Could there be a link between psychedelic usage and sexual functionality? While we have some anecdotal and qualitative data suggesting a connection, there have been no formal studies to substantiate this claim. Sexual satisfaction and functionality, which are crucial to human welfare, may often be compromised by mental health conditions or as a side effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)—commonly prescribed for depression treatment.
In 2024, a clinical research was conducted by Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, and others to examine the impact of consuming magic mushrooms online on sexual functioning.
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A Closer Look at Psilocybin
A study by Nichols, D. E. & Walter, H. has explored the correlation between psychedelic use and the ‘hippy’ culture, which is renowned for its anti-war stance and liberal sexual mores. The exploration of psychedelics was hindered by the 1971 United Nations Controlled Substances Act, but recently, there has been a resurgence due to studies highlighting potential mental health treatment benefits.
Let’s start by exploring the historical background of magic mushrooms:
| Time Period | Event |
| Prehistoric | Early human ancestors used psychoactive mushrooms, as evidenced by rock drawings dating back 6000 to 8000 years. |
| 1500 BCE | Ancient civilizations incorporated psychoactive mushrooms in spiritual rituals. |
| 283-343 A.D | The ancient Chinese doctrine “Baopuzi” by Ge Hong mentioned intoxicating mushrooms, including Psilocybe. |
| 900-1130 CE | Mushroom depictions in Khajuraho Temples of India suggest potential religious importance. |
| 16th Century | Indigenous Mesoamerican cultures like the Aztecs, Mazatec, and Zapotec utilized Psilocybe mushrooms in religious ceremonies and everyday life. |
| 1919 | Reko inaccurately identified psychoactive mushrooms as “Teonanácatl.” |
| Late 1950s | Psilocybin was isolated by Albert Hofmann. |
| 1971 | The United Nations categorized psilocybin as an addictive substance devoid of medicinal benefits. |
| Early 2022 | Canadian government allowed physicians to prescribe Psilocybin used as an immediate remedy. |
| 2022 | Psilocybin is legalized for adult consumption in Oregon. |
Can Psilocybin Influence Sexual Function?
Psychedelics, when used in conjunction with therapy, can aid in therapeutic experiences which include emotional release and psychological insights. In some cases, psilocybin therapy for anxiety and depression has shown better results than SSRIs such as escitalopram.
Major depressive disorder, a significant cause of disability, exhibits symptoms of severe low mood and diminished pleasure. Although not a primary symptom, sexual dysfunction often accompanies depression, affecting libido and arousal. SSRIs, a common antidepressant, can exacerbate sexual dysfunction, thus affecting adherence to treatment and recovery. Sexual satisfaction plays a key role in overall happiness, relationships, and physical health.
Studies indicate that psychedelics could positively affect sexual feelings and behaviors, encouraging empathy and openness. Psychedelics have been linked with increased mindfulness, empathy, body positivity, and openness to new experiences, which could shape sexual attitudes.
The Potential Influence of Psychedelics on Sexual Functioning
Psychedelics can affect sexual functioning. Sexual activity encompasses both physical and emotional impacts. Dr. Michele Leno, a licensed psychologist with Medical News, emphasizes the importance of mental states prior to sexual activity.
Sexual self-consciousness is a prevalent issue. Certain types of magic mushrooms available online can ease anxiety, while others, akin to alcohol, can deteriorate sexual performance. Research shows that individuals who microdose magic mushrooms experience fewer inhibitions and more relaxation, without hampering performance.
As per Dr. Hellerstein, magic mushroom consumption can bolster social bonds, minimize self-focused thoughts, and potentially stimulate brain plasticity and empathy. These effects might explain some of the observed outcomes.
Despite the optimism surrounding psychedelic treatment, carrying out blind studies is difficult. Clinical psychologist Dr. Carla Manly suggests that the intake of whole mushrooms might appeal to those seeking altered states of consciousness, potentially intensifying sexual experiences.
While some people prefer natural experiences, others report feeling less restrained and more expansive when using magic mushrooms bought online. From a neurobiological perspective, psilocybin,
A frequently used psychedelic compound displays characteristics akin to specific brain imaging studies conducted under anesthesia.
What Does Recent Research Suggest?
In 2024, Tommaso Barba, Hannes Kettner, Caterina Radu, and their team conducted a study investigating the effects of psychedelic substances on sexual functionality and satisfaction. The research was conducted in two distinct parts:
- The initial study focused on the recreational and wellness use of psychedelics, based on an observational survey.
- The second part of the research analyzed the impact on patients diagnosed with depression, using a controlled clinical trial.
Outcomes from the Recreational Use Study
- Participants reported improved partner communication, enhanced sexual pleasure, and heightened satisfaction with their partners as well as their self-image after using psychedelics.
- Increased willingness towards sexual exploration and perceiving sex as a more spiritual experience were also reported.
These effects remained noticeable at both 4 weeks and 6 months after the psychedelic experience. The only gender-related difference observed was in partner satisfaction after 6 months.
Findings from the Controlled Clinical Trial with Depression Patients
Depressed patients who received psilocybin therapy reported similar improvements.
- Increased communication with partners, heightened sexual pleasure, and improved satisfaction with themselves and their partners were reported. Conversely, patients treated with escitalopram only reported an increase in satisfaction with their appearance, with no other changes noted.
- Compared to those treated with escitalopram, patients who received psilocybin therapy also reported an increase in sexual interest, activity, and arousal.
- Patients treated with psilocybin experienced a decrease in anxiety related to sexual activity, whereas those treated with escitalopram reported an increase.
Important: The findings suggest that these psychoactive compounds could potentially enhance sexual functionality and overall well-being. The varying effects of psilocybin and escitalopram are likely due to their distinct mechanisms of action in treating depression. SSRIs like escitalopram may cause sexual dysfunction due It is understood that traditional antidepressants exhibit their effects by altering serotonin levels, while psilocybin microdosing interacts directly with serotonin receptors. However, more research is needed to fully comprehend the immediate influences of these mushroom varieties on sexual performance.Online Availability of Psilocybin Mushrooms
