Psilocybin,
the psychedelic compound in magic mushrooms, may be an effective treatment for
depression. A pilot study of psilocybin’s use in cases of treatment-resistant
depression showed it was safe and effective. Of 12 patients given the drug, all
showed some decrease in symptoms of depression for at least three weeks. Seven
continued to show a positive response at three months. Five remained in
remission beyond the three months. Many patients described a profound
experience. Magic mushrooms have been used since ancient times, both for
recreation and for religious rites. Psilocybin acts on the serotonin system, suggesting
it could be developed for treating depression. WHO estimated that some 350
million people are affected by depression.

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