Dr Weeks’ Comment: In the early 1950s, Dr. Abram Hoffer Ph.D., M.D. in Saskatchewan Canada was doing cutting edge research on psychedelics. After a long and successful career rescuing schizophrenics from the standard of care and posting an incredible 80% cure rate, he stopped practicing medicine and, in his 90’s began one of the first and most successful health coaching gigs in North America. This was because the British Columbia College of Medicine stole his license (unjustifiably) for practicing different from the standard of care. Reminder for those of you who are new to this posting: Medicine is the only professional career where one can be punished for doing the wrong thing (innovation) while getting great results. On the other hand, you can do the right thing, (the standard of care), and get bad results, one can be promoted academic and professionally. The field of integrated medicine is a field where the non-standard of care (offering safer, effective and more cost effective) remedies are used to simply to correct the problem rather than to simply suppress symptoms. It is non-financially remunerative (we are scorned and shunned by conventional medical doctors and all state medical boards since the result of our work is fewer people being reliant on less medications). We integrative medical doctors are considered medical heretics. Dr. Hoffer was one of the original, pioneer integrative medical doctors and in fact, one of his students was two-time Nobel prize winner Paul Linus Pauling who taught the world the benefits of vitamin C for the common cold.
Today, we see the long-awaited renaissance of psychedelic medicine. Stomped out in the mid 60s by fearful politicians in the years of free love, psychedelics were incorrectly categorized as Schedule 1 meaning “dangerous with no health benefits”. However, recent research has once again demonstrated how safe and effective the various psychedelic medications have proven to be. The laws are changing slowly. I stress again the term “renaissance” because this work was known in the 60s and is now experiencing a rebirth. Therefore over the past 60 years, everyone who has suffered with any variety of schizophrenic diagnoses could’ve received better care if scientist had been allowed to demonstrate efficacy without political interference.
In 1967, Dr. Abram Hoffer, Ph.D., M.D. with his colleague, Dr. Humphry Osmond M.D., published a book called The Hallucinogens. He describes his research going back to 1954 when mescaline, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and adrenochrome were classified as hallucinogens. Other substances with active principles from marijuana, harmala alkaloids and ibogain were soon classified as hallucinogens as well. In this landmark pioneering book, Dr. Hoffer describes the following “Hallucinogens are then chemicals, which in nontoxic doses, produce changes in perception, in thought, and in mood, but which seldom produce mental confusion, memory loss, or disorientation for person, place and time. These latter changes are characteristic of organic brain reactions following intoxication with alcohol, anesthetics, and other toxic drugs”. He goes on to say “The use of hallucinogens has been described as one of the major advances of this century. There is a little doubt that they have had a massive impact upon psychiatry, and may produce marked changes in our society. The violent reaction for and against the hallucinogens suggested that even if these compounds are not universally understood and approved of, they will neither be forgotten nor neglected”. Prophetic words, indeed. 60 years later, psychedelics are once again in the forefront of psychiatric and neurologic research.
The table of contents of Dr. Hoffer’s book The Hallucinogens lays out a brilliant oversight of these powerful and beneficial agents. Chapter 1 – Plant beta-phenethylamines which include mescaline, amphetamines, kava kava and sympathomimetic amines; Chapter 2A – lysergic acid diethylamide LSD; Chapter 2B – Ololiuqui: the ancient Aztec narcotic (convolvulaceae containing ergot alkaloids); Chapter 3 – Adrenochrome and some of its derivatives (adrenolutin, 5,6-hydroxy-N-methylindole); Chapter 4- Indole Hallucinogens derived from Tryptophan (dimethaltryptamine [DMT]; Iboga alkaloids, harmine, psilocybin, yohimbine, Chapter 5 – Hallucinogens related to Parasympathetic Biochemistry, (acetylcholine acetylcholinesterase, anticholinesterases as hallucinogens, cholineacetylase. Inhibitors as anti-hallucinogens; anesthetic hallucinogens; Chapter 6 – Taraxein; Chapter 7 animal studies of hallucinogenic drugs;
So that was 60 years ago. What about today?
