Mushrooms: Natural Anxiety Relief?

Psilocybin, the psychoactive chemical found in several types of mushrooms, is being studied for its therapeutic effects on anxiety. Research suggests that psilocybin can help treat anxiety by acting on the body's serotoninergic system and regulating stress and mood. While the effects of psilocybin on anxiety are promising, it is important to note that it may not work for everyone and the effects may not be permanent. Additionally, the use of psilocybin mushrooms for anxiety is not yet widely legal, and it is important to consider the potential side effects and risks associated with their use. Other types of mushrooms, such as lion's mane and reishi, have also been found to provide anxiety relief and improve mood and sleep.

Do Mushrooms Help with Anxiety?

Microdosing

There is some evidence to suggest that microdosing psilocybin, the psychoactive ingredient in magic mushrooms, can improve cognitive function and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. A large study showed that individuals who microdose psilocybin showed improved mood and a greater decline in anxiety, depression, and stress over a one-month period than those who did not microdose. Another study of 4050 microdosers and 4653 non-microdosers found that microdosers exhibited lower levels of anxiety, depression, and stress.

However, it is important to note that the evidence supporting the use of microdosing for anxiety is still limited, partly due to the illegal status of psilocybin in many places. While psilocybin mushrooms are considered one of the least toxic drugs, with serious physical side effects being very rare, they can still cause some potential side effects. Additionally, some mushrooms are toxic, and ingesting them can lead to serious illness or even death. As such, it is important to exercise caution and seek professional advice before microdosing.

Psilocybin's effects on the brain

Psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms, has been the subject of increasing research interest for its potential therapeutic effects on the brain and mental health. While the recreational use of psilocybin is illegal in the United States, its therapeutic benefits are being explored in supervised, professional settings.

Psilocybin has been shown to cause significant, widespread changes in the brain's functional connectivity, or how different regions of the brain interact and exchange information. These changes are more than three times greater than those observed with a control compound. The largest changes occur in the brain's default mode network (DMN), which is associated with internal thoughts, a person's sense of self, time, and space. Psilocybin also affects the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and the anterior and middle hippocampus, which are functionally connected to the DMN.

The changes in brain connectivity induced by psilocybin may contribute to its therapeutic effects. In rodent models, psilocybin has been found to alter neuronal communication in 5-HT2A-rich regions, such as the medial frontal lobe, and induce persistent plasticity-related phenomena. Increased synaptogenesis in these regions is thought to be key to the antidepressant effects of psilocybin. Additionally, psilocybin increases glutamate signalling and glucose metabolism, decreases the power of electrophysiological signals, reduces hemodynamic fluctuations, and decreases segregation between functional networks.

The therapeutic effects of psilocybin appear to outlast the drug's presence in the body, suggesting that the drug produces long-lasting changes in the brain. Small, persistent changes to brain circuits may lead to a more flexible and healthier brain state, potentially contributing to the observed improvements in conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While more research is needed, especially on its effects on anxiety in the general population, psilocybin shows promise as a potential treatment for various mental health disorders.

Therapeutic benefits

Psilocybin, the psychoactive chemical found in several types of mushrooms, is being increasingly studied for its therapeutic effects on anxiety. Research shows that psilocybin can tap into the memory parts of the brain, bringing the past to life by reanimating it. This may be one of the ways it helps lessen people’s anxiety. It is also suggested that psilocybin could help restore the balance of serotonin in the body, as it shares similarities with this chemical messenger, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation. Low or imbalanced levels of serotonin can lead to anxiety.

Some studies have shown that microdosing psilocybin mushrooms can help treat anxiety. Microdosing involves taking a small dose of psychedelics every few days, and it is rising in popularity. However, there is currently little scientific evidence to support microdosing, and more research is needed on the effects of psilocybin on anxiety in the general population.

Lion's mane mushrooms, in particular, have been found to have significant neuroprotective effects. They contain molecules called hericenones and erinacines, which stimulate the growth and protection of neurons in the brain. NGF abnormalities have been linked to psychiatric disorders and lower levels of brain functionality. Lion's mane has been shown to improve mood disorders of a depressive-anxious nature and help people get better sleep.

