Our Future in Psychedelics
Building on our experience from the legalization of cannabinoids — including our successful acquisition and registration of the best genetics — Yuluka Health is currently working with our Colombian government partners to successfully register unique psychedelic genetics which could play a vital role in the future of mental therapy development. Our work in this area will soon be underway at our new research clinic in Colombia’s capital city, Bogota. It is a 7,000 square foot building devoted to the study of psychedelics and to provide assisted therapy to patients looking to improve their mental health.
While studies into psychedelics as a therapy tool for mental health did take place in 1950s and 60s in the US, drug legislation abruptly halted that research and it’s only in the last 15 years that things have picked up again. Viewed as — and restricted to being — recreational drugs or “trips”, there is now a renewed push within scientific communities around the world to tap into the potential of psychedelics as a treatment for psychiatric conditions. A treatment that could possibly be more effective than traditional psychiatric medications, and with much fewer side effects. Therefore, Yuluka Health has committed to studying the therapeutic potential of these natural and mysterious chemicals by investing in high-tech premises and equipment in Bogota, Colombia.
Microdosing
Microdosing specific psychedelics appears to be the most popular approach for improving a person’s mental health. Microdosing is when a patient takes between 5-10% of a standard recreational dose. While this microdose won’t deliver any perceptible effects, research does suggest that it can deliver some of the positive results achieved by full-dose treatments but without any potentially negative side effects like uncomfortable or overwhelming hallucinations.
Psychedelics and Serotonin
Psychedelics are known to affect serotonin levels. A chemical messenger in our bodies that is responsible for helping cells communicate, serotonin has a reputation for inducing happiness. In reality, serotonin’s capabilities within our bodies are broader and more complex. The neurotransmitter does not just affect mood, it is also associated with influencing memory, cognition, eating habits, thermoregulation and sleeping.
With molecular regions called serotonin 2A receptors located across our central nervous system it is no wonder that serotonin plays such key roles in our bodies. These receptors can bind with internal and external chemicals to block or stimulate the serotonin system and although research in this area is still in its infancy psychedelics are believed to target these receptors. This interaction can excite the brain cortex and bring about positive effects to the patient. Additionally, science suggests that psychedelics can even increase neuroplasticity. This is the brain's ability to restructure or rewire itself when it recognizes the need for adaptation.
Research and Pre-Clinical Trials
Chronic or long-term inflammation occurs in several disorders, including auto-immune diseases and even mental health conditions like depression. Studies on animals have shown that microdosing can deliver improved resilience and optimism in the microdosed rats by improving their mood and easing their anxiety. While another animal study talked up the anti-inflammatory effects of the chemicals, leading some scientists to speculate that psychedelics could have even more healing potential. Yuluka Health will continue to explore new pathways employ the maximum potential of psychedelics for the well being of humankind.