{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/psilocybin/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3985-markdown","title":"Oregon Has Legalized Psilocybin Therapy","slug":"oregon-has-legalized-psilocybin-therapy","content":"**Oregon** is the first state in the United States to legalize **psilocybin therapy**, leading the way for the rest of the country. Psilocybin was [classified as a “breakthrough therapy”](https://www.livescience.com/psilocybin-depression-breakthrough-therapy.html) for depression by the FDA based on the positive results of clinical trials. With a [mental health crisis](https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/03/insider/therapists-mental-health-usa-america.html) in our country among [teens](https://www.nytimes.com/2022/04/23/health/mental-health-crisis-teens.html) and adults and a lack of treatments, psilocybin could provide hope for many people that suffer from anxiety and depression.\n\n![Hello4-min (35).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello4_min_35_073738e1cd.png)\n\n### What is Psilocybin?\n\n[Psilocybin](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/what-is-psilocybin-psychedelics-101) is the active ingredient of “magic mushrooms.” More than 200 species of mushrooms produce the naturally-occurring psychedelic compound. [*Psilocybe cubensis*](https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybe_cubensis) is the most well-known species and the only one legalized in Oregon for now. \n\nWhen consumed, psilocybin has psychedelic effects, including euphoria, visual and mental hallucinations, a distorted sense of time, and sometimes [synesthesia](https://www.webmd.com/brain/what-is-synesthesia#:~:text=Synesthesia%20is%20when%20you%20hear,street%22%20and%20taste%20citrus%20fruit.). Many people describe mystical experiences that include powerful positive emotions and a feeling of [connection with the universe, or God](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6478303/). \n\n![Hello7-min (10).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello7_min_10_4fbb661aeb.png)\n\n### Healing with Magic Mushrooms\n\nThe emotional and mystical experience is also the primary source of healing with magic mushrooms. Psilocybin has proven effective in treating [depression](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/psychedelic-treatment-with-psilocybin-relieves-major-depression-study-shows), [anxiety](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31931272/), [PTSD](https://med.nyu.edu/departments-institutes/population-health/divisions-sections-centers/medical-ethics/education/high-school-bioethics-project/learning-scenarios/ptsd-treatment-psychedelics), [headaches](https://maps.org/news/media/new-york-magazine-psychedelic-mushrooms-cured-my-cluster-headaches/), and [spiritual alienation](https://maps.org/news/media/hopkins-researchers-study-therapeutic-use-of-psilocybin-in-magic-mushr/). There is significant potential for treating [end-of-life anxiety and depression](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5367557/) as a single dose of psilocybin can provide long-term relief of anxiety and depression in cancer patients. According to [Dr. Stephen Ross](https://www.cnn.com/2020/01/28/health/magic-mushrooms-psilocybin-cancer-patients-study-wellness/index.html), associate professor of psychiatry at NYU Langone Health, “psilocybin therapy is a promising means of improving the emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being of patients with life-threatening cancer.”\n\n![Hello6-min (18).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello6_min_18_b7f33c4bdf.png)\n\n### Psilocybin Therapy in Oregon\n\nOregon voters passed [Measure 109](Oregon votes.org/irr/2020/012text.pdf) in 2020, legalizing the “manufacture, distribution and administration” of psilocybin products. When psilocybin becomes legal in Oregon in 2023, you will not be able to buy magic mushrooms and eat them at home or buy them at a store like cannabis. Instead, psilocybin must be administered by a licensed facilitator in a licensed psilocybin facility.\n\nWith input from the [Oregon Psilocybin Advisory Board](https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREVENTIONWELLNESS/Pages/Psilocybin-Advisory-Board-Meetings.aspx), the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has drafted [rules for psilocybin services](https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREVENTIONWELLNESS/Documents/333-333-Notice-of-Proposed-Rulemaking-03.31.2022.pdf). Though there are [benefits to micro-dosing psilocybin](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6364961/), the guidelines provided by the OHA only cover macro doses at this time.\n\n![Hello3-min (38).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello3_min_38_6479dd0c0c.png)\n\n### Psilocybin Facilitators and Services\n\nAny personal development professional can become a psilocybin facilitator in Oregon - you do not have to be a psychiatrist or psychologist. Training programs for psychedelic practitioners include courses on scientific research, the history of psychedelics, indigenous practices, and the art of holding space. The costs of the training sessions could be a hurdle for many. The Dutch psilocybin retreat company [Synthesis Institute](https://www.synthesisinstitute.com/psychedelic-practitioner-training?hsLang=en) charges $21,500 for their 18-month training program, while the [Navigating Psychedelics program](https://www.psychedeliceducationcenter.com/p/navigating-psychedelics-for-clinicians-and-therapists) by Psychedelics Today costs $12,500 for the year-long training.\n\nPsilocybin therapy will include a sequence of three sessions:\n\n- 1.) A preparation session: the client is briefed on what to expect from the psilocybin trip.\n- 2.) The psilocybin session: the client consumes psilocybin and experiences a psychedelic journey that lasts several hours.\n- 3.) An integration session: the client talks through the experience with the facilitator to make sense of what they experienced.\n\nOutside of these guidelines, there is leeway for individual facilitators to make the sessions unique based on their expertise.\n\n![Hello1-min (48).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello1_min_48_8e3df05299.png)\n\n### Affordability and Equity in Psychedelics\n\nIf it sounds like psilocybin therapy is going to be expensive, it is. At least to start. Sessions won’t likely be covered by health insurance. And the tax liability will drive costs up as it did with legal cannabis. But there is still hope for accessibility. Equity groups like the [Fruiting Bodies Collective](https://www.fruitingbodiescollective.com/) are serving on the Oregon Psilocybin Advisory Board to help get community needs met for people of all backgrounds. And the Measure 109 rules can be edited, so we can expect to see changes over the years. \n\n![Hello2-min (46).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello2_min_46_af029019aa.png)\n\n### So When Can I Take Magic Mushrooms?\n\nProduction and facilitator groups can start applying for licenses on January 2, 2023, and the first psilocybin therapy appointments will probably be booked around mid-2023. \n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Cannabis\n\nIt’s easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed partitioner and purchase medical cannabis today.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABQAAAAOCAIAAACgpqunAAAACXBIWXMAAA7DAAAOwwHHb6hkAAADYUlEQVQozwFWA6n8AKF0SJhvS2RHOnpXS6B/b5Z8bbynm4xjU7+mmZuHepB4aoVpWWxOPWREMm1INIdZPadvScCBVteVZeWxeACpfU6oe0yme1JxRzdoQzWafm2ulIZyRje3l4iWemptRzF9Vz+GYEiQZEegb0qsdU2/glfTkmPhpG7swoAArH5NrIBRsYlbmHNZWDQpf11Oo5CEfVpKy66gs5aFi2RHnHlcm3ZXo3ZQsIBWtoNXx4tf2Zho57B178+JAKSDYap9TZ+Lda6Zg4RmUJhsWHqLizReaK6UhWtZUmZYTI92YJZxUp1wSa9/VLuIW8yQYtybaui0d+/SjACsq6qVfGOWk41tZVxcUEZ9ZlRcYV8TW3MrYXFSS0ZpXldlUkeGYkmabUmsfFK7h1vLjmHbm2rotHfv0YsA09ja193gxMrNgoOBVVNPUVJQfn55ZmZjHVdpUHyHmImAck01jmNCl2hDqHZKt4FTxYdZ1ZRm5Kpz7MWBAIx/dI6PkLe7vdLX2bi9wHx7eF9XT1FAN18/LFthXIyCd5hyVph8ZZp6YaB5XK+BXsCKY8yKXN2bZ+m2eACVbUlrTTRROCV9dG61u71aSkJfQS98UzeYdl2hjoGqqqiZmZe7wsTCy9GusrXExcXQycfJr6DbrIripW4AtpRuvpp1tpd1nol0rLGzmHhenW1EpYpzrbK0kZaYk5iaxc3P3eXpvcbMrbO4y9LX0tLVzsnH3dfW37+nALeOYcCsk7eki6uXgbrCx7yzqJRnQKOWjMfR17zBw7a6u6anp7G0tsTL0MLHyry9vcK9u8rCvtLLxdLBugCYdFKjjnerhV+lk4Swr6/Ex8mwmIObeFy1s7K+xMa0tbKioJqkpKHGy8q2tK6jnZfDwL/W19vS0dK+noYAj2dDeVU7l25LrZ2Op4lrkHJau7eztKKPlHNVfmdXfm5mmImAppqRqaSfpqKen52bsKmmu6mgs5J6rINgALeLW7eLXLGEVaSAX56HcKJ0RoprUGZQQ5N1V7KIXJVsRoRgQn9dQ31cRIlnT5NuU552VqqBYrSRc7iOZwCtgVK0iVm3jFy1ilyVbUmfdk6fdk5vTTR/Wj6rgVe/lGS+kWG9kWO6jmC4jGG1il65k2u7mHK2jWG0hVWMOsdjnkhacAAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==","aspectRatio":1.3986013986013985,"src":"/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/ee604/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.png","srcSet":"/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/69585/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.png 