John Miller
The decriminalization of mushrooms refers to the growing movement to legalize the use of psilocybin, the psychedelic drug produced naturally by psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms. Psilocybin is federally classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, with similar restrictions in the UK and Europe. However, there is a growing body of research that suggests psilocybin is non-addictive and has the potential to treat treatment-resistant depression and nicotine dependence. As a result, cities like Denver, Oakland, and Washington, D.C. have decriminalized psilocybin, and states like Oregon and Colorado have followed suit, with Oregon becoming the first state to legalize its supervised use in 2020. This shift towards decriminalization and legalization is not limited to North America, with countries like the Czech Republic and the Netherlands also relaxing restrictions on psilocybin and other psychedelics.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition of Decriminalization | Generally, decriminalization implies that people can possess or use a personal amount of the substance despite it being illegal, although sometimes minor fines apply. |
| Legal Status of Psilocybin Mushrooms in the US | Psilocybin mushrooms are federally illegal in the US, classified as a Schedule I controlled substance with "no accepted medical use" and a high potential for abuse. |
| Decriminalization Efforts in the US | As of August 2024, several US cities and states have decriminalized psilocybin, including Washington, D.C., Detroit, Seattle, Denver, Oakland, Santa Cruz, Ann Arbor, Olympia, and Tacoma. Oregon was the first state to decriminalize and legalize supervised use in 2020. Colorado followed with similar measures in 2022. |
| Reasons for Decriminalization | Research suggests psilocybin is non-addictive and causes fewer emergency visits than other illegal drugs. It has potential benefits in treating treatment-resistant depression and anxiety and nicotine dependence. Decriminalization redirects law enforcement resources from private psychedelic usage to higher priorities. |
| Criticisms and Concerns | Critics argue that decriminalization is premature before researchers have completed their work on understanding the risks and consequences of unrestricted use. There are concerns about increased access among adolescents and young adults, as evidenced by a sharp rise in calls to poison centers. |
| Global Perspective | There is a global trend towards increased legalization and decriminalization of psychedelics as treatment usages expand. Some countries have full legalization, while others have specific contexts for legal use. Advocacy groups are pushing for change in countries with stricter controls, such as the UK. In Europe, some countries like the Czech Republic and the Netherlands have decriminalized or legalized certain psychedelics. |
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What You'll Learn
What are magic mushrooms?
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, mushies, or psychedelic mushrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. The most potent species are members of the genus Psilocybe, such as P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens. However, psilocybin has also been found in other genera, including Panaeolus, Inocybe, Pluteus, Gymnopilus, and Pholiotina. The effects of magic mushrooms can vary depending on the user's mood, personality, expectations, and the dosage or potency of the mushrooms.
Magic mushrooms have a long history of use, dating back to prehistoric times, as they are depicted in Stone Age rock art in Africa and Europe. They were also commonly represented in pre-Columbian sculptures and glyphs throughout the Americas. Today, they are often consumed for recreational or spiritual purposes, with users seeking altered states of consciousness and enhanced sensory experiences. However, it is important to note that magic mushrooms are illegal in many parts of the world and their use carries certain risks and potential side effects.
The effects of magic mushrooms typically begin within 30 to 45 minutes of consumption and can last up to 6 hours or more. The early effects often include nausea and excessive yawning, followed by the onset of the "trip". The intensity of the trip can vary, ranging from mild feelings of drowsiness or relaxation to more intense hallucinations, anxiety, paranoia, and distorted senses of time, place, and reality. While magic mushrooms are not considered physically addictive, there are risks associated with their use, including the potential for negative psychological experiences such as terrifying thoughts, panic attacks, and fears of losing control or death. In rare cases, extremely high doses can lead to severe side effects and even death. Additionally, some individuals may experience flashbacks, reliving parts of their trip days or even months later.
The active compounds in magic mushrooms are psilocybin and psilocin, with psilocybin being the principal component. The dosage of psilocybin-containing mushrooms depends on the psilocybin and psilocin content, which can vary significantly between and within the same species. Psilocybe cubensis, one of the most commonly consumed species, has been reported to contain approximately 0.6% psilocybin and 0.6% psilocin, or about 1.2% combined. Other compounds that may be present in magic mushrooms include norpsilocin, baeocystin, norbaeocystin, and aeruginascin, which can modify the effects of the mushrooms.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the therapeutic potential of magic mushrooms, with research suggesting they may have beneficial effects in treating treatment-resistant depression, nicotine dependence, and other mental health disorders. As a result, there has been a push for the decriminalization and legalization of magic mushrooms in some parts of the world. Decriminalization efforts aim to redirect law enforcement resources from prosecuting individuals for personal use towards addressing higher-priority issues affecting the general public. As of 2025, several cities and states in the United States, including Oregon, Colorado, and Washington, have taken steps towards decriminalizing or legalizing the use of psilocybin mushrooms for therapeutic purposes.
