A fascinating shift in mental health care has been taking place recently as unconventional treatments involving shrooms and molly, also called mushrooms and MDMA, have been gaining attention. This change is opening doors for innovative approaches to mental health treatment and providing new options for those who have not found success with traditional methods.
However, more research is required to determine the best way to administer psychedelic medication without causing unwanted hallucinogenic effects, similar to microdosing THC & CBD. Our guide explores the state of psychedelic therapies, the legal landscape surrounding new psychedelic drugs, and what the future holds for the industry.
The Rising Interest in Psychedelic Therapies
The growing interest in psychedelic therapy can be attributed to various factors. First is the increased recognition and research into psychedelic substances. Legislators in different states have passed laws that promote studies into psychedelic treatment. For instance, in 2021, Governor Greg Abbott authorized a bill that permitted psychedelic research in Texas. Similarly, Utah’s bill on psilocybin proposed the formation of a task force to research the beneficial potential of psychedelic drugs.
Another factor that has caused increased interest in psychedelic medication is the legalization of cannabis internationally. Due to continued efforts to decriminalize marijuana globally, people have become more willing to explore alternative medicines such as psychedelic drugs.
Furthermore, many jurisdictions are exploring the possibility of legalizing mushrooms and molly for medical purposes. On September 21, 2020, legislators decriminalized psychedelics in Michigan and made it the lowest law enforcement priority.
Psilocybin V.S. MDMA: A Contrast
While both psilocybin and MDMA have been receiving attention for their therapeutic possibilities, they work differently in the human brain. Psilocybin, which comes from magic mushrooms, primarily impacts serotonin receptors, causing a considerable alteration in perception and thought patterns. Therefore, psilocybin can help in managing various psychiatric conditions when given under medical supervision.
On the other hand, MDMA, otherwise known as ecstasy or molly, has also shown evidence of clinical applications. It’s a synthetic substance that causes the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. As a result, it induces feelings of empathy, self-awareness, and reduced anxiety. Although this makes it popular for recreational use, research also indicates that administering a certain amount of MDMA in a clinical setting can help people with trauma-related conditions like PTSD.
Delving into the Research on Shrooms and Molly
Scientists are constantly studying the potential benefits of mushrooms and molly for mental health treatment. Some legislators are also pushing to make psychedelic therapy mainstream through research. For instance, Alexandria Ocasio Cortez’s psychedelic mushroom bill in 2021 proposed future studies on psychedelic substances such as MDMA, psilocybin, and ibogaine.
Similarly, they’re looking for the best ways to handle these substances, such as the appropriate packaging for magic mushrooms. Such initiatives will help regulators find the safest way to supply these new psychedelic drugs to consumers.
So far, research has shown that therapy incorporating psilocybin can effectively reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Likewise, psychotherapy aided by MDMA has been found to lessen PTSD symptoms. What’s more, these treatments appear to have enduring effects. Relief from symptoms can potentially continue for months, or even years, after just one treatment session.
The Bottom Line
The rising interest in shrooms and molly as potential mental health treatments has significantly impacted psychiatry. As mental health professionals increasingly consider MDMA and mushrooms as treatment options, there is a growing sense of hope surrounding the future of psychedelic psychiatry. Still, these substances aren’t a universal solution for all mental health concerns, and more research is required before the psychedelic revolution can be fully realized.
