Welcome to our newsletter on the business of psychedelics! In this first issue, we'll be taking a closer look at the major psychedelics and what you can expect from them. After all, it’s important to know the basics before diving in. Side note: with the exception of this one, these newsletters will usually only take you ~5 minutes to read.
Psychedelics have been used for thousands of years for spiritual, healing, and recreational purposes. In recent years, these substances have gained increasing attention for their potential therapeutic benefits, with ongoing research exploring their use in treating various mental health conditions.
Nothing here is medical advice or an invitation/recommendation to try anything. This is purely a short introduction and for educational purposes. With that said, down the rabbit hole we go…
LSD:
LSD is one of the most well-known psychedelics, famous for its ability to induce profound and life-changing experiences. During the journey, users may experience intense sensory experiences, altered perception of time and reality, profound emotions, and a sense of unity with the universe. Many users report feeling a strong sense of connectedness to the world around them as if they are experiencing oneness with everything. The journey can last anywhere from 6-12 hours, depending on the dose and individual factors.
LSD is currently being researched for its potential to treat anxiety, depression, and addiction. Studies have shown promising results, with some participants reporting significant improvements in their symptoms after just one dose. However, the legal status of LSD remains a barrier to widespread use in clinical settings.
Psilocybin:
Psilocybin, the active ingredient in "magic mushrooms," is another popular psychedelic with potential therapeutic benefits. During the journey, users may experience profound mystical experiences, altered perceptions of reality and self, emotional breakthroughs, and feelings of interconnectedness. Some users describe the experience as feeling like they have been "reset" or "grounded," with a newfound appreciation for life and a sense of purpose.
Psilocybin is currently being researched for its potential to treat depression, anxiety, and addiction. Early studies have shown promising results, with many participants reporting significant improvements in their symptoms. However, as with LSD and others on this list, the legal status of psilocybin remains a significant obstacle to widespread use in clinical settings.
DMT:
DMT, also known as the "spirit molecule," is a potent psychedelic. During the journey, users may experience intense, otherworldly experiences, altered perceptions of reality and self, contact with entities or divine beings, and a sense of transcendence. Some users describe the experience as feeling like they have entered a different dimension or plane of existence.
DMT is currently being researched for its potential to treat addiction and depression. While early studies have shown promising results, the legal status of DMT remains a significant barrier to use in clinical settings. Additionally, the intensity and unpredictability of DMT experiences can make it a challenging substance to work with therapeutically.
Mescaline:
Mescaline, found in the peyote cactus, has a long history of use in spiritual and healing traditions. During the journey, users may experience an altered perception of reality, vivid visual and sensory experiences, introspection, and feelings of unity with nature. Many users describe feeling a deep connection to the earth and its natural beauty.
Mescaline is currently being researched for its potential to treat addiction and depression. While early studies have shown promising results, like the others the legal status of mescaline remains a barrier to use in clinical settings. Additionally, the long duration of the experience can make it a challenging substance to work with therapeutically.
MDMA:
MDMA, also known as "ecstasy" or "molly," is a synthetic substance that has gained popularity in the party and rave scenes. During the journey, users may experience increased feelings of empathy, openness, and social connection. Many users describe feeling a sense of euphoria and heightened sensory experiences. The journey can last anywhere from 3-6 hours (no booster), depending on the dose and individual factors.
MDMA is currently being researched for its potential to treat PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Studies like those done at MAPS have shown promising results, with some participants reporting significant improvements in their symptoms after just a few sessions. MDMA-assisted therapy involves taking the substance in a controlled setting under the guidance of trained therapists, who help facilitate a deeper connection with emotions and trauma.
Despite the therapeutic benefits of MDMA, the substance remains illegal in most countries. Its use in recreational settings can also be dangerous, as it can increase heart rate and blood pressure and lead to dehydration or overheating. Like anything else, this should always be done responsibly. MDMA will likely be legalized in a few years for use under the guidance of trained professionals in therapeutic settings.
