Oregon Makes History: Legalizing Psilocybin Mushrooms as Therapeutics
Psilocybin is a naturally-occurring hallucinogenic compound found in more than 200 species of fungi. Psilocybe is the name of a genus of mushrooms, which are referred to as an entheogens, a term that some say translates to “seeing god” (en=within, theo=god, gen=generated).
On January 1 of the new year, Oregon became the first state to legalize the therapeutic use of the compound psilocybin by adults over the age of 21. Two years ago, Measure 109 was approved by a narrow margin of voters, and this year the legal details are being hammered out by regulators. Prior to Measure 109, psilocybin had been illegal in the US since the 1970s, but recent studies have proven that the substance can be effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including addiction, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Under the terms of Measure 109, the Oregon Health Authority will be responsible for regulating the production and distribution of psilocybin for therapeutic purposes. The measure also establishes a program for training licensed facilitators to administer the substance to patients under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.
While the legalization of psilocybin for therapeutic purposes is a significant step forward, it is important to note that the substance will still be illegal for recreational use. Additionally, the use of psilocybin for therapeutic purposes will only be available to individuals over the age of 21.
Psilocybin has properties similar to lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) as well as mescaline. Psilocybin interacts with the 5-HT receptors, also known as serotonin receptors. A decreased inability to properly regulate serotonin is a hallmark of several psychiatric conditions, which uniquely positions psilocybin as a possible treatment.
The passage of Measure 109 is part of a broader trend towards the legalization of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes. Several cities, including Denver and Oakland, have already passed similar measures, and a growing number of states are considering similar legislation.
Overall, the legalization of psychedelic mushrooms in Oregon represents an important step forward in the recognition of the potential therapeutic benefits of these substances. While there is still much work to be done in terms of regulation and implementation, the measure represents a significant step towards providing individuals with access to safe and effective treatment options for a variety of mental health conditions.
While Measure 109 is an important step in psychedelic therapy, it’s important to note that the therapeutic use of psychedelics isn’t appropriate for all individuals. People with a prior history of psychosis challenges are specifically cautioned to stay away from psychedelic compounds, because they can cause unintended complications.
References
1. "Oregon Becomes First State to Legalize Psychedelic Mushrooms," Rolling Stone, November 4, 2020, https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-news/oregon-legalizes-psilocybin-mushrooms-1147882/.
2. "Oregon Becomes First State to Legalize Psilocybin for Therapeutic Use," American Psychological Association, November 4, 2020, https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2020/11/oregon-legalize-psilocybin
3. "Oregon Legalizes Psilocybin: What Does it Mean for the Psychedelic Movement?," The Third Wave, November 4, 2020, https://thethirdwave.co/oregon-legalizes-psilocybin-what-does-it-mean-for-the-psychedelic-movement/
De Gregorio et al, 2021. “Hallucinogens in Mental Health: Preclinical and Clinical Studies on LSD, Psilocybin, MDMA, and Ketamine.” The Journal of Neuroscience.