Microdosing Magic Mushrooms
Magic Mushroom Microdosing
Microdosing magic mushrooms involves taking very small amounts of psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms. A microdose is usually about 1/10th of a recreational dose or about 1/4 gram of dried mushrooms. The purpose of microdosing is not to experience the full psychedelic effects of the substance, but rather to enhance creativity, productivity, and well-being.
While microdosing magic mushrooms is still a relatively new practice, there has been some research into the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin in a clinical setting. Recent studies show that psilocybin is helpful for treating depression, anxiety, and addiction.
In short, there is some promising research on the potential therapeutic benefits of microdosing magic mushrooms.
Studies in Canada for psychedelic mushroom clinical treatment
There are a number of ongoing studies in Canada exploring the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelic mushrooms, particularly psilocybin, in a clinical setting. Some of these studies include:
- University of British Columbia is conducting a clinical trial to investigate the potential use of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy to treat end-of-life anxiety in patients with terminal cancer.
- Canadian Centre for Psychedelic Science at the University of Toronto is conducting a study to investigate the potential use of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy to treat treatment-resistant depression.
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto is conducting a study to investigate the potential use of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy to treat addiction.
- Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) Canada is conducting a study to investigate the potential use of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- The Canadian chapter of the Psychedelic Society is conducting a study to investigate the potential use of microdosing with psilocybin to improve mood, creativity, and productivity.
These studies are still ongoing, and more research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of psilocybin in a clinical setting. However, they represent an important step forward in the exploration of the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelic mushrooms.
Psychedelic therapy in Canada
Psychedelic therapy in Canada refers to the use of psychedelic substances, such as psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD, in a clinical setting to treat various mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and PTSD. Psychedelic therapy involves taking a moderate or high dose of the substance in a controlled and supportive environment, with the guidance of a trained therapist.
Currently, psychedelic therapy is not yet widely available in Canada. However, recent developments in Canada suggest that this may change in the near future.
For example, in 2020, the Canadian government granted four patients with terminal illnesses the right to use psilocybin for end-of-life distress. This marks the first legal exemption for psilocybin therapy in Canada. Additionally, Health Canada granted several exemptions to researchers to conduct clinical trials using psychedelic substances for various mental health conditions.
Furthermore, several organizations and groups, such as the Canadian Psychedelic Association, are advocating for the decriminalization and regulation of psychedelic substances in Canada. As such, psychedelic therapy may become more widely available in Canada.
Training program for doctors providing psychedelic therapy in Canada
Currently, there are no “formal” training programs specifically for doctors to provide psychedelic therapy in Canada. However, there are several organizations and institutes that provide education and training for healthcare professionals interested in psychedelic therapy.
For example, the Canadian Psychedelic Association offers educational programs and resources for healthcare professionals interested in learning more about psychedelic therapy. This includes courses and workshops on the use of psychedelic substances in a therapeutic setting.
In addition, the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) offers a training program for therapists and other healthcare professionals to become certified in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD. This program is focused specifically on MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. It provides valuable training in the principles and practices of psychedelic therapy.
Furthermore, there are several international organizations and institutes, such as the California Institute of Integral Studies and the Center for Psychedelic Therapies and Research at Imperial College London, that offer training and education in psychedelic therapy.
It’s important to note that any healthcare professional interested in providing psychedelic therapy should ensure that they are in compliance with relevant laws and regulations. They must receive appropriate training and education in the safe and effective use of psychedelic substances in a therapeutic setting.
Multidisciplinary Association of Psychedelic Studies
The Multidisciplinary Association of Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) is a non-profit research and educational organization dedicated to developing medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics. Founded in 1986 by Rick Doblin, it is based in the United States.
MAPS is one of the leading organizations in the world conducting clinical research on the therapeutic uses of psychedelic substances. This includes MDMA, psilocybin, and LSD. The organization has conducted and supported numerous studies investigating the potential use of these substances in treating mental health conditions. This includes PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The organization is also actively involved in promoting the development of regulatory frameworks that allow for safe and responsible use of these substances in a therapeutic context.
In addition to its research activities, MAPS is also involved in a variety of educational and outreach programs. The organization offers training programs for therapists and other healthcare professionals in the use of psychedelic-assisted therapy, as well as educational resources for the public and policymakers.
MAPS played a key role in the recent resurgence of interest in psychedelic therapy. Its work has helped to increase awareness of the potential benefits of these substances in treating mental health conditions.