Author: natashamason

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Decreases in State and Trait Anxiety Post-psilocybin: A Naturalistic, Observational Study Among Retreat Attendees

natashamason

Historical and recent research suggests psychedelic drugs may be efficacious in alleviating anxiety-related symptoms among healthy and clinical populations. A recent study by our group investigated whether psilocybin-containing truffles, when taken in a supportive group setting, altered ratings of state and trait anxiety, and if these alterations were related to changes in neuroticism, mindfulness capacities,… Continue reading Decreases in State and Trait Anxiety Post-psilocybin: A Naturalistic, Observational Study Among Retreat Attendees

Cannabis, NPS

A comparison of acute neurocognitive and psychotomimetic effects of a synthetic cannabinoid and natural cannabis at psychotropic dose equivalence

natashamason

Since about 20 years, smoking mixtures, such as Spice or K2, have become popular alternatives for cannabis. These smoking mixtures contain synthetic cannabinoids, which are reported to cause more psychological problems and stronger behavioral impairment. However, comparing the effects of synthetic cannabinoids with natural cannabis has been problematic due to the differences in pharmacological properties… Continue reading A comparison of acute neurocognitive and psychotomimetic effects of a synthetic cannabinoid and natural cannabis at psychotropic dose equivalence

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Multifaceted Research with Psychedelics @ Maastricht University

natashamason

We conduct a large variety of studies, all aimed at better understanding psychedelic mechanisms of action, and their clinical applications. To get a glimpse at some of the different aspects of our research, check out the video from our recent symposium, where our PhD candidates share some of the work going on at our department.… Continue reading Multifaceted Research with Psychedelics @ Maastricht University

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Metabolomics and integrated network analysis reveal roles of endocannabinoids and large neutral amino acid balance in the ayahuasca experience

natashamason

What is the metabolomic fingerprint of the ayahuasca experience? In a recent study, we collected plasma samples from 23 volunteers both before and during the ayahuasca experience. Samples were screened for concentrations of 164 targeted biomarkers, including endocannabinoids, markers of amino acid metabolism, steroids, ceramindes, etc. What did this fingerprint look like? Changes in serotonin… Continue reading Metabolomics and integrated network analysis reveal roles of endocannabinoids and large neutral amino acid balance in the ayahuasca experience