Michael Davis
Oregon has become the first state in the US to legalize the therapeutic use of psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms. While the sale of psilocybin is not permitted, the state has approved its use in controlled, supervised settings for adults over 21. This development has opened up new avenues for mental health treatment, with proponents arguing that psilocybin can promote neuroplasticity and offer fresh perspectives for those dealing with longstanding psychiatric issues. The state now faces the challenge of implementing a comprehensive regulatory framework for the production and administration of psilocybin, with an emphasis on safety and efficacy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Magic mushrooms, Shrooms |
| Active compound | Psilocybin, which turns into psilocin upon ingestion |
| Other compounds | Norpsilocin, baeocystin, norbaeocystin, aeruginascin |
| Effects | Mind-altering, Psychoactive, Hallucinogenic |
| Use | Recreational, Therapeutic |
| Legality | Legal for therapeutic use in Oregon for adults over 21 years old |
| Administration | Administered by licensed facilitators in controlled environments |
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What You'll Learn
Oregon's Psilocybin Law
Oregon has become the first US state to decriminalize psilocybin and legalize it for therapeutic use. In 2020, Oregon voters approved Measure 109, also known as the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act, which establishes a regulatory framework for receiving psilocybin, commonly known as "magic mushrooms". This law allows for the lawful manufacture, delivery, and possession of psilocybin products for adults 21 years of age and older.
The Oregon Psilocybin Services Act requires the state to issue four license types: manufacturers that cultivate and/or process psilocybin products, laboratories that test these products, facilitators who support clients through preparation, administration, and integration sessions, and service centers where the products are sold and consumed in a supported setting. All four licenses must be in place before psilocybin administration sessions can be offered to clients. The manufacture of psilocybin products and the holding of multiple licenses are subject to regulation by the Oregon Health Authority.
The purpose of the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act is to educate the people of Oregon about the safety and efficacy of psilocybin in treating mental health conditions, to reduce the prevalence of mental illness, and to improve the overall well-being of the state's population. Psilocybin is thought to promote neuroplasticity, which can give patients fresh perspectives on longstanding psychiatric problems. Research suggests that it may be helpful in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction, as well as increasing spiritual well-being.
While Oregon has taken the lead in decriminalizing psilocybin, it is still considered a Schedule I substance under the Federal Controlled Substances Act. The state has faced some challenges in implementing the new law, with a backlash in more conservative parts of the state and ongoing work to finalize the regulatory framework. However, the first psilocybin service centers in Oregon are expected to open in 2023, with a focus on client safety, access, and equity.
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Magic Mushrooms
In 2020, Oregon became the first US state to decriminalize psilocybin and legalize it for therapeutic use. Psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, is best known for its mind-altering effects and has been used both recreationally and in therapeutic settings. The most potent species of psilocybin mushrooms are members of the genus Psilocybe, such as P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens. However, psilocybin has also been isolated from several other genera, including Panaeolus (including Copelandia), Inocybe, Pluteus, Gymnopilus, and Pholiotina.
The legalization of psilocybin in Oregon is a significant step forward for its use in therapy, providing new options for treating mental health issues in safe, licensed centers. To ensure the safe and effective use of psilocybin, Oregon established the Oregon Psilocybin Advisory Board, which comprises experts in medicine, psychology, public health, and other relevant fields. The board is responsible for creating guidelines, regulations, and best practices for administering psilocybin therapy, including licensing facilitators and setting standards for therapy centers.
While the legalization of psilocybin in Oregon represents a shift in drug policy within the United States, it is important to note that the sale of psilocybin is not permitted in the state. Instead, the focus is on providing controlled and supervised access to psilocybin within licensed service centers. These centers are designed to maximize the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin while minimizing potential risks. Individuals must be at least 21 years old to participate in psilocybin therapy and must pass a screening to ensure safe use.
The certification programs for becoming a psilocybin facilitator are open to anyone with a high school diploma who has passed a background check. However, the programs primarily attract applicants with experience in mental health fields, such as social workers, hospice nurses, and psychiatrists. The curriculum covers various aspects, including the pharmacology of psilocybin, therapeutic techniques, and risk management strategies, to ensure facilitators are well-equipped to handle the complex experiences that can arise during psilocybin sessions.
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Therapeutic Benefits
Oregon has taken a progressive stance on the use of psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms. Psilocybin is primarily known for its mind-altering effects and has been used both recreationally and therapeutically. Oregon's Psilocybin Law, also known as Measure 109, represents a significant shift in drug policy, paving the way for regulated psilocybin therapy and integrating psychedelic substances into mental health treatment. Here are some of the key therapeutic benefits associated with psilocybin-containing mushrooms in Oregon:
Mental Health Treatment: Psilocybin has gained recognition for its potential therapeutic benefits in mental health treatment. Research suggests that it can help alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addiction. By promoting changes in perception, mood, and cognition, psilocybin offers new perspectives on longstanding psychiatric issues.