Today the torch is carried by a dear friend and esteemed colleague Fernando Vega. For the past decade, Dr. Vega has been openly treating suffering patients with hallucinogens, knowing that his medical license would be at risk. He openly described his work to the medical board so that there would be no question about what he was doing and what his results were. He has hundreds of patients videotaped testimonial of the safety and efficacy of these hallucinogenic substances. He has used DMT, psilocybin, ketamine, and ibogaine for a variety of medical illnesses for which the science supports use these agents.
Here is a link to his thorough and academically white paper which he freely offered to the Washington state medical board so that they would understand the importance of his work and allow him to continue. After a decade, for reasons which are inexplicable on moral grounds, the medical board immediately suspended Dr. Vega’s license, so the work falls to others, particularly those in the state of Texas and Colorado, which are open to the use of hallucinogenic medicines. Texas, for example, has allocated ~$100 million worth of research funds to the use of ibogaine for patients suffering with PTSD or addiction. Meanwhile, clinics in Mexico offering hallucinogenic substances are thriving and to the shame of the American medical community, people need to travel to Third World nations in order to get First Tier medical care.
Now, to bring you current to the present situation, below please find a short summary of the beneficial aspects of various psychedelic medications with peer review scientific literature references, validating their use. For the purposes of this posting, we will reference only science related to the treatment of depression. But depression is not the only illness treated by hallucinogenic. They can aid in the peaceful transition towards death for a terminally ill and pain-wracked patient, and in a case of ibogaine, the main indications are for PTSD and also for addiction. Finally, of course, as an anxiolytic agent, the research has long proven that THC and marijuana is much safer than alcohol.
DMT
“A single dose of DMT with psychotherapeutic support produced a rapid, significant reduction in depressive symptoms, sustained up to 3 months. The treatment was well-tolerated and safe.”
- nature medicine Open access Published: 16 February 2026
A short-acting psychedelic intervention for major depressive disorder: a phase IIa randomized placebo-controlled trial
- David Erritzoe, et al Nature Medicine volume 32, pages591–598 (2026)Cite this article
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide, yet many patients have inadequate responses to current treatments. Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a serotonergic psychedelic with rapid onset and short duration, shows promise as a potential antidepressant (AD), although clinical evidence in MDD remains limited. We conducted a phase IIa, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravenous DMT (SPL026; DMT fumarate) in adults with moderate-to-severe MDD. Participants received a single 21.5-mg dose of DMT or placebo infused over 10 min, along with supportive psychotherapeutic support, followed by a 2-week assessment. A subsequent open-label phase offered all participants a second DMT dose. The primary outcome was the change in Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) at 2 weeks. Secondary outcomes included response (≥50% reduction in MADRS score) and remission (MADRS ≤ 10). A total of 34 participants were randomized, 17 to placebo–active and 17 to active–active. At 2 weeks, the DMT group showed a significantly greater reduction in MADRS score than placebo (mean difference = −7.35; 95% CI = −13.62 to −1.08; P = 0.023). In the open-label phase, AD effects persisted up to 3 months, with no significant differences between those who received one versus two doses. Adverse events were mostly mild to moderate, commonly infusion site pain, nausea and transient anxiety. No serious adverse events occurred. A single dose of DMT with psychotherapeutic support produced a rapid, significant reduction in depressive symptoms, sustained up to 3 months. The treatment was well-tolerated and safe. ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT04673383.
Psilocybin
“… psilocybin at a single dose of 25 mg, but not 10 mg, reduced depression scores significantly…”
N Engl J Med. 2022 Nov 3;387(18):1637-1648. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2206443.
Single-Dose Psilocybin for a Treatment-Resistant Episode of Major Depression
Guy M Goodwin 1, et al. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2206443
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin is being studied for use in treatment-resistant depression.
