Unlocking the Mind: The Psychedelic Renaissance

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This chapter explores the transformative potential of psychedelics in mental health, particularly focusing on psilocybin's effects on brain function and neuroplasticity. It examines how psychedelics challenge conventional neuroscience, fostering new insights and therapeutic opportunities by disrupting rigid thought patterns. The discussion also touches on the historical and evolutionary significance of psychedelics, highlighting their innovative role in modern psychiatry.

Can neuroscience explain what happens to the brain on psychedelics? And even if we map the brain while it’s tripping, does that tell us why these experiences can be so transformative?

We’ll talk with some of the pioneers in psychedelic research — from Amanda Feilding’s boundary-busting work to Robin Carhart-Harris’ theory of the "entropic brain." Also, renowned neuroscientist Christof Koch goes down the rabbit hole on 5-MeO-DMT, also known as toad venom.

Original Air Date: July 15, 2023

Interviews In This Hour:

Exploring consciousness on toad venom — The godmother of the European psychedelic revival — How therapeutic psilocybin could help heal long-buried trauma — Magic mushrooms and the 'entropic brain'

Guests:

Christof Koch, Amanda Feilding, David Nutt, Robin Carhart-Harris

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