The following ten substances are currently being extensively studied in a clinical setting for their possible therapeutic effects. Psilocybin, which is found in “Magic Mushrooms,” is being examined for its potential in treating various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and addiction. LSD, a synthetic compound derived from ergot fungus, is being explored for its potential benefits in addiction, depression, and end-of-life anxiety. Ayahuasca, a concoction made from specific plants, is being researched for its therapeutic applications in depression, addiction, and PTSD. Ibogaine, derived from a shrub, is also being investigated for its potential use in addiction treatment. MDMA, commonly known as “ecstasy,” is showing promise in the treatment of PTSD. Ketamine, initially an anesthetic, is being analyzed for its rapid antidepressant effects. Mescaline, which is found in cacti, is also being studied for its potential uses in depression, anxiety, and addiction. DMT, a naturally occurring compound, is undergoing research for its benefits in depression, anxiety, and addiction. Salvia divinorum, a type of Mexican sage, is currently in the early stages of research for its psychoactive effects and therapeutic applications. Lastly, 5-MeO-DMT, found in toad venom and various plants, is being investigated for its potential therapeutic properties in treating depression, anxiety, and addiction.
Below is an exploration of their potential in list format, with citations to some impactful studies.
1. Psilocybin – Found in “Magic Mushrooms” (Psilocybe cubensis) and other species of psychedelic mushrooms. Psilocybin is being studied for its potential therapeutic effect in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and addiction. Citation: (Carhart-Harris et al., 2018; Griffiths et al., 2016).
2. LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) – Synthetic compound derived from ergot fungus (Claviceps purpurea). LSD is being investigated for its potential benefits in treating addiction, depression, and end-of-life anxiety in patients with terminal illness. Citation: (Gasser et al., 2014; Vollenweider and Kometer, 2010).
3. Ayahuasca – A brew made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and the leaves of the Psychotria viridis shrub. The active ingredients are DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine) and harmine. Ayahuasca is being studied for its potential therapeutic applications in treating depression, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Citation: (Sanches et al., 2016; dos Santos et al., 2016).
4. Ibogaine – Derived from the root bark of the Tabernanthe iboga shrub. Ibogaine is being researched for its potential to assist in addiction treatment, particularly for opioid addiction and substance use disorders. Citation: (Noller and Frampton, 2011; Alper et al., 2012).
5. MDMA (3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine) – Synthetic compound known as “ecstasy” or “molly.” MDMA is being studied for its potential in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and has demonstrated promising results in clinical trials. Citation: (Mithoefer et al., 2018; Danforth et al., 2018).
6. Ketamine – Originally developed as an anesthetic, ketamine is being studied for its rapid antidepressant effects in treatment-resistant depression and suicidal ideation. It is a synthetic compound and does not occur naturally in plants or fungi. Citation: (Trujillo and Akil, 2011; Grunebaum et al., 2018).
7. Mescaline – Found in various species of Peyote cactus (Lophophora williamsii) and San Pedro cactus (Echinopsis pachanoi). Mescaline is being explored for its potential therapeutic uses in treating depression, anxiety, and addiction. Citation: (Brady et al., 1961; Baumeister and Francis, 2002).
8. DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine) – Naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in various plants, such as Psychotria viridis and Mimosa hostilis. DMT is being researched for its potential benefits in treating depression, anxiety, and addiction. Citation: (Riba et al., 2016; Barker et al., 2012).
9. Salvia divinorum – A species of sage native to Mexico. The active compound in Salvia divinorum is salvinorin A. This substance is being studied for its psychoactive effects and potential therapeutic applications, although research is still in its early stages. Citation: (Valdez et al., 2007; Maqueda et al., 2013).
10. 5-MeO-DMT (5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine) – Found naturally in the venom of the Bufo alvarius toad and some plant species. 5-MeO-DMT is being researched for its potential therapeutic properties, particularly for treating depression, anxiety, and addiction. Citation: (Dos Santos et al., 2016; Halpern et al., 2005).
The Psychedelic Osteopath 