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Does psychedelic use influence sexual functionality? Anecdotal and qualitative evidence suggest a correlation, but there’s a lack of formal research to substantiate this. Sexual fulfillment and functionality, which are critical for human welfare, can be adversely impacted by mental health issues or as a side effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a common treatment for depression. 

In 2024, Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, and others conducted a clinical study to examine the impact of consuming magic mushrooms online on sexual function.

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Magic Mushrooms in Canada

Exploring Psilocybin

Nichols, D. E. & Walter, H. conducted a study investigating the connection between psychedelic use and the ‘hippy’ culture, infamous for its anti-war stance and liberal sexual ethos. Psychedelic research was restricted by the 1971 United Nations Controlled Substances Act, but recently, there has been a resurgence, with studies indicating potential mental health benefits. 

Let’s start by examining the historical backdrop of magic mushrooms:

Time PeriodEvent
PrehistoricPreliminary human ancestors used psychoactive mushrooms, as depicted in rock art dating back 6000 to 8000 years.
1500 BCEAncient societies utilized psychoactive mushrooms in spiritual rituals.
283-343 A.DThe ancient Chinese text “Baopuzi” by Ge Hong described intoxicating mushrooms, including Psilocybe.
900-1130 CEKhajuraho Temples in India showcased mushrooms, suggesting their potential religious importance.
16th CenturyIndigenous Mesoamerican cultures like the Aztecs, Mazatec, and Zapotec utilized Psilocybe mushrooms for religious ceremonies and everyday life.
1919Reko mistakenly identified psychoactive mushrooms as “Teonanácatl.”
Late 1950sAlbert Hofmann isolated Psilocybin.
1971The United Nations labeled psilocybin as an addictive substance without medicinal value.
Early 2022The Canadian government allowed physicians to prescribe emergency treatment with psilocybin.
2022Psilocybin is legalized for adult use in Oregon.

Can Psilocybin Influence Sexual Function?

Psychotherapy combined with psychedelics can aid therapeutic experiences like emotional release and psychological self-discovery. In some cases, psilocybin treatment for anxiety and depression has shown more effectiveness than SSRIs such as escitalopram.

Major depressive disorder, a primary driver of disability, is marked by severe low mood and a decrease in pleasure. Sexual dysfunction, although not a primary symptom, often accompanies depression, affecting desire and arousal. SSRIs, a common depression treatment, can exacerbate sexual dysfunction, affecting treatment compliance and recovery. Sexual fulfillment influences overall happiness, relationships, and physical health. 

There is evidence to suggest that psychedelics might positively affect sexual feelings and behaviors, encouraging empathy and openness. The association of psychedelics with increased mindfulness, empathy, body positivity, and openness to new experiences could influence sexual perceptions.

Psychedelics’ Potential Effects on Sexual Functioning

Psychedelics may impact sexual functioning. Sexual activity elicits both physical and emotional responses. Dr. Michele Leno, a licensed psychologist with Medical News, emphasizes the significance of mental states before engaging in sexual activity.

Sexual self-consciousness is a prevalent issue. While some types of magic mushrooms available online can help mitigate anxiety, others, similar to alcohol, might detrimentally affect sexual performance. Research suggests that individuals who microdose magic mushrooms experience less inhibition and increased relaxation, without negatively affecting performance.

Dr. Hellerstein states that magic mushroom consumption can promote social bonding, reduce self-centered thoughts, and potentially enhance brain plasticity and empathy. These effects might explain some of the observed results.

Despite the promising prospects of psychedelic treatment, performing blind studies continues to be a hurdle. Clinical psychologist Dr. Carla Manly proposes that consuming whole mushrooms could appeal to those seeking altered consciousness states, possibly enriching sexual experiences.

While some people favor natural experiences, others report feeling more uninhibited and expansive when using magic mushrooms purchased online. From a neurobiological standpoint, psilocybin,

A psychedelic compound often used displays similarities to certain brain imaging studies conducted under anesthesia.

What Do Recent Studies Suggest?

In 2024, a study led by Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, among others, explored the effects of psychedelic substances on sexual functionality and satisfaction via two distinct research methods:

  1. The initial study scrutinized the recreational and wellness use of psychedelics (an observational survey).
  2. The subsequent research was centered on the impacts on patients diagnosed with depression (a controlled clinical trial).

Outcomes from the Study on Recreational Usage

  • Users reported improved communication with partners, elevated sexual pleasure, and boosted satisfaction with their partners and their own appearance after consuming psychedelics.
  • Also noted was an increased willingness towards sexual exploration and a perception of sex as a more spiritual experience.

These effects remained noticeable both 4 weeks and 6 months after the psychedelic experience. The only gender-related variance observed was in partner satisfaction at the 6-month interval.

Findings from the Controlled Clinical Trial Involving Patients with Depression

Depressed patients who received psilocybin therapy reported similar enhancements.

