History
Processing, please wait...
Database
search
in
Filter year from
to
Language
Country
  • Enter your search phrase in the search box.
  • General search:
    • The Boolean operator AND between the terms is assumed by default. If you enter the words European Union in the search box, the system returns all records in which both words occur, regardless of their order.
    • When entering a set of words in quotes, e.g "european union", all records containing the literal term "European Union" will be retrieved.
  • Search by access fields (e.g. author, title, etc.):
    • To direct your search, choose the field in which you want to search the word or expression.
    • Search in the field assumes by default the expression in quotes, e.g. European union will retrieve all records containing the literal term "European Union"
  • To perform more complex searches, additional words or expressions may be added.
  • If you want to refine the search results, you can always access the link "search" in the upper left corner of the page of search results.
  • The search engine is not case sensitive. For example, the word congress has the same meaning that Congress or CONGRESS.
  • To truncate your search expression, use the $ character
  • You can filter the results of your search by a date or date range, filling the appropriate boxes.
Base:
BIAL Foundation
Search:
DE:"DMT"
Results
1
to
6
from
6
found.
View
Selection Description
Type Title Begin End
DocumentPotential therapeutic effects of an ayahuasca-inspired N,N-DMT and harmine formulation: a controlled trial in healthy subjects2024

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2020 Grants
Start date: 2021-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-333
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
333 - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators
Duration: 2021-10 - 2024-05
Researcher(s):
Milan Scheidegger, Daniel Meling, Michael Kometer, Dario Dornbierer
Institution(s): Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich (Switzerland); University Medical Center Freiburg (Germany)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Articles
Final report
Language: eng
Author:
Scheidegger, M.
Secondary author(s):
Meling, D., Kometer, M., Dornbierer, D.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Meditation / Psychedelics / Neurophenomenology / Brain imaging / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-333.04
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Potential therapeutic effects of an ayahuasca-inspired N,N-DMT and harmine formulation: a controlled trial in healthy subjects
Publication year: 2024
URL:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1302559/full
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Background:
There is growing scientific evidence for the therapeutic benefits of the Amazonian plant-based psychedelic “ayahuasca” for neuropsychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety. However, there are certain challenges when incorporating botanical ayahuasca into biomedical research and clinical therapy environments. Formulations inspired by ayahuasca, which contain specific and standardized active components, are a potential remedy.
Methods:
We investigated subjective acute and persisting effects of a novel formulation containing the reversible monoamine oxidase inhibitor harmine (orodispersible tablet containing 100 mg MAO-I) and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (incremental intranasal dosing of up to 100 mg DMT), compared with two other conditions, namely harmine alone and placebo, in a crossover RCT in 31 healthy male subjects.
Results:
DMT + harmine, but not harmine alone, induced a psychedelic experience assessed with the 5D-ASC rating scale [global score: F(2,60) = 80.21, p < 0.001] and acute experience sampling items over time, characterized by psychological insights [PIQ, F(2,58.5) = 28.514, p < 0.001], emotional breakthroughs [EBI, F(2,60) = 26.509, p < 0.001], and low scores on the challenging experience questionnaire [CEQ, F(2,60) = 12.84, p < 0.001]. Participants attributed personal and spiritual significance to the experience (GSR) with mainly positive persisting effects (PEQ) at 1- and 4-months follow-up. Acute drug effects correlated positively with persisting effects. We found no changes in trait measures of personality, psychological flexibility, or general well-being, and no increases in psychopathology (SCL-90-R) were reported.
Discussion and Conclusion:
Our results suggest that the experience induced by the standardized DMT + harmine formulation induces a phenomenologically rich psychedelic experience, demonstrates good psychological safety and tolerability, is well tolerated, and induces beneficial psychological processes that could possibly support psychotherapy. Further studies are required to investigate the psychotherapeutic potential in patients.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Aicher, H. D.
Secondary author(s):
Mueller, M. J., Dornbierer, D. A., Suay, D., Elsner, C., Wicki, I., Meling, D., Caflisch, L., Hempe, A., Steinhart, C., Mueller, J., Von Rotz, R., Kleim, B., Scheidegger, M.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Aicher, H. D., Mueller, M. J., Dornbierer, D. A., Suay, D., Elsner, C., Wicki, I., Meling, D., Caflisch, L., Hempe, A., Steinhart, C., Mueller, J., Von Rotz, R., Kleim, B., & Scheidegger, M. (2024). Potential therapeutic effects of an ayahuasca-inspired N,N-DMT and harmine formulation: a controlled trial in healthy subjects. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14, 1302559. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1302559
2-year Impact Factor: 3.2|2024
Times cited: 13|2025-09-26
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Ayahuasca / Ayahuasca analog / DMT / Harmine / Therapeutic potential / Psychological processes / Psychometrics / Subjective effects

