5-HTP Guide: Effects, Uses, Dosage and Safety

5-HTP Guide: Effects, Uses, Dosage and Safety

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5-HTP is a plant-derived amino acid used by the body as a direct precursor to serotonin. It is produced commercially from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia, a shrub native to West and Central Africa. Therapeutically, 5-HTP is commonly supplemented to alleviate depression, aid sleep, promote weight loss, and improve symptoms of migraines and fibromyalgia. In addition, it is used by some MDMA users to ease the comedown and improve mood the days following, by increasing levels of depleted serotonin.

Table of Contents

  1. Overview
  2. History
  3. Pharmacology
  4. Effects
  5. Uses
  6. Studies & Research
  7. 5-HTP FAQ

1. Overview 

What is 5-HTP?

5-HTP, also known as oxitriptan, is an over-the-counter dietary supplement used to increase serotonin production in the brain. While widely available in supplement form, it is also naturally produced by the body from the essential amino acid L-tryptophan in the biosynthesis of serotonin.

L-5-hydroxytryptophan

L-5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) belongs to a class of organic compounds known as the indoles. 5-HTP is the 5-hydroxy analog of the essential amino acid tryptophan, that is, tryptophan substituted by a hydroxy group at position 5 on its indole ring. It is available commercially as the levorotatory (L) enantiomer, as the D-enantiomer is biologically inactive. 

In the synthesis of serotonin, 5-HTP is the intermediate metabolite of L-tryptophan. L-tryptophan is converted into 5-HTP by the enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase with the help of iron. 5-HTP is then decarboxylated into serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, or 5-HT) by the enzyme aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase with the help of vitamin B6. 5-HTP supplementation bypasses the first enzymatic step, leading to more efficient serotonin production.

Ways to Consume 5-HTP

5-HTP is most commonly consumed orally via capsules, enteric-coated tablets, flavored lozenges, or as a powder. It can also be consumed in liquid form as an extract, tincture, or spray that is absorbed sublingually.

It can be purchased alone or in a variety of herbal and multivitamin formulations. Regardless of the consumption route, 5-HTP is well-absorbed and can be taken with meals. Approximately 70% of a dose ends up in the bloodstream. 

Once ingested, 5-HTP is rapidly eliminated from the body, with an elimination half-life of just 1.5 hours. With this in mind, some research findings suggest that slow-release formulations can more effectively enhance serotonin production, rendering it a more clinically viable drug with fewer side effects.

2. History 

Indiginous Uses

5-HTP is found naturally in the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia, a woody shrub native to Central and Western Africa. The seeds have a long history of use in Africa folk medicine, where they are used as an antibiotic, aphrodisiac, a purgative, as well as a remedy for stomach ache, vomiting, dysentery, and diarrhea. The seeds are rich in 5-HTP, containing approximately 20% 5-HTP by weight.  

Discovery

Once 5-HTP was discovered to be the bioactive ingredient of the Griffonia simplicifolia seeds, it began to be extracted for commercial use. 

In the 1990s, it became a popular supplement after L-tryptophan was removed from the market in 1989. L-tryptophan was discontinued in response to a contaminated batch, traced to a single manufacturer, that was causing outbreaks of eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome (EMS) in more than 1,500 people. EMS is a debilitating condition characterized by extreme muscle tenderness and blood abnormalities.

As a result of the outbreak, 5-HTP began to be marketed as a safer alternative to L-tryptophan. However, L-tryptophan was reintroduced to the US market in 2001 following a revised risk estimate by the Food and Drug Administration.

Prior to 1995 in the US, 5-HTP was a prescription-only medication used to treat conditions associated with serotonin deficiencies. Currently, as a dietary supplement, it is not subject to any controlled substance laws. In some European countries, however, it is prescribed as an antidepressant.

3. Pharmacology 

Mechanism of Action

5-HTP readily crosses the blood-brain barrier and increases serotonin synthesis. Serotonin is a crucial neurotransmitter involved in mood, memory, cognition, sexual behavior, pain sensation, and satiety. Serotonin may be further converted into melatonin under conditions of darkness, a hormone that plays a key role in regulating sleep/wake cycles. 

