Michael Davis
Magic mushrooms, or shrooms, are naturally occurring fungi that contain the hallucinogenic drug psilocybin. They are often consumed for their psychedelic effects, which can include hallucinations, altered perception of time and space, and intense mood changes. While the effects of magic mushrooms can vary between individuals, the drug is not considered physically addictive, and there is no evidence of physical withdrawal symptoms. However, regular use may lead to tolerance and an increased risk of negative experiences or bad trips. The biggest risk associated with magic mushrooms is their similarity in appearance to poisonous mushrooms, which can result in accidental poisoning or even death. Despite the risks, magic mushrooms have been used for thousands of years in religious and spiritual rituals, and there is ongoing research into their potential therapeutic benefits for treating mental health disorders.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effects | Altered perception of time and space, intense changes in mood and feeling, visual or auditory hallucinations, distorted perception of objects and people, fear, paranoia, flashbacks, altered thinking, altered sense of reality |
| Use | Consumed fresh, cooked, brewed into tea, or taken as a soup |
| Safety | Not addictive, low toxicity, low potential of causing fatal events, no physical withdrawal symptoms, no data on safety during pregnancy |
| Legality | Illegal to possess, sell, or give away in the US, but some cities have decriminalized possession |
| Health Benefits | Potential to treat mental health disorders, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), addiction, pain, and neurodegenerative disorders |
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What You'll Learn
Magic mushrooms are hallucinogens
The effects of magic mushrooms usually begin within 30 minutes of ingestion and can last between four and six hours. However, changes in sensory perception and thought patterns can last longer. The effects of magic mushrooms can vary widely between individuals, and factors such as the user's mental state, personality, and immediate environment may also affect their response.
The use of magic mushrooms rarely results in life-threatening symptoms. However, if a large amount is consumed, negative effects such as a ""bad trip"" may occur. Regular users of magic mushrooms may also experience "flashbacks," which are usually visual distortions involving changes in emotions or perception. These flashbacks can occur weeks, months, or even years after the last time the drug was taken.
It is important to note that magic mushrooms closely resemble certain types of poisonous mushrooms, so it is crucial to accurately identify them before consumption. Accidental ingestion of poisonous mushrooms can result in mild gastrointestinal illness, but severe cases may require medical attention.
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They can cause psychological distress
Psilocybin, the primary psychoactive ingredient in "magic mushrooms", is a hallucinogen that can cause psychological distress. The effects of psilocybin vary widely between individuals. Factors such as the user's mental state, personality, and immediate environment may affect their response. A 2020 analysis suggests that higher doses of psilocybin may increase the risk of negative experiences, such as extreme anxiety or short-term psychosis. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions may be at a higher risk of experiencing psychological distress.
Some people who take psilocybin may experience persistent, distressing alterations to their perception of the world, known as hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder. This can manifest as visual flashbacks or traumatic recall of intensely upsetting experiences. These flashbacks can occur anywhere from weeks to years after ingesting the hallucinogen and can be triggered by various factors such as stress, tiredness, or exercise.
The risk of experiencing psychological distress, or a "bad trip", increases if an individual takes higher doses of psilocybin or has feelings of anxiety before consuming it. It is important to note that the only way to eliminate this risk entirely is by refraining from taking magic mushrooms. Regular use of psilocybin can also lead to increased tolerance, cross-tolerance with other drugs, and the potential for accidental poisoning from misidentifying poisonous mushrooms.
However, it is worth noting that psilocybin has been the subject of extensive research in recent years, and its potential therapeutic benefits are being explored. Studies suggest that when administered in controlled settings with supportive therapy, psilocybin may be effective in treating various psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, and anorexia nervosa. Additionally, psilocybin has been shown to increase neuroplasticity, which may contribute to its ability to induce positive changes in attitude, mood, and behaviour.
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There are physical risks associated with consumption
There are physical risks associated with consuming mushrooms. Firstly, it is important to distinguish between different types of mushrooms. Psilocybin, or magic mushrooms, are naturally occurring and are consumed for their hallucinogenic effects. They are psychedelic drugs, which can affect all the senses, altering a person's thinking, sense of time, emotions, and perception. Mushrooms containing psilocybin are usually small and brown or tan, and they can easily be mistaken for other mushrooms that are poisonous.
