More often than not, magic mushrooms are associated with recreational drug use. But do you know that with psychedelic drugs such as Enigma magic mushrooms, people can improve their mental health? Yes, psilocybin, the psychedelic chemical found in over a thousand species of mushrooms, can indeed cater to psychological issues and help people deal with their anxiety and depression.
Studies that go as far back as 1960 have shown that psychedelic drugs have a positive effect on brain function and can be used as therapeutic substances to treat mental disorders and behavioral disorders, too. Recent research also says that the dosage of magic mushrooms plays a huge role in its effectiveness and safety.
If you want to know more about psilocybin, its impact on brain functionality, its growing market, and its side effects, keep reading.
What Is Psilocybin?
Psilocybin is a hallucinogenic compound found in over 200 species of mushrooms. It comes in dried or fresh mushrooms, in pill or powder in a capsule form, and can be added to other foods or brewed with your tea.
For the longest time, the chemical compound has been used for recreational purposes – to go on a ‘trip’ without a professional’s prescription. The psychedelic effect of psilocybin alters mood and causes auditory and visual hallucinations in its users. Hence, it is illegal in many states, but for some, it has been decriminalized, especially under medical approval.
The Role of Psilocybin in Mental Health
Several researchers have proven that psilocybin can improve your mental health under controlled dosages. A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine also reported that people dealing with clinical depression are more likely to do better over time when psilocybin as medication is combined with talk therapy. Other studies have shown that psilocybin is a long-lasting fix (with little to no side effects) for mental and behavioral disorders if taken intermittently, leading to its decriminalization in quite a number of states.
When Psilocybin Therapy Should Be Considered
Psilocybin has shown great prospects according to research and tests that have been going on. However, it can’t be accessed by the general public due to its high abuse potential. When administered by a professional, here are some mental health conditions that it can impressively treat:
- Treatment-Resistant Depression
Randomized controlled trials of psilocybin have revealed that adults diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder experience a large antidepressant effect when combined with psychological support. When compared to traditional antidepressants, psilocybin reportedly has fewer side effects, too.
- Depression and Anxiety
Studies have shown that psilocybin alleviates the anxiety and depression associated with being a cancer patient. Low and controlled dosages improve the mood and behavior of patients dealing with cancer-related depression.
- Anorexia Nervosa
Psilocybin has also been proven to reduce eating disorders in anorexic patients. However, it is still in trials to be tested as a treatment for anorexia.
Conclusion
Although a large scale of its use is still under study, the results of psilocybin in treating mental and behavioral health conditions are very promising. Till it is widely approved, it is important that you only take it in a controlled setting with a professional by your side to avoid the repercussions of the psychedelic effects large doses bring.