As described previously, 5-HTP is catalyzed into serotonin by an enzyme called aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AAAD). AAAD also catalyzes L-dopa into dopamine, so long-term administration of 5-HTP can deplete levels of dopamine and other catecholamine neurotransmitters.

Since these neurotransmitters are also involved in mood disorders like depression, maintaining a proper balance between these neurotransmitters and their precursors is necessary for the best therapeutic outcomes when supplementing in the long term.

Toxicity

Research has demonstrated that 5-HTP is not toxic in daily doses of 50 mg/kg or less.

A portion of ingested 5-HTP is converted to serotonin in the liver, which can increase serotonin levels in the body. Preclinical findings suggest that serotonin’s long-term effects on the heart can increase the risk of heart valve disease, but there is no human evidence that 5-HTP damages the heart.

Interactions

5-HTP should not be taken with drugs that increase serotonin levels, as the combination can increase the likelihood of a potentially life-threatening neurotoxic reaction called serotonin syndrome. This includes selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tricyclic antidepressants, tramadol, meperidine, MDMA, and dextromethorphan (DXM). 

Common 5-HTP Dose

5-HTP typically comes in doses ranging from 50 to 400 mg. Users will often start with a low initial dose (50 mg) and then increase it over a period of weeks until an optimal target dose is reached.

Threshold25 mg
Light50-100 mg
Common100-300 mg
Strong300-500+ mg

Clinical trials have used doses anywhere from 20 mg to over 3.2g per day depending on the condition being treated. The majority of these trials have used doses of 200-300 mg per day.

Overdose

A 5-HTP overdose can lead to serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome occurs when there is an excess of serotonin in the body. Too much serotonin in the body can produce a wide array of effects, including agitation, confusion, delirium, high blood pressure, abnormal heart rate, sweating, tremor, and diarrhea. 

While there are no case reports of 5-HTP-induced serotonin syndrome in humans, it has been documented in animals. In rodents, 5-HTP induces serotonin syndrome at dosages of 100– 200 mg/kg.

5-HTP overdoses have been reported in dogs that have accidentally ingested the chemical, producing severe neurological and gastrointestinal effects at a minimum toxic dose of 23.6mg/kg and fatal overdoses at 23.6mg/kg.

Safety 

According to the National Institute of Health, 5-HTP is “possibly safe” when taken by mouth in appropriate dose ranges. The authors claim it has been used safely in doses up to 400 mg for as long as a year. Higher doses, in the 6-10 gram range, have produced severe neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as muscle spasms and stomach problems.

A 2004 study published in Toxicology Letters found that, in the decades of worldwide use, 5-HTP supplementation has not been associated with any toxic cases. The one noted exception is a case involving a Canadian woman who showed symptoms of eosinophilia-myalgia syndrome, though the case was linked to a contaminated batch rather than the substance itself.

Upon spectroscopic analysis, the impurity was identified as “peak X”, the same contaminant (albeit in lower quantities) linked to the EMS outbreak from impure L-tryptophan in 1989. Since 1998, the FDA has linked 10 cases of EMS possibly linked to 5-HTP supplementation. This has led some companies to advertise “Peak X free” on their 5-HTP products.

While 5-HTP supplementation is generally safe and well-tolerated in common dose ranges, it should be avoided in pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding as well as people with Down-syndrome and liver disease.

4. Effects 

How Long Does it Take 5-HTP to Work?

Depending on the condition being treated, 5-HTP supplementation may take 1-6 weeks before the full effects are evident. When 5-HTP is taken for sleep or on an MDMA comedown, it should start ramping up serotonin production very quickly, as it reaches peak concentration in blood plasma in 1.5 hours.

