This week’s newsletter covers the latest in plant medicine research and reporting, including promising findings on CBD and Gulf War illness, the complex psychology of psychedelic experiences, the state of legal cannabis in Colorado, and new insights into the gut-brain axis and terpene therapeutics.
Noteworthy Read
Is the Psychedelic Renaissance Over? (Ecstatic Integration)
This article explores whether the “psychedelic renaissance”—the rising interest in psychedelics for mental health and therapy—is over, especially following setbacks like the FDA’s rejection of MDMA applications and increased skepticism. Numerous experts provide varied opinions, with some believing the movement is facing a slowdown but still progressing, while others see it transitioning into a new phase.
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More Noteworthy Reading
Ego tripping: Why do psychedelics ‘enlighten’ some people & make others giant narcissists? (Salon)
This story explores the potential downsides of the psychedelic movement, where the promise of “ego death” through psychedelics can, for some, lead to ego inflation rather than humility. While psychedelics are often believed to dissolve one’s sense of self, some users—particularly among elites—emerge with heightened feelings of self-importance and a belief in their own superiority. The piece discusses how factors like mindset, setting, and culture shape psychedelic experiences, challenging the simplistic notion that psychedelics inherently foster empathy and interconnectedness.
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Is America turning its back on the great legal weed experiment? (The Times)
A former Marine who made history by purchasing the first legal recreational cannabis in the U.S., reflects on the downturn of Colorado’s cannabis industry. While initially hopeful, he expresses disappointment with the industry’s decline, citing overregulation, competition from other states, and financial struggles for small businesses. Despite booming early sales, Colorado’s cannabis market has seen a steep drop in revenue, store closures, and layoffs, leaving some to question the success of legalization.
Research Round-Up
Preclinical study: Dysfunctional endocannabinoid signaling in Gulf War illness (PubMed)
Gulf War Illness (GWI) is a condition causing symptoms like pain, fatigue, anxiety, and cognitive issues, thought to result from exposure to chemicals during the Gulf War. This study suggests GWI may be linked to disrupted endocannabinoid (ECB) signaling in the brain, particularly reduced levels of anandamide, a key brain chemical. In a mouse model, normalizing anandamide levels with a drug called URB597 improved anxiety and memory issues. The findings indicate that fixing ECB signaling could be a potential treatment for GWI.
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Psychedelics & the gut-brain axis (PubMed)
Psychedelics are being explored for treating psychiatric disorders, with most theories focusing on how they affect serotonin receptors and brain plasticity. However, this review suggests that the gut microbiota, through the gut-brain axis, might also influence the positive effects of psychedelics. The paper presents evidence that psychedelics may alter gut bacteria, which could impact their effectiveness. It highlights the need for future research to consider the microbiome’s role in psychedelic therapy, potentially leading to more personalized treatments based on individual gut bacteria composition.
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Beta-caryophyllene in psychiatric & neurological diseases (PubMed)
Beta-caryophyllene is a terpene found in cannabis, cinnamon, black pepper, cloves, and citrus, known for its woody-spicy aroma. It is FDA-approved as a safe food additive and has several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and neuroprotective effects. It also helps protect the brain and nervous system from oxidative damage and inflammation. This chapter explores its potential therapeutic effects on psychiatric and neurological conditions, focusing on how beta-caryophyllene may act on the blood-brain barrier to support its beneficial actions.
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