5-MeO-DMT Therapy

What is 5-methoxy-N, N-dimethyltryptamine (5-Meo-DMT)? 

5-Meo-DMT is both a natural and synthetic fast-acting psychedelic of the tryptamine class that is closely related to N, N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT). As with any psychoactive compound, it is best for people to always start low and slow. 

The reason for this is twofold. Both 5-Meo-DMT and DMT are active in the milligram range, so accurate dosing is critical. It would be extremely easy to take more than you expect, providing a psychedelic experience that is way more intense than expected. This substance can be difficult to accurately dose when it is sourced from natural products rather than synthetically made. The method of extraction can differ, which changes the purity of the final product, thus changing the amount needed. 

Despite the challenges in dosing, both natural and synthetic sources of 5-MeO-DMT offer the same profound mystical experience, brimming with incredible therapeutic potential. This potential opens up a world of possibilities for mental health treatments and spiritual exploration. 

Historical use of 5-MeO-DMT ceremonies 

Looking at the scientific data on this subject, you can find lots of anthropological information that confirms Anadenanthera peregrina, typically known by the locals as yopo or cohoba, and Virola Theodora, which have both been used by shamans of these Indigenous cultures in the past and today. Although there has been a steep decline in this type of traditional medicine, largely due to cultural assimilation and the suppression of indigenous practices, a few small villages are still keeping the ceremony alive. 

The seeds are harvested and processed by roasting and grinding them to make a psychoactive snuff that the shaman ingests to commune with the spirit world. These ceremonies were often performed as healing rituals, where the shamans' connection was used as a tool to treat and diagnose illness and spiritual maladies. 

That said, when it comes to the use of Bufo alvarius venom, there are only a handful of anecdotal reports that could vaguely point to the historical use of 5-MeO-DMT as traditional medicine. Albert Most's hypothesis concerning the traditional use of Bufo alvarius amongst the indigenous tribes in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico was based on a hunch he gleaned after reading archaeological documents. These showed the skeletal remains of toads that could be found in dwellings across this area. He believed that the sole reason for this was based on traditional healing practices, while others have argued that it was more than likely a food source. 

Natural sources of 5-Meo-DMT

5-meO-DMT is found primarily in two natural sources. The first is in a variety of plants in both Central and South America. It is often sourced from Anadenanthera peregrina (yopo or cohoba) and Virola theiodora in traditional cultures. Both are traditionally harvested and processed by roasting and grinding the seeds to make a psychoactive snuff. This snuff has been used by Shamans of the region for at least 4000 years, making it one of the oldest verifiable instances of purposeful psychedelic use, and had deep spiritual significance for the people in this region. 

The oldest, clear evidence of use comes from pipes made of puma bone found with Anadenanthera beans at an archaeological site in Argentina. (3) The pipes at the site were found to contain the psychoactive compound DMT, one of the compounds found in Anadenanthera beans. Radiocarbon testing of the material showed that the residue is from around 2130 BC. This suggests that the use of Anadenanthera as a psychoactive compound is over 4,000 years old. 

The other natural source is the milky white venom of the Sonoran Desert Toad (Bufo alvarius toad or the Colorado River Toad), native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. Bufo alvarius became known through the publication of "Bufo alvarius: The Psychedelic Toad of the Sonoran Desert in 1983, written by a man known as Albert Most. Most was an artist and researcher, and he was unsuccessful the first time he traveled to the desert to locate the toads. It was only on his second trip, which happened to be during the monsoon season, that Albert was able to find and extract the toad venom. In this pamphlet, he described how he would collect the venom, dry it, and finally, how he would vaporize it. In his writing, he does his best to summarize the psychoactive effects of the dried toad secretion and the ecology of the toads. 

It is theorized that the toad venom evolved to contain 5-MeO-DMT and bufotenine, as a natural repellent against predators. The reasons for this assumption are threefold. One, it has a very bitter and astringent taste. Second, the glands that secrete the venom are located in highly exposed areas, such as on the back of the head and legs. With enough pressure (like the bite of an animal), the gland will expel its toxic load. Third, the two psychoactive components may cause a mild reaction and intoxication in animals that would discourage most, if not all, animals from making the toad a food source. 

Ecological Impacts of Harvesting 5-MeO-DMT from Bufo Alvarius 

Like many species with specific environmental requirements, the Colorado River Toad is struggling due to humans' impact on its range. Four primary factors are placing immense pressure on the current population of toads: global warming, changes in the watershed, habitat destruction, and humans overharvesting their venom. 

Like many other toads, Bufo alvarius are active foragers and feed on invertebrates, lizards, small mammals, and amphibians. Unfortunately, the combination of habitat destruction and global warming directly affects the amount and types of available food sources. Due to this, there is increasing competition from other toads and animals, further limiting their food sources. 