Physiological Effects

Physiological effects are more likely to occur with higher doses, and can include:

  • Decreased appetite
  • Sedation
  • Decreased pain (fibromyalgia and migraines)
  • Stomach bloating
  • Stomach cramps
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness

Psychological Effects

Common psychological effects of 5-HTP include:

  • Antidepressant effects
  • Mild euphoria
  • Relaxation
  • Feelings of calmness and well-being
  • Improved tolerance for stress
  • Increased mindfulness
  • Enhanced motivation
  • Improved sleep quality
  • Drowsiness

Common Side Effects

5-HTP side effects commonly diminish with time and are mostly gastrointestinal in nature. Gradual dose increases are recommended to reduce the severity of potential side effects, which may include, especially at higher doses:

  • Nausea 
  • Stomach pain
  • Heartburn
  • Diarrhea
  • Low appetite
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Vomiting 
  • Decreased libido
  • Nightmares

Tolerance

Anecdotal reports have mentioned that 5-HTP initially works well and then tolerance develops over time.

With continuous use, 5-HTP can deplete levels of dopamine and other catecholamine neurotransmitters. When these neurotransmitters are out of balance, 5-HTP supplementation will produce a reduced effect. Tolerance is more likely to occur with long-term use, which can be alleviated by cycling 5-HTP supplementation (for example, 1 month on and 1 month off). 

A rodent study found that 5-HTP produces cross-tolerance with LSD, but the animals that were behaviorally tolerant to LSD were not cross-tolerant to 5-HTP.

5 HTP vs Tryptophan

5-HTP and its precursor L-Tryptophan are both amino acids that are used in the synthesis of serotonin. Both are supplemented to alleviate conditions associated with a serotonin deficiency, including depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and pain conditions.

5-HTP is only available in supplement form. On the other hand, tryptophan can be supplemented or obtained from foods such as poultry, beans, nuts, milk, potatoes, and cheese.

One advantage of 5-HTP is that it more effectively crosses the blood-brain barrier to efficiently increase serotonin production. L-tryptophan requires a transport molecule to gain access to the central nervous system, thus competing with other amino acids for blood-brain barrier access. 

Once 5-HTP is in the central nervous system, it is one enzymatic step away from becoming serotonin. This means it effectively bypasses the enzyme that is required to convert L-tryptophan to 5-HTP. This enzyme, called tryptophan hydroxylase, will not always efficiently catalyze L-tryptophan into 5-HTP. Indeed, it can be impeded by a multitude of factors, including insulin resistance, vitamin B6 and magnesium deficiencies, stress, and genetics. 

Another advantage of 5-HTP supplementation is that it will all be used in the biosynthesis of serotonin, whereas tryptophan is used for the production of niacin (vitamin B3) and other proteins. Therefore, not all of the L-tryptophan ingested is used in the biosynthesis of serotonin.

5. Uses 

Recreationally

Recreationally, 5-HTP is commonly used to mitigate neurotoxicity and restore serotonin levels associated with MDMA use. Typically, it is used for up to a week post-MDMA in doses ranging from 100-200 mg.

MDMA commonly produces an unpleasant comedown and a low mood hangover that can last for several days. Mechanistically, MDMA depletes serotonin levels in presynaptic cells and blocks the activity of tryptophan dehydrogenase, the enzyme that converts tryptophan to 5-HTP in the synthesis of serotonin. 

For this reason, 5-HTP supplementation can bypass the enzymatic step inhibited by MDMA and help restore normal levels of serotonin in the days following MDMA use. While most of the evidence is anecdotal, one rodent study substantiates these claims, finding that MDMA-induced reductions in serotonin can be restored with 5-HTP.

Therapeutically

5-HTP may be therapeutically useful for conditions in which serotonin is low. Much of the clinical studies using 5-HTP have focused on the treatment of depression. In addition, there is limited evidence that 5-HTP supplementation can help with symptoms of fibromyalgia, obesity, insomnia, chronic headaches, anxiety, panic attacks, cerebellar ataxia, and other conditions associated with serotonin deficiencies.

In the next section, we will overview studies that have investigated the impact of 5-HTP on many of these conditions.

6. Studies & Research

Depression

According to one 1998 review article examining the clinical uses of 5-HTP, there have been more than 15 studies published on the use of 5-HTP for depression since the early 1970s. Of these small trials, 56% of the 511 subjects in total showed significant improvement in depressive symptoms from taking 5-HTP. In addition, more recent small clinical trials investigating the antidepressant potential of 5-HTP have found that daily supplementation for 8 weeks may be as effective as prescription antidepressants while posing fewer side effects.

