A few studies on psychedelics have produced amazing results for their potential in treating depression, PTSD, anxiety, and cluster headaches.
But what hasn't gotten the attention is the neurogenesis effects caused by substances like psilocybin(active ingredient in magic mushrooms). A study at the University Of South Florida has shown psilocybin to cause neurogenesis to take place in the hippocampal region of the brain.
So what is the hippocampus and why is neurogenesis so important.
The hippocampus belongs to the limbic system and plays important roles in the consolidation of information from short-term memory to long-term memory, and in spatial memory that enables navigation. [1]
Neurogenesis is the process of birth of neurons wherein neurons are generated from neural stem cells. Contrary to popular belief, neurogenesis continuously occurs in specific regions in the adult brain.[2]
One of the key factors in becoming more intelligent is the ability to recall what you have learned. Having a healthy hippocampus is certainly beneficial to this process.
This study has also opened the doors to other possible treatments for things like Alzheimer's and brain injuries.
In Alzheimer's disease (and other forms of dementia), the hippocampus is one of the first regions of the brain to suffer damage; short-term memory loss and disorientation are included among the early symptoms. Damage to the hippocampus can also result from oxygen starvation (hypoxia), encephalitis, or medial temporal lobe epilepsy. People with extensive, bilateral hippocampal damage may experience anterograde amnesia (the inability to form and retain new memories).[1]
One would have to have the desire to learn new things first of all.
No studies exist on psychedelics making people more curious and creating desire to learn.(that I'm aware of)
I can only tell you of my daily observations of the psychedelic community. From these observations I believe they are the most curious community I have ever encountered.
Of course one could argue that they were naturally curious before and that's what lead them to try psychedelics.
That might be true, who knows.
From my personal experience with these substances, I have gained an unquenchable thirst for knowledge.
These substances are tools and if used properly a lot can be gained. Personally I won't need to know what the study says on this subject. I have witnessed the artists canvas, the writers books, the directors movies, and I have read the philosophers writings. All were inspired by these substances.
Can they make you more intelligent?
"Can" is the appropriate word.
They "can" help you become more intelligent.
A persons intentions being the key factor.
No substance on earth can make a person intelligent if the person does not take the necessary steps.
For a better understanding of psychedelics effects on the hippocampus.
[1] https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hippocampus
[2]
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adult_neurogenesis
