Emily Johnson
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms, shrooms, mushies, blue meanies, golden tops, liberty caps, philosopher's stones, liberties, amani, and agaric, are wild or cultivated mushrooms that contain psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychoactive and hallucinogenic compound. They are mostly illegal in the US and other parts of the world, but some people use them as a recreational drug, for spiritual experiences, or for self-discovery and exploration. While they are considered relatively safe, with serious incidents being rare and short-lasting, there are still risks associated with their use, including the possibility of a bad trip, accidental poisoning from consuming the wrong type of mushroom, and unpredictable behaviour which can lead to injuries.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Psilocybin mushrooms have been found to have minimal harmful effects and could potentially benefit those with depression. However, they remain illegal in most places and carry risks that people should recognize. |
| Addiction | Psilocybin has a low risk of addiction, and no physical symptoms occur after stopping use. However, further research is necessary. |
| Side Effects | Euphoria, sensory distortion, anxiety, panic, paranoia, nervousness, nausea, yawning, drowsiness, disturbing hallucinations, and psychosis. |
| Poisoning | There is a big risk of accidentally taking the wrong kind of mushroom, which can result in poisoning. Poisonous mushrooms can share the same visual characteristics as psilocybin mushrooms. |
| Treatment | Out of 9,233 past-year magic mushroom users, 19 (0.2%) reported having sought emergency medical treatment, with a per-event risk estimate of 0.06%. |
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What You'll Learn
- Magic mushrooms are mostly illegal in the US
- They are not physically addictive
- There is a risk of accidental poisoning from mistaking toxic mushrooms for psilocybin mushrooms
- They can cause disturbing hallucinations, anxiety, panic, paranoia and psychosis
- They have been found to have minimal harmful effects and could benefit those with depression
Magic mushrooms are mostly illegal in the US
Magic mushrooms, or shrooms, are mostly illegal in the US. They are classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) believes they have a high potential for abuse and serve no legitimate medical purpose. This classification makes it illegal to possess, sell, or grow magic mushrooms under federal and most state laws. However, there are some exceptions and evolving legal landscapes that are important to note.
In 2020, Oregon became the first US state to decriminalize psilocybin, and Colorado followed suit in 2021. While these states have legalized certain uses, it is important to understand that these permitted uses conflict with federal law. Additionally, a few cities have passed measures to decriminalize magic mushrooms, making investigations and arrests for possession and personal use among the lowest priorities for law enforcement. These cities include Washington D.C., Seattle, Ann Arbor, Oakland, and Santa Cruz. However, these resolutions do not change the underlying legality of magic mushrooms, and county, state, and federal officials are not bound by these local policies.
The evolving legal status of psilocybin in the US is influenced by a growing body of research highlighting its potential therapeutic benefits. For example, studies have shown that psilocybin can lead to sustained network alterations in the brain, which correlate with reduced depression symptoms. This scientific interest, coupled with increasing social acceptance, is contributing to legal changes and a push for reclassification of the substance. The International Therapeutic Psilocybin Rescheduling Initiative, a coalition of research and advocacy organizations, is advocating for the World Health Organization to review the evidence and potentially reclassify psilocybin.
Despite the illegal status of psilocybin in most of the US, it is important to recognize that its use and availability are still prevalent. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 8.8 million Americans aged 12 and older used hallucinogens, including psilocybin, in 2023. Adults aged 18 to 25 were the most frequent users. Additionally, the use of magic mushrooms carries certain risks, such as the possibility of ingesting poisonous mushrooms, which can lead to symptoms like muscle spasms, confusion, and delirium. Therefore, it is crucial to consult local laws and healthcare professionals before considering the use of any unknown substance, including magic mushrooms.
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They are not physically addictive
Psilocybin mushrooms, often simply called "magic mushrooms," have been used for centuries in various cultural and religious contexts for their psychedelic effects. With an increasing global interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, it is important to understand the safety profile of psilocybin mushrooms. While these mushrooms can induce profound psychological effects, they are not considered physically addictive.
Psilocybin mushrooms do not produce the same compulsive drug-seeking behavior or intense cravings typically associated with physically addictive substances. The key characteristic of physical addiction is the development of physiological dependence, which leads to withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of the substance. With psilocybin mushrooms, there is no evidence of the development of physical dependence, and therefore, no withdrawal syndrome has been identified. Users do not experience the same intense physical need to consume psilocybin mushrooms as they might with addictive drugs like heroin or cocaine.
The psychedelic effects of psilocybin mushrooms are primarily attributed to the presence of the compounds psilocybin and psilocin. These compounds act on serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly the 5-HT2A receptors, resulting in altered perception, mood, and thought processes. However, unlike addictive drugs, psilocybin does not significantly affect the dopamine reward pathways in the brain, which are strongly implicated in the development of addiction. This distinction is crucial because it means that psilocybin does not stimulate the brain's reward system in the same way as addictive substances, reducing the likelihood of developing a physical dependence.
Additionally, the psychological effects of psilocybin mushrooms tend to diminish with repeated use over a short period, a phenomenon known as tolerance. This tolerance further reduces the potential for physical addiction as users would need to consume increasingly larger doses to achieve the same effects, making sustained use unappealing or impractical. It is important to note that while psilocybin mushrooms may not be physically addictive, they can still pose risks when used recreationally, particularly when used in uncontrolled settings or by individuals with certain pre-existing mental health conditions.
In conclusion, while psilocybin mushrooms can induce powerful psychological effects, they are distinct from physically addictive substances. The lack of effect on the dopamine reward pathway, the development of rapid tolerance, and the absence of a withdrawal syndrome strongly suggest that psilocybin mushrooms do not lead to physical dependence. However, this does not negate the potential risks associated with their use, and further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and safety profile of these substances. Responsible use and a harm-reduction approach are always recommended when considering the use of any substance with psychedelic properties.
