Shrooms Canada has risen to mainstream prominence, leading to significant investments for potential medical uses, driving the pace of scientific research, and garnering increasing public acceptance.
Two recent studies highlight the popularity of psilocybin mushrooms as a commonly used psychoactive substance.
Eric Leas, an epidemiologist from the University of California, San Diego, noted a 1,250% increase in internet searches related to microdosing since 2015, with psilocybin exceeding LSD in 2019. Additionally, a study by the RAND Corporation indicates that approximately 3% of Americans – around 8 million adults – used psilocybin in the previous year, making it the most popular hallucinogen in 2023.
Let’s explore the global interest in shrooms.
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What is Microdosing?
Psychedelic microdosing involves consuming small amounts of a hallucinogenic substance to achieve a positive mental effect without experiencing a full psychedelic trip. This generally includes taking only 10-20% of a dose that would trigger a psychoactive response. The goal is to ingest a small quantity of a psychedelic substance that does not significantly alter consciousness.
Historically, microdoses of magic mushrooms and peyote have been used to relieve physical symptoms and promote wellness. The practice of microdosing expanded to include LSD during the 1960s, as people aimed to boost cognitive performance and creativity.
Today, microdosing also includes substances such as MDMA, Ritalin, cannabis, and ketamine, which can cause hallucinations at higher doses but do not initiate a psychedelic experience when microdosed.
Comparing Microdosing and Full Dose Experiences
| Aspect | Microdosing | Full Dose (Psychedelic) |
| Dosage | 0.1 to 0.3 grams of dried mushrooms | 1 to 3 grams or more of dried mushrooms |
| Frequency | Regular (e.g., every few days) | Occasional |
| Effect Duration | Barely affects routine activities | Altered state persists for 4-6 hours |
| Sensory Impact | Experiences of hallucinations (misinterpreted or non-existent sensory perceptions), heightened emotions and sensory experiences (intensified colors, amplified sounds), and synesthesia (such as “seeing” sounds or hearing colors) | Minor changes in senses, slight mood and perception improvements, and enhanced concentration and creativity |
| Physical Impact | Minimal to no physical effects | Increased energy and heart rate, and nausea sensations |
The Rise of Psilocybin Microdosing
Half of those who used psilocybin last year chose to microdose, a method popular among tech industry workers and suburban moms. Microdosing involves ingesting 1/10 to 1/20 of a typical dose. Most microdosers use psilocybin just once or twice a year, and only 11% use it more than six times. Over half favor whole or dried mushrooms, while others prefer processed forms like chocolate bars or teas.
The interest in microdosing is influenced by the changing laws around cannabis and psychedelics. In states like Oregon and Colorado, where plant-based psychedelics are decriminalized, microdosing is most popular.
Studies indicate an increase in psilocybin use, particularly in nightlife settings, where it competes with drugs like ecstasy and ketamine. A research estimated that 5.5 million adults used hallucinogens in 2019, with a significant rise in LSD usage.
Factors Fueling the Growing Microdosing Trend
The RAND survey highlighted the top three reasons why Canadians use psilocybin:
Enjoyment and Social Interaction
A substantial number of Canadians utilize these psychedelic mushrooms for pleasure, seeking a unique collective experience. The group aspect of consuming psilocybin in social events or gatherings adds to its appeal.
Mental Health
A significant portion of users turn to psilocybin for its potential mental health benefits. In fact, an observational study in Nature-Scientific Reports Trusted Source suggests that microdosing psilocybin mushrooms
Teas with Psilocybin provide a soothing and traditional method of intake.
- Method of preparation: The psilocybin mushroom is steeped in hot water to make the tea.
- Dosage: The concentration depends on the quantity of psilocybin mushroom used in the tea preparation.
- Method of intake: Drunk as a regular tea, often with added flavors to mask the mushroom taste.