The Netherlands is often called Europe’s most psychedelic-friendly country. An article by Psytech explains why.
Education over prohibition
Dutch policy focuses on informing people about risks rather than only banning substances. That harm reduction approach has shaped how the country deals with psychedelics.
Legal truffles
Magic mushrooms were banned in 2008, but magic truffles (sclerotia, which grow underground) were not part of the ban. That makes the Netherlands one of the few places in Europe where people can legally buy a psilocybin-containing product.
Retreats and microdosing
Because truffles are legal, a scene of guided retreats has grown, with international visitors joining structured multi-day programmes. Many people also try microdosing first to see how they respond.
Choose carefully
If you consider a retreat, look at how it screens participants for medical and psychological risks and what support it offers before, during and after. A legal setting does not make every provider equally careful.
Source: Psytech: The Netherlands is Europe’s Most Psychedelic-Friendly Country (Ed Markey, updated 2 October 2023). Summarised in our own words.
This article is for general information only and is not medical or legal advice. Laws differ by country and change over time; check the rules where you live.
