Does psychedelic usage have any impact on sexual function? There are anecdotal and qualitative accounts that suggest a correlation, but no definitive studies have been conducted to verify this connection. Sexual satisfaction and function, which are critical for human well-being, 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 explore the effects of consuming magic mushrooms online on sexual performance.
[toc]
An Examination of Psilocybin
Research by Nichols, D. E. & Walter, H. has examined the link between psychedelic use and the ‘hippy’ culture, known for its opposition to war and its open sexual attitudes. Investigation into psychedelics was limited by the 1971 United Nations Controlled Substances Act, but recently there has been a resurgence as studies reveal potential mental health benefits.
Let’s start with some historical background on magic mushrooms:
| Time Period | Event |
| Prehistoric | Early human ancestors utilized psychoactive mushrooms, as indicated by rock art dating back 6000 to 8000 years. |
| 1500 BCE | Psychoactive mushrooms were used in spiritual ceremonies by ancient civilizations. |
| 283-343 A.D | The ancient Chinese text “Baopuzi” by Ge Hong documents the use of hallucinogenic mushrooms, including Psilocybe. |
| 900-1130 CE | Mushrooms featured in the Khajuraho Temples of India suggest their potential religious importance. |
| 16th Century | Indigenous Mesoamerican societies such as the Aztecs, Mazatec, and Zapotec utilized Psilocybe mushrooms in religious rituals and daily life. |
| 1919 | Reko misidentified psychoactive mushrooms as “Teonanácatl.” |
| Late 1950s | Psilocybin was isolated by Albert Hofmann. |
| 1971 | The United Nations labeled psilocybin as a habit-forming substance with no therapeutic value. |
| Early 2022 | The Canadian government authorized doctors to prescribe psilocybin utilized as an urgent medical treatment. |
| 2022 | Oregon authorizes the use of psilocybin for adults. |
Does Psilocybin Influence Sexual Function?
Psychedelics, when used in conjunction with therapy, can enable therapeutic experiences such as emotional release and mental revelations. There have been cases where psilocybin therapy for anxiety and depression has outperformed SSRIs like escitalopram.
Major depressive disorder, a primary source of disability, is typified by extreme sadness and diminished joy. Although not a central symptom, sexual dysfunction often accompanies depression, impacting desire and arousal. SSRIs, a prevalent depression treatment, can exacerbate sexual dysfunction, affecting treatment compliance and recovery. Sexual satisfaction influences overall contentment, relationships, and physical health.
There’s evidence that psychedelics can positively affect sexual sentiments and behaviors, fostering empathy and openness. Psychedelics have been linked to enhanced mindfulness, empathy, body acceptance, and receptiveness to novel experiences, which could alter sexual attitudes.
The Potential Influence of Psychedelics on Sexual Functioning
Psychedelics can affect sexual functioning. Sexual activities have both physical and emotional consequences. Dr. Michele Leno, a credentialed psychologist with Medical News, underscores the importance of mental states preceding sexual activity.
Feeling self-conscious about one’s sexual performance is a widespread issue. While some types of magic mushrooms available for purchase 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 hampering performance.
As per Dr. Hellerstein, the ingestion of magic mushrooms can promote social bonds, lower self-centered thoughts, and potentially encourage brain adaptability and empathy. These effects could explain some of the observed outcomes.
Despite the high hopes surrounding psychedelic therapy, the execution of blind studies continues to be an obstacle. Clinical psychologist Dr. Carla Manly suggests that consuming whole mushrooms may appeal to those seeking modified states of awareness, potentially enriching sexual experiences.
While some individuals favor natural experiences, others have reported feeling less restrained and more open using magic mushrooms purchased online. From a neurobiological standpoint, psilocybin,
There are similarities between certain brain imaging studies under anesthesia and the effects of commonly used psychedelic compounds.
What Does Recent Research Suggest?
Researchers Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, and others carried out a study in 2024 that explores the influence of psychedelic substances on sexual functionality and satisfaction. The study was divided into two distinct investigations:
- The first investigation examined the use of psychedelics for recreational and wellness benefits (an observational survey).
- The second investigation centered around the impact on patients diagnosed with depression (a controlled clinical trial).
Outcomes of the Investigation on Recreational Use
- The participants noted improved communication with partners, intensification of sexual pleasure, and increased contentment with their partners and their self-image after consuming psychedelics.
- Participants also exhibited a greater willingness towards sexual exploration and perceived sex as a more spiritual experience.
These effects were observed to persist at both 4 weeks and 6 months after the psychedelic experience. The only difference related to gender was found in partner satisfaction at the 6-month follow-up.
Outcomes from the Controlled Clinical Trial with Depression Patients
Depression patients who received psilocybin therapy experienced similar improvements.
- These patients reported enhanced communication with partners, increased sexual pleasure, and greater satisfaction with themselves and their partners. In contrast, patients who received escitalopram treatment only reported improvements in their self-image, with no other noticeable changes.
- Psilocybin-treated patients also reported an increase in sexual interest, activity, and arousal, compared to those treated with escitalopram.
