Psilocybin access in the United States exists through two very different pathways: clinical research access and limited public access under state-regulated programs. These pathways are governed by separate legal authorities, oversight structures, and eligibility requirements. Understanding this distinction is critical for accurate public education and legal clarity. Research access refers to psilocybin use that occurs …
Public discussion around psilocybin often uses the terms decriminalization and legalization interchangeably, but in law and policy they mean very different things. Researchers, lawmakers, and public agencies emphasize that misunderstanding this distinction can lead to legal risk and misinformation (National Conference of State Legislatures). Decriminalization typically means reducing or eliminating criminal penalties for certain activities, …
Oregon and Colorado are currently the only U.S. states with statewide frameworks allowing regulated psilocybin services. These programs are often misunderstood as “legalization,” but state officials stress that they operate as tightly controlled public health models and do not override federal law. Oregon established the first statewide program through Measure 109, approved by voters in 2020. The program …
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Psilocybin remains illegal under United States federal law. It is classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning it is defined as having no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. This classification applies regardless of state or local policy changes and makes non-research possession, distribution, or manufacturing …
One of the most serious safety risks associated with mushrooms is misidentification. Many toxic mushroom species closely resemble psilocybin-containing mushrooms, making visual identification unreliable. Public health agencies emphasize that accidental ingestion of poisonous mushrooms can result in severe illness, organ failure, or death (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Several deadly mushroom species, including Amanita …
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In psilocybin research, scientists often refer to the concepts of “set” and “setting” when discussing psychological safety and variability in outcomes. These terms describe the internal and external factors that influence how individuals respond during clinical studies. Researchers emphasize that understanding set and setting is essential for minimizing risk and interpreting research results accurately (National …
Psychological safety is one of the primary concerns in psilocybin research. While studies are designed to minimize harm, researchers consistently report that psilocybin can produce intense psychological experiences that are not appropriate for all individuals. For this reason, modern research places strong emphasis on identifying contraindications and understanding who may be at higher risk (National …
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Safety is a central focus of all modern psilocybin research. While scientific interest in psilocybin has increased, researchers consistently stress that the compound carries risks and must be studied under controlled conditions. Public health agencies emphasize that understanding potential harms is just as important as understanding potential outcomes (National Institute on Drug Abuse). One of …
In clinical research, integration and follow-up are essential components of psilocybin therapy models. Researchers emphasize that observed outcomes are not measured during supervised sessions alone, but through structured follow-up that assesses psychological well-being, safety, and long-term effects. These stages help distinguish short-term responses from lasting changes and ensure responsible data collection (U.S. Food and Drug …
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Supervision is a core component of all modern psilocybin clinical research. Because psilocybin can temporarily alter perception, mood, and cognition, studies are designed to ensure participants are continuously supported and monitored by trained professionals. Researchers emphasize that supervision is not optional but a foundational requirement for ethical and scientific validity (U.S. Food and Drug Administration). …
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