One of the reasons why 5-MeO-DMT is becoming so famous worldwide is for it’s proven potential for treating psychological and emotional conditions, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, drug and alcohol addictions, among others. This is not new when it comes to psychedelics. Substances like LSD, psilocybin, and DMT have been studied for decades and keep on surprising scientists with their amazing properties, and 5-MeO-DMT is no exception.

Adult Neurogenesis

Studies with mice show that a single dose^[1] of 5-MeO-DMT increased their ability to stimulate adult neurogenesis — the formation of functional, mature neurons in specific regions of the adult brain of mammals. Although the first studies of adult neurogenesis were published in the 60s, it wasn’t until the 90’s that the scientific community started to focus on this amazing finding. Nowadays, the possibility of stimulating the formation of neurons in adults might help with understanding and treating conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, stress, insomnia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, and even serious brain injuries.

Belongingness

On the other hand, the experience during a 5-MeO-DMT session seems to be responsible for changes at emotional, mystical, and/or spiritual levels. The so-called “ego dissolution” that comes from the dissociative effect, is perceived by many as a moment of fusion with God, the divinity, infinite love, or eternal light. This leads to the reevaluation of one's existence, which from that moment on is perceived as a part of a sacred and marvelous Unity. And since many of the emotional or psychological problems of our time stem from lack of belonging, low self-esteem, or not understanding the purpose of life, this experience can provide important insights about the importance of actively and consciously occupying our place in the world.

5-MeO-DMT Assisted Therapy

A session with 5-MeO-DMT can last between 10 and 30 minutes (depending on the dose and nature of the substance), which is way more convenient for therapeutic purposes than psilocybin, LSD, or ayahuasca experiences. Of course, this only applies to approaches that combine psychotherapy with the entheogenic experience. Some people might choose a more shamanic approach and setting, which might take longer as the sessions can include trips to natural settings and group encounters. Nevertheless, when done with responsible, experienced, and honest facilitators, who aim for the real healing of the participant more than for the psychedelic experience, 5-MeO-DMT assisted therapy is proving to be an effective and comprehensive tool that can help many in the near future.

^1. Lima da Cruz RV, Moulin TC, Petiz LL, Leão RN. A Single Dose of 5-MeO-DMT Stimulates Cell Proliferation, Neuronal Survivability, Morphological and Functional Changes in Adult Mice Ventral Dentate Gyrus. Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience.