmitter systems and brain function, the long-term molecular impacts, especially in relation to BDNF, have not been extensively studied.

You can discover more about these potential therapeutic effects, we recommend Psychedelics and Mental Health by Irene de Caso, as well as Your Brain with Psychedelics, by Genís Oña, where you will learn the keys to the effects of psychedelics, capable of producing significant changes in the processes of perception, thought and consciousness. The book also includes a prologue written by one of the greatest eminences in this field, José Carlos Bouso, scientific director of ICEERS.

The Psychonaut's Guide series of books is now available on Amazon in physical and eBook format, and in major bookstores.

21/07/2024

A recent phase 2 clinical trial has demonstrated the safety and efficacy of extended-release ketamine tablets for patients with depression resistant to other treatments. This breakthrough promises to revolutionise the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), a condition that affects nearly 40 million people in Europe and is a leading cause of disability worldwide.

MDD can be devastating, with a 20 times higher risk of su***de compared to the general population. Current antidepressant treatments can take five to eight weeks to take effect, and approximately one third of patients do not respond to these treatments.

Researchers at the University of Otago, New Zealand, have published the results of their clinical trial in Nature Medicine, highlighting that ketamine in extended-release tablet form is an effective and well-tolerated option for treating treatment-resistant depression. Unlike intranasal or intravenous forms, the tablets are easier to administer and have fewer adverse effects, such as severe dissociation and cardiovascular problems.

You can discover more about these potential therapeutic effects, we recommend Psychedelics and Mental Health by Irene de Caso, as well as Your Brain with Psychedelics, by Genís Oña, where you will learn the keys to the effects of psychedelics, capable of producing significant changes in the processes of perception, thought and consciousness. The book also includes a prologue written by one of the greatest eminences in this field, José Carlos Bouso, scientific director of ICEERS.

The Psychonaut's Guide series of books is now available on Amazon in physical and eBook format, and in major bookstores.

15/07/2024

A recent RAND report has revealed that mushrooms, also known as , are the most widely used psychedelic drug in the United States. This finding provides detailed insight into the use of psychedelics among Americans and may guide policymakers in regulating these substances for mental health treatment or even legalising them for recreational use.

Importance of the Study Understanding how and how much psychedelics are used in society is crucial for policymakers, especially at a time when new forms of regulation are being discussed. Beau Kilmer, lead author of the report and senior policy researcher at RAND, underscores the urgency of this watershed moment. "We saw this with alcohol, to***co and also cannabis. Once companies are established and have their lobbyists, it is much more difficult, for example, to raise taxes or impose certain regulations," Kilmer said.

You can discover more about these potential therapeutic effects, we recommend Psychedelics and Mental Health by Irene de Caso, as well as Your Brain with Psychedelics, by Genís Oña, where you will learn the keys to the effects of , capable of producing significant changes in the processes of perception, thought and consciousness. The book also includes a prologue written by one of the greatest eminences in this field, José Carlos Bouso, scientific director of ICEERS.

The Psychonaut's Guide series of books is now available on Amazon in physical and eBook format, and in major bookstores.

08/07/2024

Drugs with psychedelic effects, such as psilocybin, L*D, M**A and cannabis, may help protect the brain from some aspects of ageing, a new study suggests. The survey, which included 3,294 US adults aged 42 to 92, found that those who reported using some type of hallucinogen in the past year showed fewer depressive symptoms and improvements in higher-order brain function.

Users of psychedelics scored higher on telephone tests assessing inductive reasoning, verbal fluency, working memory, processing speed, attentional switching and inhibitory control. However, no improvements were seen in episodic memory, which stores and retrieves everyday events and is often affected by dementia.

Although the results are observational and cannot determine cause and effect, gerontologists Kallol Kumar Bhattacharyya of Utah State University and Kaeleigh Fearn of the University of South Florida believe there is reason for further research. "Federal and state governments should decriminalise psychedelics so that research can be conducted in a way that ensures reliability and validity," the researchers conclude.

You can discover more about these potential therapeutic effects, we recommend Psychedelics and Mental Health by Irene de Caso, as well as Your Brain with Psychedelics, by Genís Oña, where you will learn the keys to the effects of psychedelics, capable of producing significant changes in the processes of perception, thought and consciousness. The book also includes a prologue written by one of the greatest eminences in this field, José Carlos Bouso, scientific director of ICEERS.

The Psychonaut's Guide series of books is now available on Amazon in physical and eBook format, and in major bookstores.