Trump is backing psychedelic research: here’s why – podcast | Science
US politics | The Guardian — 2026-05-11 23:00:00 — www.theguardian.com
Last month President Trump signed an executive order designed to fast track both research and access to psychedelic drugs as treatments for mental health illnesses. The most prominent in the order was ibogaine, a drug derived from the root bark of a West African shrub, that has shown some promise in relieving the long term effects of traumatic brain injury. Madeleine Finlay talks to journalist Mattha Busby about podcaster Joe Rogan’s role in the story, what else is behind the President’s interest in psychedelic research, and what the order will change in practice for scientists and researchers
Last month, President Trump signed an executive order aimed at accelerating research and access to psychedelic drugs for mental health treatment. The order prominently features ibogaine, a substance derived from a West African shrub that has shown potential in alleviating the long-term effects of traumatic brain injury. This move raises questions about the motivations behind Trump’s interest in psychedelic research and the implications for scientists and researchers in the field.
How this sits against verifiable accuracy
The executive order signed by Trump seeks to fast track research into psychedelic drugs, particularly ibogaine, which is noted for its potential benefits in treating mental health issues. For such claims to be well-supported, one would typically expect robust clinical evidence, peer-reviewed studies, and endorsements from reputable health organizations. The excerpt does not provide any such verification or detailed evidence to substantiate the efficacy of ibogaine or the broader claims regarding psychedelic treatments.
Moreover, the excerpt does not include any corrections or counter-evidence that would challenge the claims made about the executive order. Without additional context or supporting data, the assertions regarding the benefits of ibogaine remain largely unverified within the provided text.
What the excerpt shows about verifiable lies
The excerpt does not indicate any statements made by Trump that are explicitly false or misleading. There are no contradictions or retractions present in the text that would suggest inaccuracies in the claims surrounding the executive order or the drug ibogaine. However, to fully assess the validity of the claims, readers would need access to scientific studies or expert opinions that confirm the effectiveness of ibogaine in treating mental health conditions.
Targets and tone
The excerpt does not reveal any instances of Trump disparaging or speaking in a hostile manner toward specific individuals or groups. The language used is neutral and focused on the executive order and its implications rather than personal attacks or derogatory remarks. There is no indication of hostility or demeaning rhetoric directed at any identifiable targets.
In conclusion, while Trump’s executive order on psychedelic research marks a significant policy move, the excerpt lacks the necessary evidence to substantiate the claims made about ibogaine’s effectiveness. Readers should remain cautious about the implications of this order and seek further information to understand its potential impact on mental health treatment.