Potential therapeutic effects of an ayahuasca-inspired N,N-DMT and harmine formulation: a controlled trial in healthy subjects

Potential therapeutic effects of an ayahuasca-inspired N,N-DMT and harmine formulation: a controlled trial in healthy subjects
DocumentFinal report - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators2024

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2020 Grants
Start date: 2021-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-333
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
333 - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators
Duration: 2021-10 - 2024-05
Researcher(s):
Milan Scheidegger, Daniel Meling, Michael Kometer, Dario Dornbierer
Institution(s): Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich (Switzerland); University Medical Center Freiburg (Germany)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Articles
Final report
Language: eng
Author:
Scheidegger, M.
Secondary author(s):
Meling, D., Kometer, M., Dornbierer, D.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Meditation / Psychedelics / Neurophenomenology / Brain imaging / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-333.01
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Final report - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators
Publication year: 2024
Abstract/Results:
Abstract:
Background
This study explores the intersection of meditation and psychedelics, focusing on potential synergistic effects of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and harmine (HAR) on experiential and neurodynamic outcomes.
Aims
The primary aim is to investigate changes in experiential markers and brain activity following DMT/HAR intake during meditation. Specifically, it seeks to elucidate the mindfulness-related effects of DMT.
Method
We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study involving 40 experienced meditators (22 m, 18 f) that received either DMT/HAR (120 mg each) or placebo in a mindfulness group retreat. Outcomes included psychometric assessments (mindfulness, compassion, insight, transcendence) and changes in resting-state fMRI brain connectivity before and after the retreat.
Results
Significantly higher levels of mystical experiences, non-dual awareness, and emotional breakthroughs were reported in response to acute DMT/HAR, with greater psychological insight one day later. Mindfulness and compassion did not differ significantly between groups. At one-month follow-up, the DMT/HAR group rated their experience as more meaningful and well-being enhancing. Functional network connectivity was increased in several brain regions in the DMT/HAR group, while the placebo group showed reduced network connectivity after the retreat.
Conclusions
This study provides novel evidence that DMT combined with harmine may enhance meditation practice by facilitating deeply meaningful experiences and psychological insights, contributing to meditation-related well-being. The findings suggest that the benefits are more related to eliciting insight, transcendence, and meaning rather than improving mindfulness or compassion.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Scheidegger, M.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Scheidegger, M. (2024). Final report - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: DMT / Ayahuasca / Psychedelics / Meditation / fMRI

Final report - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators

Final report - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators
DocumentFinal report - A comparison of NN-DMT, Changa & 5-MeO-DMT and the Near-death Experience: Qualitative analyses and reviews of the neuroscience2024

