Skip to main content

Is there a correlation between psychedelic usage and sexual functioning? Despite anecdotal and qualitative evidence alluding to such a relationship, no formal trials to substantiate this claim have been conducted. Matters of sexual satisfaction and performance, which are viewed as essential to human health, can often be adversely impacted by mental health conditions or as a side effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a common treatment for depression. 

In 2024, a clinical study was undertaken by Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, among others, to examine the impact of consuming magic mushrooms online on sexual performance.

[toc]
Magic Mushrooms in Canada

Unraveling Psilocybin

Research by Nichols, D. E. & Walter, H. has examined the link between psychedelic consumption and the ‘hippy’ culture, recognized for its pacifist stance and liberal sexual norms. The exploration of psychedelics was stymied by the 1971 United Nations Controlled Substances Act, but recently, a resurgence has occurred with studies revealing potential advantages in the realm of mental health treatment. 

Let’s start by delving into the historical background of magic mushrooms:

Time PeriodEvent
PrehistoricThe use of psychoactive mushrooms by early human ancestors is evidenced by rock drawings dating back 6000 to 8000 years.
1500 BCEPsychoactive mushrooms were utilized in spiritual ceremonies by ancient civilizations.
283-343 A.DGe Hong’s ancient Chinese doctrine “Baopuzi” described intoxicating mushrooms, including Psilocybe.
900-1130 CEThe depiction of mushrooms in India’s Khajuraho Temples implies their likely religious importance.
16th CenturyIndigenous Mesoamerican societies such as the Aztecs, Mazatec, and Zapotec utilized Psilocybe mushrooms for religious ceremonies and daily life.
1919Reko misidentified psychoactive mushrooms as “Teonanácatl.”
Late 1950sAlbert Hofmann isolated Psilocybin.
1971The United Nations classified psilocybin as a habit-forming substance with no medicinal benefits.
Early 2022The Canadian government allowed physicians to prescribe psilocybin is utilized as an emergency treatment.
2022Oregon approves the use of psilocybin for adults.

Can Psilocybin Impact Sexual Functioning?

Psychedelics, when used in conjunction with therapy, can foster therapeutic experiences such as emotional release and psychological understanding. In some cases, psilocybin therapy for anxiety and depression has demonstrated superior results compared to SSRIs like escitalopram.

Major depressive disorder, a prominent cause of disability, is marked by intense feelings of sadness and diminished joy. Sexual dysfunction, while not a primary symptom, often accompanies depression, affecting desire and arousal. The use of SSRIs, a common depression treatment, can exacerbate sexual dysfunction, influencing treatment compliance and recovery. Sexual fulfillment significantly affects overall happiness, relationships, and physical health.

Evidence indicates that psychedelics may positively affect sexual feelings and behaviors, enhancing empathy and openness. Psychedelics are linked with increased mindfulness, empathy, body positivity, and openness to new experiences, which may influence sexual attitudes.

Potential Influence of Psychedelics on Sexual Performance

Psychedelics have the potential to affect sexual performance. Sexual activity carries both physical and emotional implications. Dr. Michele Leno, a licensed psychologist with Medical News, emphasizes the importance of mental states preceding sexual activity.

Sexual self-awareness is a widespread issue. While specific types of magic mushrooms available online can help reduce anxiety, others, akin to alcohol, may adversely affect sexual performance. Studies suggest that those who microdose magic mushrooms experience decreased inhibitions and heightened relaxation, without compromising performance.

As per Dr. Hellerstein, the use of magic mushrooms can nurture social bonds, reduce self-centered thoughts, and might stimulate brain plasticity and empathy. These effects could explain some of the observed results.

Despite the high hopes associated with psychedelic treatment, carrying out blind studies poses a challenge. Clinical psychologist Dr. Carla Manly suggests that the consumption of whole mushrooms might appeal to those seeking modified states of consciousness, potentially intensifying sexual experiences.

While some individuals favor natural experiences, others report feeling less restrained and more expansive when using magic mushrooms procured online. From a neurobiological standpoint, psilocybin, , a psychedelic compound frequently used, shows parallel characteristics to certain brain imaging studies conducted under anesthesia.

What Does the Recent Research Suggest?

A 2024 study, carried out by Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, and other researchers, explores the influence of psychedelic substances on sexual functionality and satisfaction, via two distinct research approaches:

  1. The first study scrutinizes the recreational and wellness use of psychedelics (a survey based on observation).
  2. The second research centers on its effects on patients diagnosed with depression (a controlled clinical trial).

Insights from the Recreational Use Study

  • Participants disclosed improved communication with partners, amplified sexual pleasure, and heightened satisfaction with their partners and self-image post psychedelic usage.
  • Increased willingness towards sexual exploration and perceiving sex as a more spiritual experience were additionally noted.

These effects were consistently noticeable even 4 weeks and 6 months after the psychedelic experience. The only gender-related discrepancy observed was partner satisfaction at the 6-month checkpoint.

Findings from the Controlled Clinical Trial on Depressed Patients

Depressed patients who underwent psilocybin therapy experienced similar enhancements.

  • They noted improved communication with partners, amplified sexual pleasure, and heightened satisfaction with both themselves and their partners. On the other hand, patients treated with escitalopram only reported improvements in self-image satisfaction, with no other alterations noted.
  • Psilocybin-treated patients also reported increased sexual interest, activity, and arousal, compared to those treated with escitalopram.
  • Anxiety related to sexual activity lessened for psilocybin-treated patients, but escalated for those treated with escitalopram.