A 2002 meta-analysis of 108 studies investigating the antidepressant effects of 5-HTP stated that it is better than a placebo at alleviating depression. However, the study authors note more studies are needed to determine the effectiveness and safety of 5-HTP before recommending its clinical use for depression.

Overall, 5-HTP may be beneficial for symptoms of depression, especially when combined with dopamine precursors, since it may deplete dopamine levels over time. 

Anxiety

Due to the fact that serotonin plays an intimate role in regulating mood, 5-HTP may help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety. A 1985 study by Kahn and Westenberg investigated the anti-anxiety effects of 5-HTP in 10 patients with anxiety disorders. The patients were treated for 12 weeks with 300mg of 5-HTP per day, resulting in moderate reductions in anxiety as measured on three different anxiety scales. 

Weight Loss

Low serotonin levels have been found to increase carbohydrate cravings and binge eating. By raising serotonin levels, 5-HTP may help to promote weight loss, reduce appetite, and thwart excessive carbohydrate consumption.

A 1992 study by Cangiano and colleagues administered 5-HTP (900 mg/day) or a placebo to 20 obese patients. The 5-HTP-treated group showed significant reductions in weight loss, decreased carbohydrate reduction, and earlier feelings of fullness compared to the placebo-treated group.

Insomnia

5-HTP may have therapeutic potential for insomnia because it is a precursor to melatonin, a hormone made from serotonin under conditions of darkness. Research has supported that 5-HTP may improve symptoms of insomnia by reducing the time it takes to fall asleep, increasing sleep quality, and enhancing REM sleep. 

One study from 1971 investigating the effects of 5-HTP on sleep found that 600 mg taken before bed significantly increased REM sleep, from 5 to 53% of the placebo baseline. On average, the 8 subjects spent 16 more minutes per night in REM sleep compared to those who took a placebo.

Fibromyalgia

5-HTP supplementation has been found to ease fibromyalgia-related symptoms such as pain, sleep disturbances, and morning stiffness. A 1990 study by Caruso and colleagues administered 100 mg of 5-HTP or placebo three times daily to 50 fibromyalgia patients. Compared to placebo, 5-HTP significantly decreased the number of tender points and pain severity. In addition, the researchers found 5-HTP significantly improved morning stiffness, sleep patterns, anxiety, and fatigue ratings.

Migraines

Research is increasingly uncovering a link between low serotonin levels in blood vessels and the onset of migraines. To this end, a 1985 study by Benedittis and Massei found that 400 mg of 5-HTP administered twice daily resulted in a significant reduction in the severity and frequency of headaches compared to placebo. 

Another study by Davalos et al. compared the efficacy of 5-HTP to methysergide, a commonly used migraine medication, in 124 migraine patients. The researchers found that 600 mg of 5-HTP taken twice daily for six months significantly improved the intensity and duration of migraines in 71% of the subjects.

7. 5-HTP FAQ 

What Does 5-HTP Do For Your Body?

Being an immediate precursor to serotonin, 5-HTP increases the production of serotonin in the central nervous system.

How Much 5-HTP Can You Take in a Day?

In clinical trials, 5-HTP has been safely used in daily doses ranging from 20mg to 3.2g. The most common dose is in the 100-300 mg range. Higher doses (6-10g) have been associated with severe gastrointestinal side effects. 

Is 5-HTP Safe to Take Everyday?

Yes, 5-HTP has been used safely in doses of 400 mg for up to a year. With that said, short-term dosing (less than four weeks) appears to grant users the most therapeutic benefit.

Does 5-HTP Increase Estrogen?

There is no evidence that 5-HTP increases estrogen levels. However, low levels of estrogen can decrease serotonin levels. On this front, there is limited evidence that suggests 5-HTP may help reduce symptoms associated with menopause, a period of time when estrogen levels can fluctuate.

Should You Take 5-HTP in the Morning or at Night?