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2018 Grants
Start date: 2019-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-359
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
359 - A comparison of NN-DMT, Changa & 5-MeO-DMT and the Near-death Experience: Qualitative analyses and reviews of the neuroscience
Duration: 2020/01 - 2024/05
Researcher(s):
Pascal Michael, David Luke
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, Social Work and Counselling, Greenwich University, London (UK); Psychedelic Research Group, Imperial College London (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Michael, P.
Secondary author(s):
Luke, D.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Near-death experience / Dimethyltryptamine/DMT / Phenomenology / Pineal Gland / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-359.01
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Final report - A comparison of NN-DMT, Changa & 5-MeO-DMT and the Near-death Experience: Qualitative analyses and reviews of the neuroscience
Publication year: 2024
Abstract/Results:
Abstract:
Background: The near-death experience (NDE) remains incompletely understood, but the parallels between psychedelic effects and NDE suggest a potential role for psychedelics in consciousness recovery. Psychometric and semantic analyses suggest psychedelics mimic NDEs. However, no dedicated comparative studies have explored qualitative differences, especially in participants experiencing both.
Methods: This thesis aimed to elucidate N,N-DMT experiences through thematic analysis of interviews conducted during a field study of DMT. Comparative analyses between this and classical NDEs were achieved, via near-death experience scale (NDES) administration, and comparing the DMT results with a re-analysis of a previously published thematic analyses of NDEs. NDE comparisons were also made in a within-subjects way, including a case study of 5-MeO-DMT and NDE, and two case studies of changa and NDE.
Results: DMT participants reported breakthrough experiences meeting entities with pervasive transformations. While some similarities to NDEs were found, notable differences in qualitative content were observed. 5-MeO-DMT showed partial replication of NDE mystical dimensions. Changa reports displayed moderate similarity to personal NDEs but higher similarity to NDEs in general.
Discussion and Conclusions: Each drug state mimics some NDE features but fails to replicate identical content. Therapeutic applications and neural correlates were discussed, along with the neurobiological and parapsychological aspects. Suggestions for future research include qualitative investigations into long-term consequences of these states.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Michael, P.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Michael, P. (2024). Final report - A comparison of NN-DMT, Changa & 5-MeO-DMT and the Near-death Experience: Qualitative analyses and reviews of the neuroscience.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Near-death experience / Psychedelic / DMT / Qualitative analysis / Neuroscience

Final report - A comparison of NN-DMT, Changa & 5-MeO-DMT and the near-death experience: Qualitative analyses and reviews of the neuroscience

Final report - A comparison of NN-DMT, Changa & 5-MeO-DMT and the near-death experience: Qualitative analyses and reviews of the neuroscience
DocumentMeditating on psychedelics. A randomized placebo-controlled study of DMT and harmine in a mindfulness retreat2024

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2020 Grants
Start date: 2021-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-333
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
333 - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators
Duration: 2021-10 - 2024-05
Researcher(s):
Milan Scheidegger, Daniel Meling, Michael Kometer, Dario Dornbierer
Institution(s): Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich (Switzerland); University Medical Center Freiburg (Germany)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Articles
Final report
Language: eng
Author:
Scheidegger, M.
Secondary author(s):
Meling, D., Kometer, M., Dornbierer, D.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Meditation / Psychedelics / Neurophenomenology / Brain imaging / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-333.07
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Meditating on psychedelics. A randomized placebo-controlled study of DMT and harmine in a mindfulness retreat
Publication year: 2024
URL:
https://doi.org/10.1177/02698811241282637
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Background: In recent years, both meditation and psychedelics have attracted rapidly increasing scientific interest. While the current state of evidence suggests the promising potential of psychedelics, such as psilocybin, to enhance meditative training, it remains equivocal whether these effects are specifically bound to psilocybin or if other classical psychedelics might show synergistic effects with meditation practice. One particularly promising candidate is N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), an active ingredient of ayahuasca.Aim: This study aims to investigate the effect of the psychedelic substance DMT, combined with the monoamine oxidase inhibitor harmine (DMT-harmine), on meditative states, compared to meditation with a placebo.Method: Forty experienced meditators (18 females and 22 males) participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study over a 3-day meditation retreat, receiving either placebo or DMT-harmine. Participants' levels of mindfulness, compassion, insight, and transcendence were assessed before, during, and after the meditation group retreat, using psychometric questionnaires.Results: Compared to meditation with a placebo, meditators who received DMT and harmine self-attributed greater levels of mystical-type experiences, non-dual awareness, and emotional breakthrough during the acute substance effects and, when corrected for baseline differences, greater psychological insight 1 day later. Mindfulness and compassion were not significantly different in the DMT-harmine group compared to placebo. At 1-month follow-up, the meditators who received DMT and harmine rated their experience as significantly more personally meaningful, spiritually significant, and well-being-enhancing than the meditators who received placebo.Conclusion: Investigating the impact of DMT-harmine on meditators in a naturalistic mindfulness group retreat, this placebo-controlled study highlights the specific effects of psychedelics during meditation. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT05780216.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Meling, D.
Secondary author(s):
Egger, K., Aicher, H. D., Jareńo Redondo, J., Mueller, J., Dornbierer, J., Temperli, E., Vasella, E. A., Caflisch, L., Pfeiffer, D. J., Schlomberg, J. T., Smallridge, J. W., Dornbierer, D. A., Scheidegger, M.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Meling, D., Egger, K., Aicher, H. D., Jareńo Redondo, J., Mueller, J., Dornbierer, J., Temperli, E., Vasella, E. A., Caflisch, L., Pfeiffer, D. J., Schlomberg, J. T., Smallridge, J. W., Dornbierer, D. A., & Scheidegger, M. (2024). Meditating on psychedelics. A randomized placebo-controlled study of DMT and harmine in a mindfulness retreat. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 38(10), 897–910. https://doi.org/10.1177/02698811241282637
2-year Impact Factor: 5.5|2024
Times cited: 4|2025-09-27
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: DMT / Psychedelic / Ayahuasca / Compassion / Dimethyltryptamine / Insight / Meditation / Mindfulness / Mystical experience

