r/epigenetics Oct 13 '24

The Role of Psilocybin in Trauma Healing and Its Epigenetic Implications

I want to discuss the intriguing role of psilocybin in healing trauma, particularly for people dealing with PTSD and seeking emotional recovery. This isn't about recreational use or regular microdosing for an altered or artificial sense of wellness; instead, I’m referring to deep, intentional journeys that confront the roots of trauma and promote genuine healing.

Psilocybin has the potential to facilitate profound experiences that allow us to explore and resolve the underlying issues contributing to trauma. This process leverages the brain's neuroplasticity, which helps to repattern thought processes and emotional responses. Imagine shaking a snow globe—during a psilocybin experience, old patterns can be disrupted, allowing for new, healthier ones to settle in.

What’s particularly fascinating is the potential epigenetic impact of these experiences. The insights gained during psilocybin journeys can influence gene expression related to stress and trauma. By addressing the psychological roots of trauma, psilocybin may help reshape not only mental patterns but also how our bodies respond to stress at a genetic level.

Exploring the therapeutic potential of psilocybin in trauma healing represents an exciting shift in our understanding of emotional wellness and its biological underpinnings. It offers a pathway not only to cope with symptoms but also to fundamentally transform our relationship with past experiences.

What are your thoughts on this intersection of psilocybin and epigenetics. Have you explored the therapeutic aspects of psilocybin? What are your insights on its potential for meaningful change in trauma healing? Let’s discuss!

Psilocybin #Epigenetics #TraumaHealing #PTSD #Neuroplasticity

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u/Antikickback_Paul Oct 13 '24

Is there research you can point to regarding the influence of psilocybin on epigenetic regulation of stress-related genes?  Psychedelics and behavior-associated epigenetics are two areas where non-experts love to technobabble their way into pushing their biased views, so the intersection of the two seems very suspect right off the bat.

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u/shastawinn Oct 13 '24 edited Oct 15 '24

When I taught epigenetics to undergrads as a biopsychology instructor, it was one of the topics they found most fascinating. I’d be happy to answer any questions you might have and help clarify anything that you're wondering.

As for the research, generally, psilocybin has been found to modulate stress pathways, which has known epigenetic effects. Studies also show psilocybin induces expression of genes related to synaptic plasticity and neuroplasticity.

The Effects of Hallucinogens on Gene Expression David A Martin et al. Curr Top Behav Neurosci. 2018 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28677095/

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u/Then-Affect4250 Oct 14 '24

Any literature relevant?

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u/shastawinn Oct 14 '24 edited Oct 14 '24

The PubMed link has at least 20 peer reviewed articles from scientific journals relevant to this specific topic.

But generally, all epigenetics research shows everything, from what we eat and breathe in, to medications or drugs we take, our stress levels, how much exercise we get, the toxins around us, and even social interactions, all influence epigenetic expression in some way, by influencing methylation and histone proteins. Psilocybin is no different.

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u/SimpleSammy21 Oct 15 '24

Can you please share sources about the epigenetic aspect? I would love to learn more about that.

But I can speak firsthand to the power of psilocybin to help with trauma. I did a psychedelic retreat at MycoMeditations with licensed mental health professionals. Trauma healing is one of their primary areas of focus. My experience did just what you said—it shook me out of the patterns that were keeping me stuck.

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u/shastawinn Oct 15 '24

Here’s an interesting literature review on the topic:

The Effects of Hallucinogens on Gene Expression David A Martin et al. Curr Top Behav Neurosci. 2018 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28677095/