Mushrooms: Can They Damage Your Brain Permanently?

Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are mushrooms that contain the hallucinogenic drugs psilocin or psilocybin. They are mostly illegal in the US, but some cities have decriminalized their possession. While they are considered one of the least toxic drugs known, with no recorded cases of death solely attributed to typical doses, they can cause unpleasant and dangerous side effects, including disturbing hallucinations, anxiety, paranoia, and psychosis. The impact of magic mushrooms varies from person to person, and while some users report positive changes, such as increased openness and creativity, others may experience negative effects, such as heightened impulsivity or difficulties in social functioning. In rare cases, the use of magic mushrooms can lead to persistent psychosis, a condition known as hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD) or flashbacks. While physical symptoms are rare, the combination of magic mushrooms with other substances can be dangerous and may cause significant damage to the brain.

Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD)

The core features of HPPD include perceptual disturbances that are mainly visual in nature, such as geometric imagery, afterimages, flashes of light, and perceptual distortions. These disturbances can also affect the auditory sense and produce tinnitus-like symptoms. HPPD has been associated with abnormal results in tests of visual function, suggesting disinhibition in the processing of visual information.

The main neurobiological hypothesis regarding the cause of HPPD suggests that it may be linked to the destruction or dysfunction of cortical serotonergic inhibitory interneurons with gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABAergic) outputs, which are implicated in sensory filtering mechanisms. Treatment options for HPPD include pre-synaptic α2 adrenergic agonists, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), benzodiazepines, and mood stabilizers.

Outside of pharmacotherapy, recovery from HPPPD can be achieved through psychological and social means. Case reports suggest that anxiety reduction, muscle relaxation, and reframing one's visual phenomena through personal destigmatization and normalization may be helpful. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) has also shown promise in treating HPPD and its associated symptoms, such as depersonalization-derealization disorder.

While the exact prevalence of HPPD is unknown, it is considered relatively rare, and no physical changes or neurological damage have been associated with its cause. However, it is important to note that HPPD can be a distressing and disruptive experience for those who suffer from it.

Increased heart rate and blood pressure

Psilocybin, the hallucinogenic chemical found in magic mushrooms, can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. These effects are considered mild and are usually side effects of emotional intensification. The increase in heart rate and blood pressure is dose-dependent, with higher doses leading to more significant increases. However, these changes are typically transient and do not require medical intervention.

The impact of psilocybin mushrooms can vary depending on individual factors such as body type, dosage, and frequency of use. It is important to note that the potential risks associated with psychedelic drugs like psilocybin mushrooms are mostly psychological rather than physical. Physically, psilocybin mushrooms are considered one of the least toxic drugs known, and lethal doses are extremely rare.

While psilocybin mushrooms are not considered addictive, regular use may lead to tolerance and cross-tolerance with other drugs. Additionally, there is a risk of experiencing disturbing hallucinations, anxiety, paranoia, and short-term psychosis. The risk of a "bad trip" increases with higher doses or if the user has feelings of anxiety beforehand.

To minimize risks, it is recommended to start with low doses and gradually increase if necessary. It is also important to consume psilocybin mushrooms in a safe and comfortable environment, preferably with a trusted person present. Creating a conducive setting and surrounding yourself with positive influences can enhance the overall experience.

Although rare, there have been reported cases of cardiac issues related to mushroom consumption. For example, a patient experienced cardiac death, likely due to cardiac arrhythmia, ten years after a heart transplant. It is important to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of using psilocybin mushrooms and to seek support if necessary.

Poisoning from picking the wrong types of mushrooms

Mushrooms are a type of fungus with a wide range of health benefits. However, some mushrooms are toxic and can cause poisoning if ingested. Poisonous mushrooms may emit an unpleasant smell, taste bad, or turn rice red when boiled. Still, there is no definitive test to distinguish between edible and poisonous mushrooms other than having them identified by a mushroom expert.

