At My Supply Co., we are passionate about working with nature to optimize our cognitive health and longevity. This focus inevitably led us to psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound gaining attention for its potential to extend human healthspan and combat neurodegenerative disease, including Alzheimer’s dementia.
Key takeaways:
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Psilocybin targets several hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease:
Psilocybin targets several key aspects of Alzheimer's disease, including amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, synaptic loss, chronic inflammation, vascular health, neurotransmitter imbalances, oxidative stress, and excitotoxicity, making it a comprehensive approach to neuroprotection and cognitive enhancement.
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Psilocybin enhances neurogenesis and neuroplasticity:
Psilocybin promotes the growth of new neurons and enhances the brain's ability to form new neural connections, which may help maintain synaptic integrity and reverse the neuronal damage associated with Alzheimer's.
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A natural dietary intervention for preventative health and longevity:
As a plant-based compound, Psilocybin offers a promising, natural alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals for preventing and managing neurodegenerative diseases.
Unfortunately, as of this writing, no clinical studies have been performed on Psilocybin and neurodegenerative disease. However, there is a rich body of research on how Psilocybin influences various cognitive functions and mental health conditions, including human fMRIs, that can give us a preliminary understanding of how Psilocybin might prevent or reverse neurodegenerative disease.
Keep reading to learn how Psilocybin's properties might counteract the neurochemical and neurobiological changes associated with Alzheimer's disease, including hallmarks of Alzheimer's like:
- amyloid plaques
- neurofibrillary tangles
- loss of neuronal connections and cell dysfunction
- chronic inflammation
- declining vascular health
- altered neurotransmitter levels
- oxidative stress
1. Psilocybin may prevent the build-up of amyloid plaques.
Amyloid plaques are deposits of a protein fragment called beta-amyloid that accumulate in the spaces between nerve cells. They are one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease.
Psilocybin could potentially disrupt the formation of amyloid plaques by promoting neurogenesis (the creation of new brain cells) and enhancing neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to form new neural connections), which may help in clearing or preventing the buildup of these plaques. Psilocybin’s ability to enhance neuroplasticity and promote neurogenesis also helps maintain synaptic integrity, which may prevent the synaptic loss exacerbated by amyloid plaque accumulation.
2. Psilocybin may treat damage caused by neurofibrillary tangles.
Neurofibrillary tangles are twisted hyperphosphorylated tau protein fibers that build up inside cells. Their presence is a key indicator of Alzheimer’s disease. Hyperphosphorylation happens to tau proteins when chemical groups that can cause the proteins to tangle are added, disrupting brain cell function and contributing to Alzheimer’s disease.
While the direct impact of Psilocybin on tau tangles is not well understood, its influence on neuroplasticity and neurotransmitter systems might affect the phosphorylation of tau proteins. It may also influence the brain’s capacity to compensate for the damage caused by these tangles.
3. Psilocybin reverses the loss of neuronal connections.
Alzheimer’s disease leads to a loss of synapses—the connections between neurons—which contributes to cell dysfunction and memory loss.
Psilocybin has been shown to stimulate the growth of new neurons and enhance neuroplasticity, potentially restoring neuronal connections and improving cell function.
A 2020 fMRI study involving 16 patients with depression who took a single dose of 10 mg of psilocybin and 25 mg a week later, found increased functional connectivity. In another 2020 study, improved functional connectivity was observed in 19 adults with treatment-resistant depression after they were given 10 mg and 25 mg of psilocybin a week apart.
Studies also show that Psilocybin stimulates BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) by directly binding with BDNF receptor sites. In fact, a 2023 study demonstrated that Psilocin, which is what our body turns Psilocybin into, has an affinity for BDNF receptor sites that is 1,000-fold higher than antidepressants.
A meta-analysis that included 9 studies found significantly higher BDNF levels in those who consumed Psilocybin mushrooms compared to healthy controls. This documented rise in BDNF levels shows that psychedelics could enhance synaptic plasticity and foster the growth of neurons.
These results highlight the influence of Psilocybin mushrooms on neuroplasticity and neuronal connections, which may be key for treating Alzheimer's dementia.
4. Psilocybin is anti-inflammatory.
Persistent inflammation in the brain is thought to play a role in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
Psilocybin has powerful anti-inflammatory effects, which could reduce the chronic inflammation associated with Alzheimer’s disease, thereby protecting neurons from further damage.
A 2021 study showed that 4 different strains of Psilocybin mushrooms suppressed the inflammatory response. A 2023 study showed that Psilocybin significantly reduced inflammation markers in human tissues, and was more effective than curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric).
5. Psilocybin may support brain vascular health.
The health of blood vessels in the brain can contribute to Alzheimer’s disease, affecting the delivery of nutrients and the removal of waste products.
Psilocybin has been shown to induce changes in brain connectivity and neural activity, which could have implications for brain vascular health. For example, Psilocybin's ability to increase neuroplasticity could improve brain function and resilience by creating new neural pathways in the brain, which may indirectly support vascular health by promoting better blood flow and nutrient delivery to brain cells.
Additionally, Psilocybin’s ability to alter brain wave activity and increase neuronal activity, though chaotically, indicates that it affects the brain’s electrical activity and could influence how the brain regulates its vascular system.
