Psilocybin Shows Promise for Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery

LOS ANGELES – A scientific review published in the journal Brain Sciences has outlined how psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, might support recovery for individuals with traumatic brain injuries. The analysis, released in late May 2025, draws from nearly 30 studies to suggest that the substance could reduce inflammation, encourage new neural connections, and ease related mental health issues.

Researchers from Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine examined psilocybin’s mechanisms, noting its ability to lower markers of inflammation like TNF-α and IL-6, which often exacerbate brain damage after injury. The compound also appears to boost neuroplasticity, as seen in animal models where it increased synaptic density in the prefrontal cortex. For patients dealing with depression, a condition affecting over half of those with traumatic brain injuries three months post-event, psilocybin’s antidepressant effects, demonstrated in separate clinical trials, offer another avenue for relief. One such trial reported a significant drop in depression scores after a single dose, though side effects like headaches occurred.

Yet questions remain. No randomized trials have tested psilocybin directly on brain injury patients, leaving gaps in understanding long-term safety or optimal dosing. Risks include adverse psychological experiences or interactions with injury-related issues like seizures. Federal scheduling as a controlled substance continues to hinder large-scale studies, though bipartisan efforts in Congress and statements from FDA officials signal growing support for research, particularly for veterans.

The Highly Capitalized Network notes this body of evidence pointing to psychedelics as a field worth monitoring closely. With an estimated 69 million people suffering from brain injuries each year, any validated therapy could revolutionize treatment options. However, rigorous testing must precede widespread adoption.