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://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/2018/09/reclassification-recommendations-for-drug-in-magic-mushrooms

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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