Ultimately, Psilocybin might improve the overall health of brain vasculature by promoting neurogenesis and neuroplasticity, though more research is needed to determine its impact and therapeutic potential in this area.
6. Psilocybin helps rebalance neurotransmitter levels.
Alzheimer's is associated with changes in neurotransmitter levels, which are chemicals that transmit signals between neurons. Because Psilocybin is known to modulate several neurotransmitters, including serotonin, glutamate, and dopamine, it may hold promise in reversing these imbalances.
For starters, Psilocybin activates many serotonin receptors, especially the 5-HT2A receptors. By activating these receptors, Psilocybin can induce changes in serotonin levels and signaling pathways, which may help rebalance serotonin levels disrupted in Alzheimer’s disease.
Psilocybin might also increase dopamine levels, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, motivation, and reward.
Lastly, Psilocybin influences glutamate, the primary excitatory neurotransmitter responsible for creating new connections and cognitive functions like learning and memory. By modulating glutamate levels, it may enhance neuroplasticity and promote the formation of new neural connections.
7. Psilocybin is antioxidant.
Alzheimer’s disease involves oxidative stress, which leads to cellular damage, dysfunction, and eventually death. Psilocybin's ability to mitigate oxidative stress is well-documented, and it is known that indole ring-containing molecules, like Psilocybin, have antioxidant effects.
A 2020 study showed that a Psilocybin mushroom strain, Psilocybe natalensis, had a powerful antioxidant effect. Other studies show that 5-HT2A activation suppresses oxidative stress.
8. Psilocybin may prevent excitotoxicity.
Alzheimer's disease involves excitotoxicity, which occurs when there is an excessive release of glutamate that leads to neuronal damage.
As mentioned earlier, Psilocybin is being studied for its ability to modulate neurotransmitter systems, which could have implications for preventing excitotoxicity.
More specifically, Psilocybin’s influence on the glutamatergic system might help regulate glutamate levels, potentially reducing the risk of excitotoxicity. However, more research is needed to fully understand psilocybin’s effects on excitotoxicity and its potential as a preventive treatment.
Final words on Psilocybin and Alzheimer's dementia.
The emerging research on Psilocybin makes a compelling case for its potential role in addressing Alzheimer’s disease. By targeting various hallmarks of Alzheimer's, such as amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, synaptic loss, chronic inflammation, vascular health, neurotransmitter imbalances, oxidative stress, and excitotoxicity, Psilocybin offers a multifaceted approach to protecting the brain and enhancing its function.
While further studies are needed to fully understand how – and how effectively – it works, the current evidence is hopeful that Psilocybin is a natural, plant-based compound that could revolutionize the management of neurodegenerative diseases.
At My Supply Co., we remain dedicated to our mission of working with nature to create fully optimized humans, and we are excited about Psilocybin's potential in the fight against Alzheimer's dementia.
Where to find high-quality Psilocybin mushroom supplements.
My Supply Co. is on a mission to revolutionize your health and take the guesswork out of your journey to well-being. We create pure and potent psilocybin supplements to help you find your peak, whether that's enhancing your physical performance, optimizing cognition and brain health, or supporting your mental health.
Our psilocybin macrodose supplements contain 250mg of Golden Teacher per capsule, a gentle yet potent strain known for its euphoric effects and visuals:
- Balanced High: Discover the lightness of being with an invigorating blend of powerful bioactive ingredients. Known as “herbal ecstasy,” we designed Balanced High to elevate your mood, boost creativity, and enhance sensory experiences. It’s perfect for those seeking a heightened sense of connection and well-being.
- Extended Release: This macrodose supplement is your perfect companion for a gentle transformative journey. My Supply Co.'s Extended Release provides a higher dose than a typical microdose without the worry of a sudden or intense peak. Ideal for parties, outdoor festivals, concerts, camping, or a night out dancing.
If you're looking for psilocybin microdose supplements, we offer three unique formulas combining adaptogens, nootropics, and superfoods with 25mg of psilocybin per capsule:
- Brain Stack: Enhance your focus, memory, and clarity with My Supply Co.'s Brain Stack. This master nootropic formula is clinically proven to promote memory and long-term brain health, fuel focus and productivity, and reduce anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Commit to Brain Stack and start seeing transformative results in 4 weeks.
- Energy Stack: Boost your energy and reduce stress with My Supply Co.'s Energy Stack. This microdose supplement is your all-in-one pick-me-up, promoting calm energy, focus, and mental sharpness. It’s designed to amplify your drive and mental energy, making it a perfect addition to your daily routine.
- Vitality Stack: Age backwards with My Supply Co.'s Vitality Stack. This microdose supplement is your whole-system upgrade, clinically studied to help support healthy inflammation and oxidative stress, while supporting the vitality of your brain, immunity, libido, skin, and hair. Commit to Vitality Stack and see transformative shifts in your vitality within 4 weeks.
Super Stack for Synergy
Our microdose supplements were made to be taken together, daily. Highly bioavailable, so you won’t pee them out. Doses are doctor-verified for safety and synergistic effects. Synergy means that when taken together, benefits are amplified.
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