Texas will spend $50 million to research a naturally occurring but illegal substance, ibogaine, that induces “mind-bending hallucinations” and is heralded by advocates for potential treatment of addiction and brain trauma. Because psychedelics are fine, but recreational THC for pain relief is not.Yee haw.
Former Texas governor and “no-apologies conservative” Rick Perry has become an unlikely champion for psychedelic drugs, and spearheaded the bill to fund ibogaine research, which Gov. Greg Abbott signed into law Wednesday.
Proponents say ibogaine is rarely used recreationally, partially due to its unenjoyable high, Bryan Hubbard, executive director of the American Ibogaine Initiative, told the Texas Tribune.
Since there isn’t much of a “street economy” for the drug, Hubbard told the Tribune, lawmakers aren’t as concerned about possible ibogaine abuse. It’s been embraced by Republicans as a possible treatment for addiction, brain trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder, particularly for veterans.
Ibogaine clinics are popular in Mexico, the Washington Post reported, where people travel to take the drug for its psychedelic trip, a spiritual awakening that leaves the user’s brain feeling like “fresh snow” after, one veteran testified to lawmakers.
Texas is investing big money into brain science, having already committed $3 billion to a new research institute for dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. The new law to fund ibogaine research could further cement Texas as a leader in psychedelic research, ensuring the state will reap the economic benefits of ibogaine clinical trials — at least 20% of revenue from any successful product.
Of course, as the fate of THC in Texas still hangs in the balance, some online have noticed the apparent hypocrisy of Republican lawmakers throwing their weight behind the Joe Rogan-endorsed ibogaine.
“Big Pharma got a pill to replace THC. Very addictive and very expensive. Will make Texas politicians rich!!” said one Reddit poster.
“Lol. just lol,” said another.
So, congratulations. If THC is banned, Texas might still let you get your pain relief. It’ll just be one hell of a trip.
