Is psilocybin legal in France?

Psilocybin is a psychotropic compound found naturally in certain species of mushroom, commonly known as «magic mushrooms», «hallucinogenic mushrooms» or «shrooms». It belongs to a class of compounds known as tryptamines, and is chemically and chemically identical. similar to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite and other bodily functions.

When consumed, psilocybin is metabolized into its active form, psilocin, which interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain. This can lead to altered perception, mood and thought patterns, often described as a «trip» or «psychedelic experience».

Research suggests that psilocybin may have therapeutic potential for treating certain mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety and dependence, although further studies are needed to fully understand its effects and potential benefits.

However, it is important to note that psilocybin is classified as a Schedule I drug under the United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances, which means it is illegal in many countries, including France.

Is psilocybin legal in France?

Psilocybin has been listed as a narcotic substance in the French Public Health Code since 1990, making it illegal to possess, cultivate or trade any mushrooms containing it, be they hallucinogenic mushrooms / psilos or truffles.

This is an important point, because in the Netherlands, magic mushrooms are forbidden, but hallucinogenic truffles are not. For this reason, many online players sell magic truffle cultivation kits.

Different varieties of hallucinogenic mushrooms grow wild in France (some will remember Billy Ze Kick's «Mangez-moi» video), but most are imported from abroad.

Psilocybin legal for medical use

Although on the list of narcotics, one of the authorized uses of psilocybin in France is medical. In fact, some of our research in France on psilocybin. There are currently no psilocybin prescriptions or medications available in France.