The physical risks of consuming psilocybin mushrooms include the possibility of accidental poisoning from ingesting poisonous mushrooms. Poisoning symptoms may include muscle spasms, confusion, and delirium, requiring immediate medical attention. Consuming a large amount or a strong batch of psilocybin mushrooms can also lead to unpleasant physical effects, such as fear, paranoia, and other adverse reactions known as a "'bad trip'". During a "bad trip", impaired judgment can lead to risk-taking behaviours, resulting in traumatic injuries or even death.
Additionally, consuming magic mushrooms with other substances, such as cannabis, amphetamines, or alcohol, can elevate the risk of serious side effects. For individuals with cardiac diseases, the short-term effects of increased blood pressure and heart rate could be harmful. Although psilocybin is not considered physically addictive, regular use may lead to tolerance, and cross-tolerance with other drugs such as LSD and mescaline has been observed.
It is important to note that the effects of psilocybin mushrooms vary between individuals, and factors such as mental state, personality, and environment can influence the experience. While research suggests potential benefits to mental and physical health, further studies are needed to fully understand the risks and long-term effects of psilocybin mushroom consumption.
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Mushrooms are not physically addictive
Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, are not physically addictive. They are, however, a commonly used hallucinogen. While the addiction risk is low, psychological dependence can develop. This is because psilocybin, the key ingredient in magic mushrooms, is a psychoactive compound that can affect all the senses, altering a person's thinking, sense of time, emotions, perception, thought, and mood.
Magic mushrooms do not exhibit the same addictive properties as commonly abused substances like opioids or stimulants. Studies show that people who use mushrooms regularly do not follow typical addiction patterns, although they may continue to use mushrooms to attain pleasurable feelings associated with their use, which can lead to problematic, compulsive patterns of use.
There are currently no medications to treat addiction to magic mushrooms or other hallucinogens. Withdrawal symptoms are also different from those associated with other substances. Some individuals may experience psychological and emotional symptoms when they stop using psilocybin, especially after frequent or high-dose use. Potential withdrawal symptoms include noticeable mood fluctuations, including irritability, anxiety, or depression.
While physical addiction to magic mushrooms is rare, the potential for psychological dependence and its impact on an individual’s life should not be underestimated. If you or someone you know is struggling with mushroom use, it is recommended to seek professional help from a healthcare provider or counselor.
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They are being studied for their health benefits
While magic mushrooms are hallucinogenic and can cause adverse effects, other varieties of mushrooms are being studied for their health benefits. Mushrooms are a rich source of potassium, which can help to reduce blood pressure and lessen the tension in blood vessels. They are also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B6, which help to prevent cell damage, boost immune function, and improve overall heart health.
Mushrooms are the only produce that contains vitamin D, which can be increased by exposing certain mushrooms to UV light or sunlight. A diet rich in vitamin D can help your body absorb calcium to maintain and build strong bones. Mushrooms are also a powerful source of ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that prevents or slows cellular damage.
Studies have found that lion's mane mushrooms contain two compounds, hericenones and erinacines, that can stimulate the growth of brain cells and improve memory. Chaga mushrooms may also have health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and preventing cancer.
In addition to their nutritional benefits, mushrooms can be a flavorful addition to a healthy diet. They are low in calories, fat, and sodium, making them a versatile ingredient in many recipes. However, it is important to note that only a small fraction of fungi are edible, and some varieties of mushrooms are toxic or poisonous. For this reason, it is recommended to consume mushrooms from a reliable source.
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Frequently asked questions
Magic mushrooms are a type of mushroom that contains the hallucinogenic drugs psilocin or psilocybin. They are also known as shrooms.
The effects of magic mushrooms usually begin within 30 minutes and can last between four and six hours. They can cause hallucinations, distort how people perceive objects and people in their environment, and alter their thinking, sense of time and emotions.
Magic mushrooms are classified as hallucinogens or psychedelics, which means they can alter a person's sense of reality and perception of time and space. They are not typically referred to as stimulants or depressants. However, they can have stimulant-like effects, such as increased energy and alertness, and depressant-like effects, such as relaxation and sedation.
