Sarah Brown
Psilocybin, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, is a hallucinogenic and naturally occurring psychedelic drug found in certain types of mushrooms. While it has a low level of toxicity, there are health risks associated with taking psilocybin, especially when unsupervised. The effects of magic mushrooms vary widely, and adverse side effects may require medical treatment. The main risk of taking magic mushrooms is that some look very similar to certain types of poisonous mushrooms, which can cause severe illness and even death.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Magic mushrooms, shrooms, psilocybin mushrooms |
| Active ingredients | Psilocybin, psilocin |
| Effects | Euphoria, hallucinations, sensory distortion, anxiety, panic, paranoia, nervousness, distorted sense of time, place and reality |
| Side effects | Flashbacks, disturbing hallucinations, nausea, excessive yawning, delayed headaches, increased blood pressure, heart rate and body temperature |
| Treatment potential | Anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance abuse, anorexia, cluster headaches |
| Legality | Illegal in Canada, the US and under the United Nations Drug Control Conventions |
| Addictiveness | Low risk of addiction |
| Poison risk | High risk of poisoning from toxic/poisonous mushrooms |
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What You'll Learn
- Magic mushrooms are illegal in most places
- They can cause dangerous behaviour and impaired judgement
- Poisonous lookalikes can cause severe illness and even death
- They can cause negative side effects like nausea, anxiety, paranoia, and panic
- They have a low risk of addiction, but tolerance develops rapidly
Magic mushrooms are illegal in most places
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, are illegal in most places. Psilocybin is a hallucinogenic substance found in certain types of mushrooms, commonly referred to as 'magic mushrooms'. These mushrooms have been used for thousands of years, with over 200 species of magic mushrooms known.
The legal status of unauthorised actions with psilocybin mushrooms varies worldwide. Psilocybin and psilocin are listed as Schedule I drugs under the United Nations 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances. Schedule I drugs are defined as drugs with a high potential for abuse and no recognised medical use. Psilocybin mushrooms are also controlled under the United Nations Drug Control Conventions and, in Canada, under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Under the CDSA, activities such as the sale, possession, and production of magic mushrooms are illegal unless authorised.
In the United States, the federal government considers psilocybin and psilocin Schedule I substances with no medical use and a high potential for abuse. As a result, the sale, possession, and production of magic mushrooms are illegal under federal law. However, there is ambiguity in the legal status of psilocybin mushrooms in the US, with some states decriminalising their use. For example, in 2020, Oregon voters passed a ballot initiative legalising "magic mushrooms" for mental health treatment. In 2022, Colorado became the second US state to decriminalise psilocybin mushrooms. Despite these changes, psilocybin mushrooms remain illegal in most US states, with only four cities having legalised their possession.
Outside of North America, the legal status of magic mushrooms varies. For example, in Europe, the European Union classifies psychedelics, including psilocybin, as Schedule I, making them highly controlled and illegal except for specific purposes. However, some European countries have legalised or decriminalised psilocybin. Switzerland, for instance, has had an exceptional use program in place since the 1980s, allowing legal psychedelic therapy. Similarly, in 2019, Israel approved the therapeutic use of MDMA for patients with PTSD. In contrast, other countries, such as Jamaica and Nepal, have no specific laws surrounding psilocybin, effectively making it legal in these jurisdictions.
While the legal status of magic mushrooms is evolving as research highlights potential therapeutic benefits, they remain illegal in most places. The unauthorised use, possession, and distribution of magic mushrooms can result in legal consequences, including severe penalties.
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They can cause dangerous behaviour and impaired judgement
Mushrooms containing psilocybin, often referred to as "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms," can indeed induce dangerous behaviour and impair judgement. The psychoactive compound psilocybin is responsible for the hallucinogenic effects associated with these mushrooms. While the effects can vary depending on the individual, the dosage, and the specific type of mushroom, it is important to recognize the potential risks and adverse consequences of ingesting these mushrooms. One of the key concerns is the impact on decision-making abilities and impulse control. Under the influence of psilocybin, individuals may exhibit impaired judgement, making risky or irrational decisions that they would not typically make when sober. This can lead to dangerous behaviour, such as engaging in hazardous activities, operating machinery, or driving under the influence.
Psilocybin mushrooms can distort perception and cloud judgement, making it difficult for individuals to accurately assess risks or understand the potential consequences of their actions. Impaired judgement can result in poor decision-making, such as taking excessive doses or combining psilocybin with other substances, which can increase the likelihood of negative experiences or dangerous outcomes. Additionally, the altered state of consciousness induced by psilocybin can lead to disinhibition and a loss of impulse control. Individuals may act on impulses without considering the potential dangers or consequences of their actions. This can result in self-harm, accidental injuries, or harm to others.
The distorted sense of reality and impaired judgement can also lead to dangerous behaviour during the hallucinogenic experience itself. Individuals may engage in risky or aggressive behaviour, endangering themselves or those around them. In some cases, individuals may experience a "bad trip," characterized by intense fear, anxiety, paranoia, or a loss of control. During a bad trip, an individual may act erratically, become violent, or engage in self-destructive behaviour. This can be particularly dangerous if the individual is in an unsafe environment or is not adequately supervised. It is important to recognize that the effects of psilocybin mushrooms are unpredictable and can vary widely across individuals.
Additionally, the long-term effects of regular psilocybin use are not fully understood. Some research suggests that repeated use may have persistent negative effects on judgement and decision-making abilities, even when the individual is not currently under the influence. This could further increase the likelihood of engaging in dangerous or risky behaviour. It is also important to consider the potential interactions with pre-existing mental health conditions. For individuals with a history of mental illness, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, ingesting psilocybin mushrooms can exacerbate symptoms and trigger severe episodes, including psychosis or mania.