Conclusions: In this phase 2 trial involving participants with treatment-resistant depression, psilocybin at a single dose of 25 mg, but not 10 mg, reduced depression scores significantly more than a 1-mg dose over a period of 3 weeks but was associated with adverse effects. Larger and longer trials, including comparison with existing treatments, are required to determine the efficacy and safety of psilocybin for this disorder. (Funded by COMPASS Pathfinder; EudraCT number, 2017-003288-36; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03775200.).
Ayahuasca
“Through the review, ayahuasca proves to be a worthwhile therapeutic tool that if used in the right setting influences mind, body, and spirit… a single dose of ayahuasca could have lasting effects of almost a year”
Ayahuasca is a South American psychoactive decoction prepared from Banisteriopsis caapi vine and a DMT containing plant featuring harmala alkaloids used by indigenous cultures in the Amazon.
From Google search:
“Ayahuasca shows significant potential as a treatment for depression, particularly in cases of treatment-resistant depression. Multiple studies, including randomized controlled trials and large-scale cross-sectional surveys, report rapid and sustained reductions in depressive symptoms after a single dose. For example, a 2022 study found that 71% of participants with clinical depression achieved remission within a year after one ayahuasca session, with symptom improvements lasting up to 180 days. Another study of 11,912 users found that 94% reported improvement or complete resolution of depression, with 78% experiencing “very much” or “completely resolved” symptoms.
The therapeutic effects are linked to several biological and psychological mechanisms:
- Neurochemical changes: Ayahuasca increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and normalizes cortisol levels, both of which are implicated in depression.
- Rapid onset: Unlike conventional antidepressants, ayahuasca produces noticeable symptom reduction within hours, with peak effects observed around one week post-use.
- Mystical experiences: Participants who report profound spiritual or mystical experiences during the session tend to have greater long-term improvement.
- Psychotherapeutic integration: The ritual context and post-session therapy are critical for sustaining benefits, as highlighted by a 2026 longitudinal study showing that personalized follow-up and integration support are key to long-term success.
However, not all experiences are positive. A small percentage of users (2.7% in one study) reported worsening depression, particularly those with pre-existing anxiety or early onset of ayahuasca use. Some also experience acute anxiety, dissociation, or confusion post-use, especially during the initial psychedelic experience.
In summary, ayahuasca represents a promising, fast-acting intervention for depression, especially when used in a structured, therapeutic setting. Ongoing clinical trials, including phase II studies on DMT (a key component), aim to validate its efficacy and safety for broader psychiatric use.”
Cureus. 2024 Mar 5;16(3):e55574. doi: 10.7759/cureus.55574
The Effects of Ayahuasca on Psychological Disorders: A Systematic Literature Review
Reena Sheth 1, et al
Abstract
Ayahuasca is an original Amazonian brew made from the vines and leaves of Psychotroa viridis and Banisteriopsis caapi. Both P. viridis and B. caapi give this brew its unique psychedelic properties which have been revered over centuries. In recent years, ayahuasca has gained attention as a potential therapeutic tool for mental health disorders, including substance abuse and depression. The uniqueness of ayahuasca’s therapeutic potential is that it is an amalgamation of its biochemical makeup and the ritual guided by a shaman, along with the interpretation of the participant of their experience. The boom of “ayahuasca tourism” has brought forth testimonies of feeling “cured” of depression, and substance abuse and an improvement in overall well-being. This systematic literature review focuses on summarizing the recently available research on the effectiveness of ayahuasca as a treatment for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It also focuses on understanding the effects it has on personality traits that play a significant role in the manifestation of the above-listed mental health conditions effects. Additionally, the review investigates the importance and role the ritual itself plays, often described as the “mystical experience”. This systematic literature review aims to explore the current state of knowledge regarding the use of ayahuasca for numerous mental health conditions by analyzing medical research papers published no earlier than September 2017 to no later than May 2023 from Google Scholar and PubMed. A total of 43 articles met the criteria and were used for detailed analysis. This review will synthesize the findings of the studies, examining the potential therapeutic effects of ayahuasca on multiple mental health disorders, the significance of the “mystical experience,” and the mechanisms of action underlying its effects. Through the review, ayahuasca proves to be a worthwhile therapeutic tool that if used in the right setting influences mind, body, and spirit. It is important to note that most studies used in this article relied on surveys and self-reporting proving to be a limitation as no clear standard has been achieved to test the efficacy of ayahuasca. The respect for the culture and origin needs to be retained as Western medicine dwells deeper into ayahuasca’s benefits.
