‘Magic mushies’ research boost

Indigenous fungi or weraroa. Picture supplied

Research being done here into how indigenous “magic mushrooms” can treat addiction and mental health issues have taken a leap forward in hitting several milestones, an NZX-listed medicinal cannabis company says.

Rua Bioscience has announced the milestones in its health research collaboration focused on the production of indigenous mushrooms containing the psychoactive psilocybin.

The company has been granted an expanded licence by the Ministry of Health to research all 10 indigenous psilocybe varieties.

The cultivation programme, led by Rua Bioscience and local experts, has sourced fungi, established cultivation facilities and sample testing is being done at the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR).

A new research agreement has been executed involving eight partners — Rangiwaho Marae, ESR, Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research, Mātai Medical Research Institute, Tūranga Health, IO Limited, NZ Drug Foundation and Rua Bioscience.

Other partners are expected to participate in the collaboration as the research progresses.

Phase 1 of the marae-based psilocybin clinical trial protocol received full approval from the Health and Disability Ethics Committees and the Medsafe Standing Committee On Therapeutic Trials has granted conditional approval for the trial to proceed.

The Tū Wairua collaboration brings together leading experts and organisations in a concerted effort to deepen understanding of indigenous varieties of psilocybe fungi and explore their therapeutic potential.

This collaboration aligns with Rua Bioscience’s mission to harness the power of nature to improve health outcomes and promote wellbeing.

“We are incredibly excited to embark on this journey with our esteemed partners,” Rua Bioscience chief executive Paul Naske said.

“Through the Tū Wairua collaboration, we aim to investigate the potential of indigenous psilocybe varieties to benefit individuals and communities alike.

“By combining local knowledge with scientific research, Tū Wairua can pave the way for innovative approaches to health and wellness with mana whenua leading the process.”

ESR Maori impact general manager Jymal Morgan said his organisation were delighted to be involved.

“ESR is proud to be part of the Tū Wairua collaboration, which aligns closely with our commitment to honouring and supporting Māori communities. ESR is bringing our expertise in analytical chemistry to mātauranga Māori to enable innovation.”

Rangiwaho Marae  trustee Jody Toroa said marae whānau were pleased to be the conduit for an initiative bringing together mātauranga Māori, health researchers and medicine manufacturing companies.

“This is new ground for everyone involved. It’s complex but so interesting for our whānau and we can’t wait to see whether it might help those we know suffering from addictions and historical trauma.”

Rangiwaho Marae has facilitated access to kaupapa Māori trainers who will work along psychedelic therapy trainers to prepare a team of kaitieki, or guides, to support participants in each phase of the clinical trial.

Mātai clinical lead Dr Patrick McHugh highlighted the potential impact of the collaboration.

“Mātai is thrilled to join forces with Rua Bioscience and other partners in the Tū Wairua collaboration. By combining our expertise in research and technology, we can unlock new insights into the therapeutic potential of indigenous psilocybe varieties.”

The trial started last year after Psilocybe weraroa, a native fungi, was discovered by chance on whenua within Rangiwaho Marae.

It sparked the setting up of a project to cultivate, test and use the weraroa — an indigenous fungi known to contain psilocybin, the compound found in “magic mushrooms”.

Overseas studies have shown promising results using psilocybin to treat addictions and depression.