The time of dosing depends on the reasons for taking 5-HTP. As an insomnia treatment, 5-HTP should be taken an hour before bed. For migraines, depression, and weight loss, 5-HTP is typically divided into 2 or 3 doses and taken with meals.

How Long Does it Take for 5-HTP to Start Working?

5-HTP is rapidly absorbed and reaches maximum plasma concentration in 1.5 hours. Once 5-HTP makes its way to the central nervous system, it is an immediate signal for the brain to start synthesizing serotonin. If 5-HTP is being taken for depression, migraines, or weight loss, it may take several weeks for the full effects to become apparent.

Can You Drink Alcohol with 5-HTP?

5-HTP should not be taken with alcohol. Both substances increase serotonin levels, so combining them can increase the chance of serotonin syndrome. Some individuals using this combination have reported blackouts, seizures, and other adverse effects. 

How Long Does 5-HTP Stay in Your System?

Due to its rapid conversion to serotonin, 5-HTP does not stay in the system very long. 5-HTP has an elimination half-life of 1.5-2 hours, so after 7.5 to 10 hours, ~97% of a dose is eliminated from the body. 5-HTP’s short elimination half-life is thought to limit its therapeutic efficacy. For this reason, clinical trials have co-administered 5-HTP with decarboxylase inhibitors such as carbidopa and benserazide, which roughly doubled the half-life in order to maximize 5-HTP’s therapeutic potential.

RS Contributing Author: Dylan Beard 

Dylan Beard is a freelance science writer and editor based in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. After finishing his physics degree and dabbling in neuroscience research at UC Santa Barbara in 2017, he returned to his first love: writing. As a long-term fan of the human brain, he loves exploring the latest research on psychedelics, nootropics, psychology, consciousness, meditation, and more. When not writing, you can probably find him on hiking trails around Oregon and Washington or listening to podcasts. Feel free to follow him on Insta @dylancb88.

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How Much Does LSD Cost? When shopping around for that magical psychedelic substance, there can be many uncertainties when new to buying LSD. You may be wondering how much does LSD cost? In this article, we will discuss what to expect when purchasing LSD on the black market, what forms LSD is sold in, and the standard breakdown of buying LSD in quantity.   Navy Use of LSD on the Dark Web The dark web is increasingly popular for purchasing illegal substances. The US Navy has now noticed this trend with their staff. Read to learn more.   Having Sex on LSD: What You Need to Know Can you have sex on LSD? Read our guide to learn everything about sex on acid, from lowered inhibitions to LSD users quotes on sex while tripping.   A Drug That Switches off an LSD Trip A pharmaceutical company is developing an “off-switch” drug for an LSD trip, in the case that a bad trip can happen. Some would say there is no such thing.   Queen of Hearts: An Interview with Liz Elliot on Tim Leary and LSD The history of psychedelia, particularly the British experience, has been almost totally written by men. Of the women involved, especially those who were in the thick of it, little has been written either by or about them. A notable exception is Liz Elliot.   LSD Guide: Effects, Common Uses, Safety LSD, Lysergic acid diethylamide, or just acid is one of the most important psychedelics ever discovered. What did history teach us?   Microdosing LSD & Common Dosage Explained Microdosing, though imperceivable, is showing to have many health benefits–here is everything you want to know about microdosing LSD.   LSD Resources Curious to learn more about LSD? This guide includes comprehensive LSD resources containing books, studies and more.   LSD as a Spiritual Aid There is common consent that the evolution of mankind is paralleled by the increase and expansion of consciousness. From the described process of how consciousness originates and develops, it becomes evident that its growth depends on its faculty of perception. Therefore every means of improving this faculty should be used.   Legendary LSD Blotter Art: A Hidden Craftsmanship Have you ever heard of LSD blotter art? Explore the trippy world of LSD art and some of the top artists of LSD blotter art.   LSD and Exercise: Does it Work? LSD and exercise? Learn why high-performing athletes are taking hits of LSD to improve their overall potential.   Jan Bastiaans Treated Holocaust Survivors with LSD Dutch psychiatrist, Jan Bastiaans administered LSD-assisted therapy to survivors of the Holocaust. A true war hero and pioneer of psychedelic-therapy.   LSD and Spiritual Awakening I give thanks for LSD, which provided the opening that led me to India in 1971 and brought me to Neem Karoli Baba, known as Maharajji. Maharajji is described by the Indians as a “knower of hearts.”   How LSD is Made: Everything You Need to Know Ever wonder how to make LSD? Read our guide to learn everything you need to know about the procedures of how LSD is made.   How to Store LSD: Best Practices Learn the best way to store LSD, including the proper temperature and conditions to maximize how long LSD lasts when stored.   Bicycle Day: The Discovery of LSD Every year on April 19th, psychonauts join forces to celebrate Bicycle Day. Learn about the famous day when Albert Hoffman first discovered the effects of LSD.   Cary Grant: A Hollywood Legend On LSD Cary Grant was a famous actor during the 1930’s-60’s But did you know Grant experimented with LSD? Read our guide to learn more.   Albert Hofmann: LSD — My Problem Child Learn about Albert Hofmann and his discovery of LSD, along with the story of Bicycle Day and why it marks a historic milestone.   Babies are High: What Does LSD Do To Your Brain What do LSD and babies have in common? Researchers at the Imperial College in London discover that an adult’s brain on LSD looks like a baby’s brain.   1P LSD: Effects, Benefits, Safety Explained 1P LSD is an analogue of LSD and homologue of ALD-25. Here is everything you want to know about 1P LSD and how it compares to LSD.   Francis Crick, DNA & LSD Type ‘Francis Crick LSD’ into Google, and the result will be 30,000 links. Many sites claim that Crick (one of the two men responsible for discovering the structure of DNA), was either under the influence of LSD at the time of his revelation or used the drug to help with his thought processes during his research. Is this true?   What Happens If You Overdose on LSD? A recent article presented three individuals who overdosed on LSD. Though the experience was unpleasant, the outcomes were remarkably positive.