In the body of the article, the statement is made that one dose can have lasting beneficial effects for up to one year. Imagine what a disruptive technology that would be to antidepressant sales.
“In more than one study it is mentioned that the combination of both biochemical mechanisms and the unquantifiable “mystical experience” contributes to the lasting anti-depressant effects of ayahuasca [25]. It is proposed that a single dose of ayahuasca could have lasting effects of almost a year, with the most rapid decrease in symptoms seen right after the ayahuasca dose and the lowest scores reported almost seven days after the dose. [11]
Ibogaine
“Data also point toward a beneficial impact on depressive and trauma-related psychological symptoms.”
J Subst Abuse Treat. 2022 Jul:138:108717.
doi: 10.1016/j.jsat.2021.108717. Epub 2021 Dec 30.
A systematic literature review of clinical trials and therapeutic applications of ibogaine
Patrick Köck 1, et al DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2021.108717
Abstract
Results: In total, we identified 743 records. In this review, we consider 24 studies, which included 705 individuals receiving ibogaine or noribogaine. This review includes two randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trials, one double-blind controlled clinical trial, 17 open-label studies or case series (including observational or retrospective studies), three case reports, and one retrospective survey. The published data suggest that ibogaine is an effective therapeutic intervention within the context of SUDs, reducing withdrawal symptoms and craving. Data also point toward a beneficial impact on depressive and trauma-related psychological symptoms. However, studies have reported severe medical complications and deaths, which seem to be associated with neuro- and cardiotoxic effects of ibogaine. Two of these fatalities were described in the 24 studies included in this review.
Conclusion: Treatment of SUDs and persisting comorbidities requires innovative treatment approaches. Rapid-onset therapies such as the application of ibogaine may offer novel treatment opportunities for specific individuals. Rigorous study designs within medical settings are necessary to warrant safe application, monitoring, and, possibly, medical intervention.
Marijuana THC/ Cannabis
“…the issue of using cannabis as an anti-depressant is at an early stage of examination..”
Adv Exp Med Biol. 2021:1264:67-80.
doi: 10.1007/978-3-030-57369-0_5.
Cannabis and Depression
Daniel Feingold 1, Aviv Weinstein 2 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-57369-0_5
Abstract
There is a growing body of evidence pointing to the co-occurrence of cannabis use and depression. There is also some evidence that the use of cannabis may lead to the onset of depression; however, strong evidence points to the inverse association; i.e. that depression may lead to the onset or increase in cannabis use frequency. Observational and epidemiological studies have not indicated a positive long-term effect of cannabis use on the course and outcome of depression. The association between cannabis use and depression may be stronger among men during adolescence and emerging adulthood and stronger in women during midlife. There is an indication for potential genetic correlation contributing to the comorbidity of cannabis dependence and major depression, namely that serotonin (5-HT) may mediate such association and there is also evidence for specific risk alleles for cannabis addiction. There is preclinical evidence that alteration in the endocannabinoid system could potentially benefit patients suffering from depression. However, the issue of using cannabis as an anti-depressant is at an early stage of examination and there is little evidence to support it. Finally, there has been little support to the notion that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be effective in decreasing depressive symptoms or rates of substance use in adolescents treated for depression and a co-occurring substance use disorder. In conclusion, despite methodological limitations, research in the past decades has broadened our knowledge on the association between cannabis use and depression from epidemiological, neurological, genetic, and pharmacological perspectives.