  • They noted improved communication with partners, enhanced sexual pleasure, and increased satisfaction with themselves and their partners. However, patients treated with escitalopram only reported enhancements in satisfaction with their appearance, with no other changes noted.
  • Psilocybin-treated patients also exhibited increased sexual interest, activity, and arousal, as opposed to those treated with escitalopram.
  • Anxiety related to sexual activity decreased among psilocybin-treated patients, but increased among those treated with escitalopram.

Note: The results indicate that these psychoactive compounds could positively affect sexual functionality and wellness. The observed differences between the impacts of psilocybin and escitalopram could be due to their distinct mechanisms of action in depression treatment. SSRIs like escitalopram may lead to sexual dysfunction, a side effect not similarly observed in psilocybin treatments.

It’s known that serotonin levels are influenced by magic mushrooms, while microdosing psilocybin directly interacts with serotonin receptors. More research is needed to fully comprehend the immediate effects of these mushroom species on sexual performance.

Online Availability of Psilocybin Mushrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do the Effects of Psilocybin Last?

Psilocybin, a psychedelic substance, typically induces effects that last from 4 to 8 hours. However, the duration can vary based on factors such as dosage and mushroom species.

In an experimental study involving 18 participants, the psychedelic experience generally ended around the seventh hour. Notable physiological effects started to appear after two hours, and the peak of the drug’s effects was reached three hours in.

However, additional research is needed to fully understand the role of factors such as stress and metabolism. Many scientific studies, including this one, adjust the dosage according to the participant’s body weight, assuming a uniform distribution of psilocybin in the body.

How Does Psilocin Impact the Brain?

Approximately 30 minutes after intake, psilocin reaches the brain and predominantly affects the serotonin system, mimicking the role of serotonin. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, plays several roles in the brain, including aiding in learning, memory, and mood regulation.

Most serotonin receptors are located in the cerebral cortex and psilocin binds to them, including 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C, and 5-HT1A. These receptors interact with serotonin. The effects of psilocybin extend beyond serotonin receptors, influencing brain connectivity as demonstrated in functional MRI scans.

Functional MRI scans show a decrease in blood flow and connectivity in brain areas such as the medial prefrontal cortex and the posterior cingulate cortex. This reduced activity in core regions is thought to enable a freer cognitive state. Additionally, psychedelics induce an entropic brain state characterized by increased disorder but improved overall connectivity.

How Does the Liver Metabolize Psilocybin?

  1. Upon ingesting psilocybin, it is absorbed into the bloodstream through the stomach and intestines. 
  2. Thorough mastication of magic mushrooms enhances absorption. 
  3. Once it enters your bloodstream, it travels to your liver via the hepatic portal vein, which is where a significant part of the process occurs.
  4. Magic mushrooms and truffles, high in psilocin — the active ingredient, when taken naturally, already contain this component. into psilocin within our bodies. 

Another significant process that occurs in the liver is the ‘first pass effect.’ In this process, about 50% of psilocybin gets lost during absorption before it can reach the bloodstream. This phenomenon also occurs with substances like alcohol and cannabis, with variations among individuals due to factors such as stress levels and physical activity. Some studies suggest that only roughly 20% of psilocybin actually transforms into psilocin.

How Can You Improve Sexual Function Without Using Drugs or Psychedelics?

It’s entirely possible to enhance sexual function without resorting to drugs or psychedelics. Here are a few suggestions:

  1. Tackle any sexual anxiety via therapy or self-reflection.
  2. If medications are reducing your sexual desire, consider discussing alternative options with your healthcare provider.
  3. Use role-play with your partner to ease into sexual activities progressively.
  4. Explore your sexual beliefs through journaling or psychotherapeutic techniques.
  5. Enhance sexual function and intimacy by using natural supplements, personal growth exercises, and couples therapy.

About the Authors:

  • Barba, T., Kettner, H., Radu, C. et al. Psychedelics and sexual functioning: a mixed-methods study. Sci Rep 14, 2181 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-49817-4
  • Nichols, D. E. & Walter, H. The role of psychedelics in the history of psychiatry. Pharmacopsychiatry 54(04), 151–166 (2021).
  • Dr. Michele Leno & Dr. Hellerstein: Vogel, K. Psychedelics could enhance sexual function for up to 6 months. Medical News Today. (2024). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychedelics-psilocybin-lsd-help-improve-sexual-function

Further Information About the Authors 

Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, Joseph M. Peill, Leor Roseman, David J. Nutt, David Erritzoe, Robin Carhart-Harris & Bruna Giribaldi

Related Articles:

Online Availability of Psilocybin Mushrooms

The belief is that the use of premium magic mushrooms, specifically traditional ones like psychedelic mushrooms, mushroom edibles, mushroom tea, microdosing capsules, LSD, and DMT, can enhance sexual satisfaction. Here are some excellent magic mushroom products you might want to explore:

Product NameZenly LSD Gel TabsZenly LSD GummiesAlbino Penis Envy 
CategoryMicrodosing CapsulesEdiblesMagic Mushroom
Main IngredientLysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD-25)Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD-25)Psilocybe cubensis (magic mushroom)
Recommended DosageTotal 600ug/6 Tabs (100ug/Tab)Total 200ug/2 Gummies (100ug/Gummy)1 to 1.5 grams 
Usage InstructionsConsume one full tab for the optimal experience. Wait for at least 2 hours before taking another dose.Eat one entire gummy for the total effect. Wait for a minimum of 2 hours before consuming another.Ingest 1 to 1.5 grams of dried magic mushrooms in a comfortable environment. Keep hydrated throughout the experience.

