A new kind of mushroom dispensary has opened in the Osborne Village neighborhood. The store’s owners say it’s part of a movement challenging Canada’s laws on magic mushrooms, which contain psilocybin and psilocin and are categorized as Schedule 3 drugs under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.More info:visit magicmushroomsdispensary.ca
The store in Osborne Village is called Shroomyz, and its owners say they plan to open more locations in Ottawa, Hamilton, Toronto and Vancouver. They aren’t selling actual mushrooms, but “micro-doses” of the hallucinogenic compound. The owners hope to avoid legal repercussions by arguing they aren’t selling mushrooms, but rather providing a service to people with mental health issues.
While psilocybin has been decriminalized in Denver, Colorado, and Oakland, California, the drugs remain illegal for sale, possession or cultivation across Canada. In addition, the Canadian government warns that the consumption of mushrooms can cause visual and auditory distortions, muscle twitches, anxiety, nausea, fear and increased heart rate.
Sharing Stories: Personal Experiences with Magic Mushroom Dispensaries
In Eugene, Oregon, a woman named Cathy Jonas opened the state’s first licensed center to experience psilocybin, and says her waitlist has more than 3,000 names from people who suffer from depression, PTSD and end-of-life dread. She and her business partner, Darren Lyman, say they aren’t profiting from the experience and are instead accepting donations.
In his tiny office suite, Lyman offers a similar service. For $30, he’ll chat with you about the potential effects of psilocybin and guide you through a trip. He admits he’s new to this, but says he wants to keep doing it even if he doesn’t make any money.