In the last couple of years, there’s been a surge of interest in alternative treatments for mental health issues. And one that has definitely garnered a lot of attention is psilocybin therapy. 

Psilocybin, you ask? It’s a naturally occurring compound found in certain species of mushrooms, often referred to by the intriguing moniker – ‘magic mushrooms.’ These aren’t your average grocery store mushrooms, that’s for sure.

The heart of this therapy lies in its unique approach. It harnesses the mind-altering properties of psilocybin, aiming to alleviate various mental health disorders. It’s like taking a wild, psychedelic journey with the potential to come out the other side feeling better. Sounds pretty cool, right?

As interest spikes and more research emerges on the potential benefits of psilocybin, it’s essential to understand what this therapy is all about and how it might help those struggling with mental health issues.

Microdosing Psilocybin: Easing into Treatments  

As an approach that’s becoming increasingly recognized in the field of psilocybin therapy, microdosing essentially involves taking small, sub-hallucinogenic doses of psilocybin mushrooms at regular intervals. These doses are intentionally kept small enough to prevent triggering intense psychedelic experiences, such as hallucinations, typically associated with higher doses. Instead, the goal is to influence mood, cognition, and perception subtly yet positively.

Microdosing psilocybin (within a therapeutic context) is believed to be beneficial for individuals who may not be ready or willing to experience a full psychedelic trip. However, this approach should always be overseen by a qualified healthcare provider or therapist who can monitor the patient’s response and adjust the dosage as required.

Maximizing the Benefits of the Most Potent Psilocybin Mushroom

Venturing further into the realm of psilocybin therapy, the spotlight inevitably falls on the most potent psilocybin mushroom. The mushroom in question is the Psilocybe azurescens which contains a high concentration of psilocybin and psilocin, the compounds responsible for the mushrooms’ psychoactive effects. 

Compared to its counterparts, Psilocybe azurescens has a much more elevated concentration of psilocybin. For a clearer understanding, while the average psilocybin mushroom contains about 0.2% to 0.4% psilocybin, Psilocybe azurescens can contain up to 1.8%. This implies it’s approximately four to nine times more potent than most other psilocybin mushrooms.

Psilocybe Azurescens: The Most Potent Psilocybin 

The high psilocybin content in Psilocybe azurescens can lead to more profound psychological effects, which can be beneficial in therapy settings. For instance, it may facilitate deeper self-exploration or induce a more significant shift in mood and perspective.

As the most potent psilocybin type of magic mushroom, the Psilocybe azurescens presents a unique blend of benefits and challenges in psilocybin therapy. While its high psilocybin content can trigger deeper therapeutic experiences, it also calls for careful dosing and professional oversight. 

As we continue to dive deep into the domain of psilocybin therapy, the role of Psilocybe azurescens and other potent psilocybin mushrooms will undoubtedly remain a point of fascination.

What does the future look like for Psilocybin Therapy?

The benefits of Psilocybin Therapy extend beyond the immediate effects of the psychedelic experience. It has shown promise in treating a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Research has also shown that psilocybin can promote neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new connections and adapt to new information. This increased neuroplasticity can lead to lasting improvements in mood, cognition, and overall mental well-being.

As the popularity of Psilocybin Therapy continues to grow, it’s essential to tread cautiously. While the therapy has shown promise in treating various mental health conditions, it’s not suitable for everyone. Individuals with a history of psychosis or certain medical conditions may not be suitable candidates for this therapy. It’s key to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming psilocybin, regardless of your particular medical history.

All in all, the future of Psilocybin Therapy looks promising, with the potential to offer lasting improvements in mood, cognition, and overall mental well-being. As we continue to explore this new frontier, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and ensure that this therapy is accessible to those who stand to benefit the most.

Magic Mushrooms, scientifically known as psilocybin mushrooms, are a topic of rising interest in Canada. With the global shift towards natural and alternative treatments, its therapeutic benefits have sparked the curiosity of those seeking a more holistic solution to health issues. But with this newfound interest comes a pressing question: are magic mushrooms legal in Canada? 

