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Are magic mushrooms legal in Austria?

2024-11-17 15:33

Are Magic Mushrooms Legal in Austria?

With the rise of online shopping, it's easier than ever to access almost anything you want—from magic mushrooms for microdosing to cannabis vapes when traveling. However, each European country has its own stance on drug laws. Let's dive into the current legal landscape in Austria.

Is Psilocybin Legal in Austria?

Magic mushrooms were decriminalized in Austria in 2016. This means that possession of psilocybin mushrooms for personal use will not result in a prison sentence. Furthermore, growing these mushrooms is also decriminalized. You can legally purchase spores and grow kits without fear of legal consequences.
Decriminalization applies strictly to personal possession. Engaging in the sale or distribution of magic mushrooms, especially involving minors, can lead to severe penalties, including up to 3 years in prison.

How to Get Legal Magic Mushrooms in Austria

If you're looking to explore legal alternatives to psilocybin, Austria offers two main options: Amanita muscaria (muscimol-based products) and innovative mushroom gummies from brands like The High Company.

Amanita Muscaria (Muscimol)

Amanita muscaria, also known as the red fly agaric, is popular for microdosing. Its active compound, muscimol, interacts with GABA receptors in the brain, providing a calming effect similar to alcohol but without the hangover.
While muscimol can have psychedelic effects at higher doses, it's best to use standardized products like tinctures or gummies to ensure accurate dosing. Traditional preparations, like dried mushrooms, are less predictable.
European law prohibits selling muscimol-containing products as food. Labels typically state "not for consumption" to circumvent legal restrictions, allowing responsible users to access these products still.

The High Company Mushroom Gummies

The High Company has managed to develop mushroom gummies that mimic the effects of psilocybin by altering its molecular structure—similar to how HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol) became a legal alternative to THC. These gummies don't test positive for psilocybin or muscimol, making them legally compliant across Europe.
Pro Tip: Even if you're an experienced user, start with just one gummy. Two can be overwhelming, even for seasoned psychonauts.

Is LSD Legal in Austria?

LSD has been illegal in Austria since 1968. However, modern chemistry has led to the creation of legal LSD analogs that are not currently regulated, such as:

- 1S-LSD
- 1DD-LSD
- 1V-LSD
- 1cP-LSD
- 1T-LSD
These compounds are legal to buy, sell, and possess in Austria due to the slow pace of legislation catching up with new psychoactive substances.

What About Kratom in Austria?

Austria is one of the few European countries where kratom remains legal. However, as with many substances, it cannot be sold as a food product. This poses challenges for vendors, especially for kratom gummies, which authorities may classify as food. Despite this, kratom gummies are a convenient way to dose mitragynine, the active compound in kratom.

Cannabis Laws in Austria

Cannabis with THC levels below 0.3% is legal in Austria. Possession of up to 20 grams of high-THC cannabis is decriminalized and results in only a fine, not criminal charges. However, selling THC-rich cannabis remains a serious offense.
In Austria, it's still possible to buy cannabis clones and CBD flowers legally, as long as the THC content does not exceed 0.3%. For example, brands like Mungo and Friends offer popular edibles with 0.2% THC—low enough to be compliant but potent enough for a noticeable effect.

New Cannabinoids

Austria banned HHC and its analogs like THCP and HHCP in March 2024. However, newer cannabinoids like 10-OH-HHC remain legal. Brands such as Cannio and Cannapuff continue to innovate with new cannabinoid mixes that fly under the regulatory radar by using proprietary names like "THC-F1."

Other Drug Laws

Hard drugs like cocaine, MDMA, and ketamine are strictly illegal in Austria. However, if caught with small amounts for personal use, Austrian law favors rehabilitation over punishment. This harm-reduction approach aims to address addiction rather than impose harsh penalties.

Conclusion

Austria's drug laws are relatively progressive compared to some European countries, especially regarding personal use of cannabis, psilocybin, and kratom. However, it's essential to stay informed, as laws can change rapidly. Always check current regulations before purchasing or using any psychoactive substances.
This guide is for informational purposes only. Please verify the legal status of specific substances in your area before making any decisions.
Sources used for this article:
https://www.vastenburg.at/blog/drugs-in-oostenrijk
https://www.kratomit.eu/kratom-legality-where-is-kratom-legal-and-where-is-it-not/
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240320-legal-status-of-psychedelics-around-the-world
https://www.apothekerkammer.at/infothek/rechtliche-hintergruende/suchtmittelrecht/psychotropenverordnung-pv
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1D-LSD
https://www.stadt-wien.at/lifestyle/hanf-legalisierung.html