Amid rising stress and anxiety levels, thousands of mothers worldwide are turning to an unconventional source of relief:
Microdosing ‘magic’ mushrooms, also known as psilocybin.
These women, who share their experiences on platforms like the Instagram account “Moms On Mushrooms“, claim that this practice improves their mental health.
However, health experts and legal authorities express concern over potential risks and the current legality of these psychedelic substances.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this unconventional parenting approach and see if there’s actually any benefit for moms to microdose on shrooms.
The rising trend of microdosing
Microdosing, taking a small, sub-perceptual amount of a psychedelic substance, is gaining popularity among an unexpected demographic – mums.
This method allows users to reap potential benefits without the intense hallucinogenic experience typically associated with these substances.
The primary substance in question?
Psilocybin, more commonly known as magic mushrooms.
As it turns out, these mums aren’t seeking a trip to an alternate reality. Rather, they’re looking for subtle enhancements to their everyday life.
The reported benefits of microdosing include elevated mood, increased creativity, and improved focus. Some even claim it assists in managing symptoms of mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
While it’s a Class A drug which means the most dangerous, these parents advocate for the responsible use of magic mushrooms in micro-amounts.
They believe it helps them navigate the challenges of parenthood with a more positive and patient outlook.
Benefits reported by mums
One of these pioneering mums shared her reasons for trying out microdosing.
She explained that managing the demands of motherhood, work, and personal life was taking a toll on her mental health.
Traditional therapies and medications didn’t provide the relief she sought. That’s when she decided to explore the world of psychedelics.
After diligent research and contemplation, she took the plunge with magic mushrooms.
In small, controlled doses, she noted noticeable changes in her daily life. She reported enhanced mood, improved focus, and better stress management – all without any hallucinogenic side effects.
Interestingly, science might back her anecdotal evidence.
Research suggests psilocybin could potentially stimulate brain cell growth and connectivity, which might explain the reported cognitive benefits.
While it is not a decision to be taken lightly, for this mum, microdosing magic mushrooms proved to be a game-changer.
However, it still remains a personal choice that warrants careful consideration of the legal and health implications.
The advocacy of Peggy Van de Plassche
The trend was catalyzed in part by Peggy Van de Plassche, a Canada-based former executive and the founder of The Microdose Diet.
Van de Plassche advocates for the use of psilocybin, a compound found in certain types of mushrooms, as an alternative medicine to ease stress and anxiety.
She refers to microdosing as a “biohack” that can help mothers “rewire the brain, calm the body, master emotions and raise energy to reach more success.”
According to Van de Plassche, microdosing can enhance emotional and mental well-being, promote creativity, and even ease menopausal symptoms.
Many women report significant improvements in their emotional and mental health after beginning to microdose psychedelics.
Potential health risks
However, there are potential health risks associated with these substances.
Dr. Adam D. Scioli, chief medical officer of Caron Treatment Centers in Pennsylvania, warns that microdosing psychedelics can induce a psychotic or manic episode.
This is especially true in individuals with a personal or family history of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
Other potential risks include paranoia, worsened depression or anxiety, and heightened negative emotions.
Additionally, psilocybin is considered a Schedule I substance by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), indicating a high potential for abuse and lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision.
Despite this classification, some states provide psychedelic-assisted therapy with large doses of psychedelics administered in a clinical setting. However, this treatment is expensive and not typically covered by health insurance.
Experiences from the microdosing community
Supporters argue that microdosing offers benefits without generating a ‘high’.
One mother shared on Reddit about how microdosing saved her life after she had terrible reactions to common PTSD treatments.
After microdosing, she wrote, “There was no high or buzz, I just stopped wanting to kill myself,” and added that her children now have a fully functional mom.
Critics, however, emphasize the psychological impact this practice could have on children.
One Reddit user expressed concern that children can tell when adults aren’t sober and that it makes them feel unsafe.
As the debate continues, the key takeaway is that further research is needed to fully understand the benefits and risks associated with microdosing mushrooms.
The importance of informed choices
Let’s take a moment to reflect on these narratives.
Each of these mums had their unique journey leading to the decision to microdose magic mushrooms. Their stories underscore the importance of informed choices, understanding potential risks, and personal responsibility.
We must remember that while these mums found benefits in microdosing, it does not mean it’s a one-size-fits-all solution. This is an unconventional approach and is still a Class A drug with potential legal and health implications.
It’s crucial for anyone considering this path to do thorough research, consult with healthcare professionals, and weigh the pros and cons.
While we shed light on these experiences, we also want to emphasize that every individual’s journey toward well-being is unique and personal.
Final thoughts on microdosing
The narratives of these mums microdosing magic mushrooms highlight a side of parenthood not often discussed.
While their experiences are personal and unique, they all underline the need for self-care, balance, and well-being in the demanding role of being a parent.
Microdosing, for them, proved to be a tool that helped enhance their daily lives. However, it’s essential to stress that this method remains a personal choice and is not a universally applicable solution.
As the rise in microdosing continues, it’s clear that further research is needed to fully understand its effects, both positive and negative.
Until then, mothers and other users should exercise caution when considering microdosing as a solution to their stress or anxiety.