The market for magic mushrooms is growing steadily with more Canadians showing interest in its potential benefits. However, there’s still hesitation among potential consumers, primarily around its legality. This article aims to demystify these concerns and cover all there is to know about the legal status of magic mushrooms in Canada. 

Psilocybin in Canada: a Brief Overview

Psilocybin is a hallucinogenic chemical found in certain mushrooms called “magic mushrooms.” Consuming these magic mushrooms can cause different effects in an individual, going from euphoria to hallucinations. Therefore, psilocybin shrooms have been more traditionally used for recreational purposes, the first records of going as far as indigenous cultures.

In the mid-20th century, researchers began studying psilocybin’s positive effects and potential medicine use, especially in mental health. Despite positive findings, things worsened in the late 70s when regulations got very strict, limiting further research.

Fast forward to the 21st century, and there’s been a resurgence in interest. In Canada, this spark in attention is driven by preliminary scientific studies and user reports indicating the positive effects of using magic mushrooms. Psilocybin micro-dosage is believed to benefit various conditions, including depression, migraines, PTSD, and more.

The industry has got the market’s interest secured. But what is the current legal state of psilocybin in Canada? Are magic mushrooms legal in Canada?

The Legal Status of Magic Mushrooms in Canada

After many years of roadblocks, the world of psychedelics won a major battle: magic mushrooms in Canada have been accepted as a treatment for mental health conditions. Soon after that, the Province of Alberta announced it would legalize and regulate the use of all psychedelics, including Psilocybin mushrooms, as of January 2023. 

To summarize: are magic mushrooms legal in Canada? The answer is yes, but with a caveat – it’s via medical prescription.

Physicians in Canada are now authorized to prescribe psychedelic drugs to patients as part of their treatment plans. This sets a precedent in alternative medicine as it gives patients the peace of mind that they will not be prosecuted by law enforcement. So, if you were considering incorporating magic mushrooms into your health treatment, you can talk to your physician and evaluate if this would be a good opportunity for you.

As more studies shed light on the positive impact of magic mushrooms, it is expected that the regulations will continue to lessen. For now, let’s celebrate this milestone in accepting psychedelics as an alternative treatment for mental health issues.

Path: Canada’s Magic Mushroom Best Provider

Despite the recent good news for psilocybin in Canada, there’s still a lot of uncertainty and doubt revolving around psychedelics for health treatments. Now that we answered the most worrisome question about magic mushrooms (are magic mushrooms legal in Canada?), it’s time to learn about where to get psilocybin and how you can consume it.

There are a few magic mushroom providers in Canada but at Path, we make it a point to be a one-stop shop for all your needs. From delicious chocolate bars to user-friendly capsules, every product is designed to ease our customers into the world of shrooms with their well-being in mind. No matter your personal preference, we offer something for everybody.

Our commitment is to produce magic mushroom consumables of the highest quality and only use organic mushrooms. If you’re looking to embark on a healing journey or simply searching for a natural way to boost your well-being, we can guide you on your way. 

As the dialogue around magic mushrooms in Canada continues to advance, we remain optimistic that there will be even more findings about the positive impact of magic shrooms on health in the near future. If you are ready to take the leap now, we encourage you to browse our catalogue section or to contact us so we can best assist you.

In the heart of Canada’s lush landscapes, a world of enchantment thrives – magic mushrooms, a fascinating gift from Mother Nature herself. Embarking on the journey of growing these mystical fungi in your own space is a remarkable experience connecting you with the Earth’s wonders.

In this guide, we’ll explore the captivating realm of magic mushrooms, delving into their appearance, the art of cultivating psilocybin mushrooms, and discovering the natural habitats where these treasures flourish.

The Appearance of Magic Mushrooms

Before you begin your magical cultivation journey, it’s essential to recognize what magic mushrooms look like. These extraordinary fungi exhibit diverse shapes, sizes, and colours. From the iconic “fly agaric” with its red cap and white dots to the slender-stemmed, caramel-coloured Psilocybe cubensis – magic mushrooms showcase nature’s creativity.

