Welcome to this week’s edition of The Guide ⚡️ 

Today’s newsletter takes about 5 minutes to read—so if you’ve only got 60 seconds, here’s what you need to know:

• Psychedelics Work… w/Therapy. Trials show reductions in major depression and cancer-related distress when paired with psychotherapy, with benefits lasting weeks and even months…

• Psychedelics Change The Brain. Psilocybin acutely downshifts the DMN and supports changes in neuroplasticity…

• Challenging ≠ Harmful. Contrary to popular belief, difficult psychedelic experiences often become personally valuable when well-supported…

• 🎙️This week on the pod - Sharon Niv does a deep dive into Ketamine, and its effects on the brain, neural circuits, and facilitating deep healing…

👉️ New year, new you, right?!

We’re here to keep you informed and educated so you can make the best choices for your health and healing…

🧠 The Webdelics Team

👋 New here? We do this every week… Join Us!

🎧️ The Webdelics Podcast

🎙️ Ketamine and the Brain - with Sharon Niv

🍄 In this episode, Scott Mason sits down with Sharon Niv for a clear-eyed tour of ketamine therapy—what it is, how it works, and where it fits. They unpack the debate over whether ketamine is truly a psychedelic, compare its effects with LSD and psilocybin, and break down the neuroscience behind these mind-expanding states.

🫶 They explore dose-dependent experiences, from therapeutic psycholytic sessions to the intense “K-hole”, why dosage matters for both safety and effectiveness, and who should (and shouldn’t) consider treatment.

🎧️ You’ll hear practical guidance, personal stories, and a grounded look at risks, rewards, and microdosing curiosities, plus a few surprises along the way…

📜 The “Must Read” For The Week

The Top 10 Myths About Plant Medicine & Psychedelics

From being labeled as dangerous “party drugs” to commonly held misconceptions about their legal status and therapeutic potential, myths about psychedelics and plant medicine often prevent people from seeing their true value…

So, it’s time to set the record straight…

🎉 Myth #1: Psychedelics Are Just "Party Drugs"

While some use psychedelics recreationally, their origins and potential run much deeper. 

Indigenous cultures have long used substances like psilocybin, ayahuasca, and peyote for spiritual and healing purposes. 

And modern research backs their therapeutic value. 

For instance, studies from Johns Hopkins and Imperial College London show that psilocybin can alleviate anxiety and depression in cancer patients, with effects lasting for months. 

It’s not about partying. In many situations, it's about profound healing…

🧠 Myth #2: Psychedelics Cause Brain Damage

The “brain on drugs” campaigns of the past often spread panic and fear, not science-based facts. 

Current neuroscience paints a different picture…

Psychedelics temporarily reduce activity in the brain's default mode network (DMN), which helps break negative thought patterns. 

Research shows they even promote neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and rewire itself. 

A 2021 study found that substances like DMT (in ayahuasca) promote the growth of dendritic spines, essential for learning and memory.

🌪️ Myth #3: Psychedelics Will Make You Go "Crazy"

The myth that psychedelics lead to insanity has been debunked by numerous studies…

A large-scale analysis found no correlation between psychedelic use and increased mental health disorders in healthy individuals. 

However, those with pre-existing mental health conditions, such as a predisposition to psychosis, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, should approach these substances with caution. 

With proper screening and guidance, psychedelics can be safely integrated into therapeutic settings.

🧪 Myth #4: Psychedelics Are Addictive

Unlike addictive substances such as opioids or stimulants, psychedelics do not target the brain’s dopamine reward system. 

In fact, their rapid tolerance build-up discourages frequent use… Serendipitously, they’re currently being studied as treatments for addiction. 

A notable study found that psilocybin-assisted therapy helped 80% of participants quit smoking for six months—a success rate far higher than traditional methods.

🛣️ Myth #5: You’ll Lose Control on Psychedelics

While psychedelics alter perception, most people remain aware of their surroundings and actions. 

The key to a positive experience lies in “set and setting.” 

A calm mindset and a safe, supportive environment help guide users through intense emotional or sensory experiences. 

Clinical trials often include trained guides to ensure safety and maximize therapeutic outcomes.

