The Neuroscience of Psychedelics

The Neuroscience of Psychedelics by Genís Ona provides a detailed look at the neural and biological mechanisms of psychedelic use. This book examines the main pharmacological properties of psychedelic substances, including LSD, DMT, psilocybin, ayahuasca, mescaline, ketamine, ibogaine, salvia, and MDMA.

Genís Ona explains the physiological mechanisms behind visionary effects, detailing what is happening in the brain and how each psychedelic is processed by the body. The book includes safe strategies for using psychedelics, such as harm-reduction techniques, and looks at where the future of psychedelic therapies might lead.

With the widespread legalization of marijuana and the increasing use of psychoactives in controlled therapy settings, further research and understanding of psychedelics is now possible. Individual accounts of psychedelic use abound, yet the precise effects on the brain and body remain not widely understood.

Ona, a longtime pharmacological researcher, presents a comprehensive analysis of the pharmacological properties of various psychedelic substances. He explores how psychedelics work within the brain, sharing results from extensive research to reveal the physiological mechanisms that enable these molecules to produce visionary effects. Ona explains what happens at the receptor level and the cascade effects that differ for each substance.

The book examines how the body processes each substance, addressing the release, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of each psychedelic. It also delves into possible dangerous interactions between these substances and other drugs, as well as their potential toxicity.

While the main focus is on the biological and neurological effects of psychedelics, Ona also explores their mystical and spiritual dimensions, particularly as practised in Indigenous traditions. He shows how these practices enable access to a profound spiritual territory. The book offers insights into safe strategies for using psychedelics and considers the future of psychedelic therapies, with an emphasis on respecting, honouring, and protecting traditional knowledge.