The Ayahuasca Experience
Ayahuasca is both a medicine and a visionary aid. You can employ ayahuasca for physical, mental, emotional and spiritual repair, and you can engage with the power of ayahuasca for deeper insight and realization. If you consider attainment of knowledge in the broadest perspective, you can say that at all times, ayahuasca heals.

 

Trippy Talk: Meet Ayahuasca with Sitaramaya Sita and PlantTeachers
Sitaramaya Sita is a spiritual herbalist, pusangera, and plant wisdom practitioner formally trained in the Shipibo ayahuasca tradition.

 

The Therapeutic Value of Ayahuasca
My best description of the impact of ayahuasca is that it’s a rocket boost to psychospiritual growth and unfolding, my professional specialty during my thirty-five years of private practice.

 

Microdosing Ayahuasca: Common Dosage Explained
What is ayahuasca made of and what is considered a microdose? Explore insights with an experienced Peruvian brewmaster and learn more about this practice.

 

Ayahuasca Makes Neuron Babies in Your Brain
Researchers from Beckley/Sant Pau Research Program have shared the latest findings in their study on the effects of ayahuasca on neurogenesis.

 

The Fatimiya Sufi Order and Ayahuasca
In this interview, the founder of the Fatimiya Sufi Order,  N. Wahid Azal, discusses the history and uses of plant medicines in Islamic and pre-Islamic mystery schools.

 

Consideration Ayahuasca for Treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Research indicates that ayahuasca mimics mechanisms of currently accepted treatments for PTSD. In order to understand the implications of ayahuasca treatment, we need to understand how PTSD develops.

 

Brainwaves on Ayahuasca: A Waking Dream State
In a study researchers shared discoveries showing ingredients found in Ayahuasca impact the brainwaves causing a “waking dream” state.

 

Cannabis and Ayahuasca: Mixing Entheogenic Plants
Cannabis and Ayahuasca: most people believe they shouldn’t be mixed. Read this personal experience peppered with thoughts from a pro cannabis Peruvian Shaman.

