Psilocybin and psilocin are the active ingredients found in “magic mushrooms”. Humanity has a long history of interacting with these mushrooms, particularly in ceremonial and religious contexts.

Dosage*

Microdose	50mg – 250mg
Light	250mg – 1000mg
Medium	1g – 2.5g
Strong	2.5g – 5g
Heavy	5g+

When chewed, mushrooms take about 20-60 minutes to begin to take effect. This time is shortened if they are chewed and held in the mouth (because digestion then occurs more quickly, and the psilocybin/psilocin can be absorbed by the blood vessels in the mouth). If taken in a capsule, onset may take a little longer as nothing will be absorbed in the mouth and the capsule needs time to dissolve in the stomach. Some may also choose to brew a tea. Either way the active effects last about 4-6 hours.

As with any psychedelic, one’s intention/state of mind and the environment (i.e. the “set and setting”) greatly influence the action and experience of the substance.

Contraindications

While much is still unknown about the relationship between psychosis-type experiences and psychedelics, there is legitimate concern that a difficult or “bad” trip can trigger an initial psychotic episode–outside of the active effects of the substance–in individuals that are predisposed to psychosis. Being in a safe, supportive environment and having an open and trusting mindset can help mitigate this risk. However, individuals with a personal or family history of schizophrenia, bipolar affective disorder, or other psychosis-type experiences should be particularly cautious when choosing and preparing to interact with psychedelic substances, including psilocybin-containing mushrooms. Always speak to your health care providers before trying something new or changing your medication. For a discussion on bipolar and psychedelics, see here.

Folks with heart conditions should also be cautious when ingestion psychedelics. High doses of psychedelics can bring on an increased heartrate which may be dangerous for those with sensitive or vulnerable hearts. An increased heartrate is especially likely when one encounters feelings of paranoia and fear. Ingesting psilocybin-containing mushrooms in a setting where one feels trusting, safe, and supported can again help mitigate this risk.

Legal Status in Canada

Psilocybin and psilocin – the active ingredients in “magic mushrooms” – are currently classed as Schedule III substances under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Possession and distribution is therefore illegal, including of the dried mushrooms that contain these substances (the spores are legal though). However, there is a growing body of research and awareness that demonstrates that psilocybin/mushrooms pose minimal risk while offering substantial benefit.

The history of the criminalization of psychedelics in general is largely political and does not reflect the true nature of the substances; psilocybin mushrooms are non-toxic and non-addictive, and have significant therapeutic and spiritual applications.

The Government of Canada has been updating their webpage on “Magic Mushrooms” to reflect this growing understanding. They have also recently granted special permission in a number of cases for physicians and practitioners to administer psilocybin/mushrooms to end-of-life patients and others experiencing significant mental/emotional distress.

There is substantial support for the legalization of psilocybin mushrooms, and many are working to lobby the government and move this process along. It is our hope that psilocybin and other drugs will be decriminalized, and that legal access to psychedelic/psilocybin-assisted therapies and training programs will be increasingly developed.

To learn more about the development of the legal status of psychedelics in Canada, check out this report from Green Economy Law.

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