200w,\n/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/497c6/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.png 400w,\n/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/ee604/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.png 800w,\n/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/f3583/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.png 1200w,\n/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/5707d/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.png 1600w,\n/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/07662/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.png 1971w","srcWebp":"/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/58556/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/61e93/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.webp 200w,\n/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/1f5c5/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.webp 400w,\n/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/58556/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.webp 800w,\n/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/99238/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.webp 1200w,\n/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/7c22d/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.webp 1600w,\n/static/0d9eea80760320eb4b84078fb767b645/f8450/d7727e87ddf56b555e7a131431ff20c2.webp 1971w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3933-markdown","title":"How To Dose Magic Mushrooms","slug":"how-to-dose-magic-mushrooms","content":"Magic mushrooms have grown in popularity due to their [proven effectiveness in treating depression, PTSD, and anxiety, among other conditions](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2772630). They has also been a rise in the recreational consumption of psilocybin, especially in cities and states where they are [decriminalized]( https://norml.org/laws/decriminalization/#:~:text=Typically%2C%20decriminalization%20means%20no%20arrest,like%20a%20minor%20traffic%20violation.). If you plan to take psychedelic mushrooms at home, taking the correct dosage is essential. \n\nHere we give guidelines on how to dose magic mushrooms to ensure a safe and effective trip.\n\n### What Are Magic Mushrooms?\n\n![How to dose psilocybin](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/How_to_dose_psilocybin_41c85779ea.png)\n\n[Magic mushrooms](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/what-is-psilocybin-psychedelics-101), psilocybin, or “shrooms,” are mushrooms that contain the hallucinogenic chemical [psilocybin](https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/psilocybin). There are over 200 different species of magic mushrooms. They can be consumed fresh but are often dried for preservation. Most people consume magic mushrooms by eating the caps and stems, adding them to food, or grinding them into a powder to make tea or capsules.\n\nThe psychedelic effects of magic mushrooms grow stronger as you eat more. A small dose of 1 gram can induce feelings of euphoria and connection, and larger doses, around 3-5 grams lead to more intense psychedelic visuals, distorted senses, disconnection from ego, and sometimes mystical experiences.\n\nPsilocybin mushrooms are federally illegal. They are [decriminalized in Oregon](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/psilocybin-treatment-for-mental-health-gets-legal-framework/) and cities like Denver and Oakland. More counties and states are considering decriminalizing psychedelics as research shows their proven health benefits. \n\n![Dosing shrooms properly can be difficult](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_04_04_at_3_33_06_PM_f180bddb90.png)\n\n### Magic Mushrooms and Depression\n\nIn 2019, the FDA classified [magic mushrooms as a breakthrough therapy](https://www.livescience.com/psilocybin-depression-breakthrough-therapy.html) for treating severe depression. Psilocybin will likely become legal for administration in clinical settings by 2024. \n\nPsilocybin acts as a [serotonin receptor agonist](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2215036616300657), which means it can activate the receptor for our “happiness hormone.” The [therapeutic potential for magic mushrooms](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8156539/) looks promising for treating end-of-life anxiety, smoking, and alcohol dependence, and treatment-resistant depression. \n\n### How to Dose Magic Mushrooms\n\nThe principles for dosing magic mushrooms is similar to guidelines for eating cannabis edibles - go low and go slow. \n\nDosing is most accurately measured by weight in grams of mushrooms. It should be noted that [caps contain more psilocybin](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0379073803003785) than stems. Also, depending on the strain you are consuming, potency may vary. You’ll need a small digital scale to weigh your shrooms accurately.\n\n![Use a scale to weigh your magic mushrooms](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Use_a_scale_to_weigh_your_magic_mushrooms_57450aacbd.png)\n\n\nThe estimated weights for magic mushroom doses are as follows: \n\n- Microdose: 0.1 - 0.5 grams\n- Low Dose: 0.5 - 2 grams\n- Moderate Dose: 2 - 3.5 grams\n- High Dose: 3.5-5 grams\n- “Heroic” Dose: 5+ grams\n\nJust like cannabis, mushrooms affect everyone differently. And the psilocybin content of magic mushrooms varies for different species and different harvests. For your first time, it’s recommended to take no more than one gram. You may be more or less sensitive and should always tailor your dosing to your personal experience. \n\n### Microdosing Magic Mushrooms\n\n[Microdosing has proven effective for improving mental health](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6364961/), so people can benefit from magic mushrooms without taking a psychedelic trip. When done right, you won’t hallucinate or feel high from microdosing, but you may have [enhanced focus and feelings of euphoria and connection](https://harmreductionjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12954-019-0308-4). Most people follow a regimen that consists of taking one microdose dose every three days. \n\n### Macrodosing Magic Mushrooms\n\nWhen consuming a gram or more of psilocybin shrooms, you should prepare for a psychedelic experience. A full trip on magic mushrooms can last from four to seven hours. The most intense part, or “peak,” wanes after the first two hours.\n\nSide effects of mushrooms include nausea, vomiting, and panic attacks. You can ease the impact on your stomach by eating your mushrooms with food, brewing a mushroom tea, or [soaking in lemon juice for “lemon tek](https://psychedelicreview.com/lemon-tek-to-the-rescue-for-magic-mushroom-nausea/).” \n\nFor psychedelic trips, it is recommended to have a sober [trip sitter](https://tripsitter.com/how-to-tripsit/) present. A trip sitter should be experienced with psychedelics and have a stable, calming demeanor. Other things to have on hand include cozy clothing and blankets, plenty of water and healthy snacks, calming music, and anything else that enhances your feelings of comfort and safety like a [favorite stuffed animal](https://www.nytimes.com/2018/12/20/reader-center/adults-with-stuffed-animals.html). \n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Cannabis\n\nIt’s easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed partitioner and purchase medical cannabis today.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/46ffc88bff92ca6ae49bd337349f524c/ee604/62d73945955834e9cd578de59dd63b7b.png","srcSet":"/static/46ffc88bff92ca6ae49bd337349f524c/69585/62d73945955834e9cd578de59dd63b7b.png 200w,\n/static/46ffc88bff92ca6ae49bd337349f524c/497c6/62d73945955834e9cd578de59dd63b7b.png 400w,\n/static/46ffc88bff92ca6ae49bd337349f524c/ee604/62d73945955834e9cd578de59dd63b7b.png 800w,\n/static/46ffc88bff92ca6ae49bd337349f524c/f3583/62d73945955834e9cd578de59dd63b7b.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/46ffc88bff92ca6ae49bd337349f524c/58556/62d73945955834e9cd578de59dd63b7b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/46ffc88bff92ca6ae49bd337349f524c/61e93/62d73945955834e9cd578de59dd63b7b.webp 200w,\n/static/46ffc88bff92ca6ae49bd337349f524c/1f5c5/62d73945955834e9cd578de59dd63b7b.webp 400w,\n/static/46ffc88bff92ca6ae49bd337349f524c/58556/62d73945955834e9cd578de59dd63b7b.webp 800w,\n/static/46ffc88bff92ca6ae49bd337349f524c/99238/62d73945955834e9cd578de59dd63b7b.