 

Ayahuasca Retreat 101: Everything You Need to Know to Brave the Brew
Ayahuasca has been known to be a powerful medicinal substance for millennia. However, until recently, it was only found in the jungle. Word of its deeply healing and cleansing properties has begun to spread across the world as many modern, Western individuals are seeking spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical well-being. More ayahuasca retreat centers are emerging in the Amazon and worldwide to meet the demand.

 

Ayahuasca Helps with Grief
A new study published in psychopharmacology found that ayahuasca helped those suffering from the loss of a loved one up to a year after treatment.

 

Ayahuasca Benefits: Clinical Improvements for Six Months
Ayahuasca benefits can last six months according to studies. Read here to learn about the clinical improvements from drinking the brew.

 

Ayahuasca Culture: Indigenous, Western, And The Future
Ayahuasca has been use for generations in the Amazon. With the rise of retreats and the brew leaving the rainforest how is ayahuasca culture changing?

 

Ayahuasca Guide: Effects, Common Uses, Safety
The Amazonian brew, Ayahuasca has a long history and wide use. Read our guide to learn all about the tea from its beginnings up to modern-day interest.

 

Ayahuasca and the Godhead: An Interview with Wahid Azal of the Fatimiya Sufi Order
Wahid Azal, a Sufi mystic of The Fatimiya Sufi Order and an Islamic scholar, talks about entheogens, Sufism, mythology, and metaphysics.

 

Ayahuasca and the Feminine: Women’s Roles, Healing, Retreats, and More
Ayahuasca is lovingly called “grandmother” or “mother” by many. Just how feminine is the brew? Read to learn all about women and ayahuasca.

What Is the Standard of Care for Ketamine Treatments?
Ketamine therapy is on the rise in light of its powerful results for treatment-resistant depression. But, what is the current standard of care for ketamine? Read to find out.

What Is Dissociation and How Does Ketamine Create It?
Dissociation can take on multiple forms. So, what is dissociation like and how does ketamine create it? Read to find out.

Having Sex on Ketamine: Getting Physical on a Dissociative
Curious about what it could feel like to have sex on a dissociate? Find out all the answers in our guide to sex on ketamine.

Special K: The Party Drug
Special K refers to Ketamine when used recreationally. Learn the trends as well as safety information around this substance.

Kitty Flipping: When Ketamine and Molly Meet
What is it, what does it feel like, and how long does it last? Read to explore the mechanics of kitty flipping.

Ketamine vs. Esketamine: 3 Important Differences Explained
Ketamine and esketamine are used to treat depression. But what’s the difference between them? Read to learn which one is right for you: ketamine vs. esketamine.

Guide to Ketamine Treatments: Understanding the New Approach
Ketamine is becoming more popular as more people are seeing its benefits. Is ketamine a fit? Read our guide for all you need to know about ketamine treatments.

Ketamine Treatment for Eating Disorders
Ketamine is becoming a promising treatment for various mental health conditions. Read to learn how individuals can use ketamine treatment for eating disorders.

Ketamine Resources, Studies, and Trusted Information
Curious to learn more about ketamine? This guide includes comprehensive ketamine resources containing books, studies and more.

Ketamine Guide: Effects, Common Uses, Safety
Our ultimate guide to ketamine has everything you need to know about this “dissociative anesthetic” and how it is being studied for depression treatment.

Ketamine for Depression: A Mental Health Breakthrough
While antidepressants work for some, many others find no relief. Read to learn about the therapeutic uses of ketamine for depression.

Ketamine for Addiction: Treatments Offering Hope
New treatments are offering hope to individuals suffering from addiction diseases. Read to learn how ketamine for addiction is providing breakthrough results.

Microdosing Ketamine & Common Dosages Explained
Microdosing, though imperceivable, is showing to have many health benefits–here is everything you want to know about microdosing ketamine.

How to Ease a Ketamine Comedown
Knowing what to expect when you come down from ketamine can help integrate the experience to gain as much value as possible.

How to Store Ketamine: Best Practices
Learn the best ways how to store ketamine, including the proper temperature and conditions to maximize how long ketamine lasts when stored.

How To Buy Ketamine: Is There Legal Ketamine Online?
Learn exactly where it’s legal to buy ketamine, and if it’s possible to purchase legal ketamine on the internet.

