In the wake of the mushroom microdose Canada fentanyl crisis, subtle shifts in federal drug policy have given rise to a mushroom microdose canada boom. In cities and towns across the country, shops selling psilocybin mushrooms and spores are popping up. While police have raided some stores, many more appear to be opening than closing.

Known by the scientific name psilocybin, magic mushrooms contain hallucinogens that can cause people to see or hear things that are not there and experience fear, nausea and muscle twitches accompanied by elevated heart rate and blood pressure. In large doses, psilocybin can also lead to unpleasant or dangerous effects, including paranoia and depression.

A survey of 240 Canadians who reported microdosing found that while these people were more likely to use cannabis and other drugs than the general population, they had lower rates of alcohol use. These findings jibe with the idea that microdosers are using drugs to address mental health issues and promote a healthier lifestyle.

Some of the storefronts are staffed by trained therapists who help users select which mushrooms to take and how much. Others sell items like hemp lip balm and stoner-centric comic books. One such chain, Fun Guyz, operates 15 stores this year and plans to expand. But while the proliferation of psilocybin shops helps to normalize the drug, it remains illegal to produce, sell or possess it. Unlike cannabis, which is legal to possess and grow, magic mushrooms are considered Schedule 2 controlled substances under the federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). A person or corporation who wishes to engage in the activities of selling or producing a Schedule 2 substance must hold a dealer’s licence from Health Canada to do so.