Sarah Brown
Magic mushrooms, or psychedelic mushrooms, have been used for thousands of years. They are hallucinogens that produce effects similar to LSD, including hallucinations and an altered state of consciousness. In the United States, magic mushrooms are illegal under federal law, and activities such as sale, possession, and production are prohibited. However, some states have taken steps to decriminalize and regulate the use of psychedelic mushrooms for therapeutic purposes. For example, Oregon became the first state to allow adult use of psilocybin through the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act, which establishes a regulatory framework for receiving psilocybin through licensed facilitators and service centers. Colorado has also decriminalized the possession, cultivation, use, and sharing of psychedelic mushrooms, creating a gray market for these substances. While the sale of magic mushrooms is illegal in most places, they may be available through unregulated markets or online sources, though consuming mushrooms from these sources may be dangerous.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Legality | The active ingredients in magic mushrooms, psilocybin and psilocin, are controlled internationally under the United Nations Drug Control Conventions. In Canada, activities with magic mushrooms such as sale, possession, and production are illegal unless authorized by Health Canada. In the US, Oregon became the first state to allow adult use of psilocybin "magic" mushrooms in 2023. Colorado has also decriminalized psychedelic mushrooms, but they won't be legally available until 2025. |
| Forms | Magic mushrooms sold illegally may be in the form of dried whole mushrooms or a powder. People may consume them by eating them, drinking them as tea, or taking them in edible food products, capsules, or extracts. |
| Effects | Magic mushrooms produce hallucinogenic effects similar to LSD, causing hallucinations and an altered state of consciousness. The effects appear within 15-45 minutes and usually last for four to six hours. There is little evidence of physical or psychological dependence, but it is possible to become tolerant to the drug's effects with regular use. |
| Therapeutic Uses | Research suggests psilocybin may help address depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and end-of-life anxiety. One study found that pairing psilocybin with talk therapy led to an 83% decline in heavy drinking among participants with alcohol use disorder. |
| Buying Options | Mushrooms can be purchased from local markets, farmers' markets, grocery stores, specialty stores, and online shops. |
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What You'll Learn
Local markets and specialty stores
When visiting local markets, it is important to keep in mind that not all mushrooms are psychedelic. Mushrooms come in thousands of varieties, each with its own distinct characteristics. Some mushrooms are prized for their culinary uses, offering unique flavors and textures that can elevate gourmet dishes. Morel mushrooms, for example, are highly sought after for their earthy flavor and meaty texture, making them a delicacy in American cuisine. Other mushrooms, such as reishi and chaga, are known for their potential health benefits, including immune-boosting and antioxidant properties.
While psychedelic mushrooms may be available at local markets, it is essential to exercise caution. Psychedelic mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, contain the active ingredients psilocybin and psilocin, which are hallucinogens. These substances are controlled and regulated in many places, and their sale, possession, and production may be illegal. In places like Canada, activities related to magic mushrooms are illegal unless authorized by the government through licenses or exemptions.
Before consuming psychedelic mushrooms, it is crucial to be aware of their potential effects and risks. The experience of using magic mushrooms can vary significantly from person to person, and the strength of the mushrooms can differ greatly. It is possible to have a "bad trip," especially at high doses, which may include paranoia, loss of boundaries, and distorted senses of self. Additionally, combining magic mushrooms with other substances can elevate the risks of serious side effects.
In some regions, such as Oregon, there are efforts to establish regulatory frameworks for the use of psilocybin through measures like the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act. This act allows for licensed service centers where individuals can consume psilocybin products in a supported setting. However, it is essential to stay informed about the specific laws and regulations regarding psychedelic mushrooms in your area before considering their purchase or consumption.
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Online shops
Purchasing psychedelic mushrooms online can be risky and may lead to harsh penalties in some countries, especially in the US and Europe, where drug legislation is tight. There is a higher chance of being caught through a government "honeypot", where the authorities have shut down the vendor but left the website live to trace purchases. However, there are still online shops that sell psychedelic mushrooms.
In Canada, although psilocybin mushrooms are illegal, several magic mushroom dispensaries operate physically and online. The government doesn't prioritize psychedelic substances, and the police rarely enforce the laws surrounding mind-altering substances. So, although technically illegal, ordering shrooms online in Canada is less risky than in most other countries.
Amanita muscaria is a type of mushroom that is sometimes called "magic" because of its effects. It doesn't produce any psilocybin, the banned substance in most psychedelic fungi. Instead, this species produces a compound called muscimol, which is legal in most countries, including the United States, Canada, and most of Europe. Therefore, Amanita muscaria products are a good alternative to psilocybin mushrooms, provided they are made from natural extracts.
When buying magic mushrooms online, it is important to closely examine the descriptions and ingredient lists to avoid scams and low-quality or potentially dangerous products. Black market businesses are not regulated, so a magic mushroom chocolate bar or gummy could contain anything. A shroom edible may contain a psychedelic research chemical that is more dangerous than psilocybin.
