Is there a correlation between the use of psychedelics and sexual function? While there are personal accounts and qualitative data that suggest a connection, no official experiments have been carried out to validate this. Mental health disorders and the side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are frequently used to treat depression, can often negatively impact sexual satisfaction and function, both of which are seen as crucial to human welfare.
In 2024, Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, and their team conducted a clinical study to investigate the impact of consuming magic mushrooms online on sexual function.
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A Deep Dive into Psilocybin
Research undertaken by Nichols, D. E. & Walter, H. has explored the link between psychedelic usage and the ‘hippy’ culture, renowned for its anti-war stance and liberated sexual norms. The investigation into psychedelics was limited by the United Nations Controlled Substances Act of 1971, but recently there has been a resurgence, with studies revealing potential advantages in mental health therapy.
Let’s start by exploring the historical context of magic mushrooms:
| Time Period | Event |
| Prehistoric | Psychoactive mushrooms were utilized by primitive human ancestors, as indicated by rock carvings that are 6000 to 8000 years old. |
| 1500 BCE | Ancient societies used psychoactive mushrooms in spiritual ceremonies. |
| 283-343 A.D | In the ancient Chinese text “Baopuzi” by Ge Hong, hallucinogenic mushrooms, including Psilocybe, were mentioned. |
| 900-1130 CE | Mushrooms were represented in the Khajuraho Temples of India, suggesting their potential religious importance. |
| 16th Century | Native Mesoamerican cultures such as the Aztecs, Mazatec, and Zapotec utilized Psilocybe mushrooms in religious practices and everyday life. |
| 1919 | Reko mistakenly identified hallucinogenic mushrooms as “Teonanácatl.” |
| Late 1950s | Albert Hofmann isolated Psilocybin. |
| 1971 | The United Nations categorized psilocybin as a habit-forming substance with no medicinal value. |
| Early 2022 | The Canadian government allowed physicians to prescribe psilocybin as an urgent treatment. |
| 2022 | Oregon authorizes the use of psilocybin for adults. |
Can Psilocybin Influence Sexual Function?
In conjunction with therapy, psychedelics can trigger therapeutic experiences like emotional release and psychological revelations. In certain cases, psilocybin therapy for anxiety and depression has shown greater effectiveness than SSRIs such as escitalopram.
Major depressive disorder, a prime source of disability, is typified by severely low mood and diminished enjoyment. Though not a primary symptom, sexual dysfunction often coincides with depression, affecting desire and arousal. SSRIs, a prevalent remedy for depression, can exacerbate sexual dysfunction, affecting treatment compliance and recovery. Sexual contentment influences overall well-being, relationships, and physical health.
There is evidence to suggest that psychedelics can positively affect sexual emotions and actions, fostering empathy and openness. Psychedelics have been linked with heightened mindfulness, empathy, body acceptance, and receptivity to new experiences, which could shape sexual attitudes.
Potential Effects of Psychedelics on Sexual Function
Psychedelics can alter sexual functioning. Sexual activity yields both physical and emotional outcomes. Medical News’ licensed psychologist, Dr. Michele Leno, emphasizes the importance of mental states before engaging in sexual activity.
Sexual self-awareness is a widespread problem. While specific types of magic mushrooms available online can reduce anxiety, others, akin to alcohol, may adversely affect sexual performance. Studies show that individuals who microdose magic mushrooms experience lessened inhibitions and heightened relaxation, without negatively affecting performance.
Dr. Hellerstein suggests that consuming magic mushrooms can enhance social bonds, reduce self-centered thoughts, and potentially encourage brain flexibility and empathy. These effects might explain some of the observed outcomes.
Despite the anticipation surrounding psychedelic treatment, executing blinded studies is still a challenge. Clinical psychologist Dr. Carla Manly proposes that consuming whole mushrooms might appeal to those desiring altered states of consciousness, potentially enriching sexual experiences.
While some individuals favor natural occurrences, others report feeling less restrained and more expansive when using magic mushrooms bought online. From a neurobiological standpoint, psilocybin,
A psychedelic compound, often utilized, appears to share similarities with certain brain imaging studies conducted under anesthesia.
What Are Recent Studies Suggesting?
Research undertaken in 2024 by Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, and their colleagues explores the influence of psychedelic substances on sexual functioning and contentment via two distinct studies:
- The initial study examined the recreational and wellness applications of psychedelics (an observational survey).
- The subsequent research delved into the impact on patients diagnosed with depression (a controlled clinical trial).
Insights from the Recreational Use Study
- Participants indicated improved partner communication, elevated sexual enjoyment, and a rise in satisfaction with their partners and self-image post psychedelic use.
- There was also a noted increase in openness towards sexual experimentation and a shift in perception of sex as a more spiritual experience.
The effects mentioned above remained noticeable at 4 weeks and 6 months post the psychedelic encounter. The only gender-specific difference observed was in partner satisfaction after 6 months.
Outcomes from the Clinical Trial Involving Patients with Depression
Depressed patients who received psilocybin therapy exhibited similar improvements.
- They reported enhanced partner communication, heightened sexual enjoyment, and increased satisfaction with their partners and themselves. In comparison, patients treated with escitalopram only showed an improvement in their self-image satisfaction, with no other changes noticed.
