Abstract

CAYNAS ROJAS, Seriad  and  MERCADILLO, Roberto E.. Extended cognition and symbols of the mazatec “velada” with psilocybin mushrooms. Andamios [online]. 2024, vol.21, n.54, pp.179-210.  Epub Feb 24, 2025. ISSN 2594-1917.  https://doi.org/10.29092/uacm.v21i54.1063.

The resurgence of psychedelic medicine has pointed out the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, but considered few aspects outside of its neurobiological effects and psychiatric symptomatology. The mazatec “velada” is a traditional healing practice through the use of psilocybin mushrooms. In this work, we analyze its symbolic elements, and we understand them under the extended cognition proposals and a re-signified placebo effect. We argue that beliefs about the sacredness of mushrooms, the active role of the patient, the representation of the shaman, and the physical spaces and acts in the ceremony, constitute symbolic elements influencing the pharmacological effects of psilocybin and the well-being of the patient. The “velada” provides guidelines for incorporating extra-cerebral cognitive elements into current psychedelic medicine.

Keywords : velada; psilocybin mushrooms; psilocybin; placebo; extended cognition.

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