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The decriminalization of magic mushrooms in the US
History of Magic Mushroom Laws in the US
Magic mushrooms have been illegal in the US since the 1970 Controlled Substances Act, which classified psilocybin as a Schedule I controlled substance with "no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse." Despite this federal classification, there have been several notable legal challenges and reforms over the years. In 2005, for example, New Mexico's Court of Appeals ruled that growing psilocybin mushrooms for personal use did not constitute "manufacturing a controlled substance" under state law.
Decriminalization Efforts
The push for decriminalization has been led by grassroots movements and advocacy groups, who argue that the criminalization of psychedelics creates more harm than good. They contend that decriminalization would allow individuals to explore the medicinal and spiritual benefits of magic mushrooms without fear of legal repercussions. Additionally, it would free up law enforcement resources to focus on more pressing issues affecting the general public, such as violent crime.
Medical Use and Research
In October 2018, the Food and Drug Administration granted psilocybin "breakthrough therapy" status, recognizing its potential therapeutic value. This status was granted again in November 2019. Research suggests that psilocybin is non-addictive and causes a relatively low number of emergency room visits compared to other illegal drugs. Furthermore, studies have indicated the potential beneficial use of psilocybin in treating treatment-resistant depression and nicotine dependence.
Current Status
As of 2025, the decriminalization landscape in the US varies by state and city. Some localities have made enforcement of psilocybin possession a low priority, while others have passed laws prohibiting the use of resources to prosecute individuals for possession or personal use. However, it is important to note that the commercial sale of psilocybin remains illegal in most places. While the trend towards decriminalization continues, concerns have been raised about the potential for increased access among adolescents and young adults, as evidenced by a sharp rise in calls to poison centers involving psilocybin in this age group.
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The therapeutic benefits of magic mushrooms
Magic mushrooms, or "shrooms", are hallucinogenic and can affect a person's thoughts, emotions, moods, thoughts, and perceptions. They have been used for thousands of years by indigenous communities for medicinal and ceremonial purposes.
Today, magic mushrooms are being studied for their therapeutic benefits in treating mental and behavioural health conditions. In a clinical setting, psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, is administered under the supervision of a medical professional. This ensures that the patient receives a controlled dose in a therapeutic space, reducing the likelihood of adverse reactions.
Research has shown that psilocybin can produce substantial and sustained therapeutic benefits, particularly in treating depression, anxiety, and existential distress caused by life-threatening diseases. It has also demonstrated promising results in helping the brain repair itself, with potential applications in treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's. Small clinical trials have revealed that one or two doses of psilocybin in a therapeutic setting can lead to dramatic and long-lasting improvements in patients with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder.
Additionally, magic mushrooms have been found to have positive effects on people suffering from substance use disorders. The non-addictive nature of psilocybin and its ability to induce self-reflection and insight make it a valuable tool in therapeutic settings when combined with counselling and psychotherapy sessions.
While magic mushrooms have shown therapeutic potential, it is important to note that they are not a cure-all and may not be suitable for everyone. There are risks associated with their use, including the possibility of adverse reactions or "bad trips". Furthermore, not all potential health benefits have been replicated on a large scale, and more research is needed to confirm the reliability of psilocybin as a treatment for various conditions.
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The risks and adverse reactions of magic mushrooms
Magic mushrooms are eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. They can also be sold in the form of dried whole mushrooms or powder. The key ingredient in magic mushrooms is psilocybin, a hallucinogenic chemical. When psilocybin is ingested, it becomes psilocin, which is the chemical with psychoactive properties.
Psilocybin works by binding to and activating serotonin receptors in parts of the brain, such as the prefrontal cortex and amygdala. These parts of the brain affect mood, cognition, and perception. Hallucinogens also work in other regions of the brain that regulate arousal and panic responses.
Physiological risks
Physically, psilocybin is relatively nontoxic. However, there are still some physiological risks associated with magic mushrooms. These include:
- Nausea
- Chills
- Vomiting
- Headaches
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate (which could be harmful to those with cardiac diseases)
- Muscle weakness
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Delirium
- Poisoning (in the case of ingesting the wrong type of mushroom)
Psychological risks
The most commonly reported negative side effect of taking magic mushrooms is having a "bad trip". This can involve the following psychological symptoms:
- Paranoia
- Anxiety
- Extreme terror
- Disturbing hallucinations
- Flashback episodes (weeks, months, or even years after the trip)
- Extreme anxiety or short-term psychosis
- Grief
- Disorientation
- Fear
- Panic attacks
- Agitation
- Seizures
Risk of overdose
There is a common misconception that taking magic mushrooms carries no risk of overdose. However, this is not the case. While the lethal dose of psilocybin is approximately 6 g, which is equivalent to about 10 kg of fresh mushrooms, variations in potency can make estimating dosage difficult, increasing the risk of non-critical overdoses.
