The Trippy History of Psychedelics in Medicine

men talking and discussing about ketamine
men talking and discussing about ketamine

The Trippy History of Psychedelics in Medicine

The use of psychedelics in medicine has a long history. In ancient times, cultures used psychedelics like mushrooms in religious rituals. Others turned to them for their supposed therapeutic benefits. In the mid-20th century, psychedelics became the subject of intense scientific research. Experts started exploring them as possible treatments for mental health conditions like PTSD, depression, and anxiety.

Ketamine: A Breakthrough in Psychedelic Therapy

Ketamine is an effective form of psychedelic therapy that became popular in recent decades. Its original purpose is as an anesthetic for surgeries. But researchers have found potential use in treating conditions like anxiety and depression [1].

Ketamine is a fast-acting medication that treats severe depression and mental health illnesses. Traditional antidepressants can take weeks or months to take effect. In contrast, Ketamine produces rapid improvements within hours.

Most people tolerate Ketamine well. The risk of serious side effects is lower than other treatment options. These factors make Ketamine a significant advancement in mental health treatment. As with all medical treatments, exact results will vary per person.* It is always best to speak in-depth with a healthcare provider before selecting a particular therapy.

What to Expect from Ketamine

Considering Ketamine therapy to improve your mental health? Here’s what to expect during and before the treatment.

Before starting Ketamine, you’ll visit us for a consultation. Our team will assess your unique needs and medical history. From there, we can determine the proper dose and treatment frequency.

On the treatment day, your doctor will administer Ketamine in a controlled setting. He’ll check your vital signs to ensure safety. Your physician may give an intravenous (IV) injection, a nasal spray, or oral medication.

After receiving a dose of Ketamine, you’ll start feeling the effects within minutes. The psychedelic experience lasts for about an hour. You may experience altered perceptions, changes in mood and emotions, and vivid hallucinations.

Ketamine’s effects aren’t permanent. After they wear off, you may continue to experience reduced depression symptoms for several days or weeks. But the duration and intensity of these effects can vary.

Ideal Ketamine Candidates

Most people try traditional forms of therapy to improve their mental health first. Ketamine may be a promising option if you:

Ketamine is a powerful tool in the treatment of depression and anxiety. But as with any medical treatment, you should consult your doctor. Understand the potential risks before beginning treatment. Ketamine Therapy LA can determine your candidacy. From there, we’ll create a viable treatment plan to provide the relief you need.

What Are Some Other Popular Psychedelic Options?

1. Mushrooms

Mushrooms, or “shrooms” in slang, contain the psychedelic substance psilocybin. This is a naturally occurring chemical found in certain species of mushrooms. When consumed, it can produce a trippy psychedelic experience.

Shroom Effects

Mushroom effects can vary depending on the person and the dose consumed. Shrooms can produce a powerful psychedelic experience that lasts several hours. Some effects include:

Shroom effects can be unpredictable. In some cases, they can be unpleasant or even dangerous. Be cautious if you’re considering this psychedelic. Make sure you’re in a safe and comfortable environment.

2. LSD

LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) is a strong psychedelic drug derived from a chemical in a fungus called ergot. It produces dramatic changes in consciousness. LSD users can experience intense visual and auditory hallucinations for several hours.

Understanding LSD

LSD is one of the most potent psychedelic substances. Research has suggested it may be effective in treating anxiety. Experts hypothesize that it increases the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, plays a key role in regulating mood.

Some say LSD produces a spiritual experience that curbs feelings of fear and anxiety. Moreover, people may experience a sense of well-being and connectedness. More research is necessary for a comprehensive understanding of how LSD treats mental health disorders. With that said, it can be dangerous if misused.

3. Ayahuasca

Ayahuasca is a plant-based psychedelic substance. It’s thought to offer spiritual and medicinal benefits. Made from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine’s bark and leaves of the Psychotria Viridis bush, it contains a potent psychedelic chemical, DMT [2]. The most popular way to consume this is in brewed tea. Ayahuasca creates a powerful psychedelic experience that can last several hours.

Why Is Ayahuasca Popular?

Some people swear by Ayahuasca for treating their mental health disorders. Many get profound spiritual experiences and feelings of connectedness. These can help someone feel less depressed and anxious.

Why Choose Ketamine Over Other Psychedelic Treatments?

Ketamine’s benefits are plentiful when it comes to improving mental health disorders:

Researchers have studied Ketamine for decades. There is a growing body of evidence to support its potency as a treatment for mental health conditions. In a study, there was a significant improvement in anxiety, depression, and severity of mental illness after two weeks and a month of the final Ketamine dose [3]. Its potential therapeutic uses are an area of active investigation among researchers today.

Ketamine Psychedelic Treatment in West Hollywood, CA

Depression and anxiety are debilitating for many people. Are you not finding relief from traditional medicine? It’s time to explore what Ketamine can do for you. Ketamine Therapy LA is the premier Ketamine infusion provider in West Hollywood, CA. Residents all over Greater Los Angeles trust us with their mental wellness. Schedule a free consultation by calling (323) 650-9883.

Make an Appointment

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

By submitting this form you agree to be contacted via phone/text/email.

Sources:
Ketamine for the treatment of mental health and substance use disorders: comprehensive systematic review, BJPsych Open, Zach Walsh,* Ozden Merve Mollaahmetoglu,* Joseph Rootman, Shannon Golsof, Johanna Keeler, Beth Marsh, David J. Nutt, and Celia J. A. Morgan
Ayahuasca: Psychological and Physiologic Effects, Pharmacology and Potential Uses in Addiction and Mental Illness, Current Neuropharmacology, Jonathan Hamill, Jaime Hallak, Serdar M. Dursun, and Glen Bakera

Make an Appointment

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

By submitting this form you agree to be contacted via phone/text/email.