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3929-markdown","title":"How to Make Magic Mushroom Chocolates","slug":"how-to-make-magic-mushroom-chocolates","content":"Cannabis legalization has swept the country and on its heels is the next wave - the decriminalization and legalization of psychedelics. Research into the therapeutic potential of psychedelic medicine has come to the fore through organizations such as [MAPS]( https://maps.org/), [The Imperial College of London]( https://www.imperial.ac.uk/psychedelic-research-centre/), and [Johns Hopkins University](https://hopkinspsychedelic.org/), to name a few. In the U.S., the FDA has granted breakthrough status to both [MDMA](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/what-is-mdma-psychedelics-101) and [Psilocybin]( https://www.hellomd.com/articles/what-is-psilocybin-psychedelics-101), aka magic mushrooms, for treatment-resistant depression as well as PTSD and both substances are tracking to be fully legal within clinical settings by 2024.\n\n![Magic mushrooms are becoming very popular](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_03_31_at_12_30_28_PM_458ec7ebd5.png)\n\n### Psychedelics go Mainstream\n\nAs people become more aware of the therapeutic application of psychedelics, there has also been a resurgence of recreational consumption. What was once counter-culture is now becoming mainstream culture. The [decriminalization movement]( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybin_decriminalization_in_the_United_States#:~:text=In%20January%202020%2C%20Santa%20Cruz,of%20psilocybin%20is%20still%20illegal.) which advocates for personal possession of psychedelics to no longer be considered a crime, is also bringing psychedelics out of the closet.\n\nStates as well as individual cities such as [Seattle](https://www.marijuanamoment.net/seattle-becomes-largest-u-s-city-to-decriminalize-psychedelics/), [California]( https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/california-moves-closer-decriminalizing-psychedelic-drugs-n1279509),[Oklahoma](https://www.marijuanamoment.net/oklahoma-house-passes-psilocybin-decriminalization-and-research-bill-sending-it-to-senate/), and [Detroit](https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/detroit-just-decriminalized-psychedelics-and-magic-mushrooms-heres-what-that-means) are in the process of passing legislation to decriminalize psychedelics. Decriminalization allows for a new opportunity and freedom for experimentation with psychedelics, including the ever-popular magic mushrooms. \n\n![Magic mushroom chocolate is easy to make](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_03_31_at_12_32_38_PM_72149040af.png)\n\nIn this article we give an overview of psilocybin and give you the how-to steps to make your own magic mushroom chocolates.\n\n### What are Magic Mushroom Edibles?\n\n[Psilocybin](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/what-is-psilocybin-psychedelics-101) is a chemical compound found within specific types of mushrooms. When you consume psilocybin, it turns into psilocin, which has psychoactive properties that cause a psychedelic experience. \n\nThe most common ways to consume magic mushrooms are by mixing them into foods, brewing them in teas, or eating dried mushrooms raw. \n\nIn a similar fashion to [cannabis edibles](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/essentials-about-edibles-that-you-need-to-know), psilocybin edibles are made from dried and ground magic mushrooms mixed with food (like chocolate), and then consumed. \n\nMany people prefer eating their magic mushrooms as an edible as they have a pungent, earthy flavor that many find unpleasant. Adding your shrooms to chocolate makes the experience more palatable - but chocolate does to just about everything! \n\n### What are the Effects of Magic Mushroom Chocolates?\n \nConsuming psilocybin will induce a psychedelic experience (hence the name psychedelics given to this category of mind-altering substance) that brings on changes in perception and an altered state of consciousness. \n\nHere’s how the process works: The psilocybin in magic mushrooms is converted to psilocin in the body which influences serotonin levels in the brain and creates an altered state of consciousness.\n\nThe effects of shrooms generally take 20 to 40 minutes to kick in and can last up to around 6 hours – the amount of time it takes for psilocin to be metabolized in the body. \n\n![How to make magic mushroom chocolate](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_03_31_at_12_58_02_PM_9ba6e9aed4.png)\n\nWhen eating magic mushroom chocolates, we suggest waiting a half an hour before ingesting more chocolate to assess the intensity of your trip.\n\nMagic mushrooms can induce a variety of experiences, from fits of giggles to a powerful emotional or even spiritual awakening. People report feeling euphoric and more connected to the world around them.\n\n### How to Make Magic Mushroom Chocolates\n\nMaking magic mushroom chocolates at home is easy. The hardest part is accurately dosing the chocolates, but the best way to ensure that you don’t overindulge is to eat a small portion and wait to feel the effects. \n\n### What is the Dosage of Homemade Magic Mushroom Chocolates?\n\nA low dose of psilocybin mushrooms is considered to be one gram or less. A \"heroic dose\", which is a large dose, is five grams. When grinding your mushrooms for your chocolate, keep this in mind as you will want to estimate the amount of psilocybin per chocolate. Purchasing a digital scale will help you more accurately assess the amount of mushrooms and keep in mind that potency varies from strain to strain.\n\nIdeally, your magic mushroom chocolates should be measured into grams. If you follow the directions above, you will have 28 evenly sized chocolate pieces made from 1 ounce of magic mushrooms (28 grams). Therefore, each chocolate should contain close to 1 gram of psilocybin mushroom powder. \n\n![How to make magic mushroom chocolate](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_03_31_at_12_59_12_PM_93c9afb758.png)\n\nHowever, this process may not be exact, and you should use caution when consuming your homemade chocolates. Start by eating one-half of a chocolate and waiting 30-40 minutes before consuming more. \n\n### Supplies to Make Magic Mushroom Chocolates\n\n- A grinder (a coffee grinder or blender will work)\n- 12 ounces chocolate chips, melting wafers, or chocolate bar\n- 1 ounce dried psilocybin mushrooms\n- A pot \n- A chocolate mold (optional – use a banking sheet as an alternative)\n- Metal or pyrex bowl \n\n### Steps for Making Magic Mushroom Chocolates\n\n- 1.) Grind the psilocybin mushrooms to a fine powder \n- 2.) Melt the chocolates by double boiling – fill a pot halfway with water and bring to a boil, then place your bowl over the pot, add the chocolates, and melt \n- 3.) Remove chocolate from heat and allow to cool slightly to the touch\n- 4.) Mix the powdered mushrooms into the cooled chocolate \n- 5.) Stir until the mixture is evenly distributed and there are no clumps\n- 6.) Pour the mixture into molds or onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper\n- 7.) Let the mixture cool until the chocolate hardens\n- 8.) If the chocolate was poured into a pan, cut into 28 even sections\n\nNow that you know the ins and outs of magic mushrooms, and how to make a delicious chocolate treat – you can try this “miracle compound” out for yourself. Remember, a good trip can often relate to your environment – be sure to eat your chocolates in a safe, welcoming place and enjoy the ride! \n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Cannabis\n\nIt's easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and start purchasing medical cannabis today.\n\n*Note: This article is intended for people living in areas where psilocybin is decriminalized. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/7f32809a56944b7d7516dadc4c1a44ed/ee604/04fefb3824c7c52a92a3b510edbe056a.png","srcSet":"/static/7f32809a56944b7d7516dadc4c1a44ed/69585/04fefb3824c7c52a92a3b510edbe056a.png 200w,\n/static/7f32809a56944b7d7516dadc4c1a44ed/497c6/04fefb3824c7c52a92a3b510edbe056a.png 400w,\n/static/7f32809a56944b7d7516dadc4c1a44ed/ee604/04fefb3824c7c52a92a3b510edbe056a.png 800w,\n/static/7f32809a56944b7d7516dadc4c1a44ed/f3583/04fefb3824c7c52a92a3b510edbe056a.