Emily Johnson
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are psychedelic drugs that contain psilocybin and cause hallucinations. They are often consumed fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. While some people report feeling energetic and stimulated after consuming mushrooms, others do not classify them as uppers, as they do not affect dopamine transmitters like typical stimulants. Instead, they bond with the brain's serotonin receptors, causing hallucinations and heightened emotions. The effects of magic mushrooms are highly variable and can depend on an individual's mood, expectations, and environment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Drug | Hallucinogen, Psychedelic |
| Effects | Hallucinations, heightened emotions, perceptual changes, sedation, stimulation, energy, euphoria, slight loss of identity, heightened vulnerability to visual signals |
| Duration of Effects | 4-6 hours |
| Consumption Methods | Fresh, cooked, brewed into tea, dried material in capsules, mushroom caps, ground up in a capsule |
| Safety | Not considered life-threatening, may cause bad trip, negative psychological effects, flashbacks, delayed headaches |
| Addiction | No physical dependence, mild psychological withdrawal effects |
| Treatment | Used to treat anxiety, PTSD, addiction, obsessive-compulsive disorder |
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What You'll Learn
Magic mushrooms are hallucinogens
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin, are naturally occurring fungi that are consumed for their hallucinogenic effects. They are classified as psychedelic drugs, which can affect all the senses, altering a person's thinking, sense of time, emotions, and perception of reality. The key ingredient in magic mushrooms is psilocybin, which is converted into psilocin in the body. Psilocin is the chemical that possesses psychoactive properties.
Magic mushrooms are typically eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. They can also be crushed into a powder and encapsulated, or covered in chocolate to mask their bitter taste. The effects of magic mushrooms usually begin within 15-45 minutes and can last between four to six hours. During this time, individuals may experience hallucinations, heightened emotions, and an altered state of consciousness.
The effects of magic mushrooms vary from person to person, and some people may experience a "bad trip." A bad trip can include adverse side effects such as anxiety, fear, nausea, and muscle twitches, accompanied by increased heart rate and blood pressure. In rare cases, a large dose or a strong batch of mushrooms can lead to life-threatening symptoms.
It is important to note that magic mushrooms closely resemble certain types of poisonous mushrooms, and consuming the wrong type can result in poisoning or even death. Therefore, it is crucial to accurately identify the mushrooms before consumption and be aware of the potential risks associated with the use of hallucinogenic substances.
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They are not classified as 'uppers'
Psilocybin, commonly known as magic mushrooms, are not classified as uppers. They are instead considered hallucinogens or psychedelics, which is a distinct class from stimulants (uppers) and depressants (downers). While some individuals may feel energetic after consuming magic mushrooms, this effect is not consistent across all users.
Magic mushrooms are naturally occurring substances that can induce hallucinations and alter an individual's thinking, sense of time, emotions, and perceptions. They are known to affect everyone differently, and their effects can vary based on factors such as dosage, method of consumption, and individual differences in mood and environment.
The key ingredient in magic mushrooms is psilocybin, which is converted by the body into psilocin, the chemical responsible for the psychoactive properties of the mushrooms. Psilocybin activates serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly in the visual cortex, resulting in visual hallucinations and other perceptual changes.
While magic mushrooms can induce a range of psychological effects, they do not typically lead to physical dependence. Additionally, there are relatively few known withdrawal effects associated with their use. However, it is important to note that the use of any drug, including magic mushrooms, carries inherent risks. Individuals should exercise caution and be aware of potential negative consequences, such as bad trips or disturbing flashbacks involving previous mushroom experiences.
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They can cause heightened emotions and a loss of identity
Psilocybin, or magic mushrooms, are hallucinogenic drugs that can cause heightened emotions and a loss of identity. They are known to induce a range of emotional responses, from euphoria and bliss to terror, anxiety, paranoia, and panic. While the effects of psilocybin vary from person to person, some users have reported experiencing a sense of "ego death" or a loss of identity during their trip.