Reishi mushrooms, revered in traditional Chinese medicine, have also been found to have anxiolytic properties. They have been shown to reduce cancer-related fatigue and anxiety in breast cancer patients.

While the evidence for the therapeutic benefits of mushrooms for anxiety is promising, it is important to note that psilocybin mushrooms are not a cure-all. They should be used alongside conventional treatments and under the guidance of a therapist who can help track mental health symptoms and treatment progress.

Complementary medicine

Mushrooms are increasingly being studied for their therapeutic effects on mental health conditions, including anxiety. While research is ongoing, there is promising evidence that mushrooms may be an effective complementary medicine for managing anxiety.

Psilocybin Mushrooms

Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms, has been the focus of research for its potential therapeutic benefits. Studies suggest that psilocybin may help treat anxiety by interacting with the serotoninergic system in the brain, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation. Low or imbalanced serotonin levels are associated with anxiety. By potentially restoring serotonin balance, psilocybin mushrooms could help alleviate anxiety symptoms.

Microdosing, or taking small doses of psilocybin mushrooms, has gained interest as a potential approach to managing anxiety. While there is limited scientific evidence for microdosing specifically, some studies suggest that it may be beneficial for conditions such as anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is important to note that psilocybin mushrooms are generally considered safe and non-toxic, but they should be used with caution and under professional guidance to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Lion's Mane Mushrooms

Lion's mane mushrooms have been studied for their potential anxiolytic effects. One study found that supplementation with powdered lion's mane improved mood disorders characterised by anxiety and depression. Additionally, lion's mane mushrooms contain compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which are nerve growth factors (NGFs) that promote neurogenesis and neuroprotection. NGF abnormalities have been linked to psychiatric disorders and cognitive impairment, so lion's mane mushrooms may help support brain health and alleviate anxiety-related symptoms.

Reishi Mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) have a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). They are known as "the mushroom of immortality" due to their reputed health benefits. Modern research has confirmed that reishi mushrooms possess a variety of beneficial compounds that may contribute to overall health and well-being. Specifically, reishi mushrooms have been shown to reduce cancer-related fatigue and anxiety in breast cancer patients, suggesting their potential anxiolytic properties.

In conclusion, while mushrooms may not directly address the underlying causes of anxiety, they can be a valuable complementary medicine to conventional treatments. Research supports the potential effectiveness of psilocybin, lion's mane, and reishi mushrooms in managing anxiety and improving overall mental health. However, further studies are needed to fully understand the benefits and limitations of mushroom therapy for anxiety. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating mushrooms or any new substance into your treatment regimen.

Safety and side effects

While psilocybin mushrooms are considered one of the least toxic drugs, and serious physical side effects are very rare, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of.

Safety

Psilocybin is a chemical compound found in magic mushrooms that causes mind-altering effects. Research suggests that psilocybin may have positive and long-lasting effects on mental health. However, it is important to note that psilocybin is currently illegal in most places, and true psilocybin mushrooms can be hard to come by. This has led some people to forage for their own mushrooms, which can be dangerous as some mushrooms are toxic and can cause serious illness or even death.

Side Effects

The side effects of psilocybin mushrooms can include euphoria, hallucinations, sensory distortion, paranoia, and anxiety. Some people may also experience short-term psychosis, especially if they have pre-existing mental health issues. It is important to be aware that the risk of a "bad trip" increases if a person takes a higher dose of psilocybin or has feelings of anxiety before taking it. Additionally, regular use of psilocybin can lead to tolerance, and cross-tolerance with other drugs such as LSD and mescaline.

When it comes to mushroom supplements, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for those with underlying health conditions, those taking medication, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Some mushroom supplements may affect those with specific medical conditions, such as gout or kidney stones. For example, the Chaga mushroom species contain high levels of oxalates, which can negatively impact those with gout or a history of kidney stones. It is also important to be aware of potential allergies or sensitivities to mushrooms, as some people may experience itching, hives, or other reactions.

Furthermore, some mushroom supplements have stimulating properties, which may be considered a side effect if taken later in the day when trying to relax. Lion's mane mushroom powder, for example, is recommended to be taken early in the day to take advantage of its brain-supportive properties.

Overall, while psilocybin mushrooms may have therapeutic benefits for anxiety, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and take precautions to ensure safe use.

Frequently asked questions