Risk of adverse interactions with other substances
The effects of taking magic mushrooms with other substances, including alcohol, marijuana, amphetamines, and psychiatric medications, can be unpredictable and dangerous. For example, marijuana also causes hallucinations, strengthening those experienced from mushrooms. Additionally, urges caused by mushrooms might be harder to control under the influence of alcohol, leading to dangerous situations.
Risk of polydrug use
Polydrug use refers to the use of more than one drug or type of drug at the same time or one after another. It can involve both illicit drugs and legal substances, such as alcohol and medications. Magic mushrooms are sometimes used in conjunction with other drugs, which can increase the chances of a bad trip and lead to panic.
Risk of incorrect dosage
The quantity of psilocybin consumed can affect an individual's reaction to it. A higher dose may increase the risk of negative experiences.
Risk of pre-existing mental health conditions
A pre-existing mental health condition may increase the risk of adverse reactions to magic mushrooms. For example, individuals with psychiatric conditions may be at an elevated risk of side effects, including psychological distress and short-term psychosis.
It is important to note that adverse reactions to magic mushrooms are rare in experimental settings with comprehensive participant screenings, carefully measured doses, and supportive dosing environments. Most adverse reactions are short-lived, and their risk can be minimized with certain safety precautions.
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Global decriminalization and legalization efforts
In the United States, the movement to decriminalize psilocybin gained momentum in 2019, with Denver, Colorado, becoming the first city to decriminalize the use and possession of psilocybin mushrooms. This sparked a wave of similar initiatives across the country, with cities like Oakland, Santa Cruz, Ann Arbor, Washington, D.C., Somerville, Cambridge, and Northampton following suit. As of 2025, over 100 U.S. cities have active campaigns to decriminalize psilocybin and expand access to its potential benefits.
At the state level, Oregon made history in November 2020 by becoming the first state to decriminalize all drugs and legalize psilocybin for supervised non-medical use. The Psilocybin Service Initiative (PSI 2020) and the Drug Addiction Treatment and Recovery Act (DATRA) were passed, creating a regulated system for psilocybin production and distribution within the state. Washington State legislators proposed Senate Bill 5660 in 2022, aiming to legalize psilocybin for "supported use" among adults over 21, but it did not pass. In 2024, much of Oregon's measure decriminalizing psilocybin was repealed, effectively recriminalizing it.
In November 2020, the District of Columbia passed Initiative 81, known as the Entheogenic Plant and Fungus Policy Act of 2020, which decriminalized psilocybin drugs and made arrests for possession or use the lowest priority for police. Colorado became the second US state to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms in 2022, and Washington cities like Olympia and Tacoma have also joined the decriminalization movement.
Outside of the United States, Canada has also taken steps toward decriminalization. In October 2022, the province of Alberta announced it would regulate and allow the use of psilocybin for medicinal purposes in drug-assisted psychotherapy. Additionally, Australian officials approved the use of psilocybin in prescription medications for the treatment of PTSD and treatment-resistant depression in February 2023.
While the global decriminalization and legalization landscape is evolving, it's important to note that psilocybin mushrooms remain illegal under federal law in most countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Japan, due to their classification under international treaties like the United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances. However, the growing body of research highlighting the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin and the changing public perception of psychedelics may continue to shape drug policy reform worldwide.
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Frequently asked questions
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, are a psychedelic drug produced naturally by the fungi.
Decriminalization means that people can possess or use a personal amount of the substance, despite it being illegal. This means that authorities will not dedicate resources to arresting and prosecuting people for possession or use.
In the United States, magic mushrooms have been decriminalized in Oregon, Colorado, Washington, D.C., Detroit, Seattle, and Denver, Colorado.
Advocates for decriminalization have cited research that suggests the drug is non-addictive and causes a low number of emergency visits when compared to other illegal drugs. Decriminalization would also allow law enforcement to focus resources on higher priorities affecting the general public, such as violent crime.
The powerful psychological effects of psilocybin can cause adverse reactions, including anxiety, disorientation, fear, grief, paranoia, and panic attacks. Psilocybin-induced impairments in judgment and perception can contribute to dangerous behavior, accidents, self-harm, and even suicide.