Magic mushrooms affect the serotoninergic system in the brain, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation. By acting on this system, mushrooms can potentially help restore the balance of serotonin in the body, which may explain their long-lasting benefits in reducing anxiety and depression. However, it's important to note that psilocybin can also cause unpleasant emotions and negative experiences, such as frightening hallucinations, paranoia, and fear.
The loss of identity described by some mushroom users is a result of the drug separating one's true self from external influences, including their body, thoughts, and memories. This sense of detachment can be disconcerting and confusing, as individuals realize that their identity and personality are not permanent fixtures. It's important to approach this state with an open mind and to remember that it's a normal part of the mushroom experience.
The effects of magic mushrooms typically last between four and six hours, and they can cause perceptual changes, such as visual and auditory hallucinations. They can also distort one's sense of time and space, leading to a feeling of being disconnected from reality. It's worth noting that the effects of magic mushrooms can vary depending on factors such as dosage, individual biology, and environment.
While some people have reported positive outcomes from using mushrooms, it's important to approach them with caution. The potential risks and benefits of psilocybin are still being studied, and it's crucial to be aware of the possibility of negative side effects, especially when consuming unregulated substances.
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They can be eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea
Mushrooms are versatile and can be eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. They are a great addition to various cuisines and recipes, packing a savoury umami flavour. While they are technically fungi, nutritionally they resemble vegetables and are rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and selenium. Certain mushrooms are also a source of vitamin D, having been exposed to UV light during the growing process.
When eating mushrooms raw, ensure they are firm, dry, and free from any spots or slime. Clean them with a soft brush or a slightly damp paper towel. You can slice them and add them to a salad or sandwich.
Cooked mushrooms are also a delicious and nutritious option. Again, be sure to select mushrooms that are dry and firm. To cook, heat some olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms in a single layer and leave them undisturbed for 3-5 minutes, until they develop some colour. Then, stir and spread them out again to brown the other side. Season with salt and pepper, and, if desired, add some butter, garlic, lemon zest, thyme, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a light, buttery sauce. You can also mix cooked mushrooms into ground beef or turkey for dishes like Mushroom Beef Sloppy Joes.
Mushrooms can also be brewed into a tea, often referred to as "shroom tea" or "psilocybin tea". This method involves steeping an eighth of shrooms in 2-3 cups of hot water for at least 10 minutes. After steeping, strain the mixture into a teapot using a sieve or coffee filter. You can add honey, ginger, or other tea additives at this stage. Shroom tea is said to offer a controlled experience without the sugar or allergens that may be present in mushroom-infused food products. However, it's important to note that the use of any drug, including magic mushrooms, carries risks, and it's crucial to exercise caution.
Whether eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed, mushrooms are a tasty and nutritious option. However, it is important to distinguish between ordinary mushrooms and magic mushrooms (Psilocybin), which can induce hallucinations and have other psychological effects. Magic mushrooms can be dangerous and even life-threatening in large doses or if consumed in combination with certain medications. Always consult a trusted source when handling and consuming mushrooms.
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They are not physically addictive
While the use of magic mushrooms can lead to a variety of effects, including hallucinations, perceptual changes, heightened emotions, and a loss of identity, they are not physically addictive. Magic mushrooms are naturally occurring psychedelics, which are distinct from stimulants ("uppers") and depressants ("downers").
Mushrooms do not appear to cause physical dependence, and users generally do not experience significant withdrawal effects. This means that individuals who use mushrooms can typically stop without experiencing strong physical cravings or other challenging physical symptoms associated with withdrawal from physically addictive substances.
While there may be some mild psychological effects associated with stopping mushroom use, such as tiredness, these are not indicative of a physical addiction. Additionally, the potential for flashbacks involving previous mushroom experiences, which can occur even years after last use, is not indicative of physical addiction either.
It is important to note that while mushrooms may not be physically addictive, they can still impact an individual's life in various ways. If mushroom use is affecting one's health, family, relationships, work, school, finances, or other areas of life, it may be necessary to seek help and support.
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