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7f32809a56944b7d7516dadc4c1a44ed/58556/04fefb3824c7c52a92a3b510edbe056a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7f32809a56944b7d7516dadc4c1a44ed/61e93/04fefb3824c7c52a92a3b510edbe056a.webp 200w,\n/static/7f32809a56944b7d7516dadc4c1a44ed/1f5c5/04fefb3824c7c52a92a3b510edbe056a.webp 400w,\n/static/7f32809a56944b7d7516dadc4c1a44ed/58556/04fefb3824c7c52a92a3b510edbe056a.webp 800w,\n/static/7f32809a56944b7d7516dadc4c1a44ed/99238/04fefb3824c7c52a92a3b510edbe056a.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3886-markdown","title":"What is Psilocybin: Psychedelics 101","slug":"what-is-psilocybin-psychedelics-101","content":"After several decades of being ignored by mainstream society, psychedelic mushrooms, known as [psilocybin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybin), are being embraced for their remarkable healing qualities. Every day seems to bring new reports about the abundant therapeutic benefits of psilocybin — reports often generated by respected research institutions, such as [Johns Hopkins](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/psychiatry/research/psychedelics-research.html) and the [Imperial College London](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/psychedelic-research-centre/). It's time to start paying attention to psilocybin and how it may disrupt our mental healthcare system.\n\n### What is Psilocybin?\n\n![Untitled45-min.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Untitled45_min_f93a11a214.png)\n\nPsilocybin, also known as [magic mushrooms](https://www.drugs.com/illicit/psilocybin.html), is a chemical compound found within certain mushrooms. It is also one of the most well-known plant-based psychedelic drugs. When psilocybin is consumed, it turns into psilocin, which has psychoactive properties which result in a psychedelic experience for the consumer. \n\nMore than 180 mushrooms contain this compound, with [psilocybe cubensis](https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybe_cubensis) being probably the most well-known. In fresh or dried form, the mushrooms are usually mixed into food or brewed into tea, although some research labs process the mushrooms to precisely measure the psilocybin dosage.\n\n### What are the Effects of Psilocybin?\n\n![Psilocybin can cause hallucinations](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_14_at_1_36_40_PM_ba92eae610.png)\n\nThe word \"psychedelic\" is commonly associated with changes in perception and an altered state of consciousness. Consumers report generally enhanced sensory experiences, including visual halos and geometric patterns, time dilation, and a physical sense of relaxation. \n\n[Synesthesia](https://www.webmd.com/brain/what-is-synesthesia#:~:text=Synesthesia%20is%20when%20you%20hear,street%22%20and%20taste%20citrus%20fruit.) is also commonly reported. This experience is a blending of sense experiences so that music may appear visual or physical sensations are felt as sounds. \n\nMost importantly, however, psilocybin generates powerful emotional and psychological experiences. These tend to be strongly positive, often described as euphoria, wonder, or delight, and most people also describe feeling a new sense of [connection with the universe, or even God](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6478303/).\n\n### What are the Therapeutic Benefits of Psilocybin?\n\n![Medical labs are studying the effects of psilocybin on mental health and more](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_14_at_1_33_42_PM_fbe99427b8.png)\n\nThe emotionally uplifting experience brought about by psilocybin has many applications for mental and physical health. It has also been demonstrated to effectively treat [depression](https://psychedelicstoday.com/2019/11/13/psilocybin-depression/), [PTSD](https://med.nyu.edu/departments-institutes/population-health/divisions-sections-centers/medical-ethics/education/high-school-bioethics-project/learning-scenarios/ptsd-treatment-psychedelics), [anxiety](https://thethirdwave.co/psychedelics/shrooms/), [headaches](https://maps.org/news/media/5967-new-york-magazine-psychedelic-mushrooms-cured-my-cluster-headaches), and [spiritual alienation](https://maps.org/news/media/2619-hopkins-researchers-study-therapeutic-use-of-psilocybin-in-magic-mushr). \n\n![Psilocybin is being used to treat depression and PTSD ](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_14_at_1_34_08_PM_56451fbfc8.png)\n\nIn September 2019, [Johns Hopkins University](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/psychiatry/research/psychedelics-research.html#:~:text=In%20a%20small%20study%20of,and%20half%20of%20study%20participants) announced the launch of its Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research. It is pursuing psilocybin-based treatments for depression, addiction, PTSD, Alzheimers, and chronic Lyme Disease. In late January 2020, [Dr. Stephen Ross](https://nyulangone.org/doctors/1083825590/stephen-ross), associate professor of psychiatry in the [Department of Psychiatry at NYU Langone Health](https://www.cnn.com/2020/01/28/health/magic-mushrooms-psilocybin-cancer-patients-study-wellness/index.html), reported findings that \"strongly suggest that psilocybin therapy is a promising means of improving the emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being of patients with life-threatening cancer.\"\n\n![Psilocybin has many positive effects and some people feel more connected to themselves and the universe](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_14_at_1_40_03_PM_b462733990.png)\n\n### Are there any Risks Associated with Psilocybin?\n\nWhile medical science has not identified any long-term adverse effects, some people experience nausea, confusion, fear, or other negative emotions while under the influence of psilocybin. \n\nHowever, these negative experiences are often eased or go away when there is clinical assistance, or a psychedelic guide present, to help the consumer through their psychedelic journey. According to the [University of Maryland Center for Substance Abuse Research](https://cesar.umd.edu/), there is no evidence that psilocybin is physically or psychologically addictive.\n\n![Psilocybin is not yet legal in the States but is decriminalized in some counties](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_14_at_1_41_10_PM_3c18f9c817.png)\n\n### Is Psilocybin Legal?\nYes and no; Like marijuana, psilocybin is illegal at the federal level in the U.S., classified as a [Schedule 1 substance under the Controlled Substances Act](https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling#:~:text=Schedule%20I%20drugs%2C%20substances%2C%20or,)%2C%20methaqualone%2C%20and%20peyote.). \nHowever, some local jurisdictions are passing laws for the decriminalization of psilocybin, and research institutions can obtain legal waivers. In 2019, Denver and Oakland decriminalized psychedelic plant-based substances, including psilocybin. \n\n[Legalization measures](https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2019/05/mushroom-law/589192/) are expected to be brought before the legislatures in California and Oregon in 2020. In Brazil, Jamaica, The Netherlands, and Vietnam, psilocybin use is entirely legal.\n\n![Untitled48-min (1).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Untitled48_min_1_b2277d3a13.png)\n\n### Are there any Drug Interactions with Psilocybin?\n\nThe most important safety consideration when taking psychedelic mushrooms is to make sure that whoever harvested the mushrooms is an expert in making the correct identification. Some non-psychedelic types of mushrooms look similar and can be toxic. It is also wise to [avoid mixing psychoactive drugs](https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/psilocybin/) in general. For that reason, you should avoid using psilocybin with other drugs such as ice, speed, or ecstasy. Similarly, you should not use psychedelic mushrooms if you take psychiatric medication.\n\n### Where Can I Legally Seek Psilocybin Treatment?\n\n![Untitled47-min.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Untitled47_min_3873062f74.png)\n\nCurrently, it is not legal to seek [psilocybin-assisted therapy](https://hellomd.com/articles/the-healing-powers-of-psychedelic-therapy) in the United States, although this may be changing as soon as 2023. Psilocybin is entirely legal in the Netherlands, and retreat centers welcome guests from all over the world. You can also look online to find psychedelic retreat centers, and many are located in Jamaica. \n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Cannabis\n\nIt's easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and start purchasing medical cannabis today.