Do magic mushrooms help with depression?
This question has been at the forefront of many studies in mental health over recent years.
Mushrooms and other psychedelic substances can be an effective treatment option for certain types of conditions without the risk of dependency.
In this article, we’ll discuss whether or not psychedelic mushrooms help with depression.
Can mushrooms be used to treat depression?
Mushrooms have been found to treat depression, anxiety, an addiction.
A study conducted by the University of Arizona’s Department of Psychology demonstrated that a 200mg dose can reduce depressive symptoms for as much as 5 hours after ingestion.
Another way mushrooms help with depression is by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.
This has been shown to help those who struggle from seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
So do mushrooms help with depression?
The answer is yes they do because in they are able to mimic serotonin.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the brain that contributes to healthy moods and behaviors. When serotonin levels are imbalanced, it can lead to conditions like PTSD, OCD, anxiety disorders, insomnia, etc.
Mushrooms don’t contain any serotonin themselves, but when ingested they do release psilocybin. Psilocybin triggers serotonin production and release by the brain.
This increase in serotonin levels results in psychedelic effects such as euphoria, happiness and relaxation for humans who take them.
Do psychedelics help with depression?
When it comes to depression, mushrooms eliminate the underlying issue of depression rather than just masking the symptoms.
A lot of antidepressant medications only work on serotonin levels in the brain and do nothing for dopamine or norepinephrine.
Mushrooms do not contain any chemicals that are obtainable through prescription medication, so it is a much safer and natural alternative to other treatments out there.
Psychedelic mushrooms do not have any side effects compared to regular prescriptions because they are all-natural and organic. Many people prefer natural alternatives when wanting treatment for conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
What mushrooms help with anxiety?
Many mushrooms contain psilocybin, which is able to increase serotonin levels in the body through release will all-natural and organic properties.
When ingested, psilocybin can result in psychedelic effects like euphoria, happiness, and relaxation.
There are other mushrooms out there that may help with anxiety including ones like Amanita muscaria (fly agaric), Sarcodon (crown tooth fungus) or even Lactarius (the little brown job).
Furthermore, people who eat foods rich in tryptophan exhibit increased feelings of well being and a general rise in positive feelings. Serotonin is often referred to as the “happy hormone” and is responsible for making us feel good.
Can mushrooms help PTSD?
Yes, psychedelics such as mushrooms may help relieve post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms.
A recent study by the University of South Florida asserts that psilocybin may even be an effective treatment for severe PTSD.
Researchers say mushrooms don’t lead to drug dependency like other substances used to treat PTSD.
What’s even more interesting is that all participants involved in this study reported that they had “substantial gains in their quality of life” following treatment.
How do mushrooms affect your brain?
Mushrooms have a significant impact on the human mind.
They can produce a sensation of euphoria, heightened awareness and altered perception from psilocybin, their active ingredient.
Historical use of mushrooms may have led to religious experiences in Meso America and among aboriginal tribes in Australia.
Globally, there’s been increased attention on the study and scientific research of psychedelic mushrooms. This includes an increase in FDA approved clinical trials related to psilocybin mushrooms.
Conclusion
Mushrooms can be an effective treatment option for anyone suffering from depression.
However, it is important to note that not everyone who takes them will experience these benefits right away.
We recommend seeking out the advice of a medical professional, especially since there’s some amazing research coming out about how mushrooms can help with depression.
If you’re interested in learning more about psychedelic mushrooms, check out our how-to guide on Taking Shrooms For The First Time.