One of the most unfortunate knock-on effects of global warming is changing weather patterns. This change has a direct impact on Bufo alvarius. Traditionally, May to September is the most active season for these toads. During this time of the year, there is increased rainfall. Rainfall is the primary indicator that spurs the toads to breed. As the globe heats up, there are fewer frequent but more severe storms. This becomes a problem because the toad's breeding cycle can not keep up, leading to a lower birth rate within the population. 

Finally, there is direct pressure from people who go out and unintentionally over-harvest the venom or capture the toads for continued milking. Both of these actions can unintentionally harm the population by either leaving the toad defenseless in the case of over-harvesting or reducing the total number of toads in the breeding population. Both of these effects put immense pressure on the wild population. Another thing to consider is the impact human settlements can have on the wild population of any animal. There are so many new hazards, such as car strikes or accidental poisonings from pesticides. 

Synthetic 5-MeO-DMT 

5-MeO-DMT can be easily synthesized from the supplement 5-HTP. Even with a fundamental chemical knowledge, this alkloid can easily be synthesized with proper equipment and a widely available supplement. The only requirement is some moderately expensive laboratory equipment. Albert Most's book Bufo alvarius: The Psychedelic Toad of the Sonoran Desert details the materials and process needed to synthesize 5-MeO-DMT. Many believe that the recent interest in, and demand for, 5-Meo-DMT and Bufo alvarius has put significant pressure on the species as a whole, due to over-harvesting or incorrect harvesting. As a result, many individuals are beginning to favor DMT, which is produced synthetically. 

What is a 5-MeO-DMT experience like? 

The 5-MeO experience is a next-level psychedelic journey. The effects are usually felt within moments following consumption, with a one to 15-minute peak followed by a gradual return to baseline after 30 to 90 minutes. 

While the effects of both 5-MeO-DMT and N dimethyltryptamine are different for everyone, they are intense, to say the least. For onlookers, it can be shocking to see someone ingest 5-meo-DMT, as the person consuming this compound will experience a loss of physical coordination and control. 

This substance is so strong that even a single inhalation gives individuals experiences that are reported to be like near-death experiences. As a result, it is often called the "God" molecule due to the intensity and almost ineffable adventure. These deeply meaningful experiences are usually complete with altered states of pure consciousness and encounters with mystical beings, referred to as "elves" by many who experience 5-meo-dmt. While for a psychedelic experience, this trip is generally short, the effects can truly be life-changing!

5-MeO-DMT dosage 

When taking synthetic 5-MeO-DMT, a threshold dose is around 1-2mg, while a moderate-to-strong dose is between 5 and 10mg. When naturally consumed in the form of the dried toad secretion (venom), the threshold dose is 5-10 mg, and a moderate-to-strong dose is 20-40 mg. 

What is the therapeutic value of 5-MeO-DMT? 

While this psychedelic compound has been used for centuries by spiritual leaders in a ceremonial group setting or by individuals seeking profound experiences, its use in therapy is relatively new. While psychedelic medicines are still limited in their use, clinical trials are slowly being conducted and assessed. 

The study "The epidemiology of 5-methoxy-N, N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) use: benefits, consequences, patterns of use, subjective effects, and reasons for consumption " sheds some interesting light on the use patterns and general outcomes. 

First, they note, "most respondents consumed 5-MeO-DMT infrequently (less than once a year), for spiritual exploration, and had used less than four times in their lifetime" (1). Of those included in the study, "the majority (average of 90%) reported moderate-to-strong mystical-type experiences and relatively fewer (average of 37%) experienced very slight challenging experiences" (1). When referring to mystical experiences, the subjects reported feelings of ineffability, timelessness, awe/amazement, and the experience of pure being/awareness. 

Furthermore, of those test subjects who reported a psychiatric disorder, the majority of respondents reported improvements in symptoms following 5-MeO-DMT use. This includes "improvements related to post-traumatic stress disorder (79%), depression (77%), anxiety (69%), and alcoholism (66%) or drug use disorder (60%)" (1). 

Recently, it has been suggested that DMT analogs may be used in the treatment of mood disorders. The evidence that psychedelic therapy, specifically DMT therapy, could have massive benefits for patients suffering from treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and anxiety disorders cannot be ignored. Due to the strong link between altered neurogenesis and mood disorders, scientists wanted to test whether 5-MeO-DMT can increase neuronal cell proliferation. 

How is 5-MeO-DMT therapy performed? 

For most of the scientific research that has been performed, individuals who have volunteered to take the DMT are given carefully measured doses. Throughout their experience, their vital signs are carefully monitored, and in some cases, they receive brain scans before and after their session. After this, they describe their experiences, which are recorded and later analyzed. 

On the other hand, in a setting where DMT is being used for therapy purposes, the process looks a bit different. Most individuals undergo multiple preparation sessions with a trained therapist before receiving any dosage. These preparation sessions usually include assessments such as the psychiatric rating scale to measure improvement accurately. 