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/aa3f24cd0fbb8dcc7f4f2c084658dea5/ee604/16d1208e15e70ee025530bf273054fb6.png","srcSet":"/static/aa3f24cd0fbb8dcc7f4f2c084658dea5/69585/16d1208e15e70ee025530bf273054fb6.png 200w,\n/static/aa3f24cd0fbb8dcc7f4f2c084658dea5/497c6/16d1208e15e70ee025530bf273054fb6.png 400w,\n/static/aa3f24cd0fbb8dcc7f4f2c084658dea5/ee604/16d1208e15e70ee025530bf273054fb6.png 800w,\n/static/aa3f24cd0fbb8dcc7f4f2c084658dea5/f3583/16d1208e15e70ee025530bf273054fb6.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/aa3f24cd0fbb8dcc7f4f2c084658dea5/58556/16d1208e15e70ee025530bf273054fb6.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/aa3f24cd0fbb8dcc7f4f2c084658dea5/61e93/16d1208e15e70ee025530bf273054fb6.webp 200w,\n/static/aa3f24cd0fbb8dcc7f4f2c084658dea5/1f5c5/16d1208e15e70ee025530bf273054fb6.webp 400w,\n/static/aa3f24cd0fbb8dcc7f4f2c084658dea5/58556/16d1208e15e70ee025530bf273054fb6.webp 800w,\n/static/aa3f24cd0fbb8dcc7f4f2c084658dea5/99238/16d1208e15e70ee025530bf273054fb6.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3598-markdown","title":"Alternative and Emerging Treatments for Fibromyalgia - Could One Work for You?","slug":"alternative-and-emerging-treatments-for-fibromyalgia-could-one-work-for-you","content":"### What is Fibromyalgia?\n\nEven though up to [3% of the world’s population experiences fibromyalgia,](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41584-020-00506-w) effective treatment can be maddeningly hard to find. If you’re familiar with the fibromyalgia and the basics of treatment, you may want to go straight to reading about <alternative and emerging therapies for those living with fibromyalgia>  If you have recently been diagnosed or [suspect you have fibromyalgia.](http://images.slideplayer.com/15/4866911/slides/slide_7.jpg) Keep reading. The next few paragraphs can give you a basic lay of the land. \n\nFibromyalgia (FM) is different for everyone, but common symptoms can include [chronic widespread pain,](https://hellomd.com/articles/8-natural-ways-to-combat-chronic-pain) fatigue, sleep alterations, autonomic disturbances, cognitive dysfunction, hypersensitivity to external stimuli, somatic symptoms, and occasionally even psychiatric disorders. Because there is a wide range of possible symptoms and a vexing lack of biomarkers, patients may see a variety of specialists and be handed conflicting opinions before being given a fibromyalgia diagnosis. When that long, frustrating journey ends, another begins: that of finding effective relief.\n\nBecause the root cause of fibromyalgia remains unknown, treatment consists of [individualized and symptom-based plans that draw on a combination of medications and self-care strategies.](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354785)  \n\nCommon medications include over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol and Alieve, antidepressants like Cymbalta and Savella which can help with pain and fatigue, and anti-seizure drugs like Neurontin which can help with certain specific types of pain. \n\nTypical self-care techniques include talk therapy (CBT) which can help with pain and stress management. They may also include physical and occupational therapies focused on reducing physical stress and pain in the body. \n\nFor many, these options leave much to be desired. In fact, a [review of more than 224 clinical trials published in the  Journal of the American Medical Association](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/2772354) concluded that “the effectiveness of most therapies for fibromyalgia was not supported.” According to this 2021 study, “Strong evidence supported only cognitive behavioral therapy for pain, as well as antidepressants and central nervous system depressants for pain and quality of life, but these associations were small.” When conventional treatment yields such lackluster results, it’s natural to want to supplement them with alternative and even experimental therapies. \n\n### Alternative and Emerging Therapies for Those Living With Fibromyalgia \n\n### Medical Cannabis\n[Recent study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29461346/) shows that medical cannabis can offer relief from the pain, anxiety, sleeplessness and tension of fibromyalgia with minimal adverse side effects. If you are of age and live in a state where adult-use marijuana is legal, you’ll be able to buy medical cannabis easily at a dispensary near you. In states where marijuana is legal only for medical use, you will need a medical card or other documentation from your doctor to purchase medical cannabis. \n\nIf you’ve experienced marijuana at some point in your life, then you have an idea of what to expect from medical cannabis. Though it is generally given more rigorous testing for purity and potency than recreational cannabis, it is the same plant.\n\nMedical cannabis, like recreational cannabis, contains both [THC (the chemicals that make you feel high)](https://hellomd.com/articles/is-more-thc-better-when-it-comes-to-cannabis-strains) and [CBD (the cannabinoid that help you relax, release tension, manage pain and sleep well).](https://hellomd.com/articles/what-is-cbd-and-how-can-it-help-me) Almost all cannabis is higher in THC than CBD though ratios will vary from strain to strain and product to product.\n\nMedical practitioners may suggest products with a 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD to manage pain. If you’d rather lessen the high you can look for products that are higher in CBD than THC or skip the high altogether with products that contain only CBD. Though, it is worth noting that most patients with chronic pain find that at least some THC is helpful in getting optimal relief. The best way to know what works for you is to try a few options and take note of the results. There are lots of ways to try it.\n\nMedical cannabis can be [consumed](https://hellomd.com/articles/5-ways-other-than-smoking-flower-to-consume-marijuana) as whole plant preparations, edibles, tinctures, gel caps, topicals and more. The budtenders at your dispensary can talk you through your options and help you find products that may suit your needs, although asking a medical cannabis doctor is always preferred. But it’s a good idea for you to [do a little research](https://hellomd.com/articles/3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-fibromyalgia-answered) before you go. If you're new to cannabis, always start with a low amount of THC, and go slow, as they say.\n\nOne of your best resources may well be [others who use medical cannabis to manage their fibromyalgia symptoms.](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-cannabis-eases-my-fibromyalgia-symptoms) If you go to a support group and know [people who use medical cannabis,](https://hellomd.com/articles/fibromyalgia-neuropathy-and-cannabis-adrions-success-story) ask them about their experience. Explore websites, newsletters, blogs and social media groups for first hand experiences with medical cannabis. What worked for others, might work for you too!\n\n### Psychedelics \nIn recent years psychedelics like [psilocybin](https://www.thecut.com/2016/12/psilocybin-research-looks-very-exciting.html) and MDMA (ecstasy) have been used to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other psychiatric disorders. They do this by overriding and rewiring neural networks associated with symptoms like chronic pain.  If you can imagine chronic pain as a sound or video loop, then you can visualize psychedelics as a force that disrupts the loop. For fibromyalgia patients, this translates as a breaking cycle of chronic pain, at least for periods of time.\n\nA [recent article in Practical Pain Management](https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/treatments/psychological/psychedelics-chronic-pain-it-time) makes that point that though “clinical evidence for the use of psychedelic substances in chronic pain is limited, studies and case reports over the past 50 years have shown potential benefits in cancer pain, phantom limb pain, and cluster headache” which have symptoms and features in common with chronic pain and hold promise for those with fibromyalgia. \n\nIs an effective treatment for chronic pain waiting at the end of the next psychedelics study?  It’s early to tell, but early studies hint that there is potential here. It will be an exciting field to watch in the coming months and years. \n\n### Whole Body Cryotherapy\nA 2021 [article published in Advances in Rhumetology](https://advancesinrheumatology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42358-020-00159-z) claims Whole Body Cryotherapy (Yes, those freezing tanks popping up at all the local gyms, sports rehabilitation centers and spas) is “a fast acting and effective treatment for Fibromyalgia.” According to their study, participants who experienced Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) saw a significant reduction in pain. When it comes to fibromyalgia treatment, that’s the name of the game.