Note: The findings indicate that these psychoactive compounds could positively impact sexual functionality and well-being. The disparities observed between the effects of psilocybin and escitalopram may be due to their distinct modes of action in treating depression. SSRIs like escitalopram might induce sexual dysfunction due

Traditional mushrooms and psilocybin microdoses influence serotonin levels differently. While the former impact the overall serotonin levels, the latter directly interact with serotonin receptors. The immediate effects of these mushroom varieties on sexual functionality still need further exploration.

Online Availability of Psilocybin Mushrooms

It’s postulated that high-quality magic mushrooms, particularly traditional varieties like psychedelic mushrooms, mushroom edibles, mushroom tea, microdosing capsules, LSD, and DMT, can amplify sexual satisfaction. Here are some exemplary magic mushroom products you might find interesting:

Product NameZenly LSD Gel TabsZenly LSD GummiesAlbino Penis Envy 
TypeMicrodosing CapsulesEdiblesMagic Mushroom
Active IngredientLysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD-25)Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD-25)Psilocybe cubensis (magic mushroom)
DosageTotal 600ug/6 Tabs (100ug/Tab)Total 200ug/2 Gummies (100ug/Gummy)1 to 1.5 grams 
InstructionsConsume one full tab for the complete effect. Wait for at least 2 hours before consuming another.Have one complete gummy for the total impact. Wait for a minimum of 2 hours before eating another.Ingest 1 to 1.5 grams of dried magic mushrooms in a relaxing environment. Keep yourself hydrated throughout the course of the experience.

Boost Your Sexual Performance with Online Shrooms

Looking to purchase shrooms online in Canada? At Mushroom Dispensary Canada Canada, we offer a wide selection of premium magic mushrooms to cater to your needs. Our online platform provides easy access to shroom delivery.

Whether you are interested in exploring the therapeutic benefits of magic mushroom microdosing or embarking on a profound psychedelic journey, our collection of psilocybin-rich mushrooms is here for you. We responsibly source our products and conduct rigorous testing at Health Canada to ensure their safety and effectiveness for your mental well-being. 

From mushroom edibles to magic mushroom tea, we have everything you need to elevate your spiritual and therapeutic experiences. Order magic mushrooms online from Mushroom Dispensary Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do the Effects of Psilocybin Last?

Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, typically induces effects that last from 4 to 8 hours. However, the duration can vary based on factors such as the dosage and the type of mushroom consumed. A study involving 18 subjects found that the psychedelic experience generally ended around the seventh hour. Noticeable physiological effects started to manifest two hours after consumption, and the height of the drug’s impact was reached after three hours.

Despite this, further research is needed to better understand the impact of variables like stress and metabolism. Several studies, including one linked here, have calibrated the dosage to match the participant’s body weight, assuming an equal distribution of psilocybin throughout the body.

What Impact Does Psilocin Have on the Brain?

Psilocin reaches the brain within approximately 30 minutes, primarily affecting the serotoninergic system, and mimics the role of serotonin. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, has diverse functions in the brain, including promoting learning, memory, and mood regulation.

The majority of serotonin receptors are located in the cerebral cortex and are targeted by psilocin. These include the 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C, and 5-HT1A receptors, which are closely linked to serotonin. Psilocybin’s effects extend beyond serotonin receptors, altering brain connectivity as revealed in functional MRI scans.

Functional MRI scans show a decrease in blood flow and connectivity between brain regions like the medial prefrontal cortex and the posterior cingulate cortex. This reduction in activity in central areas is thought to enable a more unrestricted cognitive state. Additionally, psychedelics induce a state of entropy in the brain, characterized by an increase in disorder but improved overall connectivity.

How Does the Liver Metabolize Psilocybin?

  1. Upon ingesting psilocybin, it is absorbed into your bloodstream through your stomach and intestines. 
  2. Thorough mastication of magic mushrooms enhances absorption. 
  3. Once it enters your bloodstream, it travels to your liver via the hepatic portal vein, where a substantial portion of the metabolism occurs.
  4. Magic mushrooms and truffles are abundant in psilocin, the active ingredient. When consumed naturally, they are already is converted into within our bodies. 

A significant liver function is the ‘first pass effect,’ where nearly 50% of psilocybin is depleted during absorption before it enters the bloodstream. This phenomenon also occurs with alcohol and cannabis, with unpredictable variations among individuals due to factors such as stress and activity levels. Based on some studies, it’s estimated that only about 20% of psilocybin is converted into psilocin.

How can sexual function be enhanced without drugs or psychedelics?

Enhancing sexual function without the use of drugs or psychedelics is definitely possible. Here are a few suggestions:

  1. Address any sexual anxiety through therapy or introspection.
  2. If medications are affecting your sexual desire, think about discussing alternatives with your prescriber.
  3. Engage in role-play with your partner to slowly get used to sexual activities.
  4. Explore your sexual attitudes through journaling or psychotherapeutic techniques.
  5. Enhance sexual functioning and intimacy using natural supplements, personal development, 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 psychiatry’s history. 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

Further Author Information 

Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, Joseph M. Peill, Leor Roseman, David J. Nutt, David Erritzoe, Robin Carhart-Harris & Bruna Giribaldi

Related Articles: