Magic of the Mushrooms: Effects of Psilocybin Decriminalization

Decriminalization and legalization of psilocybin in several U.S. cities and states (Oregon and Colorado) have led to a significant increase in public interest in psilocybin, as measured by web search volume, while simultaneously reducing search interest in other psychedelics like LSD and MDMA. This shift occurred nationwide, even in states without psilocybin reforms. The authors suggest that moving public attention toward psilocybin, considered safer with lower overdose and hospitalization risks, has positive public health implications.

Study at a glance

Abstract

In the past few years, psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in "magic mushrooms" (psilocybin mushrooms), has undergone decriminalization in numerous cities across the US and has been legalized in Oregon and Colorado. Proponents of psilocybin decriminalization have emphasized its therapeutic potential in treating mental health disorders. Furthermore, psilocybin mushrooms are considered the safest psychedelic option, with lower potency and a reduced risk of overdoses and emergency hospitalizations compared to other prevalent psychedelics, such as LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) and MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine). We analyzed the impact of psilocybin reforms on public interest in psilocybin, as well as their cross-commodity effects on LSD and MDMA, utilizing extensive web-based search data. We observe a significant increase in psilocybin search volume and a notable reduction in search volume associated with LSD and MDMA. Our results are consistent nationwide across states, irrespective of their stance on psilocybin reforms. The shift in public interest toward psilocybin, which is considered the safest psychedelic, away from LSD and MDMA, carries positive implications for public health.