Psychedelics
A class of psychoactive compounds that produce profound alterations in perception, cognition, and consciousness, characterized by their unique ability to induce non-ordinary states of awareness with potential therapeutic and transformative properties.
Psychedelics
Psychedelics represent a distinct category of psychoactive substances that fundamentally alter consciousness, perception, and cognition. These compounds have played significant roles in human culture for millennia and are currently experiencing a renaissance in scientific research and therapeutic applications.
Classification
Classical Psychedelics
Novel Compounds
Mechanisms of Action
Psychedelics primarily operate through:
- Serotonin System receptor activation
- Default Mode Network
- Neural Plasticity
- Brain Connectivity
Historical and Cultural Context
Traditional Use
Modern History
Therapeutic Applications
Current research focuses on treating:
Experiential Characteristics
Common Effects
Safety and Best Practices
Set and Setting
Risk Mitigation
Research Methodologies
Modern investigations employ:
Future Directions
Emerging areas include:
Legal and Policy Considerations
Current developments in:
Integration with Other Modalities
Complementary approaches include: