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There has been a recent surge of interest in magic mushrooms, largely due to their potential for managing mental health conditions, notably depression. A popular approach involves regular consumption of approximately 25 mg of the active ingredient, available for purchase at a mushroom dispensary. This dose shows promise in providing relief and may complement traditional depression treatments.

A group of researchers have found that psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, has demonstrated positive results in treating depression.

Important Points:

  • Psilocybin may reduce depression symptoms in as few as eight days.
  • Generally, psilocybin’s side effects are tolerable, ranging from mild to moderate in severity.
  • A dose of 25mg of psilocybin can cause perceptual changes, mood shifts, increased creativity, and a sense of unity.

One Dose Can Make a Difference

A rigorously designed study made use of a randomized, multi-blinded approach to compare a single dose of psilocybin with an active placebo (niacin). The study evaluated the onset, duration of benefits, and safety of psilocybin over six weeks.

Study Participants

The study included individuals aged between 21 and 65 who met the criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) as per the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). These individuals were undergoing a depressive episode lasting at least 60 days.

The Procedure

Participants received either a single 25-mg oral dose of psilocybin or a 100-mg dose of niacin. Niacin was used as an active placebo due to its ability to cause an immediate physiological response (flushing), ensuring the integrity of the blinding process.

Both psilocybin and the niacin placebo were given following a standard “set and setting” procedure. These preparation sessions, guided by two facilitators, lasted between 6 and

The dosing session took place in a relaxed environment, lasting between 7 to 10 hours. Participants were invited to contemplate their experiences four hours after taking the dose.

Findings of the Study

Significant reductions in depressive symptoms were evident as soon as eight days after the psilocybin dosage. This uplifting effect remained consistent throughout the six-week follow-up period. According to the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), the result showed higher response and remission rates compared to other psilocybin studies on Treatment-Resistant Depression.

When compared to niacin, psilocybin showed superior improvements in psychosocial functioning. The application of psilocybin exhibited potential in several ways, including mitigating the overall severity of the disease, reducing anxiety, decreasing self-reported depressive symptoms, and improving quality of life.

Most participants tolerated the substance well, with only minor to moderate side effects, primarily after the initial dose. However, psilocybin treatment had more frequent and severe side effects than niacin, consistent with our current understanding of its effects. 

The researchers noted that psychedelics like psilocybin can cause side effects that standard rating scales may not always detect, or they could uncover previously unidentified psychiatric disorders, even while effectively treating specific symptoms.

Implications of a 25-mg Dose

A standard psychedelic dose usually falls between 15 to 25 milligrams of psilocybin (1.5 to 2.5 grams of dried mushrooms). This is the typical dosage for individuals seeking the full psychedelic effects of magic mushrooms.

This dosage can result in altered perception, mood shifts, increased creativity, and a feeling of unity with the environment. Although mild visual effects may be experienced, severe hallucinations are rare. It feels like entering a lively dream world where reality seamlessly blends with an intriguing mix of visual and auditory sensations.

The euphoric feelings often manifest as dance, subtle movements, or simply succumbing to the psychedelic rhythm. The experience generally lasts between 4 to 8 hours. At this level, visual distortions may become more pronounced, with patterns appearing to dance and morph, and your surroundings seeming to pulsate with energy.

This dosage can be managed but necessitates a structured environment and a positive mindset. It offers a journey filled with awe and wonder, inspiring exploration of consciousness. with measured excitement.

  • Enhanced color perception.
  • Visionary distortions, like objects appearing to “breathe” or move.
  • Experiencing synesthesia, such as “seeing sounds” or “hearing colors”.
  • A deeper understanding of music.
  • Experiencing fits of laughter.
  • Altered tactile sensations.
  • Engagement in self-reflection.
  • Feeling euphoric.
  • Altered perception of time.
  • Increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Available Products at Magic Mushroom Retailers

Magic mushroom retailers offer an array of products infused with psilocybin. These retailers provide a variety of options including dried mushrooms, edibles, capsules, beverages, and more. Dried mushrooms are particularly sought-after. 

Health Canada recognizes over 200 types of magic mushrooms, with Psilocybe cubensis being a commonly sold strain. This strain comes in several varieties, providing an extensive selection for customers, similar to the options available at cannabis dispensaries.

Other Shroom Products:

EdiblesFood items like gummies and chocolates infused with psilocybin.
The dosage is made simpler as the manufacturers indicate the amount per serving.
CapsulesThese are tasteless and can be easily included in your wellness routine. 
They contain small quantities to ensure a gentle enhancement to your day-to-day life.
BeveragesSimilar to edibles, but in the form of a drink.
They are versatile and come in a variety of flavors, such as chocolate, coffee, or tea.

Determining Your Dosage at Magic Mushroom Dispensaries

While magic mushrooms are not widely used as a treatment for depression, Canada has taken a progressive step. They have approved the testing and medical use of psilocybin, a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, for certain patients with severe major depressive disorder. This decision could potentially benefit tens of thousands

For those grappling with anxiety and depression, exploring alternative treatment options via clinical trials can be enlightening.

Common Queries

Can psilocybin be purchased from a medicinal mushroom dispensary?

Medicinal mushroom dispensaries usually offer a range of products, including Reishi, Turkey Tail, and Lion’s Mane. If you’re keen on exploring the mushroom realm, consider an online magic mushroom dispensary. These dispensaries cater to a wide array of mushroom products, encompassing dried mushrooms and other psychedelics.

Is a 25 mg dose effective for depression treatment?

Studies are currently investigating various psilocybin dosages for depression treatment. Some research focuses on lower dosages, while others examine higher psilocybin levels. A potential approach might be to begin with a microdose and gradually increase the dosage.

Can shrooms be purchased in Toronto?

Online mushroom sellers offer the advantage of shopping from any location in Canada. Regardless of your province or city, these online outlets ensure delivery to your doorstep.

What is the most economical product in an online mushroom shop?

Dried mushrooms are often the first choice for customers due to the variety of quantities on offer. The price may fluctuate depending on if you require a smaller amount like 1 gram, or are looking to purchase in bulk. Although edibles and other products are reasonably priced, they might not be as cost-efficient as dried mushrooms.

Can a single shroom dose help alleviate depression?

Certain research indicates that a one-time use might be enough to diminish depression symptoms. However, it’s important to remember that the individuals in these studies also engaged in talk therapy alongside the treatment. The combination of psychedelic therapy and therapeutic sessions appears to yield the best results.

About the Author

The authorship of this article includes Charles L. Raison et al.; Jeremy D. Coplan, MD and Dorothy P. Reddy, MD; Albert Garcia-Romeu, Frederick S Barrett, Theresa M Carbonaro, Matthew W Johnson, and Roland R Griffiths; Vince Polito.

and Richard J. Stevenson; Rebecca Smausz, Joanna Neill, and John Gigg.

Related Organizations:

  • Usona Institute, located in Fitchburg, Wisconsin
  • SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York
  • Neurogenesis Clinics, operating in Brooklyn, New York
  • The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, based in Baltimore, MD, USA
  • Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, MD, USA
  • Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine’s Department of Neuroscience, located in Baltimore, MD, USA
  • Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, situated in Baltimore, USA
  • Macquarie University’s Department of Cognitive Science, based in Sydney, Australia
  • The Department of Psychology at Macquarie University, located in Sydney, Australia
  • The University of Manchester’s Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, part of the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health in Manchester, UK
  • Division of Pharmacy and Optometry in the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health at The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
  • Medical Psychedelics Working Group, a subgroup of Drug Science, UK