Meditating on psychedelics. A randomized placebo-controlled study of DMT and harmine in a mindfulness retreat

Meditating on psychedelics. A randomized placebo-controlled study of DMT and harmine in a mindfulness retreat
DocumentAn encounter with death: A comparative thematic and content analysis of naturalistic DMT experiences and the near-death experience2025

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2018 Grants
Start date: 2019-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-359
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
359 - A comparison of NN-DMT, Changa & 5-MeO-DMT and the Near-death Experience: Qualitative analyses and reviews of the neuroscience
Duration: 2020/01 - 2024/05
Researcher(s):
Pascal Michael, David Luke
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, Social Work and Counselling, Greenwich University, London (UK); Psychedelic Research Group, Imperial College London (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Michael, P.
Secondary author(s):
Luke, D.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Near-death experience / Dimethyltryptamine/DMT / Phenomenology / Pineal Gland / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-359.06
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
An encounter with death: A comparative thematic and content analysis of naturalistic DMT experiences and the near-death experience
Publication year: 2025
URL:
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1532937
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Introduction: Classical near-death experiences (NDEs) refer to states of disconnected consciousness characterised by a range of features occurring in the context of being close to death. Various psychedelic substances, such as N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), consistently replicate NDE features and may be considered 'near-death-like experiences.' However, a systematic qualitative analysis comparing the specifics of content with the broader themes of both psychedelic and NDEs has yet to be conducted.
Methods: We report the third thematic and content analysis of the DMT experience from a naturalistic field study, focusing on themes related to death and dying. Based on 36 semi-structured interviews, this analysis is then directly compared, qualitatively and in terms of content frequency, with a novel extension of a previous thematic analysis of 34 written NDE narratives.
Results: The 'canonical NDE themes' identified across the DMT experiences included Translocation, Bright Light(s), Sense of Dying, The Void, Disembodiment, Tunnel-like Structures, Light Being-esque Entities, Deceased Family, Life Review-like, and Hyper-empathic Experiences. A total of 95% of participants reported at least one of these. Twelve 'less typical NDE motifs' were also noted. Five classical NDE features were entirely absent from DMT, while DMT exhibited an even broader array of experience features that were absent from NDEs. DMT clearly shares a more basic phenomenological structure with NDEs but shows differences in the prevalence of certain features. Furthermore, DMT did not present any immediately recognisable linear sequencing of themes. Overall, DMT is distinctly unique in its qualitative content, characterised by its more prodigious and stereotypical nature, which includes kaleidoscopic, extraterrestrial, transcultural, fluctuating, and overwhelming elements.
Discussion: When examining the comparability between DMT and NDEs at a fundamentally more nuanced level of qualitative content (as opposed to broad themes or questionnaire items), the two experiences clearly diverge. However, a minority of NDEs, which are themselves unique, do share significant content with DMT. Taken together, DMT could be considered an 'NDE-mimetic.' The weaker comparability is likely due not only to differences in context but also to the complex neural processes occurring near death, in which endogenous DMT may only play a small role. In light of this level of parallelism with NDEs, some potential clinical applications of DMT are also discussed.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Michael, P.
Secondary author(s):
Luke, D., Robinson, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Michael, P., Luke, D., & Robinson, O. (2025). An encounter with death: a comparative thematic and content analysis of naturalistic DMT experiences and the near-death experience. Frontiers in Psychology, 16, 1532937. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1532937
2-year Impact Factor: 2.9|2024
Impact factor notes: Impact factor not available yet for 2025
Times cited: 0|2025-09-27
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: DMT / Dimethyltryptamine / NDE / Naturalistic / Near-death experience / Psychedelic / Thematic analysis

