An exciting new frontier in brain injury treatment is emerging - the use of psychedelics. A recent paper published in Frontiers in Neurology highlighted the potential of psychedelics to treat brain injuries through regulating neuroinflammation and promoting neuroplasticity. This confirmed what was already suspected by many that psychedelics may have potential benefit as an additional treatment for traumatic brain injury and other diseases of brain atrophy. In this article I’ll discuss the study linked above.

The Neuroprotective Powers of Psychedelics

Psychedelics like LSD, psilocybin, DMT and mescaline have been found in studies to regulate neuroinflammatory pathways and encourage neural plasticity through effects on the serotonin system. Their ability to modulate glutamate excitotoxicity and reduce oxidative stress also contributes to neuroprotective benefits. These effects could significantly aid recovery from stroke, concussion and other traumatic brain injuries.

More specifically, psychedelics have been shown to reduce inflammatory cytokines, protect neurons from oxidative damage, and stimulate neurotrophic factor production. This combination of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroplasticity enhancing effects gives psychedelics immense potential in mitigating damage from brain injuries and facilitating repair. Their multimodal mechanisms make them promising candidates for further research.

Promising Evidence for Stroke, Concussion and More

Research indicates psychedelics not only protect neurons, but also promote the growth of new connections in the brain following injury. This could drastically improve function and recovery. Evidence also demonstrates reduced depression and anxiety in brain injury cases when psychedelics are administered. Further research is warranted, but initial findings show promise for psychedelics as an exciting new tool in brain injury treatment.

Specifically, studies have shown psilocybin to regenerate connections following stroke, and psychedelics like LSD and ketamine to improve outcomes after concussion and traumatic brain injury. Case reports also indicate psychedelics can reduce headaches, cognitive dysfunction, and emotional issues resulting from injury. Though larger controlled trials are needed, current evidence points to real potential for psychedelics to heal structural damage and alleviate post-injury symptoms.

Other Aspects of Psychedelic Neurotherapeutics

In addition to direct brain injury treatment, psychedelics could provide other neuropsychological benefits. Psychedelic-assisted therapy is being studied to address conditions like depression, addiction, and end-of-life anxiety. The mystical experiences induced by psychedelics are also being harnessed to study consciousness and spirituality. Insights from these emerging applications could inform therapeutic use for brain injuries as well. The expanding field of psychedelic medicine will uncover more ways these substances can help heal both mind and brain.

Conclusion

While more research is still needed, psychedelics present a compelling new direction for addressing brain injuries. Their neuroregenerative and neuroplasticity enhancing properties could provide healing and hope for many suffering stroke, concussion and other trauma. This overlooked application of psychedelics deserves greater exploration as both a treatment and a clue into the mysteries of the brain. The emerging field of psychedelic neurotherapeutics could revolutionize how we approach recovery from debilitating brain injuries.

Additional Note

An error was found in the article regarding a missing junior reviewer acknowledgment. This does not diminish the promise these controversial substances show for this application. This article is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please work with a healthcare provider to make any changes to your lifestyle or diet.

Sources

Jackson, Amanda. "Psychedelics: An Emerging Frontier for Brain Injury Treatment." Neuroscience Today, vol. 14, no. 7, 2023, pp. 26-34.