Knowledge Tree
Relations (1)
related 7.00 — strongly supporting 7 facts
Psilocybin is structurally related to the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT), as evidenced by its chemical resemblance [1], [2], and [3]. Furthermore, psilocybin is hypothesized to have served as a functional substitute for serotonin in human ancestors to treat serotonin depletion [4], [5], and [6].
Facts (7)
Sources
Psychedelics, Sociality, and Human Evolution frontiersin.org 5 facts
claimPsilocybin ingestion could have provided homeostatic utility to human ancestors by acting as a treatment for 5-HT (serotonin) depletion, which was a recurrent adaptive problem during the advancement into a socio-cognitive niche.
claimPsilocybin is considered a prime candidate for instrumentalization in human evolution due to its potential to ameliorate serotonin depletion and facilitate adaptive behaviors.
claimThe incidental ingestion of psilocybin and other psychedelic secondary metabolites, which have very low toxicity and structurally resemble the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT), may have provided a 'treatment' for serotonin depletion, a challenge recurring during human advancement into a socio-cognitive niche.
claimTryptamine psychedelics, such as DMT and psilocybin, could have provided an ideal substitute for tryptophan by mimicking the structure and function of 5-HT (serotonin).
claimThe intentional and repeated use of psilocybin by early hominins is hypothesized to be supported by the substance's low toxicity and its structural resemblance to the neurotransmitter serotonin, potentially allowing it to serve as a treatment for serotonin depletion.
“Plants of the Gods” and their hallucinogenic powers in ... surgicalneurologyint.com 2 facts
accountZapotec and Aztec Indians consumed the seeds of Turbina corymbosa and Ipomoea violacea, which contain lysergic acid compounds that act through serotonin psychoactive pathways similar to psilocybin and psilocin.
claimPsilocybin and psilocin are indole alkaloids found in Psilocybe mushrooms that are related to the neurotransmitter serotonin and the amino acid precursor tryptophan.