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There is a risk of accidental poisoning from mistaking toxic mushrooms for psilocybin mushrooms
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms, are not a harmless substance. While they are the safest "recreational" drug to take, according to the 2017 Global Drug Survey, and serious incidents are rare and short-lasting, there is a risk of accidental poisoning from mistaking toxic mushrooms for psilocybin mushrooms.
Magic mushrooms are mostly illegal in the US and are classified as a Schedule I substance, meaning that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) believes they have a high potential for abuse and serve no legitimate medical purpose. However, they have been found to have minimal harmful effects and could potentially benefit those with depression.
Psilocybin is a hallucinogenic chemical found in certain mushrooms, and eating these mushrooms can have a variety of effects, ranging from euphoria to hallucinations. The effects of magic mushrooms usually begin within 20 to 40 minutes and can last up to 6 hours. The mushrooms can be eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. They can also be mixed with food items to mask their bitter taste.
There are four types of psilocybin mushrooms: Inocybe geophylla, Gymnopilus luteofolius, Psilocybe semilanceata, and Panaeolus cyanescens. However, it is not safe to consume a mushroom based solely on these visual characteristics, as poisonous mushrooms can share these exact traits. Many people choose to work with a guide or grow their own mushrooms at home to reduce the risk of accidental poisoning.
Symptoms of mushroom poisoning may include muscle spasms, confusion, and delirium, and people experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. It is important to be careful when taking any type of drug, including magic mushrooms, and to be aware of the potential risks and side effects.
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They can cause disturbing hallucinations, anxiety, panic, paranoia and psychosis
Psilocybin mushrooms, often referred to as "magic mushrooms," contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin, which can induce a range of mental and emotional effects. While some users may experience pleasant and uplifting sensations, others may encounter unpleasant and dangerous side effects, including disturbing hallucinations, anxiety, panic, paranoia, and psychosis. These negative psychological impacts can be deeply unsettling and even life-threatening in rare cases. Disturbing hallucinations can range from mildly uncomfortable to completely terrifying, causing users to question their sense of reality and perceive completely distorted and often dark interpretations of their surroundings. This can be especially dangerous if the user is in a public place or engaging in activities that require clear judgment and coordination, such as driving.
The anxiety and panic induced by psilocybin mushrooms can be intense and overwhelming. Users may experience a sense of losing control, detachment from reality, and a feeling of impending doom. These feelings can be exacerbated in an unfamiliar or uncontrolled environment and may lead to impulsive and potentially harmful behavior. Paranoia, or the feeling of extreme, unwarranted suspicion and distrust, is also a common adverse effect. This can lead to users acting in ways that are out of character and may put themselves or others at risk.
In more severe cases, psilocybin mushrooms can trigger full-blown psychosis, a break with reality characterized by distorted perceptions, impaired judgment, and the inability to think clearly. This can be extremely frightening for the user and those around them, and it may require medical intervention to ensure the safety of all involved. It is important to recognize that the effects of psilocybin mushrooms are highly variable and depend on numerous factors, including the user's personality, mental state, environment, and dosage. Even in controlled settings, these substances can produce unpredictable results.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the long-term effects of psilocybin mushroom use are not fully understood. Some research suggests that repeated use may increase the risk of developing mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders, especially in individuals with a pre-existing vulnerability to such conditions. In conclusion, while some may argue for the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin mushrooms when used in a controlled therapeutic setting, it is undeniable that they carry significant risks. These substances should be approached with caution and a thorough understanding of the potential dangers. Responsible and informed decision-making is essential when considering the use of any psychoactive substance.
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They have been found to have minimal harmful effects and could benefit those with depression
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms, are not a harmless substance. However, they have been found to have minimal harmful effects and could potentially benefit those with depression.
According to the 2017 Global Drug Survey, out of almost 10,000 people who took them, only 0.2% needed emergency medical treatment. This makes magic mushrooms the safest "recreational" drug to take, according to the survey. While the use of magic mushrooms rarely results in any life-threatening symptoms, there is a risk of accidental poisoning from eating the wrong type of mushroom. Poisonous mushrooms can look very similar to psilocybin mushrooms, and symptoms of mushroom poisoning may include muscle spasms, confusion, and delirium.
Magic mushrooms can cause hallucinations, anxiety, panic, and depersonalisation. However, studies show that people still value the experience as meaningful, and there is no evidence of increased mental health problems from habitual use. In fact, some research suggests that psilocybin may help relieve symptoms of some mental health conditions, including depression. Psilocybin is believed to influence serotonin in the brain, leading to altered and unusual perceptions.
It is important to note that psilocybin mushrooms are illegal in most places, and there are risks associated with their use. However, with proper harm-reduction information, the risk of adverse effects can be mitigated.
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Frequently asked questions
Psilocybin mushrooms are not harmless. They are a hallucinogenic drug and can cause side effects such as nausea, yawning, drowsiness, nervousness, paranoia, panic, hallucinations, and psychosis. However, they are considered relatively safe, with serious incidents being rare and short-lasting.
The risks of taking psilocybin mushrooms include the possibility of a bad trip, which can cause anxiety, panic, and paranoia. There is also a risk of accidental poisoning from eating the wrong type of mushroom, which can be fatal. In addition, psilocybin mushrooms are illegal in many places and can carry legal risks.
The effects of psilocybin mushrooms can vary widely and can include euphoria, hallucinations, and a distorted sense of time. The effects typically last for 3 to 6 hours and can be influenced by factors such as mood and environment.
Current research suggests that psilocybin mushrooms are not addictive, and there are no physical withdrawal symptoms associated with stopping use. However, regular use can lead to tolerance, and cross-tolerance with other drugs such as LSD and mescaline may occur.