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Oregon Psilocybin Services Act
In 2020, Oregon voters approved Measure 109, which led to the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act becoming the first law in the United States to establish a regulatory framework for receiving psilocybin, also known as psychedelic mushrooms. The Act is not a dispensary model, meaning that it differs from the legalization of marijuana in Oregon. Instead, the law requires the state to issue four types of licenses. These licenses are issued to:
- Manufacturers that cultivate and/or process psilocybin products
- Laboratories that test psilocybin products
- Facilitators who support clients through preparation, administration, and integration sessions
- Service centers where psilocybin products are sold and consumed by clients in a supported setting
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in over 200 species of mushrooms that grow around the world. Indigenous and Tribal communities have used it for various purposes for centuries. While it is still a Schedule I substance under the Federal Controlled Substances Act, research suggests that psilocybin may be useful in addressing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. It may also increase spiritual well-being.
To consume psilocybin in Oregon, clients must first meet with a licensed facilitator for a preparation session. During this session, the facilitator will gather information about the client, and they will review the Client Bill of Rights, Client-Informed Consent, Safety and Support Planning, interpretation or accessibility needs, data sharing, and what to expect during and after the administration session. Transportation planning is also discussed, as clients will be unable to drive, ride a bike, or operate heavy machinery after their administration session.
It is important to note that psilocybin and psilocin (the active ingredients in magic mushrooms) are hallucinogens with effects similar to LSD. While there is little evidence of physical or psychological dependence, regular use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects. The strength of magic mushrooms can vary, and their effects depend on the dose and type of mushroom used.
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Unregulated markets
While psychedelic mushrooms remain illegal in most places, some jurisdictions have decriminalized their use and possession. This has given rise to unregulated markets that operate in a legal grey area. One notable example is Colorado, where the decriminalization of psychedelic mushrooms has led to the emergence of a grey market. Individuals like Ryan, a self-described psychedelic guide, offer their services to clients seeking a supervised mushroom experience. These guides provide a safe and controlled environment for individuals or groups to consume psychedelic mushrooms, often in combination with activities like yoga and reiki.
The unregulated market in Colorado includes not only guides but also growers and suppliers. People are growing mushrooms in closets and warehouses and "sharing" them freely, with little fear of legal repercussions. Online searches reveal numerous websites offering guiding services in the Denver area, as well as listings on Facebook Marketplace for what appear to be psychedelic mushrooms for sale.
While the state plans to launch a strictly regulated mushroom industry, the current grey market operates with little oversight. This situation is tenuous, as lawmakers are already working to discourage informal operators and establish a highly regulated framework. However, there are concerns that powerful players in the new regulated market will lobby the state to crack down on their grey-market competition.
In Oregon, the situation is slightly different. Oregon became the first state to legalize the adult use of psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms. The Oregon Psilocybin Services Act establishes a regulatory framework for receiving psilocybin. However, it is not a dispensary model like cannabis legalization. Instead, it requires the state to issue licenses for manufacturers, laboratories, facilitators, and service centers. Licensed facilitators guide clients through preparation, administration, and integration sessions, ensuring a safe and controlled experience.
The availability of psychedelic mushrooms in unregulated markets varies depending on local laws and enforcement. While some jurisdictions have completely decriminalized possession and use, others have only reduced penalties, creating a grey area where informal operators can establish themselves before strict regulations are implemented.
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Licensed facilitators
In the United States, the use of psychedelic mushrooms is illegal at the federal level. However, some states have taken steps towards decriminalization and the creation of regulatory frameworks for their therapeutic use.
Oregon was the first state to legalize the adult use of psilocybin, with voters approving Measure 109 in 2020. This measure established a regulatory framework for receiving psilocybin, also known as psychedelic mushrooms, and requires the state to issue four license types: manufacturers, laboratories, facilitators, and service centers. Licensed facilitators, also known as guides, are responsible for supporting clients through preparation, administration, and integration sessions. They must be present during drug-induced journeys, which can last up to six hours, to ensure the safety of the client. These facilitators often have backgrounds in mental health and are required to undergo specialized training to obtain their licenses.
Colorado has also decriminalized psychedelic mushrooms, but legal sales will not begin until 2025. In the meantime, a grey market has emerged, with dozens of people offering mushrooms and related services, including unlicensed guides. The new law in Colorado creates a misdemeanor crime for "unlicensed facilitation," but it still allows for "bona fide" support services, leaving some guides unclear about what they are permitted to do.
While the therapeutic potential of psilocybin is promising, particularly in the treatment of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction, it is important to approach these substances with caution. The quality of existing studies is variable, and more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and potential risks associated with psilocybin use.
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Frequently asked questions
Oregon is the first state in the US to legalize the adult use of psilocybin, also known as psychedelic mushrooms. However, the regulatory framework for the production and sale of the mushrooms is still being developed. Colorado has also decriminalized psychedelic mushrooms, but the regulated industry is not expected to launch until 2025.
Oregon's Psilocybin Services Act requires the state to issue four types of licenses: manufacturers, laboratories, facilitators, and service centers. To consume psilocybin, you must first meet with a licensed facilitator for a preparation session. You can search for a licensed service center or facilitator using Oregon's licensee directory.
Clients may consume psychedelic mushrooms in a variety of ways, including eating dried, whole mushrooms, drinking mushroom tea, consuming edible food products like chocolate or capsules containing ground homogenized fungi, or consuming an extract.