- Patients who underwent psilocybin therapy also indicated an increase in sexual interest, activity, and arousal compared to those treated with escitalopram.
- There was a decrease in sexuality-related anxiety for patients treated with psilocybin, while those treated with escitalopram experienced an increase.
Note: The findings suggest that these psychoactive substances may positively impact sexual functionality and overall well-being. The differences in outcomes between psilocybin and escitalopram could be due to their distinct methods of action in treating depression. SSRIs like escitalopram might trigger sexual dysfunction due The influence of both magic and traditional mushrooms on serotonin levels is well-documented, while microdosing with psilocybin has been found to directly interact with serotonin receptors. Further investigation is required to fully comprehend the immediate effects of these mushroom varieties on sexual performance. It’s widely believed that using high-quality magic mushrooms, specifically conventional types like psychedelic mushrooms, mushroom edibles, mushroom tea, microdosing capsules, LSD, and DMT, can significantly enhance sexual enjoyment. Here are some top-rated magic mushroom products that you might find interesting: Are you searching for shrooms available online in Canada? At Schedule35 Canada Canada, we offer a wide selection of premium magic mushrooms to suit your needs. Our online platform facilitates easy access to shroom delivery. Whether you’re exploring the therapeutic benefits of microdosing magic mushrooms or planning an intense psychedelic journey, you can trust our selection of psilocybin-rich mushrooms. Our products are responsibly sourced and strictly tested by Health Canada to ensure safety and effectiveness for your mental well-being. From mushroom edibles to magic mushroom tea, we carry everything you need to enhance your spiritual and therapeutic experiences. Purchase magic mushrooms online from Schedule35 Canada. Psilocybin’s psychedelic effects commonly persist for 4 to 8 hours. However, this duration can fluctuate based on factors like the dosage and mushroom species.Purchase Psilocybin Mushrooms Online
Product Name Zenly LSD Gel Tabs Zenly LSD Gummies Albino Penis Envy Type Microdosing Capsules Edibles Magic Mushroom Active Ingredient Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD-25) Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD-25) Psilocybe cubensis (magic mushroom) Dosage Total 600ug/6 Tabs (100ug/Tab) Total 200ug/2 Gummies (100ug/Gummy) 1 to 1.5 grams Instructions Take one full tab for the complete effect. Allow at least 2 hours before consuming another. Eat one entire gummy for the full experience. Wait for at least 2 hours before consuming another. Consume 1 to 1.5 grams of dried magic mushrooms in a relaxed environment. Stay hydrated throughout the experience. Boost Your Sexual Performance by Ordering Shrooms Online
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Psilocybin’s Effect Last?
Yet, to comprehend the impact of elements such as stress and metabolism, further research is necessary. Several studies, like this one, adjust the dosage according to the participant’s body weight, assuming a uniform spread of psilocybin throughout the body.
What Impact Does Psilocin Have on the Brain?
Psilocin reaches the brain roughly within 30 minutes, mainly affecting the serotoninergic system, thereby mimicking the role of serotonin. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, has diverse functions in the brain, such as aiding in learning, memory, and mood control.
The majority of serotonin receptors, which psilocin binds to, are located in the cerebral cortex. These include 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C, and 5-HT1A, all of which are associated with serotonin. The effects of psilocybin extend beyond serotonin receptors, impacting brain connectivity as shown in functional MRI scans.
Functional MRI scans reveal a decrease in blood flow and connectivity between brain areas like the medial prefrontal cortex and the posterior cingulate cortex. This reduced activity in core regions is thought to enable a freer cognitive state. Moreover, psychedelics induce an entropic brain state marked by increased disorder but improved overall connectivity.
How Does the Liver Process Psilocybin?
- After ingesting psilocybin, it’s absorbed into your bloodstream via your stomach and intestines.
- Chewing magic mushrooms thoroughly can enhance absorption.
- Once in the bloodstream, it travels to your liver through the hepatic portal vein, where most of the processing occurs.
- Magic mushrooms and truffles are abundant in psilocin, the active ingredient. When consumed in their natural form, they are already contain psilocin, which is the substance psilocybin transforms into within our bodies.
Another key process that occurs in the liver is the ‘first pass effect.’ In this process, about 50% of psilocybin is lost during absorption before it can enter the bloodstream. This phenomenon is also seen with alcohol and cannabis, with variations between individuals due to factors such as stress and activity levels. Some studies suggest that only about 20% of psilocybin is converted into psilocin.
How Can You Improve Sexual Function Without Resorting to Drugs or Psychedelics?
Improving sexual function doesn’t necessarily require the use of drugs or psychedelics. Here are a few suggestions:
- Address any sexual anxiety through therapy or self-reflection.
- If medications are suppressing your sexual drive, consider discussing alternative treatments with your prescriber.
- Try role-play with your partner to slowly become more comfortable with sexual activities.
- Explore your sexual attitudes through journaling or psychotherapeutic techniques.
- Enhance sexual functioning and intimacy through natural supplements, personal growth, and couples therapy.
Meet 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
Additional 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
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