Introduction

Welcome home! It is with great pleasure that we present to you the first editorial of “Psychedelics: The Journal of Psychedelic Pharmacology.” This is a labor of love and intellect designed to encapsulate the swirling cascades of research discovery in psychedelics. At a moment when empirical investigation has begun to lift the haze surrounding these extraordinary compounds, this journal will rapidly become the fulcrum for scholarly conversation, discourse, and enlightenment. Our ambit is broad in its sweep, ensconcing the multidisciplinary essence of the research in question.

Our endeavor encompasses a dazzling array of inquiries, from the microscopic facets of molecular interactions to the macroscopic societal implications. Our quest is not merely restricted to the circuitous corridors of neuroscience but meanders through biochemistry, psychology, sociology, and medicine (1).

The level of innovation we provide is enriched by the collective wisdom of a wide-ranging editorial board, encompassing global insights from numerous academic spheres, working collaboratively to advance the frontiers of knowledge in the psychedelic domain. We draw attention to our Innovators and Ideas section, focusing on individuals with significant contributions to the field. Two of our editorial board members have already contributed to this engaging section: Katarina Leão (auditory and limbic systems) as a rising star (2) and Bernard Lerer (psychedelic psychopharmacology) as a research leader (3).

As we want to lean more on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, it is pertinent to scrutinize research surrounding serotonin receptor interactions (4), neural plasticity (5), and the relevance in disorders, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (6) and major depressive disorder (7). Studies that utilize the tools of brain imaging will bring about further clarity, giving us a fuller and more nuanced picture of the effects of psychedelics on brain function (8).

Concurrent with clinical assessments and bio-molecular explorations are the anthropological endeavors that delve into the intricate maze of historical usage and cultural implications (9). At a time when public opinion about psychedelics is undergoing a sea change, it is indispensable that we rigorously examine their societal impact (10).

You all know this is not just a “nice-to-have”: forging robust research methods that can cut across multiple disciplines is downright essential. The mosaic of psychedelic understanding is fragmented, and only by assembling pieces across neuroscience, pharmacodynamics, psychology, sociology, and beyond can we fathom the full portrait (11).

According to the famed psychiatrist Stanislav Grof, psychedelics, used responsibly and with proper caution, would be for psychiatry, what the microscope is for biology and medicine, or the telescope is for astronomy (12). We are concertedly breaking barriers to enter a new epoch in our understanding of the mind and consciousness. Therefore, in this panorama of burgeoning scientific interest, Psychedelics is committed to untangling the many threads of psychedelic scholarship.

Rest assured; this journal aims for more than just stashing away data. We are laying the cornerstone of a dynamic shift in academic discourse. We are not just attempting to collect submissions; we are specifically looking for your most cherished discoveries as we build a unique new portfolio that will anchor the re-birth of this field. We tremendously value your trust in us to steward your scholarship as we embark on this ambitious journey.

Consider this an open invitation if you share our fascination with the untapped complexity and expanding horizons of psychedelic studies. Together, let us shed light on areas obscured by misperception, add our insights to the collective reservoir of knowledge, and awaken a broader sense of understanding.

Your involvement in this mission is not just welcome - it is crucial. The pilgrimage toward deeper understanding is one we undertake as a collective, and that chapter starts today.

Psychedelics have been a topic of fascination for many individuals throughout history. From ancient civilizations to modern-day scientists, the use of psychedelics has been a subject of exploration and research. However, the study of these compounds has been largely restricted due to legal and social barriers. But with the recent renaissance of psychedelic research and a growing shift in public opinion, there is now an opportunity to explore the full potential of these compounds.

As we embark on this journey, it is important to acknowledge the multidisciplinary nature of this field. The use of psychedelics has implications in various aspects of human life, ranging from the molecular level to societal implications. Therefore, our journal aims to encompass the broad range of inquiries surrounding psychedelics, from biochemistry and neuroscience to psychology, sociology, and medicine. One of the most promising aspects of psychedelic research is its therapeutic potential. Studies have shown that psychedelics could be useful in treating a variety of mental health disorders, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The exact mechanisms by which these compounds work are still being investigated. However, research has suggested that they may interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to changes in neural plasticity and ultimately, improvements in mood and cognition.

But it is not just the therapeutic potential of psychedelics that we aim to explore. Anthropological studies have shown that the use of psychedelics has historical and cultural implications. By studying the cultural context of psychedelic use, we can gain a deeper understanding of the impact that these compounds have had on human society throughout history.

The mosaic of psychedelic understanding is fragmented, and only by assembling pieces across neuroscience, pharmacodynamics, psychology, sociology, and beyond can we fathom the full portrait. Therefore, our journal is committed to untangling the many threads of psychedelic scholarship. We strive to provide a platform for scholars from diverse academic backgrounds to collaborate and advance the frontiers of knowledge in the psychedelic domain.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our new journal aims to be more than just a repository for data. We aim to be a catalyst for a dynamic shift in academic discourse and a cornerstone for the rebirth of psychedelic research. We invite you to join us on this journey and contribute your most cherished discoveries to our unique new portfolio. Together, let us shed light on areas obscured by misperception, add our insights to the collective reservoir of knowledge, and awaken a broader sense of understanding. Your involvement in this mission is not just welcome - it is crucial. The pilgrimage toward deeper understanding is one we undertake as a collective, and that chapter starts today.