Magic mushrooms as allies against aging
Psilocybin, the active compound in so-called “magic mushrooms”, is increasingly associated with benefits far beyond hallucinations. New scientific findings suggest it may slow aging – and potentially extend life.
Scientific confirmation of anti-aging effects
According to research published in the Nature Partnering Journal Aging, a team from Baylor College of Medicine and Emory University found that psilocybin reduces cellular markers of aging and – depending on the dose – can extend cell lifespan by up to 57%. Experiments on older mice showed improved survival rates.
Helping fight depression and dementia
Psilocybin is already being tested in clinical trials for treating depression and cognitive disorders like dementia. Last month, the American Cancer Society reported that participants in a phase 2 study who received a single 25 mg dose of psilocybin experienced a significant reduction in depressive symptoms – lasting two years after treatment.
Whole-body impact beyond psychedelia
“Our results suggest that psilocybin has a powerful systemic effect, including anti-aging benefits,” said Dr. Louise Hecker, a cardiovascular specialist at Baylor. Researchers believe psilocybin could open a new chapter in medicine aimed at healing and healthy longevity.
Who first isolated psilocybin?
Psilocybin was first isolated by Albert Hofmann, the Swiss chemist better known for synthesizing LSD. In the late 1950s, while working at the pharmaceutical company Sandoz, Hofmann identified psilocybin as the main active ingredient in magic mushrooms – unlocking decades of research into their potential not only in psychedelia, but in biomedicine.
Do you believe in the power of growth, knowledge, and innovation?
Support our work and independent reporting with a virtual coffee:
coff.ee/samodobrevijesti