\n\nCryotherapy may sound like a space-age technology, but chances are, you’ve already experienced it in some form. Ever put an ice pack on a swollen ankle? That’s cryotherapy!  It works by reducing blood flow to the injured area. This reduces inflammation, swelling and the pain they cause. The ice pack also suppresses nerve activity which can temporarily relieve pain. \n\nAdvocates of WBC claim that it benefits everything from sports injuries to Alzheimer’s Disease. (The FDA, on the other hand, finds [no evidence that it benefits anything at all.)](https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/whole-body-cryotherapy-wbc-cool-trend-lacks-evidence-poses-risks) [Empirical evidence](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3956737/) however, demonstrates that WBC can relieve whole body pain, at least temporarily. According to [an article in the Journal Of Sports Medicine](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3956737/) it does it by suppressing nerve activity, pretty much the same way your trusty ice pack did.\n\nIf you’re interested in incorporating WCB into your treatment plan, it won’t be difficult to find. WBC is widely available in gyms, sports rehabilitation facilities and spas. Experiences vary from place to place, but they generally consist of being in an ultra-cold (minus 200 - minus 300 Fahrenheit) enclosure for 2-4 minutes with very little protective clothing. If the cold sounds unappealing, here’s a warmer option to consider.\n\n### Infrared saunas\nFor centuries people have enjoyed the pain-relieving, endorphin-releasing [benefits of a little time in the sauna.](https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/article/biohacking-articles/science-of-sauna/) Today you can enjoy the same benefits, but without all that hot, dry air. Infrared saunas are here and they’re a game-changer for those with chronic pain,\n\nLike traditional saunas, infrared saunas deliver therapeutic heat to the body. Unlike traditional saunas, infrared saunas light to create heat directly in the body while the air around you remains cool. This makes infrared saunas appealing to those who can’t tolerate the extreme heat of traditional saunas.\n\n[The Mayo Clinic,](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/infrared-sauna/faq-20057954) reports that there is still insufficient study to determine if infrared saunas benefit those with chronic pain. “On the other hand,” they say, “no adverse effects have been reported with infrared saunas. So if you're considering trying a sauna for relaxation, an infrared sauna might be an option.”\n\nThere may be a lack of medical study in support of infrared saunas as therapy for chronic pain, but there is no lack of positive testimonials. Among the many singing their praises is Lady Gaga, who has been [very public about her struggles with fibromyalgia.](https://www.harpersbazaar.com/celebrity/latest/a30414700/lady-gaga-oprah-interview-psychotic-break-chronic-illness/) \n\nIn a [recent Instagram post](https://www.instagram.com/p/BM-GxxBBY_n/?utm_source=ig_embed) she wrote,”When my body goes into a spasm one thing I find really helps is infrared sauna. I've invested in one. They come in a large box form as well as a low coffin-like form and even some like electric blankets! You can also look around your community for a infrared sauna parlor or homeopathic center that has one.I combine this treatment with marley silver emergency blankets (seen in the photo) that trap in the heat and are very cheap, reusable and effective for detox as well as weight loss!\n\nIn order to not overheat my system and cause more inflammation Ifollow this with either a VERY cold bath, ice bath (if u can stand it, it's worth it) or the most environmentally savvy way is to keep many reusable cold packs in the freezer ( or frozen peas' n carrots'!) and pack them around the body in all areas of pain. Hope this helps some of you, it helps me to keep doing my passion, job and the things I love even on days when I feel like I can't get out of bed.”\n\nIf you’re interested in giving Gaga’s treatment a try, reach out to a local facility and schedule some time in their infrared sauna. If you find that it works for you, consider investing in a package of appointments, an [infrared blanket](https://wwd.com/shop/shop-beauty/best-infrared-blankets-1234672508/) or even a sauna of your own!  \n\n### Massage Therapy\nFor many years massage therapy has proven to be an effective component of fibromyalgia treatment plans. It’s famous for [decreasing stress hormones and raising serotonin levels which supports better sleep, improved mood and an overall sense of well being:](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/massage/art-20045743) all things in short supply when fibromyalgia enters the picture.\n\nThere are many massage styles that have been particularly helpful to those living with FM.  Among them are swedish massage, hot stone therapy, passive stretching, sports massage, trigger point massage and myofascial release. All of these options have potential, but the last two have gotten a little extra attention in recent years.\n\n### Trigger Point Massage\nTrigger points are painful areas (or knots) located within the muscles. [Trigger point massage](https://health.clevelandclinic.org/knots-in-your-neck-how-to-try-a-trigger-point-massage-to-release-them/) uses finger pressure to deactivate these trigger points which can lessen pain over time.  Massage therapists report that people with fibromyalgia seem to have more trigger points than those without.  This leads them to believe that this style of massage may be particularly beneficial in treating all over body pain experienced by those with Fibromyalgia. Patient experiences seem to support this.\n\n### Myofascial Release\nThis style of massage applies gentle, sustained pressure onto connective tissues with the goal of relieving pain and restoring motion. Developed for people living with myofascial pain syndrome, this treatment has been used by massage therapists, chiropractors and physical therapists to help those with chronic headaches, [muscular pain](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/back-pain/expert-answers/myofascial-release/faq-20058136) and even fibromyalgia.\n\n A study published in the International [Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health](https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17124611) supports this connection. Their study concluded that only 15 minutes of manual massage focusing on connective tissues on the back of the neck “decreased the patients’ perception of pain, muscle fatigue, and the state of tension-anxiety” in women with fibromyalgia. \n\nTo get started, search for licensed massage therapists in your area. Look for therapists who are connected with clinics, mention treatment of fibromyalgia or list massage techniques that pique your curiosity. Read the reviews, speak to the therapist about your needs, make an appointment and give them a try!\n\n### Stay Curious\nWhile there is so much we still don’t know about fibromyalgia’s cause and cure, there is one thing we do know: patients and practitioners are searching tirelessly for answers. Studies are being conducted. Testimonials are being shared. New combinations and theories of treatment are being explored every day. So subscribe to blogs, join support groups, watch the news for developments, ask about new therapies and stay curious. It could put you in the path of a treatment that makes all the difference in the world.\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/34d55fa4c2a38b2ef9dd3b2654b397ce/ee604/ea899c9199541f4e24fb89c22d0f1046.png","srcSet":"/static/34d55fa4c2a38b2ef9dd3b2654b397ce/69585/ea899c9199541f4e24fb89c22d0f1046.png 200w,\n/static/34d55fa4c2a38b2ef9dd3b2654b397ce/497c6/ea899c9199541f4e24fb89c22d0f1046.png 400w,\n/static/34d55fa4c2a38b2ef9dd3b2654b397ce/ee604/ea899c9199541f4e24fb89c22d0f1046.png 800w,\n/static/34d55fa4c2a38b2ef9dd3b2654b397ce/f3583/ea899c9199541f4e24fb89c22d0f1046.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/34d55fa4c2a38b2ef9dd3b2654b397ce/58556/ea899c9199541f4e24fb89c22d0f1046.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/34d55fa4c2a38b2ef9dd3b2654b397ce/61e93/ea899c9199541f4e24fb89c22d0f1046.webp 200w,\n/static/34d55fa4c2a38b2ef9dd3b2654b397ce/1f5c5/ea899c9199541f4e24fb89c22d0f1046.webp 400w,\n/static/34d55fa4c2a38b2ef9dd3b2654b397ce/58556/ea899c9199541f4e24fb89c22d0f1046.webp 800w,\n/static/34d55fa4c2a38b2ef9dd3b2654b397ce/99238/ea899c9199541f4e24fb89c22d0f1046.