New Zealand has just taken a historic step by authorizing the medical use of the psilocybin, the active principle of hallucinogenic mushrooms, to treat resistant depression. This decision is part of a growing global trend towards exploration of alternative For mental disorders.
While traditional antidepressants do not work for everyone, substances such as psilocybin or CBD open new perspectives. THE neurotropic, these compounds acting on the nervous system, arouse growing interest in their therapeutic potential.
👉 To find out more about neurotropes, discover our complete file here.
1. Context and decision in New Zealand
In February 2024, New Zealand has approved the use of psilocybin under medical control for patients with Treatment resistant depression. This decision follows conclusive clinical trials and a reassessment of the legal status of this substance.
-
Legal framework : The psilocybin remains prohibited in recreational use, but its therapeutic use is now supervised.
-
Institutions involved : The Ministry of Health and Regulatory Agencies have collaborated to establish strict protocols.
This advance joins those of other countries such as UNITED STATES (where the FDA has granted the status of "revolutionary therapy" to psilocybin) and Canada, where medical exemptions exist.
2. Psilocybin: mechanism and effects on depression
There psilocybin is a natural psychedelic that acts on serotonergic receivers (5-HT2A) of the brain. Unlike conventional antidepressants, which modulate serotonin in the long term, psilocybin induces rapid effects And lasting after only a few sessions.
Key scientific studies:
- A study of theImperial College London (2022) has shown a significant reduction in depressive symptoms in 60% of patients after two doses. Source
- Psilocybin would promote the neuroplasticity, helping the brain to "reconfigure" to get out of the depressive patterns. Source
However, its use must be supervised Due to the risk of BAD Trip or psychiatric disorders in certain patients.
3. Neurotropes and CBD: promising alternatives?
THE neurotropic designate substances influencing the nervous system, such as psilocybin, but also CBD, which gain in popularity for its effects on anxiety and stress.
Common points between psilocybin and CBD:
- ✔ Action on serotonin (although different)
- ✔ Anti-inflammatory potential (linked to depression)
- ✔ Holistic approach mental health
Although the CBD Is not hallucinogenic, it is studied for its effects on mood and sleep. Some patients use it in addition to other therapies.
🔍 To deepen, see our guide on CBD powers against the SSPT.
"It would seem that psychedelic substances are mistaken in the drug list."
If psychedelics are still prohibited in France, more and more scientists are studying their benefits. Their active ingredient, deemed without dependence, could help in care against depression, smoking, alcoholism or even neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Video explanations in Michel Cimes' show
Psychedelics, drugs of the future? The extraordinary powers of the human body:
Conclusion
Authorization of psilocybin in New Zealand marks an important step in recognizing alternative for depression. If precautions remain necessary, this decision opens the way to new research on neurotropic.
In parallel, solutions such as CBD continue to offer natural options for mental well-being.
💡 Find more information on our blog dedicated to neurotropic.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is provided for information only and does not constitute a medical opinion. The substances mentioned (psilocybin, CBD) may have contraindications and side effects. We strongly recommend that you consult a qualified health professional before any therapeutic use. CBDTECH does not promote the illegal use of controlled substances and recalls that psilocybin remains prohibited in France.