Improve Your Sexual Performance by Purchasing Shrooms Online

Searching for shrooms online in Canada? At Shroomland Canada Canada, we offer a wide selection of top-quality magic mushrooms to meet your needs. Our online platform provides easy access to shroom delivery.

Whether you’re exploring the therapeutic benefits of microdosing magic mushrooms or embarking on a profound psychedelic journey, you can trust our collection of psilocybin-rich mushrooms. Our products are sourced responsibly and undergo rigorous testing at Health Canada to ensure safety and efficacy for your mental well-being. 

From mushroom edibles to magic mushroom tea, we have all you need to enrich your spiritual and therapeutic experiences. Buy magic mushrooms online from Shroomland Canada.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do the Effects of Psilocybin Last?

Psilocybin, a psychedelic substance, typically induces effects that last from 4 to 8 hours. However, the duration can vary based on factors such as dosage and mushroom species.

In an experimental study involving 18 participants, the psychedelic experience generally ended around the seventh hour. Notable physiological effects started to appear after two hours, and the peak of the drug’s effects was reached three hours in.

However, additional research is needed to fully understand the role of factors such as stress and metabolism. Many scientific studies, including this one, adjust the dosage according to the participant’s body weight, assuming a uniform distribution of psilocybin in the body.

How Does Psilocin Impact the Brain?

Approximately 30 minutes after intake, psilocin reaches the brain and predominantly affects the serotonin system, mimicking the role of serotonin. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, plays several roles in the brain, including aiding in learning, memory, and mood regulation.

Most serotonin receptors are located in the cerebral cortex and psilocin binds to them, including 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C, and 5-HT1A. These receptors interact with serotonin. The effects of psilocybin extend beyond serotonin receptors, influencing brain connectivity as demonstrated in functional MRI scans.

Functional MRI scans show a decrease in blood flow and connectivity in brain areas such as the medial prefrontal cortex and the posterior cingulate cortex. This reduced activity in core regions is thought to enable a freer cognitive state. Additionally, psychedelics induce an entropic brain state characterized by increased disorder but improved overall connectivity.

How Does the Liver Metabolize Psilocybin?

  1. Upon ingesting psilocybin, it is absorbed into the bloodstream through the stomach and intestines. 
  2. Thorough mastication of magic mushrooms enhances absorption. 
  3. Once it enters your bloodstream, it travels to your liver via the hepatic portal vein, which is where a significant part of the process occurs.
  4. Magic mushrooms and truffles, high in psilocin — the active ingredient, when taken naturally, already contain this component. into psilocin within our bodies. 

Another significant process that occurs in the liver is the ‘first pass effect.’ In this process, about 50% of psilocybin gets lost during absorption before it can reach the bloodstream. This phenomenon also occurs with substances like alcohol and cannabis, with variations among individuals due to factors such as stress levels and physical activity. Some studies suggest that only roughly 20% of psilocybin actually transforms into psilocin.

How Can You Improve Sexual Function Without Using Drugs or Psychedelics?

It’s entirely possible to enhance sexual function without resorting to drugs or psychedelics. Here are a few suggestions:

  1. Tackle any sexual anxiety via therapy or self-reflection.
  2. If medications are reducing your sexual desire, consider discussing alternative options with your healthcare provider.
  3. Use role-play with your partner to ease into sexual activities progressively.
  4. Explore your sexual beliefs through journaling or psychotherapeutic techniques.
  5. Enhance sexual function and intimacy by using natural supplements, personal growth exercises, and couples therapy.

About the Authors:

  • Barba, T., Kettner, H., Radu, C. et al. Psychedelics and sexual functioning: a mixed-methods study. Sci Rep 14, 2181 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-49817-4
  • Nichols, D. E. & Walter, H. The role of psychedelics in the history of psychiatry. Pharmacopsychiatry 54(04), 151–166 (2021).
  • Dr. Michele Leno & Dr. Hellerstein: Vogel, K. Psychedelics could enhance sexual function for up to 6 months. Medical News Today. (2024). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychedelics-psilocybin-lsd-help-improve-sexual-function

Further Information About the Authors 

Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, Joseph M. Peill, Leor Roseman, David J. Nutt, David Erritzoe, Robin Carhart-Harris & Bruna Giribaldi

Related Articles: