Indeed, in April [2024], the Yale School of Medicine published the results of the first randomised control study of psilocybin for pain relief. Although it enrolled just 10 CH [Cluster Headache] sufferers, half of those who received psilocybin as opposed to a placebo reported a reduction in attacks.

Precisely how psilocybin interrupts the cycle of headaches is an open question. Brain scans suggest it may help reset the neural pathways involved in the pain cycle. Another theory is that it has something to do with psilocybin’s indole ring, which is similar in shape to the neurotransmitter serotonin (LSD and lysergic acid amide, which can be derived from morning glory seeds, also have indole rings). The good news for sufferers is that after a decision in 2018 by the US Food and Drug Administration to award psilocybin “breakthrough therapy” status, researchers are beginning to take these claims seriously.

Original Article (The Guardian):
Psychedelic Outlaws by Joanna Kempner review – a compelling case for the use of magic mushrooms in pain relief
Artwork Fair Use: Ruth Hartnup