The appearance of magic mushrooms is a testament to the richness of biodiversity. They often have distinct features such as bell-shaped caps, gilled undersides, and an earthy aroma. Their appearances can vary greatly based on species, making each encounter with these mystical organisms a unique experience.

Nurturing Psilocybin Magic: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Grow Psilocybin Mushrooms

Now that you’ve familiarized yourself with the appearance of magic mushrooms, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and delve into the cultivation process. Growing psilocybin mushrooms requires careful attention, patience, and a genuine connection with nature’s cycles. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

Research and Choose a Strain

Begin by researching various psilocybin mushroom strains that are well-suited for Canadian climates. Consider growth conditions, temperature preferences, and growth cycle duration.

Prepare the Growing Environment

Magic mushrooms thrive in controlled environments. Set up a growing space that allows you to regulate temperature, humidity, and light. Many cultivators opt for indoor setups to have more control over these conditions.

Obtain Substrate and Spores

Prepare the substrate – the material on which the mushrooms will grow. This could be a mix of vermiculite, brown rice flour, and water. Acquire mushroom spores from reliable suppliers, ensuring you adhere to local regulations.

Inoculation and Colonization

In a sterile environment, introduce the mushroom spores to the substrate. This marks the beginning of the colonization process, during which mycelium – the vegetative part of the fungus – spreads through the substrate.

Provide Optimal Conditions

Maintain the growing environment’s temperature and humidity levels according to the requirements of your chosen strain. Regularly mist the substrate to ensure adequate moisture.

Fruiting and Harvesting

As the mycelium network develops, tiny pins – the beginnings of mushroom caps – will emerge. Continue to provide the necessary conditions; soon enough, these pins will mature into fully-grown mushrooms. Gently harvest them when the caps have opened but are not releasing spores.

Reflect and Rejuvenate

Cultivating magic mushrooms is not just about the end product; it’s also a journey of mindfulness and patience. Take moments to reflect on the interconnectedness of life and the natural world as you nurture these enchanting organisms.

Seeking the Natural Habitats of Magic Mushrooms

Where Do Magic Mushrooms Grow?

While cultivating magic mushrooms indoors can be rewarding, understanding their natural habitats adds another layer of appreciation for these incredible fungi. In Canada, various species of magic mushrooms thrive in specific environments:

Forests and Woodlands

Many psilocybin mushroom species have an affinity for wooded areas, where moisture and decaying organic matter are abundant. Exploring forests and woodlands in Canada might unveil hidden treasures of magic mushrooms.

Grasslands and Meadows

In regions with open grasslands and meadows, you might encounter psilocybin mushrooms peeking out from the lush greenery. These habitats provide the perfect balance of sunlight and moisture.

Fertile Soil Near Water Bodies

Magic mushrooms often flourish near rivers, streams, and other water bodies due to the consistent moisture in the soil. Keep an eye out for these gems as you venture near aquatic landscapes.

Alpine Regions

Some resilient magic mushroom species have adapted to alpine conditions. If you’re an adventurous soul, exploring higher altitudes might lead you to discover unique fungi thriving amidst rocky terrains.

Embracing the Marvels of Cultivation and Nature

Embarking on the journey of growing magic mushrooms is a testament to your curiosity and appreciation for the natural world. As you learn to recognize their enchanting appearances, master the art of cultivation, and explore their native habitats, you deepen your connection with the intricate tapestry of life surrounding us. May this guide inspire you to embark on this magical adventure, nurturing the mushrooms and your profound relationship with nature. Remember, with each step, you’re not just cultivating fungi – you’re cultivating wonder.

In recent years, microdosing has gained traction as a way of boosting focus and increasing productivity. People have reported on the benefits, from psychological gains (e.g. increased creativity and mental clarity) to physiological ones (e.g. boost in energy).

If you’re curious about microdosing shrooms and want to learn more, read on.

What is microdosing?

Microdosing refers to the act of consuming only small doses (usually 1/20 to 1/10 of a regular dose, or 10 to 20 micrograms) of a psychoactive substance for its purported benefits (psychological and otherwise), rather than the “high”, or negative and extreme sensorial effects. These psychoactive substances include magic mushrooms, LSD, cannabis, ayahuasca, and ketamine.

