Studies are underway in the United States to test the effects of specific psychedelics and their potential medical use. As early as 2021, the first drafts have emerged aimed at decriminalizing certain specifics, so that their possession or sharing would not be punishable.

In September of this year, the Senate voted to decriminalize, with veterans but also restorative justice advocates behind it. Nevertheless, the governor's support was also needed to implement the bill. This time, Gavin Newsom halted implementation of the bill.

Check out the psychedelics in question

Scientists are currently studying MDMA and psilocybin for potential medicinal properties. They say the stimulants could help treat a number of diseases and ailments, such as depression, anxiety attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder and various types of addiction.

Studies have shown that psilocybin may prove effective in reducing some symptoms. In addition, this substance can improve the quality of life of those struggling with the aforementioned ailments. However, at the very beginning it is worth finding out what the psychedelics in question actually are.

What is MDMA?

3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), commonly known as ecstasy, is a powerful psychoactive substance with stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. It is mainly used for recreational purposes. However, ecstasy is also being studied for its potential medicinal properties, as the substance could prove extremely effective in treating a number of conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder.

Taking MDMA significantly affects the release of dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. This, in turn, leads to increased euphoria, empathy, energy and sensory perception.

Short-term side effects of MDMA use include:

Increased euphoria and a sense of happiness,
Increased empathy and a sense of closeness to others,
Increased physical activity,
Increased sensory perception,
Reduced appetite and thirst,
Increased heart rate and blood pressure,
dilated pupils,
sweating.

The long-term side effects of MDMA use are still being studied; however, potential side effects can already be mentioned, such as:

Damage to serotonin neurons, which in turn can lead to depression, anxiety attacks and memory problems.
Increased risk of heat stroke and dehydration.
Increased risk of cardiovascular conditions.
Liver damage.
Kidney damage.

Keep in mind that ecstasy is an illegal substance in most countries. In addition, we need to be aware of the potential risks and possible side effects before taking MDMA, especially if we are struggling with health problems of various kinds.

If you are nonetheless considering taking MDMA, there are a few things to keep in mind to help reduce your risk:

Start with a small dose, then wait at least two hours before taking more.
If you're dealing with high temperatures, be sure to stay hydrated and avoid dancing for long periods of time.
Be aware of the symptoms of heat stroke and dehydration, such as high body temperature, headache and nausea.
If you are struggling with health problems of any kind, consult your doctor before taking ecstasy.

What is Psylocybin?

Psylocybin is a hallucinogenic substance that occurs naturally in more than 200 species of mushrooms. These mushrooms are commonly known as hallucinogenic mushrooms. They have been used in religious and spiritual ceremonies for centuries.

Interestingly, psilocybin is not psychoactive in itself, however, it becomes active immediately after ingestion - transforming into a psilocin. The substance binds and activates serotonin receptors in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a big role when it comes to our overall mood, perception and cognitive function.

The side effects of psilocybin consumption vary depending on the dose and the individual. However, we can include:

Altered perception of time, space and color;
Increased empathy and a sense of closeness to others;
Changes in mood, such as euphoria or anxiety attacks.

Although psilocybin is considered a safe substance, it can cause nausea, vomiting or panic attacks. Therefore, be sure to consume it in a small dose at the very beginning.

In September, draft laws were approved

A month ago, California lawmakers approved a bill supported by veterans and restorative justice advocates to legalize the possession and consumption of a limited list of natural psychedelics, which include, among other things, so-called hallucinogenic mushrooms.

Gavin Newsom, governor of California, was to take up Senate Bill 58 and decide whether to remove court penalties associated with the possession and consumption of psilocybin, other active ingredients in the form of hallucinogenic mushrooms, mescaline and dimethyltryptamine. In addition, the law was to entail the launch of detailed studies on the medicinal consumption of psychedelic substances.

Now, however, California's governor is saying stop

However, residents of the state of California will have to put more effort into legalizing hallucinogens before Governor Gavin Newsom signs the bill. This one was just vetoed. Detailed studies on the medicinal use of these substances would be necessary. Newsom himself confirmed that it will still be a long time before the state of California legalizes hallucinogens.

In his message, the governor wrote: "California should immediately begin work on establishing treatment guidelines - including information on dosage, therapeutic guidelines, rules to prevent the use of therapy, and add information on medical certification that there are no problems with psychosis."

Sources:

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2023-09-07/california-magic-mushrooms-psychedelics-scott-wiener-psilocybin