A recent study suggests that psilocybin, commonly known as magic mushrooms, may have the potential to extend lifespan.
Researchers at the Emory University Department of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia, found that psilocybin could prolong cellular lifespan and enhance survival in aged mice.
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in hallucinogenic mushrooms, according to the study.
Recent attention has been drawn to psilocybin due to its promising clinical evidence in treating various psychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions, as highlighted by the researchers.
The study, published in the journal Nature, revealed experimental evidence indicating that treatment with psilocin, the active metabolite in psilocybin, could increase longevity in aged mice.
The researchers stated that psilocybin might serve as a potent geroprotective agent.
Co-author Louise Hecker from Emory University mentioned that the data suggests psilocybin affects multiple aging markers, such as reducing oxidative stress levels, preventing DNA damage, and preserving telomere length.
The treatment showed a significant impact on cellular lifespan extension and increased the survival of mice, even when administered later in life, according to the researchers.
Furthermore, the mice appeared healthier, regaining black hair that had turned white.
Hecker added that most existing knowledge about psilocybin focuses on its clinical effects on the brain, but these studies shed light on its broader impacts on the body.
More research is necessary to fully understand the potential of psilocybin, as Hecker emphasized the need to determine optimal dosing protocols, treatment initiation age, potential harms, mechanism of action, and other critical questions.
Gabe Charambides, founder of Odyssey, America’s first legal psilocybin retreat in Oregon, found the study’s findings compelling. He noted that while most human psilocybin trials focus on mental health outcomes, this research highlights physiological changes, including markers of cellular aging.
Charambides emphasized the importance of administering psilocybin differently for humans than for mice, in terms of screening, preparation, and safeguards.
Individuals who may benefit from psilocybin therapy include those dealing with significant life events or aiming to improve their mental health, according to Charambides.
Ryan Moss, chief science officer at Filament Health, underscored the importance of a safe setting for administering psychedelics, given the potential risks such as anxiety, hallucinations, and paranoia.
In conclusion, further research is needed to explore the full potential of psilocybin and ensure safe and effective treatment for individuals.
