Scientific Research

When Michael Pollan set out to research how LSD and psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) are being used to provide relief to people suffering from difficult-to-treat conditions such as depression, addiction and anxiety, he did not intend to write what is undoubtedly his most personal book. But upon discovering how these remarkable substances are improving the lives not only of the mentally ill but also of healthy people coming to grips with the challenges of everyday life, he decided to explore the landscape of the mind in the first person as well as the third. Thus began a singular adventure into various altered states of consciousness, along with a dive deep into both the latest brain science and the thriving underground community of psychedelic therapists. Pollan sifts the historical record to separate the truth about these mysterious drugs from the myths that have surrounded them since the 1960s, when a handful of psychedelic evangelists inadvertently catalyzed a powerful backlash against what was then a promising field of research.

This is the story of LSD told by a concerned yet hopeful father, organic chemist Albert Hofmann. He traces LSD's path from a promising psychiatric research medicine to a recreational drug sparking hysteria and prohibition. In LSD: My Problem Child, we follow Dr. Hofmann's trek across Mexico to discover sacred plants related to LSD, and listen in as he corresponds with other notable figures about his remarkable discovery. Underlying it all is Dr. Hofmann's powerful conclusion that mystical experiences may be our planet's best hope for survival. Whether induced by LSD, meditation, or arising spontaneously, such experiences help us to comprehend "the wonder, the mystery of the divine in the microcosm of the atom, in the macrocosm of the spiral nebula, in the seeds of plants, in the body and soul of people." More than sixty years after the birth of Albert Hofmann's problem child, his vision of its true potential is more relevant, and more needed, than ever.

Called "America's wisest and most respected authority on psychedelics and their use," James Fadiman has been involved with psychedelic research since the 1960s. In this guide to the immediate and long-term effects of psychedelic use for spiritual (high dose), therapeutic (moderate dose), and problem-solving (low dose and microdose) purposes, Fadiman outlines best practices for safe, sacred entheogenic voyages learned through his more than 40 years of experience--from the benefits of having a sensitive guide during a session (and how to be one) to the importance of the setting and pre-session intention. Fadiman reviews the newest as well as the neglected research into the psychotherapeutic value of visionary drug use for increased personal awareness and a host of serious medical conditions, including his recent study of the reasons for and results of psychedelic use among hundreds of students and professionals. He reveals new uses for LSD and other psychedelics, including microdosing, extremely low doses for improved cognitive functioning and emotional balance.

Embracing the revival of psychedelic research and the discovery of new therapeutic uses, clinical psychologist Dr. Richard Louis Miller discusses what is happening today in psychedelic medicine--and what will happen in the future--with top researchers and thinkers in this field, including Rick Doblin, Stanislav Grof, James Fadiman, Julie Holland, and Dennis McKenna. Dr. Miller and his contributors cover the tumultuous history of early psychedelic research brought to a halt 50 years ago by the U.S. government as well as offering non-technical summaries of the most recent studies with MDMA, psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca. They explore the biochemistry of consciousness and the use of psychedelics for self-discovery and healing. They discuss the use of psilocybin for releasing fear in the terminally ill and the potential for MDMA-assisted psychotherapy in the treatment of PTSD. They examine Dr. Charles Grob's research on the indigenous use and therapeutic properties of ayahuasca and Dr. Gabor Mate's attempt to transport this plant medicine to a clinical setting with the help of Canada's Department of National Health.

In 1952, Aldous Huxley became involved in the early psychedelic movement with an experiment that involved 400 mg of mescaline. The psychedelic drug produced a visionary experience that he compared to the mystical experiences of mystics and saints. The experience led him to write "The Doors of Perception," a philosophical essay detailing his experience. The book takes its title from a phrase in William Blake's poem "The Marriage of Heaven and Hell." Huxley recalls the insights he experienced, ranging from the "purely aesthetic" to "sacramental vision," and reflects on their philosophical and psychological implications. "Heaven and Hell" is an essay by Aldous Huxley published in 1956, which discusses the nature of mystical experience and its relationship to art and symbolism. It was published as a companion piece to "The Doors of Perception." Together, these essays explore the relationship between psychedelic experiences, art, spirituality, and the nature of reality, offering profound insights into altered states of consciousness and their significance for human understanding.

This groundbreaking book by one of the world's foremost trauma experts reveals how trauma literally reshapes the body and brain, compromising sufferers' capacities for pleasure, engagement, self-control, and trust. Van der Kolk explores innovative treatments including neurofeedback, meditation, sports, drama, and yoga.

Drawing on nearly five decades of experience in psychedelic research, William Richards explores the intersection of psychedelics and spirituality. He examines mystical consciousness, the therapeutic potential of psychedelic medicines, and practical guidelines for safe and effective psychedelic sessions.

A groundbreaking investigation into the origins and impact of the war on drugs, spanning three continents and a century of drug prohibition. Through personal stories, Hari challenges conventional thinking about addiction and drug policy.

A pioneering work exploring the use of LSD-assisted psychotherapy with dying patients. Based on extensive clinical research, Grof and Halifax document how psychedelic experiences helped terminally ill patients face death with reduced anxiety, increased acceptance, and profound spiritual experiences.

A practical guide for integrating psychedelic experiences into everyday life, drawing on decades of clinical and ceremonial work. Aixalà provides concrete techniques for therapists, guides, and individuals navigating the full arc of a psychedelic journey — from preparation and the experience itself to post-experience integration and lasting personal transformation.

Stanislav Grof's magnum opus, a comprehensive encyclopedia distilling over sixty years of research into non-ordinary states of consciousness. The work covers LSD psychotherapy, holotropic breathwork, transpersonal psychology, and Grof's detailed cartography of the human psyche, offering both theoretical foundations and practical guidance for inner exploration.

A landmark work by one of the pioneers of psychedelic research. Drawing on decades of clinical experience, Grof presents a comprehensive framework for understanding and working with psychedelic experiences. The book covers therapeutic applications, cartography of the psyche, perinatal matrices, and transpersonal phenomena encountered during LSD sessions.

A comprehensive guide to the practice of psychedelic facilitation, blending indigenous Mazatec wisdom with contemporary therapeutic approaches. Bourzat draws on over 30 years of experience to provide a detailed framework for guiding others through expanded states of consciousness, covering preparation, the session itself, and integration.

William James’ classic examination of religious and mystical experience remains one of the most influential works in the psychology of religion. Based on his Gifford Lectures, James analyses first-hand accounts of mystical states, conversion experiences, and saintliness, providing a philosophical framework that continues to inform psychedelic research today.

A compassionate exploration of addiction and its roots in childhood trauma and emotional suffering. Drawing on neuroscience, psychology, and his experience as a physician in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, Maté argues that addiction is not a moral failing but a response to pain. Essential reading for understanding trauma-informed approaches in psychedelic work.

Sam Harris explores the nature of consciousness, meditation, and the neuroscience behind spiritual experiences. Drawing on his background in neuroscience and years of contemplative practice, Harris examines how psychedelics, meditation, and self-inquiry can reveal the illusory nature of the self and provide genuine insight into the nature of consciousness.