More doctors advising patients to turn on, tune in and drop out

A popular recreational drug from the 60s is making a comeback as a legitimate pharmaceutical.

More researchers are conducting studies to determine if hallucinogens, including psilocybin (known on the street as “mushrooms”), LSD and related substances, have a place in modern medicine.

These aren’t just fringe neo-hippies trying to legitimize a hobby: Some of the participants in the studies include researchers from respected medical centers like Johns Hopkins.

In fact, this month, San Jose is hosting the largest U.S. conference on “psychedelic science” in 40 years.

In particular, researchers are investigating potential uses for psychedelics to treat depression in cancer patients, addictions to other substances and a variety of mental illnesses ranging from obsessive-compulsive disorder to post-traumatic stress.