An encounter with death: A comparative thematic and content analysis of naturalistic DMT experiences and the near-death experience

An encounter with death: A comparative thematic and content analysis of naturalistic DMT experiences and the near-death experience
DocumentMeditation, psychedelics, and brain connectivity: A randomized controlled resting-state fMRI study of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in a meditation retreat2025

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2020 Grants
Start date: 2021-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-333
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
333 - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators
Duration: 2021-10 - 2024-05
Researcher(s):
Milan Scheidegger, Daniel Meling, Michael Kometer, Dario Dornbierer
Institution(s): Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich (Switzerland); University Medical Center Freiburg (Germany)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Articles
Final report
Language: eng
Author:
Scheidegger, M.
Secondary author(s):
Meling, D., Kometer, M., Dornbierer, D.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Meditation / Psychedelics / Neurophenomenology / Brain imaging / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-333.10
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Meditation, psychedelics, and brain connectivity: A randomized controlled resting-state fMRI study of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in a meditation retreat
Publication year: 2025
URL:
https://doi.org/10.1162/IMAG.a.907
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Both meditation and psychedelics are widely studied for their therapeutic potential in mental health. Recent research suggests potential synergies between mindfulness practice and psychedelics, though empirical studies have primarily focused on psilocybin. This study investigates the distinct and combined effects of mindfulness practice and an ayahuasca-inspired formulation containing N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and harmine on brain functional connectivity (FC), with implications for advancing clinical interventions. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled pharmaco-functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, 40 meditation practitioners participated in a 3-day meditation retreat. They were randomized to receive either placebo or buccal DMT–harmine (120 mg each) and underwent fMRI scans 2 days before and after administration. Neural changes were assessed using multiple connectivity metrics, including within- and between-network connectivity, network and global connectivity, and cortical gradient analyses. Within-group changes showed that meditators in the placebo group exhibited increased network segregation across several resting-state networks, while the DMT–harmine group showed increased FC within the visual network (VIS) and between VIS and attention networks. Between-group differences similarly showed increased FC between VIS and the salience network (SAL) in the DMT–harmine group compared with placebo post-retreat. No evidence of prolonged cortical gradient disruption, which is characteristic of acute psychedelic action, was observed. This suggests a return to typical brain organization shortly after the experience. These findings reveal distinct neural mechanisms underlying meditation and psychedelic-augmented meditation. While meditation alone reduced FC between networks, DMT–harmine increased within- and between-network connectivity. Given the potential of meditation and psychedelics for improving mental health, further exploration of their synergistic potential in clinical contexts is warranted. This study advances the understanding of how psychedelics and mindfulness practice shape brain function, offering insights into their complementary roles in emotional and psychological well-being.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Egger, K.
Secondary author(s):
Meling, D., Polat, F., Seifritz, E., Avram, M., Scheidegger, M.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Egger, K., Meling, D., Polat, F., Seifritz, E., Avram, M., & Scheidegger, M. (2025). Meditation, psychedelics, and brain connectivity: A randomized controlled resting-state fMRI study of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in a meditation retreat. Imaging Neuroscience, 3, Article IMAG.a.907. https://doi.org/10.1162/IMAG.a.907
2-year Impact Factor: N/Y
Impact factor notes: Impact factor not available yet for 2025
Times cited: N/Y
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: N/Y
Keywords: Psychedelics / fMRI / DMT / Harmine / Meditation / Neuroscience

Meditation, psychedelics, and brain connectivity: A randomized controlled resting-state fMRI study of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in a meditation retreat

Meditation, psychedelics, and brain connectivity: A randomized controlled resting-state fMRI study of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in a meditation retreat