Does the use of psychedelics influence sexual performance? There’s an array of anecdotal and qualitative accounts hinting at a possible correlation, but no formal studies have been conducted to substantiate these claims. Sexual satisfaction and performance, both essential elements of human well-being, can be negatively impacted by mental health conditions or as an unintended outcome of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a prevalent treatment for depression.
In 2024, a clinical study was conducted by Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, and others to examine the impact of consuming magic mushrooms online on sexual performance.
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Exploring Psilocybin
Research by Nichols, D. E. & Walter, H. has explored the connection between psychedelic use and the ‘hippy’ culture, renowned for its anti-war stance and liberally progressive sexual norms. The investigation of psychedelics was thwarted by the 1971 United Nations Controlled Substances Act, but recently, there has been a resurgence of interest due to studies showcasing potential benefits for mental health treatment.
Now, let’s delve into the historical background of magic mushrooms:
| Time Period | Event |
| Prehistoric | Pictorial evidence from rock drawings indicates early human ancestors used psychoactive mushrooms, dating back 6000 to 8000 years. |
| 1500 BCE | Ancient societies practiced the use of psychoactive mushrooms in religious ceremonies. |
| 283-343 A.D | The ancient Chinese text “Baopuzi” by Ge Hong described the use of intoxicating mushrooms, including Psilocybe. |
| 900-1130 CE | Mushrooms were illustrated in Khajuraho Temples of India, signifying their possible religious importance. |
| 16th Century | Indigenous Mesoamerican societies such as the Aztecs, Mazatec, and Zapotec used Psilocybe mushrooms in both religious rituals and daily life. |
| 1919 | Reko mistakenly identified psychoactive mushrooms as “Teonanácatl.” |
| Late 1950s | Albert Hofmann succeeded in isolating Psilocybin. |
| 1971 | The United Nations deemed psilocybin as an addictive substance devoid of medicinal value. |
| Early 2022 | The Canadian government allowed physicians to prescribe psilocybin for urgent treatment. |
| 2022 | Oregon authorizes psilocybin for use by adults. |
Can Psilocybin Impact Sexual Function?
Psychedelics, when used in conjunction with therapy, may lead to therapeutic experiences such as emotional release and psychological insights. In certain cases, psilocybin therapy for anxiety and depression has proven more effective than SSRIs such as escitalopram.
Major depressive disorder, a significant source of disability, is defined by extremely low mood and diminished pleasure. Although not a direct symptom, sexual dysfunction often accompanies depression, influencing libido and arousal. SSRIs, a typical treatment for depression, may exacerbate sexual dysfunction, affecting treatment compliance and recovery. Sexual satisfaction affects overall well-being, relationships, and physical health.
There is evidence to suggest that psychedelics could positively influence sexual feelings and behaviors, fostering empathy and openness. Psychedelics have been linked to increased mindfulness, empathy, body positivity, and openness to new experiences, all of which could shape sexual attitudes.
Potential Effect of Psychedelics on Sexual Functioning
Psychedelics may affect sexual functioning. Sexual activity involves both physical and emotional aspects. Dr. Michele Leno, a certified psychologist with Medical News, emphasizes the importance of mental states before engaging in sexual activity.
Sexual self-consciousness is a common problem. While some types of magic mushrooms available online can reduce anxiety, others, like alcohol, may have a detrimental effect on sexual performance. Studies show that those who microdose magic mushrooms experience decreased inhibitions and increased relaxation, without impairing performance.
Dr. Hellerstein notes that the ingestion of magic mushrooms can promote social bonding, reduce self-centered thoughts, and potentially stimulate brain plasticity and empathy. These effects could explain some of the observed outcomes.
Although there is much anticipation about psychedelic treatment, conducting blind studies continues to be a hurdle. Clinical psychologist Dr. Carla Manly suggests that consuming whole mushrooms might appeal to those seeking altered states of consciousness, which could enhance sexual experiences.
While some individuals favor natural experiences, others report feeling less restricted and more expansive when using magic mushrooms bought online. From a neurobiological viewpoint, psilocybin,
This psychedelic compound, frequently used, shows similarities to certain brain imaging studies carried out under anesthesia.
Current Research Insights
Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, and others conducted a study in 2024 that explored the effects of psychedelic substances on sexual function and satisfaction, which consisted of two distinct research projects:
- The first research looked into the use of psychedelics for recreational and wellness benefits (an observational survey).
- The second study focused on the impact on patients diagnosed with depression (a controlled clinical trial).
Conclusions from the Recreational Use Study
- Participants reported improved partner communication, enhanced sexual enjoyment, and greater satisfaction with their partners and self-image after using psychedelics.
- They also noted a heightened openness towards sexual exploration and perceived sex as a more spiritual experience.
The effects mentioned above persisted both 4 weeks and 6 months after the psychedelic experience. There was only one gender-related difference observed, which was partner satisfaction at the 6-month checkpoint.
Findings from the Clinical Trial with Depressed Patients
Depressed patients who received psilocybin therapy exhibited similar enhancements.
- They reported enhanced partner communication, increased sexual pleasure, and more satisfaction with themselves and their partners. However, patients who received escitalopram treatment only experienced improvements in self-image satisfaction, with no other changes noted.