Neuroplasticity: Psilocybin is believed to promote neuroplasticity, which involves rewiring the brain. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with psychiatric disorders, helping them form new neural connections and adapt to different perspectives.
Alcohol Use Disorder: A recent study found that pairing psilocybin with talk therapy led to a significant decline in heavy drinking among participants. This approach showed promising results in reducing alcohol consumption and promoting behavioural changes.
Trauma and PTSD: Psilocybin-assisted therapy has been found to be beneficial in treating trauma and PTSD. The therapeutic effects of psilocybin can help individuals process traumatic experiences and promote emotional healing.
Substance Use Disorders: Beyond its effects on alcohol use, psilocybin has shown potential in treating substance use disorders more broadly. It can help individuals struggling with addiction by altering their relationship with substances and promoting behavioural changes.
While the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin are gaining recognition, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand its long-term effects. Additionally, the financial burden of psilocybin therapy currently falls on the individual, as it may not be covered by insurance due to the drug's federal classification. Nonetheless, Oregon's progressive approach to psilocybin therapy has paved the way for further exploration and integration of psychedelic substances in mental health treatment.
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Legality
Oregon has become the first state in the US to legalize the regulated use of psilocybin for therapeutic purposes. The Oregon Psilocybin Law, officially known as Measure 109, was passed by voters in November 2020. This law allows licensed professionals to administer psilocybin in controlled settings to provide therapeutic benefits for various mental health conditions. However, it is important to note that psilocybin is not legal for recreational use in Oregon. Its consumption is strictly limited to therapeutic settings within licensed psilocybin service centers.
The certification programs for facilitators are open to anyone with a high school diploma who has passed a background check. Licensure is limited to Oregon residents until 2025. The curriculum includes significant emphasis on non-therapeutic matters, such as Indigenous traditions involving hallucinogens and the negative social effects of US drug policy.
While the Oregon Psilocybin Law represents a significant shift in drug policy, the regulatory framework for the production and sale of psilocybin mushrooms is still being developed. State officials acknowledge the challenges in creating a system of supervised use, and the law does not allow for the retail sale of psilocybin. Instead, consumption must take place within licensed service centers.
The legal status of psilocybin mushrooms varies worldwide. Psilocybin and psilocin are listed as Schedule I drugs under the United Nations 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, which requires its members to prohibit psilocybin. However, the mushrooms containing the drug were not specifically included in the convention due to pressure from the Mexican government. Many countries have some level of regulation or prohibition, and there is ambiguity in the legal status of psilocybin mushrooms in national, state, and provincial drug laws.
In conclusion, Oregon has taken a progressive stance by legalizing the use of psilocybin mushrooms for therapeutic purposes in controlled settings. However, the regulatory framework is still being developed, and psilocybin is not legal for recreational use in the state. The legal status of psilocybin mushrooms varies globally, with some countries moving towards decriminalization and legal access for therapeutic use.
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Licensed Facilitators
Oregon is home to a diverse range of mushroom species, many of which possess psychoactive properties. The most well-known and sought-after variety is likely to be Psilocybe cubensis, often referred to as the "magic mushroom." Facilitators must be well-versed in identifying this species and understanding its effects to ensure a safe and transformative experience for participants.
In addition to P. cubensis, Oregon is likely to host other psychoactive mushroom species such as Psilocybe cyanescens and Psilocybe semilanceata. Facilitators should be cautious and well-informed about the characteristics and effects of each species to provide accurate guidance.
The role of licensed facilitators extends far beyond mushroom identification. Creating a safe and supportive environment for individuals to undergo their psychedelic journey is of utmost importance. This includes comprehensive screening, preparation, and integration support, as well as guiding individuals with presence and compassion throughout their experience. Facilitators should be trained in handling potential risks and providing psychological first aid if needed.
Becoming a licensed facilitator requires comprehensive training and certification. These programs equip facilitators with knowledge of mushroom ecology, identification, and the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, along with skills in setting holding space, risk management, and ethical guidelines. Ongoing professional development ensures that facilitators stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.
In summary, licensed facilitators are pivotal in the responsible and therapeutic use of psychoactive mushrooms in Oregon. Their expertise ensures safe and transformative experiences, contributing to the growing field of psychedelic-assisted therapy and enhancing mental health and well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Oregon became the first US state to legalize psilocybin mushrooms for therapeutic use in 2020. However, it is not legal to sell psilocybin without a license.
Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion.
Psilocybin consumption is restricted to specific, controlled environments called licensed service centers, where a state-certified facilitator must be present.
You can search for licensed service centers online or through a referral from a healthcare provider.
Psilocybin mushrooms have mind-altering effects and are used both recreationally and in therapeutic settings. They are thought to promote neuroplasticity, which can give patients fresh perspectives on longstanding psychiatric problems.
