What Ailments Are Treated With Magic Mushrooms?

Researchers have discovered that psilocybin, a hallucinogenic substance found in magic mushrooms, may be beneficial for treating various mental health concerns. A survey published in 2021 of over 7,000 people found that about 500 people had used psilocybin mushrooms in the past year. Psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, has been designated by the FDA as a breakthrough therapy for treatment-resistant depression. A recent study in JAMA, the top medical journal in the US, found that psilocybin could provide rapid relief.

Psilocybin therapy is being used to treat depression and other mental health disorders. Previous studies by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers showed that psychedelic treatment with psilocybin relieved major depressive disorder symptoms in adults for up to a month. To date, studies have shown that psilocybin therapy is beneficial in relieving symptoms of treatment-resistant depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, and other mental health issues.

Controlled psilocybin therapy shows potential for the treatment of mental and physical health issues. Psilocybin, a psychoactive compound found in magic mushrooms, is used in spiritual rituals, recreationally, and as medicine. New UGA research suggests psilocybin, the psychedelic ingredient in magic mushrooms, has similar side effects to traditional drugs.

Despite its potential benefits, leading mycologist Paul Stamets believes it’s time for fans of psilocybin mushrooms to leave such childish slang behind. The Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research is leading the way in exploring innovative treatments using psilocybin.