86. Grace Blest-Hopley on Women’s Health Research and How Hormones Shape the Psychedelic Experience

We are excited to host Grace Blest-Hopley on this episode of the Mangu.tv podcast. Dr Grace Blest-Hopley is a neuroscientist with over a decade of research into cannabinoids and psychedelics, and the founder of Hystelica — the world's first research organisation dedicated to understanding female biology for safer, more effective psychedelic use, delivering both original research and education in the field. She holds a PhD in Neuroscience from King's College London, and now serves as Chief Scientific Officer at NWPharmaTech and Research Director at Heroic Hearts Project, where she leads work supporting military veterans living with trauma. Grace has spoken internationally as part of her advocacy for women's representation in psychedelic science.   Grace discusses her upbringing on a Staffordshire farm, her connection to horses, and how experiences in India led her to study neuroscience. She and Giancarlo explore the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids, the challenges of cannabis research, and findings from neuroimaging studies of long-term users, particularly those who started young.Their conversation also covers the rise of psychedelic-assisted therapy, the importance of preparation and integration, and Grace’s work with the Heroic Hearts Project, where she witnessed the benefits of Ayahuasca ceremonies with the Shipibo people. Grace explains how psychedelics may create a window of increased neuroplasticity, offering opportunities to rewire the brain. She also discusses her research into women’s health, examining how hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle can influence psychedelic experiences and their therapeutic potential.