- Patients who underwent psilocybin treatment also showed increased sexual interest, activity, and arousal, compared to those treated with escitalopram.
- Sexual activity-related anxiety was reduced for patients who received psilocybin treatment, but it increased for those treated with escitalopram.
Note: The results indicate that these psychoactive substances could potentially enhance sexual function and wellness. The observed differences between the effects of psilocybin and escitalopram could be due to their distinctive ways of addressing depression. SSRIs like escitalopram may result in sexual dysfunction due to their mechanism of action.
The impact of microdosing with LSD and psilocybin mushrooms on serotonin levels varies. LSD use indirectly influences serotonin levels, while psilocybin mushrooms directly interact with serotonin receptors. Understanding the immediate effects of these mushroom species on sexual functionality requires further research.
Online Availability of Psilocybin Mushrooms
There is a belief that sexual satisfaction can be heightened through the use of superior quality magic mushrooms, especially traditional varieties such as psychedelic mushrooms, mushroom edibles, mushroom tea, microdosing capsules, LSD, and DMT. Here are some outstanding magic mushroom products you may want to explore:
| Product Name | Zenly LSD Gel Tabs | Zenly LSD Gummies | Albino Penis Envy |
| Category | Microdosing Capsules | Edibles | Magic Mushroom |
| Key Ingredient | Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD-25) | Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD-25) | Psilocybe cubensis (magic mushroom) |
| Recommended Dosage | Total 600ug/6 Tabs (100ug/Tab) | Total 200ug/2 Gummies (100ug/Gummy) | 1 to 1.5 grams |
| Usage Instructions | Take one full tab for a complete experience. Wait at least 2 hours before consuming another. | Eat one whole gummy for the full effect. Wait at least 2 hours before consuming another. | Take 1 to 1.5 grams of dried magic mushrooms in a comfortable environment. Keep yourself hydrated throughout the experience. |
Boost Your Sexual Performance by Ordering Shrooms Online
Searching for shrooms online in Canada? At Mushroom Coffee Canada Canada, we offer a wide selection of high-quality magic mushrooms to cater to your needs. Our online platform facilitates easy shroom delivery.
Whether you’re interested in the therapeutic benefits of microdosing magic mushrooms or planning for an intense psychedelic journey, our variety of psilocybin-rich mushrooms can be trusted. All our products are responsibly acquired 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 offer everything you need for spiritual and therapeutic experiences. Buy magic mushrooms online from Mushroom Coffee Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do The Effects of Psilocybin Last?
The hallucinogenic effects of psilocybin can generally be felt for about 4 to 8 hours, however, factors like dosage and mushroom variety can alter this timeframe. A study with 18 participants found that the trip usually ended around the seventh hour. Notable physical effects started to appear after two hours and the peak of the drug’s effects was reached after three hours.
However, further investigation is needed to fully comprehend the impact of factors like stress and metabolic rates. Many research studies, such as this one, adjust the dosage based on the participant’s body weight, assuming a uniform distribution of psilocybin in the body.
What Impact Does Psilocin Have on the Brain?
Psilocin reaches the brain in roughly 30 minutes and mainly affects the serotonin system, mimicking the role of serotonin. As a neurotransmitter, serotonin plays diverse roles in the brain, including roles in learning, memory, and mood management.
The cerebral cortex is where the majority of serotonin receptors are located, and psilocin binds to these receptors, including 5-HT2B, 5-HT2C, and 5-HT1A. These receptors have a correlation with serotonin. The effects of psilocybin extend beyond serotonin receptors, also impacting brain connectivity as observed 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 decreased activity in central areas is thought to enable a state of free cognition. Additionally, psychedelics induce an entropic brain state, characterized by increased disorder but improved overall connectivity.
How Does the Liver Process Psilocybin?
- After ingesting psilocybin, it is absorbed into your bloodstream through your stomach and intestines.
- Properly chewing magic mushrooms can facilitate absorption.
- After entering your bloodstream, it moves to your liver via the hepatic portal vein, where most of the processing happens.
- Magic mushrooms and truffles are rich in psilocin, the active component. When consumed naturally, they contain significant amounts of psilocin. is metabolized into within our bodies.
Another significant function of the liver is the ‘first pass effect,’ where roughly 50% of psilocybin is eliminated during absorption before it can reach the bloodstream. This phenomenon is also observed with substances such as alcohol and cannabis, with individual differences possibly stemming from factors like stress and physical activity levels. Some studies suggest that only around 20% of psilocybin is likely to be converted into psilocin.
How Can Sexual Function Be Improved Without the Use of Drugs or Psychedelics?
There are numerous ways to boost sexual function without resorting to drugs or psychedelics. Here are a few suggestions:
- Address any sexual anxiety through therapy or self-reflection.
- If your medication is affecting your sexual drive, consider discussing alternative options with your healthcare provider.
- Engage in role-play with your partner to slowly acclimate to sexual activities.
- Explore your sexual attitudes through journaling or psychotherapeutic techniques.
- Improve sexual function and intimacy by using 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 historical role of psychedelics in psychiatry. 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
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