At Vital Reset, we’re always watching for research that helps us better understand how psilocybin works—and why it may be such a powerful tool for healing. A new study published in Journal of Psychopharmacology offers intriguing insight into psilocybin’s effects on the brain’s hypothalamus, a region that governs essential functions like hunger, sleep, stress response, and mood regulation.
The findings add to a growing body of psilocybin research exploring how this natural compound might support people living with depression, anxiety, trauma, or eating disorders.
What the Researchers Found
In this pilot study, researchers gave rats a single dose of either psilocybin or ketamine, then measured changes in gene expression within the hypothalamus seven days later. They found that psilocybin had a much more profound effect than ketamine, especially at the higher dose (10 mg/kg).
Key takeaways:
-
Psilocybin increased expression of several neuropeptides and their receptors linked to emotional regulation, appetite, and stress.
-
It also boosted serotonin receptor genes (5-HT1A, 5-HT2A, 5-HT2B), but not 5-HT2C, suggesting selective engagement of mood-related pathways.
-
One neuropeptide, neuromedin U, actually decreased. This molecule is known to suppress appetite—its reduction may reflect psilocybin’s balancing effect on hunger and satiety.
-
Ketamine’s effects were more limited, affecting only a few genes and showing less impact on serotonin pathways.
Why It Matters
Most people associate psychedelics with changes in perception and consciousness. But this study highlights how psilocybin also influences the autonomic nervous system, the part of the brain that regulates basic survival functions. This could help explain why so many people report not just emotional relief, but also shifts in physical patterns—like sleep, digestion, and even appetite—after a journey.
For those living with depression, PTSD, or anorexia, this psilocybin research offers new hope. In fact, previous clinical trials have already shown that psilocybin can reduce symptoms of anorexia nervosa, a condition often linked to disrupted hypothalamic signaling.
A Window Into the Deeper Brain
Most psychedelic studies focus on cortical brain regions like the default mode network, which governs self-referential thinking. But the hypothalamus lies deeper, closer to the brainstem, and connects our bodies to our emotions in fundamental ways.
By showing that psilocybin affects gene activity in this region, the study offers a new pathway for understanding how the psychedelic experience supports lasting change—both mentally and physically.
Want to explore what a psilocybin journey might offer you?
We’re happy to answer your questions and help you explore if this work is right for you.
Call us at 541-645-4485
Or fill out our confidential contact form
