The Effects of 5-MeO-DMT and Bufo Alvarius

5-methoxydimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a fast-acting, and potent psychotropic substance which can be found in the secretions from the parotid glands of the Colorado River toad Bufo Alvarius. Recently, smoking toad secretions has become popular in various ritual settings, thus research is highly warranted to investigate the potential therapeutic impact of 5-MeO-MT in humans. This talk will summarize the first research conducted on the effects of bufotoxins on mental health. Moreover, it will highlight the consequences the consumption of “toad-medicine” has on the Bufo Alvarius toad, and the dangers of malpractice.

Bio:

Malin Vedøy Uthaug is a PhD candidate at the University of Maastricht, Department of Neuropsychology & Psychopharmacology. She has a background in health and social psychology and is known for her field-work researching the effects of psychedelics, such as ayahuasca, 5-MeO-DMT and Mescaline, on mental health. She is also interested in the ethical and ecological implications of the consumption of these substances, and is highly motivated to de-stigmatize psychedelics, possibly also legalize them, and to create a scientific framework for healing trauma utilizing psychedelics.