Could psychedelics have an impact on sexual function? While anecdotal and qualitative testimonies hint at a correlation, no formal examination has yet verified this. Issues with sexual satisfaction and function, which are fundamental to human welfare, can often arise due to mental health conditions or as a result of using 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 explore the effects on sexual function after consuming magic mushrooms online.
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A Closer Look at Psilocybin
Research by Nichols, D. E. & Walter, H. has examined the link between psychedelic consumption and the ‘hippy’ culture, recognized for its anti-war stance and liberal sexual ethos. The exploration of psychedelics was restricted by the 1971 United Nations Controlled Substances Act, but recently, a resurgence has occurred with studies highlighting potential advantages for mental health therapy.
Let’s start by familiarizing ourselves with the historical background of magic mushrooms:
| Time Period | Event |
| Prehistoric | Early human ancestors used psychoactive mushrooms, as demonstrated by rock carvings from 6000 to 8000 years ago. |
| 1500 BCE | Ancient societies employed psychoactive mushrooms in spiritual ceremonies. |
| 283-343 A.D | The ancient Chinese text “Baopuzi” by Ge Hong describes the use of intoxicating mushrooms, including Psilocybe. |
| 900-1130 CE | Depictions of mushrooms in India’s Khajuraho Temples suggest their possible religious importance. |
| 16th Century | Indigenous Mesoamerican groups like the Aztecs, Mazatec, and Zapotec used Psilocybe mushrooms in religious rituals and daily life. |
| 1919 | Reko incorrectly identified psychoactive mushrooms as “Teonanácatl.” |
| Late 1950s | Albert Hofmann isolated Psilocybin. |
| 1971 | The United Nations deemed psilocybin as an addictive substance with no medicinal benefits. |
| Early 2022 | The Canadian government authorized doctors to prescribe psilocybin as a treatment for urgent cases. |
| 2022 | Oregon legalizes psilocybin for adult consumption. |
Does Psilocybin Influence Sexual Function?
Psychedelics, when used in conjunction with therapy, can create therapeutic experiences such as emotional release and psychological enlightenment. In some cases, psilocybin therapy for anxiety and depression has proven more effective than SSRIs like escitalopram.
Major depressive disorder, a main reason for disability, is marked by severe low mood and decreased enjoyment. Although not a core symptom, sexual dysfunction often accompanies depression, impacting libido and arousal. SSRIs, a typical treatment for depression, can exacerbate sexual dysfunction, affecting treatment compliance and recovery. Sexual fulfillment affects overall happiness, relationships, and physical health.
There is evidence to suggest that psychedelics may positively affect sexual feelings and behaviors, fostering empathy and openness. Psychedelics have been linked to increased mindfulness, empathy, body acceptance, and openness to new experiences, which could shape sexual attitudes.
The Possible Influence of Psychedelics on Sexual Function
Psychedelics can affect sexual function. Sexual activity has both physical and emotional impacts. Dr. Michele Leno, a licensed psychologist with Medical News, emphasizes the importance of mental states prior to engaging in sexual activity.
Sexual self-consciousness is a common problem. While certain types of magic mushrooms available online can reduce anxiety, others, like alcohol, may negatively affect sexual performance. Research shows that individuals who microdose magic mushrooms experience decreased inhibitions and increased relaxation, without impairing performance.
As per Dr. Hellerstein, the use of magic mushrooms can encourage social interactions, reduce self-centered thoughts, and potentially stimulate brain plasticity and empathy. These effects might explain some of the observed outcomes.
Despite the high hopes attached to psychedelic treatment, carrying out 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, potentially improving sexual experiences.
While some individuals favor natural experiences, others report feeling less restrained and more expansive when using magic mushrooms bought online. From a neurobiological standpoint, psilocybin,
This psychedelic compound, often used, shows similarities to some brain imaging studies conducted under anesthesia.
What Does the Most Recent Research Suggest?
In 2024, a study led by Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, and others explored the influence of psychedelic substances on sexual functionality and satisfaction through two distinct research projects:
- The first research examined the use of psychedelics for recreational and wellness purposes (an observational survey).
- The second study inspected the impacts on patients diagnosed with depression (a controlled clinical trial).
Recreational Use Study Findings
- Participants conveyed improved communication with their partners, intensified sexual pleasure, and increased satisfaction with their partners and self-image after utilizing psychedelics.
- They also exhibited greater openness to sexual exploration and viewed sex as a more spiritual experience.
These effects were still noticeable at both 4 weeks and 6 months after the psychedelic experience. The only difference related to gender was observed in partner satisfaction at the 6-month checkpoint.
Findings from the Controlled Clinical Trial Involving Patients with Depression
Patients with depression who participated in psilocybin therapy exhibited similar enhancements.
- They reported improved partner communication, increased sexual pleasure, and heightened satisfaction with themselves and their partners. However, those treated with escitalopram only experienced improvements in their self-image satisfaction, with no other noticeable changes.
- Patient treated with psilocybin also showed increased sexual interest, activity, and arousal, compared to those treated with escitalopram.
- Anxiety related to sexual activity decreased in the patients treated with psilocybin, but it increased in those treated with escitalopram.
Note: The findings indicate that these psychoactive compounds could potentially improve sexual functionality and well-being. The distinct effects of psilocybin and escitalopram on patients could be due to their different mechanisms of action in treating depression. It’s worth noting that SSRIs like escitalopram may cause sexual dysfunction. Microdosing with psilocybin directly influences serotonin receptors, in contrast to their impact on serotonin levels. More research is needed to fully grasp the immediate effects of these mushroom species on sexual functionality.Purchase Psilocybin Mushrooms Online
