Does the use of psychedelics have any impact on sexual function? Although there are anecdotal and qualitative reports suggesting a correlation, no thorough scientific studies have been carried out to validate these claims. It’s important to note that sexual satisfaction and function, which are fundamental to our well-being, can often be impaired by mental health conditions or as a side effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) – a common treatment for depression.
In 2024, a comprehensive study was undertaken by Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, and others, to examine the effects of ingesting magic mushrooms online on sexual performance.
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Exploring Psilocybin
The work of Nichols, D. E. & Walter, H. has delved into the relationship between psychedelic use and the ‘hippy’ culture, renowned for its opposition to war and its liberal sexual attitudes. The exploration of psychedelics was hindered by the 1971 United Nations Controlled Substances Act, but recent times have seen a resurgence, with studies indicating potential advantages in the field of mental health treatment.
Let’s start with a brief historical overview of magic mushrooms:
| Time Period | Event |
| Prehistoric | Early human ancestors used mind-altering mushrooms, as evidenced by ancient rock art dating back 6000 to 8000 years. |
| 1500 BCE | Psychoactive mushrooms played a role in the spiritual practices of ancient civilizations. |
| 283-343 A.D | The ancient Chinese text “Baopuzi” by Ge Hong mentioned the use of intoxicating mushrooms, including Psilocybe. |
| 900-1130 CE | Images of mushrooms in Khajuraho Temples of India hinted at their potential religious importance. |
| 16th Century | Indigenous Mesoamerican cultures like the Aztecs, Mazatec, and Zapotec integrated Psilocybe mushrooms into their religious rituals and daily lives. |
| 1919 | Reko made a mistaken identification of psychoactive mushrooms as “Teonanácatl.” |
| Late 1950s | Albert Hofmann successfully isolated Psilocybin. |
| 1971 | Psilocybin was designated as a controlled substance with no medicinal properties by the United Nations. |
| Early 2022 | The Canadian government authorized physicians to prescribe emergency use of psilocybin. |
| 2022 | Psilocybin is legalized for adult use in Oregon. |
Does Psilocybin Influence Sexual Function?
Psychedelics, when incorporated into therapy, can promote therapeutic experiences such as emotional release and psychological understanding. In certain cases, psilocybin therapy has surpassed SSRIs like escitalopram in treating anxiety and depression.
Major depressive disorder, a primary contributor to disability, is defined by severe low mood and diminished pleasure. Although not a main symptom, sexual dysfunction often accompanies depression, impacting libido and arousal. SSRIs, a standard depression treatment, can exacerbate sexual dysfunction, affecting treatment adherence and recovery. Sexual satisfaction influences overall happiness, relationships, and physical health.
There’s evidence implying that psychedelics could positively affect sexual feelings and behaviors by fostering empathy and openness. Psychedelics are linked to increased mindfulness, empathy, body acceptance, and openness to new experiences, which could alter sexual attitudes.
Potential Influence of Psychedelics on Sexual Performance
Psychedelics may affect sexual performance. Sexual activity has both physical and emotional impacts. Dr. Michele Leno, a licensed psychologist with Medical News, underscores the importance of mental states leading up to sexual activity.
Sexual self-consciousness is a prevalent issue. While certain types of magic mushrooms sourced online can reduce anxiety, others, akin to alcohol, could detrimentally affect sexual performance. Studies suggest that individuals who microdose magic mushrooms experience lessened inhibitions and enhanced relaxation, without compromising performance.
As per Dr. Hellerstein, magic mushroom consumption can encourage social interactions, diminish self-centered thoughts, and possibly stimulate brain plasticity and empathy. These effects could explain some of the observed outcomes.
Despite the optimistic expectations for psychedelic treatment, performing blind studies continues to be a hurdle. Clinical psychologist Dr. Carla Manly proposes that consuming whole mushrooms might attract those in search of altered consciousness, potentially enriching sexual experiences.
While some individuals lean toward natural experiences, others report feeling more uninhibited and expansive when using magic mushrooms bought online. From a neurobiological standpoint, psilocybin, a psychedelic compound often utilized, bears resemblances to certain brain imaging studies while anesthetized.
What Does the Most Recent Research Show?
A 2024 study by Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, and others explores the effect of psychedelic substances on sexual functionality and satisfaction through two distinct research projects:
- The first research analyzed the recreational and wellness use of psychedelics (an observational survey).
- The second study examined the impact on patients battling depression (a controlled clinical trial).
Insights from the Recreational Use Study
- Participants noted improved communication with partners, intensified sexual pleasure, and an increased contentment with their partners and their own appearance after psychedelic use.
- There was also a noticeable rise in openness towards sexual exploration and viewing sex as a more spiritual experience.
The effects mentioned above were still noticeable at 4 weeks and 6 months after the psychedelic experience. The only gender-related difference emerged in partner satisfaction at the 6-month checkpoint.
Findings from the Clinical Trial Involving Patients with Depression
Depressed individuals who received psilocybin therapy exhibited similar improvements.
- Enhanced communication with partners, intensified sexual pleasure, and increased satisfaction with themselves and their partners were reported. However, patients treated with escitalopram only showed improvements in satisfaction with their appearance, with no other changes noted.
- Psilocybin-treated patients also showed a heightened sexual interest, activity, and arousal, compared to those treated with escitalopram.
- Anxiety related to sexual activity decreased for psilocybin-treated patients but increased for those treated with escitalopram.
Note: The findings suggest that these psychoactive substances could positively influence sexual functionality and well-being. The differences seen between the impacts of psilocybin and escitalopram could be due to their distinct mechanisms of action in treating depression. SSRIs like escitalopram could induce sexual dysfunction due While some mushrooms have indirect effects on serotonin levels, others like psilocybin have a direct impact on serotonin receptors. More research is needed to fully comprehend the immediate influence these mushroom species have on sexual functionality.Online Availability of Psilocybin Mushrooms
