Could a Psychedelic Compound found in 'Magic Mushrooms' Treat Depression?

Researchers from the Psychiatric University Hospital of Zurich have discovered that a compound found in magic mushrooms helps to weaken negative stimuli in the brain. 

As processing emotions can be impaired by various causes, including certain mental disorders, researchers believe that psilocybin, a bioactive component found in Mexican magic mushrooms, could influence the amygdala to weaken negative thought patterns. In fact, these findings could "point the way to novel approaches to treatment" according to lead study author Rainer Krähenmann of the university, via a press release.

In fact, findings showed that elevated activity of the amygdala can strengthen negative signals and weakening in the process of other positive ones, which plays an important role in the development of depression and certain anxiety disorders.

"Even a moderate dose of psilocybin weakens the processing of negative stimuli by modifying amygdala activity in the limbic system as well as in other associated brain regions", Krähenmann added, via the release.

For many patients experiencing depressive symptoms, they often react more negatively to stimuli as their thoughts revolve more around negative content. Not all drugs used for depression and anxiety disorders are always successful and can result in unwanted side-effects. Krähenmann hopes that further studies with the use of psilocybin could lead to novel treatments for patients who may not respond positively to medications.

More information regarding the findings can be seen via the journal Biological Psychiatry.