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You may be wondering how psychedelics affect our immune system and the relationship between the mind and the body. Psycho Neuro Immunology helps us understand how these elements come together. Indeed, Psycho Neuro Immunology is the interdisciplinary field that focuses on the complex relationship between our mental state, nervous system and immune system.
These three systems work together and influence each other in many ways. The immune system’s job is to detect and fight pathogens, while the nervous system is responsible for transmitting signals in our body.
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Psychedelics and the immune system
Psychedelic substances, such as LSD, psilocybin (mushrooms and magic truffles) and DMT, have attracted the attention of scientists and enthusiasts alike for their unique effects on the mind and perception. Recent research has also shown that these substances can affect our immune system. A study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Davis found that psilocybin can enhance immune system activity.
Participants administered psilocybin showed an increase in certain immune cells that are important for defence against disease. Another interesting finding is that psychedelics can enhance our ability to learn and adapt. This also applies to our immune system. Studies have shown that psychedelic substances can increase the plasticity of the immune system, meaning it is better able to adapt to changes and threats[1] .
The mind-body connection
To understand the influence of psychedelics on the immune system, we must also look at the mind-body connection. Our mental state can play a big role in influencing our physical health. Stress, for instance, is known to be a factor that can weaken our immune system. Prolonged stress can lead to chronic inflammation and reduced defences against infections[2] .
On the other hand, positive emotions and a positive mindset can actually contribute to a healthier immune system. Psychedelics can potentially affect this connection by activating certain receptors in the brain responsible for mood and emotions. This activation can lead to positive changes in our mental state, which in turn can have a beneficial effect on our immune system.
Magic truffles and stress
One of the most common causes of a weakened immune system is chronic stress. Prolonged exposure to stress can lead to inflammation in the body and reduce the effectiveness of our immune system. Magic truffles, however, can help reverse this process. Research has shown that the active ingredient in magic truffles, psilocybin, can reduce anxiety and stress[3] . Psilocybin can reduce activity in the amygdala, a part of our brain involved in processing emotions such as anxiety.
Through this inhibitory effect, psilocybin can help promote a sense of calm and tranquillity, reducing the impact of stress on our bodies. In addition, psilocybin has also shown that it can help increase levels of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), a protein that stimulates the growth and repair of neurons.
Sources:
[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0889159123002684
[2] https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/understanding-the-stress-response
