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Effect on mental health of inhaling dried secretion from Bufo alvarius toad

Publication at Faculty of Arts |
2019

Abstract

Introduction: The use of the secretion from the glands of Colorado toad (Latin Bufo alvarius (BA)) is gaining popularity in Western societies. Psychoactive 5-methoxy-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is considered the main active ingredient of this secretion.

The secretion from BA glands is generally used in a ritual context to treat mental illness, improve wellbeing and personality development. Yet, despite the increasing popularity of the BA secretary, there is currently a significant lack of research knowledge.

The available information is usually at the level of personal testimonies and comments that describe significant improvements but sometimes also deterioration of mental health or quality of life. Methods: In this prospective observational study, data was collected from respondents who decided to participate in a natural ritual outside of clinical institutions where inhaled BA glands were inhaled.

The short-term (within one month) effect on the psyche of the individual was studied using self-assessing questionnaires (Brief Symptom Inventory-18, Resilience Scale). Results: Preliminary results show that in most respondents there was a significant improvement in symptom and resilience levels.

To a lesser extent, there was no change and several respondents found significant deterioration. Discussion: The results show the possible therapeutic potential of secretion from the BA glands, respectively. its major active ingredients 5-MeO-DMT, in accordance with a recently published retrospective survey.

It also provides information on the potential risks of participation in this type of unregulated intervention in some individuals.