Magic mushrooms (also known as psychedelic mushrooms, shrooms, mushies, blue meanies, philosopher’s stones), belonging to the genus Psilocybe, contain psilocybin (a hallucinogen), one of its major chemical compounds. When consumed, psilocybin metabolizes in the body and converts into psilocin, a psychoactive substance. Psilocybin and the resulting psilocin are the compounds associated with the psychedelic effects magic mushrooms are known for, like changes in perception.

Effects of taking magic mushrooms can be positive and negative, depending on dosage, a person’s mental and physical state, and various other factors. These effects may include hallucinations, synesthesia, spiritual awakenings, mood swings, and enhanced creativity.

Learn more

–LSD vs. Mushrooms: Differences Between Acid and Psilocybin

How did microdosing gain popularity?

In modern times, much has been written about psychedelics, beginning in the 50s, but microdosing was not quite a trend back then.

It started gaining popularity around 2010 in Silicon Valley (from those termed “biohackers”). It was a new way of improving cognitive function and focus, increasing productivity, and boosting energy to take on the challenges of coding.

In 2011, “microdosing” as a term was formally introduced in Dr. James Fadiman’s book, The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys. With his book, Dr. Fadiman went into detail about the subculture of psychedelic use, and specifically, provided more information about consuming smaller doses of psychedelics (as opposed to regular or larger doses). Use cases covered indigenous cultures, to modern professionals such as scientists who test its purported therapeutic effects.

The publication of the book, in part, resulted in a spike in awareness and interest for microdosing. The book also included practical information for those curious to try it out, including steps on how to microdose.

Microdosing gained more steam with the help of productivity guru, Tim Ferriss. Ferriss-best known for his best-selling 2007 book, The 4-Hour Workweek, and is now also famous for his lifestyle blog and podcast-interviewed Dr. Fadiman in 2015. With this episode, listeners of the podcast (a considerably large audience interested in productivity, lifestyle design, and entrepreneurship) began experimenting on their own with microdosing and shared their experiences. This helped spread more awareness and resulted in much coverage in the media about the then burgeoning topic. Consequently, media coverage also widened its reach, not only to those in Silicon Valley, but to a more mainstream audience interested in productivity and wellness. Now, it has become one of the ways to enhance one’s daily routine, not for the “high”, or as an escape from the ordinary, but for the mental and physical benefits.

What are the benefits of taking magic mushrooms?

To understand the interest in microdosing magic mushrooms is to focus on its purported benefits.

Much of the reported benefits are based on anecdotal evidence or surveys and as such, should be taken with a grain of salt. In one survey, almost 80% claimed that they noticed improvements on their mental health after microdosing. In another survey, respondents noticed a decrease in anxiety and depression, and an increase in levels of creativity and productivity.

Learn more

–Mushroom microdosing for anxiety and ADHD
–Mushrooms for depression

As surveys, these are not scientifically rigorous tests and there is no way to ensure that strict guidelines were observed in regard to dosage, usage, and the various factors that can affect one’s perceived effects.

Other than that, there’s a chance that respondents might have also experienced the placebo effect – the belief that a substance was effective due to one’s pre-existing thinking that it would work. This doesn’t mean that the effect can be directly attributed to the substance itself.

Nevertheless, some of those who have microdosed claim that it gives rise to certain psychological gains, such as boosts in focus and creativity, increased spiritual awareness, general improvement in mood, better eating and sleeping habits, improved personal efficiency, decreased anxiety, and better social skills. There are even reports that it may help with inflammation.

As of now, research on microdosing is still relatively new and limited, so we can’t know for certain its efficacy and relation to the reported benefits.

Some studies, which include clinical trials, have also attempted to test it as a potential treatment for neuropsychiatric disorders like anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and addiction.