After they receive a dose, they usually lie in a quiet room with the therapist present. Patients are encouraged to share their experiences with their therapist after their session. This part of the session is often key for those seeking psychedelic therapy as a solution for depression, anxiety, alcohol abuse, and other mental disorders. 

What is Neurogenesis? 

Neurogenesis is the regrowth and regeneration of nerve cells, particularly those in the Dentate Gyrus. This area plays a significant role in the healing properties of 5-MeO-DMT and other DMT analogs. 

What is the Dentate Gyrus, and why is it important? 

The DG is the first region of the brain to receive and merge all sensory input. These signals are then distributed to the correct areas of the brain. Interestingly, this is also the area that binds stimuli together, creating memories, possibly pointing to 5-MeO-DMT's efficacy in treating PTSD. 

How is Neurogenesis triggered in the brain? 

Neurogenesis and an increase in BDNF are directly related. The more BDNF is present, the faster the body responds and repairs itself. 

5-Meo-DMT and Neurogenesis

Studies have shown that certain psychedelics work as serotonin 5-HT1A agonists in both animal and human trials to increase neuronal cell proliferation (Neurogenesis). The study, "Single Dose of 5-MeO-DMT Stimulates Cell Proliferation, Neuronal Survivability, Morphological and Functional Changes in Adult Mice Ventral Dentate Gyrus" states that a dose of, "as little as 100 μg of 5-MeO-DMT was shown to increase cell proliferation in the adult Dentate Gyrus of the lab animals" (2). 

The study shows definitively that 5-MeO-DMT affects Neurogenesis in animal models. Keep in mind, this doesn't necessarily mean it translates one to one with humans, but due to the effect that similar psychedelics have on the brains of humans, it is safe to hypothesize that similar action is taking place in the case of 5-MeO-DMT. 

In the same paper, researchers hypothesize that the effect of Neurogenesis in the Dentate Gyrus may contribute to the known antidepressant properties of DMT and other DMT-derived compounds. DMT creates new brainwaves that allow people to essentially "re-wire" their realities and ascend from the negative patterns they have been stuck in. The therapeutic potential at hand is inspiring. As more clinical trials are performed and previous research is expanded, the path forward will surely be ground-breaking. 

Legality of 5-MeO-DMT in the United States

In the United States, both synthetic and natural 5-MeO-DMT are illegal to manufacture, distribute, possess, or buy. However, this does not mean that keeping Bufo alvarius is necessarily unlawful. Still, there have been cases, most of them in Arizona, where the drug laws are especially strict, that have led to people being charged with manufacturing a Schedule I drug. If found guilty, this carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of three to 12 years. 

Fortunately, not all areas are as hostile when it comes to psychoactive drugs. There is a growing list of states and counties that have introduced, or are introducing, laws decriminalizing the possession and use of psychedelics. This does not mean that they are now legal. It just means that the police will now place the lowest priority on psychedelics. (If you want to know more, check your local laws, because they are in constant flux.) 

In other countries, specifically Canada and Mexico, it is entirely legal to manufacture, distribute, possess, or buy 5-MeO-DMT. Due to this fact, there is a whole cottage industry of clinics offering 5-MeO-DMT ceremonies in Mexico that will help with the procurement of the material and provide a setting to partake in the ceremony. More and more people are considering using it as part of their psychedelic therapy.

Conclusion 

DMT and 5-MeO-DMT have been a part of rich cultural, spiritual experiences for thousands of years. Today, scientists, therapists, and individuals seeking deeper self-understanding are rediscovering the powerful therapeutic potential of these alkaloids. While psilocybin has gained popularity in psychedelic-assisted therapy, many are turning to DMT for its unique ability to access deep psychological layers, confront trauma, and support addiction recovery. Despite ongoing legal restrictions in much of the West, research and advocacy are gradually paving the way for broader exploration of DMT as a transformative mental health tool.

1. Davis AK, Barsuglia JP, Lancelotta R, Grant RM, Renn E. The epidemiology of 5-methoxy-N, N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) use: Benefits, consequences, patterns of use, subjective effects, and reasons for consumption. Journal of Psychopharmacology. 2018;32(7):779-792.https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881118769063 

2. Lima da Cruz Rafael Vitor, Moulin Thiago C., Petiz Lyvia Lintzmaier, Leão Richardson N. A Single Dose of 5-MeO-DMT Stimulates Cell Proliferation, Neuronal Survivability, Morphological and Functional Changes in Adult Mice Ventral Dentate Gyrus. Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience. 2018: 11 

https://www.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fnmol.2018.00312

3. Araújo AM, Carvalho F, Bastos M, Guedes de Pinho P, Carvalho M . "The hallucinogenic world of tryptamines: an updated review". Archives of Toxicology. August 2015; 89 (8): 1151–73. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00204-015-1513-x