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2761-markdown","title":"Exploring Mind-Bending Psychedelics: Psilocybin & LSD","slug":"exploring-mind-bending-psychedelics-psilocybin-and-lsd","content":"As cannabis continues to enter the mainstream, it’s only natural that we begin to turn our attention to other stigmatized substances that could hold medical benefits—we’re talking, of course, about psychedelics.\n\nRecently, small clinical trials in humans have shown the efficacy of LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) and psilocybin, the psychoactive component of magic mushrooms, in treating conditions like depression and anxiety. These studies have renewed public interest in these substances—as have shows like _Silicon Valley_, which has made reference to microdosing psilocybin for therapeutic purposes.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What Are Psychedelics?\n\nYou might be tempted to lump cannabis, LSD and psilocybin into the same category. They all alter your mind after all. However, [LSD and psilocybin are deemed psychedelics](http://pharmrev.aspetjournals.org/content/68/2/264) in the pharmacological sense, because they act on a specific place in your cells: serotonin receptor 5-HT2. Cannabis, as you may know, acts on the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system. \n\nRELATED: [WHAT IS THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5751cbd970410e000b00003a/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system)\n\nStudies suggest that it’s the activation of 5-HT2 by serotonin that leads to the psychedelic experience that LSD and psilocybin are responsible for—commonly known as tripping. Serotonin is a chemical that relays messages between cells. While we still don’t fully understand the role it plays in the body, research indicates that serotonin influences mood, social behaviors and appetite, among other life processes. Low serotonin levels are also associated with depression. \n\nThough psilocybin and LSD are structurally different, they have effects that are characteristic of other psychedelics, like mescaline and dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Psilocybin and LSD can both lead to ego dissolution, or rather, a loss of your self-identity. While there aren’t any studies of this type on mescaline and DMT, both psilocybin and DMT are known to cause increased blood flow to the brain, forming connections between brain regions that don’t normally interact.\n\n### Psilocybin Has Its Roots in Aztec Religion & Rituals \n\nIndigenous cultures in the Americas have a long history of psilocybin use as the substance occurs in many different types of mushrooms. For example, [in Aztec society, mushrooms were part of religious rituals](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2173580814001527). \n\nIt was only in 1955 that the Western world was widely introduced to this substance, via Gordon Wasson, an author and amateur ethnomycologist who encountered the drug in Mexico. Gordon published a photo essay about his experience with magic mushrooms in _Life_ magazine. With this essay’s circulation, these mushrooms were widely adopted by the hippie counterculture movement. This adoption, along with the poor understanding of psilocybin’s effects, led to its eventual strict categorization by the U.S. DEA as a Schedule I substance. \n\nIn spite of this scheduling, in recent years [a number of small clinical trials have shown that psilocybin may have myriad health benefits](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02791072.2017.1320734). So far, it appears psilocybin may help with:\n\n* Nicotine addiction\n* Alcohol addiction\n* Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)\n* Anxiety \n* Depression\n\nWhile these studies were small and consisted entirely of people who were open to this type of treatment, they’re still encouraging and offer insight into how we may treat these types of conditions in the future.\n\n### Psilocybin May Bring About a Kind of “Inverse PTSD” \n\nBy dissolving the ego, it seems as though psilocybin offers people an alternate view of reality. It allows them to view the world from a universal perspective, instead of an individual, self-centered one. And this self-surrendering may hold therapeutic potential. \n\nAdditionally, this shift in perspective, towards a more positive outlook isn’t temporary: In studies involving cancer patients with anxiety, [those who took psilocybin reported feeling calmer immediately afterward, and they also reported the same feelings six months later](http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0269881116675513). \n\n“[The moment [the patients] get psilocybin, their distress comes down](https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2016/12/the-life-changing-magic-of-mushrooms/509246/),” says Stephen Ross, the lead author of the study, in _The Atlantic_. “That’s very new in psychiatry, to have a medication that works immediately for depression and anxiety and can last for that long.”\n\nThough the research on psilocybin is promising, scientists still don’t understand what exactly is going on in the brain, though they do have some guesses. Psilocybin may modulate the prefrontal cortex and amygdala in the brain, which are responsible for things like:\n* Social behavior\n* Decision making\n* Emotional responses  \n\nStephen says that what may be happening is a kind of “inverse PTSD”—a positive memory that deeply affects trial participants for months afterward, in contrast to a severely traumatic one. \n\n### LSD Resets the Brain\n\nUnlike psilocybin, LSD is a human creation. It was first made in 1938; its psychedelic properties were discovered in 1943, and it was actually used as a psychiatric medicine in 1947. \n\nIn the 1950s, the Central Intelligence Agency began experiments to see if it could be useful for mind control or chemical warfare, testing it on unsuspecting servicemen and students. Much like psilocybin, LSD gained popularity in the hippie counterculture movement of the 1960s, resulting in its eventual listing as a Schedule 1 substance.  \n\nBefore LSD was outlawed, many studies on its effects took place. So far, studies have suggested that LSD has many of the same benefits as psilocybin: It may [help with alcohol and nicotine addiction, as well as with depression and anxiety](http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/2045125316638008). \n\nCurrently, some [young professionals have caught on to this and have begun microdosing LSD](http://www.wired.co.uk/article/lsd-microdosing-drugs-silicon-valley). Though there’s no solid research on microdosing, there are numerous successful accounts from folks who’ve used this method to combat anxiety and depression. \n\nRecent research on LSD has used modern neuroimaging techniques to view subjects’ brains while on the drug. A 2016 study conducted at Imperial College London found that [LSD causes regions of the brain that don’t normally connect to signal to each other](http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2016/04/05/1518377113). Additionally, those that usually do connect become segregated. \n\nTypically, the brain performs functions such as seeing, moving and hearing via independent networks. But under LSD, these separate networks dissolve, and the result is a more integrated brain, explains Robin Carhart-Harris, one of the lead authors of the study.\n\nIt’s possible that LSD, much like psilocybin, forces the brain to construct new networks, and that this rewiring somehow resets the brain and helps people overcome trauma. \n\n### Guides Are Essential in Psychedelic Therapy \n\nNow don’t go rushing off to try LSD or psilocybin just yet. Besides being illegal and hard to obtain, in the studies mentioned, participants often had a trained professional, or guide, alongside them. \n\n“We call it psychedelic therapy, but we really should call it psychedelic assisted psychotherapy,” says author Michael Pollan, who gave a talk in San Francisco to promote his new book on the topic called [_How to Change Your Mind_](https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/529343/how-to-change-your-mind-by-michael-pollan/9781594204227/).