Magic of the Mushrooms: Effects of Psilocybin Decriminalization
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs July 10, 2024 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2024.2376755 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Observational study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Web search data |
| Topics | LSD MDMA Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Psilocybin reforms Policy change Drug policy legislation Decriminalization Psilocybin magic mushrooms Psychedelics hallucinogens Entheogens Mind-altering substances Regulations Substance trends drug |
| Citations | 10 |
| Key findings | Psilocybin reforms were associated with increased public search interest in psilocybin and decreased search interest in LSD and MDMA across the U.S. |
Abstract
In the past few years, psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms" (psilocybin mushrooms), has undergone decriminalization in numerous cities across the US and has been legalized in Oregon and Colorado. Proponents of psilocybin decriminalization have emphasized its therapeutic potential in treating mental health disorders. Furthermore, psilocybin mushrooms are considered the safest psychedelic option, with lower potency and a reduced risk of overdoses and emergency hospitalizations compared to other prevalent psychedelics, such as LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) and MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine). We analyzed the impact of psilocybin reforms on public interest in psilocybin, as well as their cross-commodity effects on LSD and MDMA, utilizing extensive web-based search data. We observe a significant increase in psilocybin search volume and a notable reduction in search volume associated with LSD and MDMA. Our results are consistent nationwide across states, irrespective of their stance on psilocybin reforms. The shift in public interest toward psilocybin, which is considered the safest psychedelic, away from LSD and MDMA, carries positive implications for public health.