The Science

Grounded in spirit, supported by science

Our stacking protocol harmoniously merges the healing wisdom of plants with western medicine, supported by scientific research.

The Heart Protocol - A transformative approach

Our Heart Protocol combines integrative and western medicine techniques to open the heart, calm the mind, and create a connection to the soul frequencies. Working with this combination of medicines, with the timing that we strategically onboard, it “turns down the ego” allowing one to be in an altered state of conscious reality, to reach a deeper levels of self. Entheogenic medicines have the potential to create new neural-pathway connections. Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to change itself constantly by creating new neural pathways.

Substance Derivation Safety General Effects Brain Impact Therapeutic Uses Potential Harms
Ketamine Synthetic, developed as an anesthetic*
  • World Health Organization (WHO), ketamine is listed as an "essential medicine," and among the safest known to science
  • Ketamine is currently being prescribed for depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, OCD, addiction, and other mental health concerns
    		•
  • Ketamine promotes growth of new neural connections in the brain essential for learning and forming new memories
  • Stimulates glutamate in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus
  • Supports re-growth of dendrites, which send and receive information. Dendrites may die under stress or depression
  • Causes dissociative effects and ego dissolution
    		•
  • Prefrontal cortex
  • Hippocampus
  • Promotes neuroplasticity by inducing the formation of new synapses
  • Growth of new dendritic spines in the brain, enhancing neuron communication This action may explain its rapid antidepressant effects, especially for treatment-resistant depression
    		• Depression, Supports neuroplasticity and brain re-wiring, addiction, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, chronic pain Can cause bladder issues with chronic over-use*
    MDMA Sassafras tree (Sassafras albidum) In controlled clinical settings, MDMA appears to be well-tolerated and safe
  • Serotonin
  • Dopamine
  • Noradrenaline agonist
  • Euphoria Arousal
  • Perceptual alteration
  • Enhanced empathy and sociability
  • Affects the amygdala, which processes emotions
  • Prefrontal cortex involved in complex behaviors
    		•  PTSD, anxiety, heart-opening, couples therapy Potential short-term depression**
    Psilocybin Naturally found in mushrooms Considered safe under guided, clinical conditions. Low addiction risk
  • 5-HT2A (serotonin) agonist of pyramidal neurons
  • Alters consciousness
  • Causes visual/auditory hallucinations
  • Induces profound emotional and introspective experiences
  • Reduces activity in the amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex
  • Stimulates serotonin and glutamate in the medial prefrontal cortex
  • Primarily affects the default mode network (DMN) altering ego perception
  • Creates new links between previously disconnected brain regions.
  • Temporarily changes the organizational networks in the brain
  • Produces long-term effects on brain connectivity
    		• Depression, supports neuroplasticity and brain re-wiring, end-of-life anxiety, substance addiction Some potential for challenging psychological experiences in higher doses*

    * These are possible side effects for larger doses, not the dosage administered in the Heart Protocol

    ** We prioritize your well-being and want to ensure a holistic care experience. After your journey with us, we provide a 7 day supply of supplements specifically designed to aid in balancing mood and alleviating potential side effects from the journey

    Welcome to the psychedelic renaissance

    In recent years, there has been a resurgence of scientific interest in studying the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances. Researchers have conducted studies demonstrating the promising effects of psychedelics in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. The psychedelic renaissance we are witnessing now can be attributed to several factors:

    ◬ Scientific Research

    In recent years, there has been a resurgence of scientific interest in studying the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances. Researchers have conducted studies demonstrating the promising effects of psychedelics in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. These findings have generated renewed interest and support for further exploration.

    ◬ Shifting Societal Attitudes

    There has been a shift in societal attitudes towards psychedelics, with increasing acceptance and recognition of their potential benefits. People are becoming more open-minded and curious about alternative approaches to mental health and well-being. The growing acceptance has paved the way for more open discussions, research, and exploration of psychedelic substances.

    ◬ Desire for Alternative Therapies

    Traditional psychiatric treatments have limitations, and many individuals are seeking alternative therapeutic options. Psychedelic-assisted therapy offers a unique approach by providing profound and transformative experiences that can catalyze healing and personal growth. The desire for effective and innovative treatments has contributed to the resurgence of interest in psychedelics.

    ◬ Cultural and Historical Significance

    Psychedelics have a rich cultural and historical significance, having been used for thousands of years by various indigenous cultures for spiritual and healing purposes. As society reconnects with these ancient practices and recognizes their potential, there is a renewed appreciation for the wisdom embedded within psychedelic experiences.

    ◬ Legislative Changes

    In some jurisdictions, there have been changes in laws and regulations surrounding psychedelics. This has created opportunities for research and therapeutic applications in controlled settings. The decriminalization and legalization efforts in certain regions have facilitated the exploration and integration of psychedelics into clinical practice.

    Psychedelic research landscape

    A rapidly evolving landscape of mind-expanding discoveries

    • The Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research is leading the way in exploring innovative treatments using psilocybin. The molecular structure of psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in 'magic mushrooms,' allows it to penetrate the central nervous system and the scientific and medical experts are just beginning to understand its effects on the brain and mind and its potential as therapeutics for mental illnesses.

    • Phase 3 Trials for MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy: The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) is conducting Phase 3 clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These trials aim to build upon earlier studies showing promising results and potentially lead to FDA approval for this treatment.

    • Psilocybin for Depression: The COMPASS Pathways-sponsored study called "Treatment Resistant Depression Psilocybin" is investigating the use of psilocybin, the active compound in "magic mushrooms," in treating treatment-resistant depression. The study focuses on assessing the efficacy and safety of psilocybin-assisted therapy for individuals who have not responded to conventional antidepressant treatments. After a single 25mg dose of COMP360 psilocybin therapy, approximately 30% of patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) were in remission at week 3.Sustained response seen through week 12 in twice the number of TRD patients that received 25mg dose vs 1mg.

    • Psilocybin for End-of-Life Distress: Researchers at Johns Hopkins University are conducting studies on the use of psilocybin-assisted therapy for alleviating end-of-life distress in patients with life-threatening illnesses. The research aims to explore the potential of psilocybin to reduce anxiety, depression, and existential distress in individuals facing mortality.

    • Psychedelics and Brain Imaging: Researchers are employing neuroimaging techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying the effects of psychedelics. These studies aim to elucidate how psychedelics modulate brain activity and connectivity, providing insights into their therapeutic actions.

    It is important to note that the field of psychedelic research is rapidly evolving, and there may be additional studies conducted beyond my knowledge cutoff. To stay up-to-date with the latest research in psychedelic science, it is recommended to explore reputable scientific journals and publications, as well as websites of organizations like MAPS, John Hopkins, which are actively involved in advancing psychedelic research.