- Patients treated with psilocybin experienced a decrease in anxiety related to sexual activity, whereas those treated with escitalopram reported an increase.
Important Note: The findings suggest that these psychoactive substances could potentially enhance sexual functionality and overall well-being. The disparate effects of psilocybin and escitalopram could be due to their distinct methods of action in treating depression. It is noteworthy that SSRIs like escitalopram might induce sexual dysfunction, a side effect not observed with psilocybin.
The influence of traditional and microdosing mushrooms on serotonin levels is distinct: traditional mushrooms impact serotonin levels indirectly, while psilocybin microdosing directly affects serotonin receptors. A more comprehensive understanding of these mushroom species’ immediate effects on sexual functionality necessitates further research.
Online Availability of Psilocybin Mushrooms
The assumption is that consuming top-quality magic mushrooms, specifically the traditional ones such as psychedelic mushrooms, mushroom edibles or mushroom tea, microdosing capsules, LSD, and DMT, can augment sexual satisfaction. Here are some noteworthy magic mushroom products for your consideration:
| 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 | Consume one full tab for an entire experience. Wait for at least 2 hours before taking another. | Have one whole gummy for a complete effect. Wait for at least 2 hours before consuming another. | Take 1 to 1.5 grams of dried magic mushrooms in a comfortable environment. Stay adequately hydrated throughout the experience. |
Augment Your Sexual Performance by Ordering Shrooms Online
Looking to buy shrooms online in Canada? At Magic Mushrooms Calgary Canada Canada, we cater to your needs with an extensive collection of premium magic mushrooms. Our online platform simplifies your access to shroom delivery.
Whether you’re exploring the therapeutic benefits of microdosing magic mushrooms or preparing for an intense psychedelic journey, our range of psilocybin-rich mushrooms won’t disappoint. Our products are responsibly sourced and undergo rigorous testing at Health Canada to ensure safety and effectiveness for your mental well-being.
From mushroom edibles to magic mushroom tea, we provide everything you need for enriching spiritual and therapeutic experiences. Order magic mushrooms online from Magic Mushrooms Calgary Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do the Effects of Psilocybin Last?
Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, usually induces effects lasting between 4 to 8 hours. However, the exact duration can change based on factors like dosage amount and mushroom type. In a study involving 18 participants, the psychedelic journey typically ended around the seventh hour. Notable physiological effects started appearing after two hours, with the impact of the drug reaching its peak after three hours.
Still, further research is needed to fully understand how factors like stress and metabolic rate affect these timings. Many studies, such as this one, adjust the dosage based on the participant’s body weight, assuming psilocybin is evenly distributed throughout the body.
What Impact Does Psilocin Have on the Brain?
Approximately 30 minutes after intake, psilocin reaches the brain where it primarily affects the serotonin system, emulating serotonin’s functions. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, plays multiple roles in the brain including learning, memory and mood regulation.
Most serotonin receptors are located in the cerebral cortex and psilocin binds to these receptors, including 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C, and 5-HT1A. These receptors interact with serotonin. Psilocybin’s effects extend beyond just serotonin receptors, influencing brain connectivity as evidenced in functional MRI scans.
Functional MRI scans reveal a decrease in blood flow and connectivity between areas of the brain such as the medial prefrontal cortex and the posterior cingulate cortex. This reduced central region activity is thought to enable a freer cognitive state. Moreover, psychedelics induce an entropic brain state, characterized by increased disorder but also improved total connectivity.
How Does the Liver Metabolize Psilocybin?
- Upon ingesting psilocybin, it is absorbed into your bloodstream via your stomach and intestines.
- Chewing magic mushrooms thoroughly can enhance absorption.
- Once in your bloodstream, the compound travels to your liver through the hepatic portal vein where a significant part of the metabolism occurs.
- Magic mushrooms and truffles are rich in psilocin, their active ingredient. When consumed naturally, they’re already is metabolized into by our bodies.
Another significant process in the liver is the ‘first pass effect,’ in which about 50% of psilocybin is eliminated during absorption before it can reach the bloodstream. This phenomenon also occurs with substances like alcohol and cannabis, with unpredictable variations among individuals influenced by elements such as stress and activity levels. Some studies suggest that only around 20% of psilocybin is likely to transform into psilocin.
How to Improve Sexual Function without Resorting to Drugs or Psychedelics?
Indeed, it is possible to enhance sexual function without the use of drugs or psychedelics. Here are a few recommendations:
- Address any sexual anxiety through therapy or self-reflection.
- If medications are suppressing your sexual drive, contemplate discussing alternative options with your prescriber.
- Employ role-play with your partner to slowly become comfortable with sexual activities.
- Explore your sexual attitudes through journaling or psychotherapeutic techniques.
- Enhance sexual performance and intimacy by means of natural supplements, personal growth, and couples counseling.
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 influence of psychedelics in the history of psychiatry. Pharmacopsychiatry 54(04), 151–166 (2021).
- Dr. Michele Leno & Dr. Hellerstein: Vogel, K. Psychedelics could boost sexual function for up to 6 months. Medical News Today. (2024). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/psychedelics-psilocybin-lsd-enhance-sexual-function
More 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:
