With cases of depression and mental health issues accelerating during the COVID-19 pandemic, a study released by Johns Hopkins University found that psilocybin, commonly known as magic mushrooms, could treat depression, neuropathic pain, and many illnesses with unmet medical needs.
In a study published in November, researchers found that two doses of psilocybin, combined with psychotherapy, produce “rapid and large reductions in depressive symptoms.”
While psilocybin remains among the most restricted drugs in the region, recent amendments in regulations have paved the way for more clinical research and trials of the substance.
Psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, is part of the list of Schedule I substances by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency. These substances are classified as having no medical use and a high potential for abuse.
Dr. Alan Davis of the Psychedelic Research Unit at Johns Hopkins University said this move has delayed crucial treatments.
“It’s taken decades to overcome that kind of stigma, and we still deal with it to some extent,” Davis said.
