Psychedelic medicine, often called “psychedelics,” are drugs that have been shown to have positive effects on mental health. They were widely used in clinical psychiatry before being outlawed in 1970 by President Nixon. Now, psychedelics are experiencing a rebirth in research and practice—by scientists exploring their potential to help people with depression, cancer, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), addiction, and more.
What is psychedelic medicine?
Psychedelic medicines are drugs that have been shown to have positive effects on mental health. Psychedelics are psychoactive substances, meaning they change the way people experience their own minds. These changes in mind can range from momentary experiences of heightened awareness or focus to life-changing epiphanies and long-term shifts in perspective.
The promise of psychedelic studies in mental health
In recent years, scientists have begun studying the effects of psychedelic medicine in clinical settings. In a 2013 study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, researchers found that after one or two sessions with psilocybin, 79% of people showed clinically significant reductions in standard measures of depression and anxiety.
One month later, 61% of the subjects showed sustained benefits, with no need for continued treatment sessions.
Psychedelic research is also examining potential use in psychotherapy sessions, where people can work through challenging emotions or experiences while under the influence of psychedelics. Psychedelics may even be useful beyond mental health—in understanding creativity and problem-solving.
Why invest in psychedelic medicine?
Investing in psychedelic medicine is a win-win situation. Scientific investment in the area will produce new therapies for some of the most difficult to treat mental health problems. Unregulated use by private individuals has already created a new industry around psychedelic medicine, which some experts estimate could be worth over $10.75 Billion By 2027.
In either case, investing in psychedelic medicine could bring significant returns—helping many people while potentially giving significant returns for those willing to invest in this emerging field.
Written by Med Plant Science