How Long Does Ketamine Stay in Your System?
How long does ketamine stay in your system? Are there lasting effects on your body? Read to discover the answers!

How Ketamine is Made: Everything You Need to Know
Ever wonder how to make Ketamine? Read our guide to learn everything you need to know about the procedures of how Ketamine is made.

Colorado on Ketamine: First Responders Waiver Programs
Fallout continues after Elijah McClain. Despite opposing recommendations from some city council, Colorado State Health panel recommends the continued use of ketamine by medics for those demonstrating “excited delirium” or “extreme agitation”.

Types of Ketamine: Learn the Differences & Uses for Each
Learn about the different types of ketamine and what they are used for—and what type might be right for you. Read now to find out!

Kitty Flipping: When Ketamine and Molly Meet
What is it, what does it feel like, and how long does it last? Read to explore the mechanics of kitty flipping.

MDMA & Ecstasy Guide: Effects, Common Uses, Safety
Our ultimate guide to MDMA has everything you want to know about Ecstasy from how it was developed in 1912 to why it’s being studied today.

How To Get the Most out of Taking MDMA as a Couple
Taking MDMA as a couple can lead to exciting experiences. Read here to learn how to get the most of of this love drug in your relationship.

Common MDMA Dosage & Microdosing Explained
Microdosing, though imperceivable, is showing to have many health benefits–here is everything you want to know about microdosing MDMA.

Having Sex on MDMA: What You Need to Know
MDMA is known as the love drug… Read our guide to learn all about sex on MDMA and why it is beginning to makes its way into couple’s therapy.

How MDMA is Made: Common Procedures Explained
Ever wonder how to make MDMA? Read our guide to learn everything you need to know about the procedures of how MDMA is made.

Hippie Flipping: When Shrooms and Molly Meet
What is it, what does it feel like, and how long does it last? Explore the mechanics of hippie flipping and how to safely experiment.

How Cocaine is Made: Common Procedures Explained
Ever wonder how to make cocaine? Read our guide to learn everything you need to know about the procedures of how cocaine is made.

A Christmas Sweater with Santa and Cocaine
This week, Walmart came under fire for a “Let it Snow” Christmas sweater depicting Santa with lines of cocaine. Columbia is not merry about it.

Ultimate Cocaine Guide: Effects, Common Uses, Safety
This guide covers what you need to know about Cocaine, including common effects and uses, legality, safety precautions and top trends today.

NEWS: An FDA-Approved Cocaine Nasal Spray
The FDA approved a cocaine nasal spray called Numbrino, which has raised suspicions that the pharmaceutical company, Lannett Company Inc., paid off the FDA..

The Ultimate Guide to Cannabis Bioavailability
What is bioavailability and how can it affect the overall efficacy of a psychedelic substance? Read to learn more.

Cannabis Research Explains Sociability Behaviors
New research by Dr. Giovanni Marsicano shows social behavioral changes occur as a result of less energy available to the neurons. Read here to learn more.

The Cannabis Shaman
If recreational and medical use of marijuana is becoming accepted, can the spiritual use as well? Experiential journalist Rak Razam interviews Hamilton Souther, founder of the 420 Cannabis Shamanism movement…

Cannabis Guide: Effects, Common Uses, Safety
Our ultimate guide to Cannabis has everything you want to know about this popular substances that has psychedelic properties.

Cannabis and Ayahuasca: Mixing Entheogenic Plants
Cannabis and Ayahuasca: most people believe they shouldn’t be mixed. Read this personal experience peppered with thoughts from a procannabis Peruvian Shaman.

CBD-Rich Cannabis Versus Single-Molecule CBD
A ground-breaking study has documented the superior therapeutic properties of whole plant Cannabis extract as compared to synthetic cannabidiol (CBD), challenging the medical-industrial complex’s notion that “crude” botanical preparations are less effective than single-molecule compounds.

Cannabis Has Always Been a Medicine
Modern science has already confirmed the efficacy of cannabis for most uses described in the ancient medical texts, but prohibitionists still claim that medical cannabis is “just a ruse.”

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