5-MeO-DMT:
5-MeO-DMT, also known as "the God molecule," is one of the most potent psychedelics known. This is a naturally occurring substance found in various plants and animals, including the Sonoran Desert toad. During the journey, users often report experiencing a profound sense of unity with the universe and ego dissolution. The experience can be intense and overwhelming, with some users describing it as a near-death experience (keyword: experience, you are very much alive). It is not uncommon for many to describe the process as death and rebirth. The effects typically last anywhere from 15 to 25 minutes but make no mistake, this isn’t one to rush through. As with every substance on this list, the integration process is a critical piece of the experience and that process can last as long as the individual needs it to.
5-MeO-DMT is still a relatively new area of research, but early studies have shown potential therapeutic benefits for treating anxiety, depression, and addiction. The substance is currently being studied for its ability to induce a mystical experience, which has been linked to positive long-term changes in personality and well-being.
Despite its potential therapeutic benefits, 5-MeO-DMT is a powerful substance that should only be used in a safe and controlled environment. It can be dangerous, particularly for those with pre-existing medical conditions.
2C-B:
2C-B is a synthetic psychedelic substance that is often sold as a powder, tablet, or capsule. During the journey, users typically experience a mixture of sensory effects, such as increased color and sound perception, along with emotional and cognitive effects, such as feelings of empathy, introspection, and euphoria. The experience can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the dose and individual factors.
2C-B is still a relatively new area of research, but early studies have shown potential therapeutic benefits for treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The substance is currently being studied for its ability to induce a mystical experience, which has been linked to positive long-term changes in personality and well-being.
Despite its benefits, 2C-B is a powerful substance that should only be used carefully and in a safe and controlled environment. It can be dangerous, particularly for those with pre-existing medical conditions. It's also important to note that 2C-B is illegal and is not approved for medical use.
Ibogaine:
Ibogaine is a naturally occurring substance found in the Tabernanthe iboga plant, native to West Africa. During the journey, users typically experience a deeply introspective and immersive experience that can last anywhere from 12 to 24 hours. The experience can be intense and often involves hallucinations, emotions, and physical sensations. Users may experience a sense of catharsis or emotional release, making it potentially useful for addressing issues like addiction or trauma.
Ibogaine is being studied for its potential to treat addiction, particularly to opioids and other drugs. Early research has shown promising results, with some participants experiencing reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms after just one session. However, the substance is not approved for medical use in most countries, and there are potential risks associated with its use, including heart problems and seizures.
Ibogaine is a powerful substance that should only be used under the guidance of a trained professional in a safe and controlled environment. Its use can be dangerous, particularly for those with pre-existing medical conditions, and should not be taken recreationally. Additionally, the harvesting of the iboga plant has raised ethical concerns, and alternatives like synthetic ibogaine are being developed to address these issues.
Ayahuasca:
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive brew traditionally used for spiritual and healing purposes by indigenous communities in South America. The brew is made from two plants: the ayahuasca vine and the chacruna leaf, which contains the psychoactive compound DMT. During the journey, users typically experience a combination of sensory, emotional, and cognitive effects, including vivid hallucinations, introspection, and a sense of connectedness with the universe. The experience can be intense and often involves purging, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Ayahuasca is being studied for its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly for treating depression, anxiety, and addiction. Early research has shown promising results, with some participants experiencing long-lasting improvements in well-being and decreased symptoms. However, the substance is not approved for medical use in most countries, and there are potential risks associated with its use, including interactions with certain medications and psychological complications.
It's important to note that Ayahuasca is a powerful substance that should only be used under the guidance of a trained professional in a safe and controlled environment. Its use can be dangerous, particularly for those with pre-existing medical conditions or who are taking certain medications. Additionally, the use of Ayahuasca has raised ethical concerns regarding cultural appropriation and exploitation of indigenous communities, and it's essential to approach the substance with respect and awareness of these issues.
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