Psibens

Psibens is a slang term that emerged primarily within online communities, particularly those associated with psychedelic drug culture. It is a portmanteau of "psilocybin," referring to the psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms, and "benzodiazepines," a class of psychoactive drugs commonly used for their sedative, hypnotic, and anxiolytic effects. The term "psibens" is used to describe the practice or phenomenon of taking benzodiazepines concurrently with or shortly after consuming psilocybin-containing mushrooms.

The rationale behind using psibens varies among individuals. Some users report that benzodiazepines can mitigate or "kill" a psychedelic trip, reducing feelings of anxiety, paranoia, or overwhelming intensity that may arise during a psilocybin experience. This is often sought by individuals who are new to psychedelics, are in an uncomfortable setting, or are experiencing a challenging psychological state. Others may use psibens to help them come down from a trip, aiming to transition back to a more grounded state more smoothly.

However, it is important to note that the use of psibens is not without potential risks and considerations. Benzodiazepines are prescription medications with their own set of side effects and potential for dependence. Combining them with other psychoactive substances can lead to unpredictable interactions, and the effects on the subjective psychedelic experience can vary significantly from person to person. Furthermore, the practice is not supported by clinical research, and its efficacy or safety has not been scientifically validated. Information regarding psibens is largely anecdotal, shared through online forums and personal accounts.