A new study from Emory University in Atlanta has suggested that psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, could extend lifespan. Researchers discovered that psilocybin increased cellular longevity and enhanced survival rates in aged mice.
Published in the journal Nature, the study defines psilocybin as the naturally occurring psychedelic compound produced by hallucinogenic mushrooms. The research provides the first experimental evidence that psilocin, its active form, boosts longevity in aged mice, reducing oxidative stress, preventing DNA damage, and helping preserve telomere length—all factors that slow the aging process.
Co-author Louise Hecker of Emory University noted that psilocybin appears to slow the ‘wear and tear’ associated with aging, with treated mice appearing younger, including regrowth of black hair. However, she stressed that much more testing is needed to determine optimal dosing protocols for humans, the best age for treatment initiation, and potential adverse effects.
Gabe Charambides, founder of the first legal psilocybin retreat in Oregon, called the findings compelling but emphasised that human use requires stricter screening and safety measures. He noted that those who may benefit most are individuals feeling ‘stuck’ after major life events or seeking mental health improvements.
Ryan Moss of Filament Health, a Canadian psychedelic drug development company, cautioned that psychedelic experiences can feature anxiety, hallucinations, and paranoia, and that some patients have reported adverse cardiovascular events during clinical trials. He recommended close monitoring by trained professionals.
