There’s no doubt in anyones mind. Psychedelics are a hot topic right now. And for good reason.

With success rates that are blowing conventional Western Medical treatments out of the water, they can no longer be ignored… From improving smoking cessation rates from 35% to 80% at 6 month follow up in one pilot study (1) to allaying apathy, anxiety and hopelessness in those with terminal Cancer diagnoses (2); psilocybin, the psychoactive constituent of magic mushrooms, is just what the Doctor ordered.

In the last 5 years it is apparent that we have been emerging into a third wave of Psychedelic resurgence. From the Soma of mythical Vedic, legend to the free-loving 60´s, this third wave has been gathering momentum for the best part of half a century. And about time! We have been waiting since the American Governments´ “Just say no” campaign in response to the lack of willing man power for the Vietnam War. Back then, it was pretty clear that psychedelics were a powerful force. Certainly one that had the potential to threaten Economic stability regardless of their more esoteric qualities. As a result legal research was abruptly ceased, behind an impenetrable curtain of propaganda and scheduling laws.

Thankfully we have arrived at the present epoch! Adrift in a sea of burgeoning research as UCL, John Hopkins, NYU, MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) and The HEFTER Institute diligently continue their studies into these incredible substances.

This is a discussion with a Renegade Doctor, Dr Alex Pardhy on the current evidence for the use of psychedelics as potentially life saving medicines.