Here’s a snapshot of some studies that have been conducted:

  • Researchers at Johns Hopkins reported an 80 percent abstinence rate among a group of longtime smokers who took psilocybin as part of their cognitive behavioral therapy. Even addictions, such as smoking, might be overcome with psilocybin.
  • Researchers from the same institution report that it may be an effective treatment for substance addictions (e.g. nicotine and alcohol) and depression.
  • Some studies have also shown that for those with life-threatening cancer diagnoses, microdosing shrooms helped alleviate emotional distress.
  • One study found that it may help treat headaches (and might be as effective or more effective versus conventional medicine).
shroom effects

Is microdosing magic mushrooms safe?

Because scientific data is limited and much of the reported benefits are anecdotal or from first-hand experiences of those who have taken it (or results from surveys), those intending to try out microdosing need to be vigilant.

There are also no studies so far on its long-term effects, so it is important to avoid heavy and daily use. There is a potential heart risk for those that take too many shrooms in the long-term. One effect associated with long-term shroom use has been a change in personality. However, Health Canada currently authorizes Psychedelics for medical purposes, which may mean that a controlled consumption leads to health benefits for medical conditions like anxiety and depression.

One such bad effect is unintended trips (and “bad” trips), likely induced by an accidental intake of a higher dose of shrooms. When you go from a microdose to a regular dose, you might feel one, or some, of a myriad of side effects, like paranoia, hallucinations, nausea, drowsiness, headaches, nervousness, yawning, and panic. The effect may be even more intense for those under the influence of alcohol.

A term that is used in psychedelic experiences is “set and setting”. These are the factors that can affect your magic mushroom experience. “Set” refers to your state of mind and emotional wellness, whereas “setting” refers to your environment. Both can affect your experience positively or negatively.

Another possible outcome from microdosing shrooms is the negative side effects. This includes increased anxiety, difficulty sleeping, headaches, and physical discomfort.

Note that daily microdosing is also not recommended as it may lead to tolerance similar to coffee/caffeine. After a while, your body might get used to the dosage and require you to take higher doses in order to feel an equivalent effect.

Of the information that we currently have, there are both good and bad reported effects, but clearly not enough to claim one way or the other. Until more research is done (including its potential for helping those with mental disorders), we need to exercise caution and be extra mindful when it comes to microdosing shrooms.

What are the types of magic mushrooms?

There are different types or strains of magic mushrooms. Psilocybe Cubensis, or “Golden Teacher” mushrooms, is the most common strain. Other types of psychedelic mushrooms are Psilocybe Semilanceata (“Liberty Caps”), Psilocybe Cyanescens (“Wavy Caps”), Psilocybe Azurescens (“Flying Saucers”), and Psilocybe Tampanensis (“Magic Truffles”, “Philosopher’s Stone”).

Most magic shrooms are light brown, have long and thin stems, and have dark brown caps. Some shrooms, when picked off, results in blue bruising, meaning the stems turn into a blue shade (an indicator that it contains psychoactive compounds).

Although naturally occuring in the wild, synthetic versions of psilocybin can be created.

How do you microdose mushrooms?

For first timers, be very mindful and test out in low dosages and spread out intake. Make sure to set aside plenty of time, if not a whole day. There should be enough time allotted for recovery and if possible, take a day off from work or other commitments. Ideally, there should also be someone there with you who can look out for you, in a safe and comfortable environment.

Try out microdoses once every 3 days, vigilantly observe the effects daily, and document your observations. Many find mornings are a great time to consume microdoses of magic mushrooms so that they can make the most out of the effects throughout the day. Taking it at night is not advised as it may have negative effects on one’s sleep.

Microdosing is meant to be more of an enhancement to one’s routine so you should not significantly alter your usual routine. It needs to be integrated into your regimen seamlessly and not be the cause of a complete shift.

Here are some general guidelines for magic mushroom dosage, mostly based on Dr. Fadiman:

Day 1 – Take a microdose (usually 1/20 to 1/10 of a regular dose, or 10 to 20 micrograms) of magic mushrooms.
Days 2 to 3 – Do not take mushrooms and diligently document your observations.
Avoidance of substance tolerance (and needing higher doses to induce a similar effect) and the possibility of experiencing effects days after initial intake are why it’s recommended that there are gaps between doses.
Day 4 – Take another microdose.
Barring any negative effects, continue the process 2 times per week for several weeks. Higher doses are reserved only for when you do not feel negative effects and once you are more comfortable. Be careful when increasing dosages. As they say, “start low and go slow.”

The effects may vary depending on the person, so regular note-taking is crucial. The effect may also be less on a full stomach.

Reported effects have been observed both on the day of microdosing (such as an hour or two after ingestion) and days afterward. Some have reported that the effects may be felt for up to 6 hours (peaking around the 2nd or 3rd hour after consumption). Jot down observations both in the short-term and long-term, be it psychological, physiological, or in social behavior.

What are the effects of magic mushrooms?

The most frequent effects of magic mushrooms are:

  • Euphoria, followed by wellbeing
  • Sensitiveness to images and sounds
  • Pupil dilatation
  • Changes in mood, consciousness and perception
  • Nausea and vomiting

Many effects may vary per person, size, weight or general health condition.

How long does the magic mushroom effect last?

Though the duration of the “high” effects of magic mushrooms depends on a number of factors including dosage, potency, each person’s mental and physical condition, a magic mushroom experience usually lasts between 4 and 6 hours. Generally, short-term effects have been observed to usually wear off from 6 to 12 hours after consumption.

Note though that in some cases, it is possible for users to experience long-term changes, such as changes in personality.

The substance might remain in one’s body for up to 6 hours before it is eliminated.

What are the forms and ways you can consume mushrooms?

shroom chocolate

There are several ways to consume psilocybe mushrooms and here are some of them:

Dried mushrooms

These can be consumed by grinding and mixing with other food and drinks. End result can be a smoothie or juice.

Capsules

Some items can be bought as capsules, or you can consider grinding dried mushrooms and placing these in capsules. Effects may take longer to show with this form.

Mushroom chocolates

For a better taste, some mushrooms come as chocolate bars. Shrooms are usually portioned per block of the bar to help manage intake.

Brewed like tea

With this version, the effect of the magic shrooms will be quicker.

Liquid psilocybin

Ingest liberty cap shrooms that come as a clear brown liquid.

Learn more

–Can you smoke mushrooms?

How do you store magic mushrooms and do they go bad?

It has been reported that storing magic mushrooms in the dark at room temperature is the way it is best preserved. Do not store at very cold temperatures as they may degrade quickly.

Shelf life can depend on temperature and lighting. It has been found to degrade over the course of 15 months of storage.

Conclusion

Before you test out microdosing for yourself, here are some additional tips and cautions:

  • For best effects, do not rely on microdoses and treat it more as a once-in-a-while advantage that you can tap when in need.
  • Always err on the side of caution. Do not microdose too frequently or increase your intake too much.
  • Be mindful that varying dosages will induce different durations for the effect and intensities of the experience.
  • Microdosing is not an option for those who have mental health conditions (or have undergone trauma) and have children in their care.
  • As the effects of substances vary depending on the person, some people may be more vulnerable to experience negative effects than others. If it is your first time, make sure there is someone with you to look out for you.

As with any substance or supplement, consume responsibly. Always err on the side of caution and be careful when you experiment.

References:

  • https://www.leafly.ca/learn/psychedelics/how-to-dose-mushrooms
  • https://www.leafly.ca/learn/psychedelics/types-of-psychedelics/mushrooms-psilocybin
  • https://www.verywellmind.com/what-are-magic-mushrooms-22085
  • https://psychable.com/guides/a-beginners-guide-to-psilocybin/
  • https://www.healthline.com/health/beginners-guide-to-microdosing
  • https://sitn.hms.harvard.edu/flash/2020/can-microdosing-psychedelics-improve-your-mental-health/
  • https://www.thecut.com/2018/05/microdosing-guide-and-explainer.html
  • https://www.straight.com/living/a-beginners-guide-to-microdosing
  • https://doubleblindmag.com/mushrooms/types/psilocybe-cubensis-magic-mushrooms/