📎 Myth #6: Psychedelics Are "Quick Fixes" for Mental Health Issues

While psychedelics can lead to rapid psychological breakthroughs, they are not standalone cures…

Studies show their effects are most profound when paired with proper integration—reflecting on the experience and applying insights to daily life. 

For example, a 2020 study in JAMA Psychiatry revealed that psilocybin, combined with psychotherapy, led to lasting reductions in depression. 

But keep in mind, these outcomes relied on weeks of preparation and follow-up therapy, emphasizing that psychedelics are tools, not magic bullets.

📰 Myth #7: All Psychedelics Are the Same

Psychedelics differ significantly in their effects and therapeutic applications. 

Psilocybin is often introspective and spiritual, while LSD amplifies sensory perception and can last up to 12 hours. 

Ayahuasca, used in ceremonial contexts, induces intense visions and physical purging. 

MDMA, though not a classic psychedelic, enhances emotional openness and is highly effective in treating PTSD. 

Each substance offers unique benefits tailored to specific therapeutic goals.

☠️ Myth #8: Psychedelics Are Illegal Everywhere

The legal landscape is changing rapidly…

In the U.S., Oregon and Colorado have legalized psilocybin therapy, and cities like Oakland and Denver have decriminalized certain psychedelics. 

Globally, countries such as Brazil and Peru also allow ayahuasca for religious use. 

And yet, while we were optimistic last year that MDMA would have been approved for PTSD, psychedelics are still classified as Schedule I substances and remain illegal under federal law.

❤️‍🔥 Myth #9: Psychedelic Experiences Are Always Fun and Easy

Psychedelic journeys can be transformative, but that doesn’t mean they’re always pleasant. Users may confront unresolved trauma or difficult emotions, often labeled as "bad trips." 

However, these challenging experiences can lead to significant personal growth when processed in a safe, supportive setting. 

A 2016 study found that most participants who had difficult psilocybin experiences later viewed them as valuable, citing increased self-awareness and psychological insight.

🫠 Myth #10: Psychedelics Have No Lasting Benefits

Clinical studies show that psychedelics can lead to enduring positive changes in mental health and personality. 

For example, a landmark 2011 Johns Hopkins study found that a single psilocybin session increased openness, a personality trait linked to creativity, and these effects lasted over a year. 

Similarly, MDMA-assisted therapy has shown long-term benefits for PTSD patients, with many maintaining improvements even a year post-treatment.

📚️ Education is Key For Finding The Truth…

Understanding psychedelics requires separating myth from fact. 

As research continues to validate their therapeutic potential, it’s vital to approach these substances with education, respect, and professional guidance.

And while we are beginning to see the research justifying the means and use of these substances in therapeutic settings, we’re still very early in this “psychedelic” journey…

👉️ Subscribe to The Guide for evidence-based takes on psychedelics, research, and integration tools—delivered weekly to your inbox.

💬 Our Why…

👉 Knowledge only helps when you use it safely—and wisely.

Psychedelics and plant medicines can open doors, but outcomes hinge on screening, set/setting, dose & discipline, and integration.

🚦 If today’s issue helped, put it to work:

• 🧭 Safe Starts: Grab our Beginner’s Guide to MDMA to learn more about how to safely integrate.

• 🎧 Listen In: Listen to Ketamine and the Brain - with Sharon Niv, to find out how ketamine differs from classic psychedelics, dose ranges, and who should not pursue treatment.

• 🗺️ Share Your Story: We’re always eager to hear from our readers about their experiences with plant medicines and psychedelics…

At Webdelics, we’re here to make plant-medicine info clear, evidence-based, and practical, so you can make safer, more informed choices.

📩 If this landed, forward it to someone curious about changing their brain!
💬 Questions, corrections, or a topic for us to unpack next? Reply and tell us.

🧠 The Guide - by Webdelics

Disclaimer: Webdelics does not support or promote any illegal activities, including the use of substances that may be mentioned in this newsletter. We encourage all readers to familiarize themselves with and adhere to the laws in their region. Please note that Webdelics does not offer mental health, medical, or clinical services and should not be used as a replacement for professional medical, psychological, or psychiatric care, diagnosis, or treatment.