As a brand, Happy Tea is always exploring ways to support mindful, social experiences that make us feel truly connected—both to ourselves and to others. Our latest research study, conducted with the PRSM Lab at Leiden University, delved into these effects by examining the experience of our Happy Tea, a functional blend with 2 grams of psilocybin truffles, at two curated Microdose Together events.
Here's a summary of what we found about how Happy Tea enhances social gatherings and how it stacks up to alcohol.
Study Design: Testing the Social Power of Happy Tea
Leiden University researchers joined us at two exclusive Microdose Together events, where guests created their own Happy Tea drinks and participated in social activities. With a DJ setting the mood and spaces for both dancing and conversations, guests enjoyed a relaxed, immersive environment while sipping on Happy Tea. Participants filled out surveys before and after the event to document any changes in mood, social connection, and energy levels.
Key Details:
Total Participants: 62 (79% with prior psilocybin experience)
Average Consumption: ~4 grams of truffles over two cups
Tea Choices: 39 chose caffeine-based tea, 23 preferred caffeine-free
Positive Effects: Social Connection and Uplifted Mood
Happy Tea’s impact on mood and social engagement came through in full force. On average, participants reported a significant mood boost and feelings of connection. Post-event surveys revealed increases in sociability, happiness, openness, and energy, with a noticeable decrease in anxiety.
After drinking Happy Tea, guests felt:
More social and connected: Conversations flowed naturally, with participants describing a deeper sense of connection.
Energetic and immersed: Many reported a lively, engaging experience.
Relaxed and open: People felt more comfortable and at ease than they might in similar settings with alcohol.
A Healthier Alternative to Alcohol?
A standout finding was that Happy Tea seemed to provide an appealing alternative to alcohol. Compared to typical drinking experiences, participants reported feeling healthier, more aware, and less anxious. Additionally, 90% expressed that they would choose or consider choosing Happy Tea over alcohol in the future, especially for gatherings like parties, festivals, or concerts. They noted benefits like the absence of hangovers, reduced calorie intake, and avoidance of common side effects associated with alcohol.
Side Effects: A Note on Tolerance and Sensitivity
While many enjoyed the Happy Tea experience, about 45% of participants reported mild side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, or tiredness. Researchers found that people with certain traits, like higher shyness or self-consciousness, were more likely to notice side effects. It's worth noting that these effects were mild, and there were no serious adverse reactions.
Preferences and Perspectives: Happy Tea vs. Alcohol
While most participants preferred Happy Tea, the study noted that a small group (10%) favored alcohol for its confidence-boosting effects. This highlights that while Happy Tea offers many positive effects, it may not fully replace alcohol for everyone.
Conclusion: Happy Tea as a Mindful Social Alternative
This study affirms the potential of Happy Tea to enhance social settings by creating a balanced, uplifting experience without the downsides of alcohol. While we acknowledge that our participants may have been more inclined to favor psychedelic experiences, the results provide valuable insights into the unique role that Happy Tea can play in mindful socializing.
Pioneering a Shift in Social Drinking: The Broader Impact of the Happy Tea Study
This research is more than just a study of Happy Tea—it’s a step forward in the movement towards healthier, more intentional alternatives to traditional social drinking. As society shifts to prioritize wellness, balance, and a more mindful approach to socializing, alcohol-free and functional beverages are gaining attention as powerful allies. Happy Tea, with its blend of adaptogens and low doses of psilocybin, is at the forefront of this change, offering a unique, natural way to elevate social experiences without the usual drawbacks of alcohol.
Sara, the founder of Happy Tea says, ''This study from the PRSM Lab at Leiden University, soon to be published, serves as one of the first in-depth looks into how a microdosed, functional beverage like Happy Tea can create positive social effects in social settings. These findings highlight a promising alternative for those who seek meaningful, connected experiences, whether at parties, concerts, or intimate gatherings. It also points to the need for further exploration into how functional beverages can transform our social lives and redefine the concept of celebration.''
Happy Tea is committed to further collaborations with the researchers at Leiden University to continue expanding our understanding of functional beverages. With more studies planned, we aim to provide deeper insights into the benefits of choosing mindful, science-backed alternatives to alcohol.
For a PDF of the study summary, see here.
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