\n\nAccording to Michael, in many of these trials, researchers try to play down the role of the guide. However, in indigenous cultures where psychedelics are an important part of religious ceremonies and rites of passage, guides are central to the experience. Also, in these rituals, psychedelics are often used in a carefully designed context, and they’re never used alone. \n\n“These drugs are so powerfully affected by set and setting that it’s only in the company of somebody you really trust, who knows the territory, that someone can surrender to the experience in a way that it can make it productive,” says Michael, who’s interviewed many folks who’ve gone through psychedelic therapy. \n\n“It's really a package that's being tested, and that's weird for the [pharmaceutical] industry or even the medical system,” he adds. \n\nMichael’s right: In addition to needing guides, this form of therapy doesn’t fit into the current pharmacological model. \n\n “Psychedelic therapy is a one time, or a two time or maybe a three-time thing,” he says.  “It's not a pill you take every day and [pharmaceutical companies] are in the business of selling pills people have to take every day, like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) or antidepressants.”\n\nWhile these drugs are showing promise, it’s clear that there are many hurdles to overcome before these types of therapies are available to the public in the U.S. \n\nPhoto credit: [Chris Arock](https://unsplash.com/@dcarock)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/14b42/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/f836f/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.jpg 200w,\n/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/2244e/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.jpg 400w,\n/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/14b42/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.jpg 800w,\n/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/47498/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/0e329/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.jpg 1600w,\n/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/5775e/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.jpg 3647w","srcWebp":"/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/58556/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/61e93/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.webp 200w,\n/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/1f5c5/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.webp 400w,\n/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/58556/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.webp 800w,\n/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/99238/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.webp 1200w,\n/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/7c22d/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.webp 1600w,\n/static/a3ea18aeba0404daf19a2b7eb6922c98/4e6e9/82fc9218479928e600e4822f82644231.webp 3647w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2349-markdown","title":"The Healing Powers of Psychedelic Therapy","slug":"the-healing-powers-of-psychedelic-therapy","content":"### What Is Psychedelic Therapy?\r\n\r\nPsychedelic therapy is an innovative treatment for psychiatric disorders, including mental illness, that uses psychedelic drugs such as MDMA or LSD to induce psychedelic “trips\" to help relieve people of their psychiatric conditions. Psychedelic therapy uses  hallucinogens that produce a psychoactive response in order to assist the therapist during psychotherapy. With the assistance of a therapist or \"guide\", patients take a series of journeys, with the intention of making psychiatric breakthroughs. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \r\n\r\nPsychedelic therapy was largely studied in the 1950s and 1960s, including the work of [Dr. Timothy Leary out of Harvard University](https://psychology.fas.harvard.edu/people/timothy-leary). During those years nearly 40,000 case studies of psychedelic treatment led to 1,000 papers being published on the subject. In the early 1970s, however, the study of the effects of psychedelic drugs on psychiatric conditions was dismissed and then prohibited due to schedule 1 status applied to LSD, MDMA, Psilocybin, as well as cannabis. \r\n\r\n### New Research Being Conducted\r\n\r\nDespite the long ban on the studies, new research is being conducted in California to see how psychedelic therapy could continue to help people. [Habor-UCLA Medical Center in Southern California](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/psychedelic-therapy-tried-by-patients-for-mental-health-psychological-conditions/) is one of the research centers that has begun to conduct FDA approved studies using psilocybin, the chemical in mushrooms that causes pyschoactivity. A recent study conducted by the Medical Center looked at twelve patients with cancer who suffered psychiatric conditions because of their illnesses. The goal of the study was to look at the efficacy and safety of using psilocybin on patients who had anxiety induced by late stage cancer. \r\n\r\nOne of the patients in the study, Annie Levy, who suffered from late stage ovarian cancer, struggled with all-consuming anxiety and depression after her diagnosis. After receiving treatment, however, she saw the complete disappearance of her anxiety and depression, and [her husband Richard said](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/psychedelic-therapy-tried-by-patients-for-mental-health-psychological-conditions/) following her treatment, “It was like someone had lit up a lightbulb in Anne’s head. She was a totally different person.” \r\n\r\n### Reduction in Anxiety & Depression\r\n\r\nAnother study by New York University and John Hopkins University found an 80% reduction in anxiety and depression when cancer patients were treated with psilocybin. Most of the studies that have been conducted have been focused on the potential for psilocybin to be used in psychedelic therapy, rather than other drugs, such as cannabis. \r\n\r\nPsychedelic treatment, though unorthodox, has actually provided many people with relief. In addition, the majority of people surveyed above, a total of 63%, were open to treatment by psychedelics. Surveys have also shown that a higher level of education leads to an increased level of acceptance of treatment by psychedelics, though almost all people who approved of treatment by psychedelics were only were willing to use drugs that were assured to be proven safe to induce the psychedelic therapy. \r\n\r\n### THC May Prove Helpful\r\n \r\nTHC, the psychoactive e component of cannabis has anecdotally shown the ability to have therapeutic benefit for many patients who suffer from anxiety and depression. Certain cannabis products, particularly concentrates like wax, have some of the highest potential to be used for psychedelic treatment due to their high concentrations of THC. Since cannabis is already approved for medical use in many states across the country, it could provide patients with the ability to access psychedelic treatment with a legal medication. Psychedelic therapy could also help people suffering from conditions like PTSD, where we have already seen success with cannabis previously. \r\n\r\nThe [Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies](http://www.maps.org/resources/students/6396-the-kind-welcome-to-the-psychedelic-future-of-mental-illness-treatment) started a small trial at the end of last year to help treat veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The study, which uses cannabis, is inspired by a previous study that used MDMA. Cannabis could become a valuable resource for psychedelic therapy as more and more people open up to the potential benefits of mind altering substances.\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/c723cf59d96fa3cbd8b882d9f2f633cb/14b42/43100ff5e7d96eb6184ddd0739f704e4.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c723cf59d96fa3cbd8b882d9f2f633cb/f836f/43100ff5e7d96eb6184ddd0739f704e4.jpg 200w,\n/static/c723cf59d96fa3cbd8b882d9f2f633cb/2244e/43100ff5e7d96eb6184ddd0739f704e4.jpg 400w,\n/static/c723cf59d96fa3cbd8b882d9f2f633cb/14b42/43100ff5e7d96eb6184ddd0739f704e4.jpg 800w,\n/static/c723cf59d96fa3cbd8b882d9f2f633cb/47498/43100ff5e7d96eb6184ddd0739f704e4.jpg 1200w,\n/static/c723cf59d96fa3cbd8b882d9f2f633cb/54ac5/43100ff5e7d96eb6184ddd0739f704e4.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/c723cf59d96fa3cbd8b882d9f2f633cb/58556/43100ff5e7d96eb6184ddd0739f704e4.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c723cf59d96fa3cbd8b882d9f2f633cb/61e93/43100ff5e7d96eb6184ddd0739f704e4.webp 200w,\n/static/c723cf59d96fa3cbd8b882d9f2f633cb/1f5c5/43100ff5e7d96eb6184ddd0739f704e4.webp 400w,\n/static/c723cf59d96fa3cbd8b882d9f2f633cb/58556/43100ff5e7d96eb6184ddd0739f704e4.webp 800w,\n/static/c723cf59d96fa3cbd8b882d9f2f633cb/99238/43100ff5e7d96eb6184ddd0739f704e4.webp 1200w,\n/static/c723cf59d96fa3cbd8b882d9f2f633cb/5e0b8/43100ff5e7d96eb6184ddd0739f704e4.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5664,"name":"Psilocybin","slug":"psilocybin","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}