To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to approach psilocybin mushrooms with caution and to prioritize harm reduction strategies. This includes educating oneself and others about the potential dangers, understanding dosage and effects, and ensuring a safe and supportive environment if choosing to use these substances. Seeking professional help or guidance can also be important, especially for individuals with a personal or family history of mental health disorders. While some may argue for the therapeutic potential of psilocybin in controlled settings, it is essential to recognize the potential risks and adverse consequences when used recreationally or without proper precautions. Overall, the potential for dangerous behaviour and impaired judgement underscores the necessity of responsible and informed decision-making when it comes to the use of psilocybin mushrooms.
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Poisonous lookalikes can cause severe illness and even death
While magic mushrooms have been used for thousands of years, and there is increasing interest in their potential therapeutic uses, they are still illegal in most of the U.S. and controlled internationally under the United Nations Drug Control Conventions. The active ingredients in magic mushrooms are the chemicals psilocybin and psilocin, which are hallucinogens that produce effects similar to LSD.
Magic mushrooms can be eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. They can also be prepared with food to mask their bitter taste, or crushed into a powder and put into capsules. The effects of magic mushrooms usually begin within 30 to 45 minutes and can last approximately four to six hours. The effects can vary from person to person, ranging from euphoria to hallucinations, anxiety, paranoia, and nervousness.
Poisonous mushrooms can closely resemble psilocybin mushrooms, and even professionals sometimes mistake these mushroom types. Consuming the wrong type of mushroom can be very dangerous and even fatal. Poisonous mushrooms can make you severely ill, and in some cases, lead to death. Therefore, it can be very dangerous to attempt to identify psilocybin mushrooms on your own. If you already have mushrooms and want to double-check them, it is good to keep the following identifying features in mind: Psilocybin mushrooms have long and thin stems and a wide cap that is typically dark brown around the edges and lighter in the center. The underside of the cap is generally dark brown with gills, and the edge can be wavy, flat, or pointed.
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They can cause negative side effects like nausea, anxiety, paranoia, and panic
Mushrooms that are consumed for their psychedelic effects can indeed cause a range of negative side effects, and it is important to be aware of these potential risks. Nausea is a common side effect of ingesting psychedelic mushrooms. This can manifest as a feeling of sickness or discomfort in the stomach, and in some cases, it may lead to vomiting. It is not uncommon for people to experience anxiety during a mushroom trip. This can range from mild feelings of worry or nervousness to more intense feelings of fear or dread. In some cases, anxiety can escalate to paranoia, where the person may feel suspicious or fearful, even when there is no reason to do so. This can be a frightening experience and may lead to poor decision-making or risky behavior. Panic is another potential consequence of mushroom consumption. A person may experience a sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort, along with symptoms like a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, and trembling. This can be extremely distressing and may lead to impulsive actions or even injuries.
It is important to note that the effects of psychedelic mushrooms are highly variable and depend on a number of factors, including the individual's physiology, the dosage, the environment in which they are consumed, and the person's mental state at the time. While some people may experience pleasant and insightful trips, others may encounter challenging and difficult periods. It is always a risk when taking any substance, and it is important to be informed and take appropriate precautions. For most people, these negative effects are temporary and subside once the effects of the mushrooms wear off. However, it is important to remember that the experience can vary widely depending on the individual and the circumstances.
To minimize risks, it is generally advised to take a measured dose in a safe, familiar environment, and ideally with a trusted friend or sitter who can provide support and assistance if needed. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while under the influence of psychedelic mushrooms, as the altered state of perception may impair judgment and coordination. While the negative side effects of mushrooms can be unpleasant, they are typically not life-threatening. However, it is always advisable to seek medical attention if any severe or prolonged symptoms occur.
It is also worth noting that consuming mushrooms may not be advisable for everyone. Individuals with a personal or family history of mental health issues, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, may be at a higher risk of adverse reactions. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming psychedelic substances, especially if there are any pre-existing health conditions or concerns. By being informed and responsible, individuals can make their own decisions about whether to use psychedelic mushrooms, weighing the potential risks against the potential benefits.
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They have a low risk of addiction, but tolerance develops rapidly
Magic mushrooms, or mushrooms containing psilocybin, are considered to have a low risk of addiction. However, tolerance to the drug's effects can develop rapidly with continued use. This means that even high amounts of the drug will no longer produce the desired effect.
Psilocybin is a hallucinogenic substance found in certain types of mushrooms, commonly referred to as 'magic mushrooms'. It is a Schedule I substance, meaning that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) believes it has a high potential for abuse and serves no legitimate medical purpose. However, current research does not indicate that psilocybin is addictive. In fact, small clinical trials have shown that psilocybin can have positive effects on people suffering from treatment-resistant major depressive disorder. Based on this research, the US Food and Drug Administration has described psilocybin as a breakthrough medicine.
The effects of psilocybin vary widely and can range from euphoria to hallucinations. Some people may experience adverse side effects such as disturbing hallucinations, anxiety, and panic. However, these side effects are often mild or moderate and may resolve with time. It is important to note that the only way to eliminate the risk of a bad trip is by not taking magic mushrooms. Additionally, magic mushrooms can affect everyone differently, and factors such as mood, environment, and previous encounters with psychedelic drugs can influence the experience.
While magic mushrooms have a low risk of addiction, it is possible to become tolerant to their effects with regular use. This tolerance can develop rapidly, and discontinuing use for a week or so is typically enough to return to normal tolerance levels. It is worth mentioning that the use of magic mushrooms rarely results in any life-threatening symptoms. However, there is a risk of poisoning from mistaking poisonous mushrooms for magic mushrooms, which can be dangerous and even fatal.
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