The symptoms of mushroom poisoning vary from slight gastrointestinal discomfort to potentially fatal conditions such as liver failure, kidney failure, and neurological issues. The severity of symptoms depends on the type and potency of the mushroom, the dose ingested, and the individual's body type. Some mushrooms, such as the "'death cap' (Amanita phalloides), contain lethal amounts of amatoxin, which blocks DNA replication and leads to cell death. Other toxic mushrooms include Paxillus involutus, Tricholoma equestre, and Pleurocybella porrigens or "angel's wings".

It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if mushroom poisoning is suspected. In Australia, the Victorian Poisons Information Centre can be contacted for advice and assistance. To prevent mushroom poisoning, it is recommended to only consume mushrooms purchased from reputable sources such as supermarkets or greengrocers and to familiarize oneself with the appearance of toxic mushroom species.

While psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as "'magic mushrooms' or "shrooms," are considered psychologically addictive, they are physically non-addictive and have a low toxicity. The risks associated with their use are primarily psychological and include disturbing hallucinations, anxiety, paranoia, and short-term psychosis. However, there is a rare phenomenon called Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) or "flashbacks," where perceptual changes can last for weeks or months after drug use.

Heightened impulsivity or difficulties in social functioning

While the physical effects of psilocybin mushrooms are generally minor and short-term, the psychological effects can be more profound and long-lasting. Some users report positive psychological changes, such as increased openness, creativity, and a greater sense of spirituality. However, others may experience negative psychological effects, such as heightened impulsivity or difficulties in social functioning.

Heightened impulsivity can lead to dangerous and unpredictable behaviour, which may result in injuries. This can be further exacerbated by the distorted perception and hallucinations that psilocybin causes. For example, a person may act on a hallucination in a way that puts themselves or others at risk. The risk of impulsive behaviour may be heightened if a person takes a higher dose of psilocybin or has feelings of anxiety before taking it.

Difficulties in social functioning can manifest in various ways, such as increased anxiety, paranoia, and mood swings. These effects can make it challenging for a person to interact and communicate effectively with others. The social difficulties may be particularly pronounced if a person experiences "bad trips" or negative hallucinations, which can lead to feelings of distress and discomfort.

The impact of psilocybin mushrooms on impulsivity and social functioning can vary depending on individual differences, dosage, and frequency of use. It is important to note that while psilocybin is not considered physically addictive, psychological dependence on the psychedelic experience can develop. This can lead to a compulsion to use mushrooms to recreate desired experiences or cope with emotional challenges, further impairing social functioning.

To minimise the potential negative effects on impulsivity and social functioning, it is crucial to follow harm reduction strategies when using psilocybin mushrooms. This includes educating oneself about proper dosage, effects, and potential risks, starting with low doses, and creating a safe and comfortable environment when consuming mushrooms.

Short-term physical effects

The short-term physical effects of consuming psilocybin mushrooms, or "shrooms", can vary from person to person and depend on factors such as dosage, body type, and the individual's emotional state. Generally, the physical effects of psilocybin mushrooms are considered minor and not addictive. However, some common short-term physical reactions include dilated pupils, elevated blood pressure, increased heart rate, nausea, increased perspiration, numbing, and tremors. These physical symptoms can make psychological symptoms like anxiety, panic attacks, paranoia, and mood swings appear more pronounced.

The intensity of the experience also depends on factors such as dosage, set, and setting. Higher doses of psilocybin can increase the risk of a "bad trip", which may lead to disturbing hallucinations, anxiety, paranoia, and short-term psychosis. During a bad trip, individuals may experience a break from reality, leading to psychotic symptoms such as feeling like they are being watched or displaying visual disturbances, disorganized thinking, and mood changes.

In addition to the immediate physical effects, the consumption of psilocybin mushrooms can also result in short-term gastrointestinal illness, with severe instances requiring medical attention. The mushrooms themselves may be contaminated with other substances by dealers, increasing the risk of poisoning and causing damage to the brain and other organs. For example, the consumption of certain species of mushrooms can lead to liver toxicity, while others may cause seizures or cholinergic toxicity, resulting in abdominal cramping, increased sweating, salivation, and other symptoms.

While not all users will experience negative physical effects, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with consuming psilocybin mushrooms. The effects of psilocybin mushrooms can be powerful and profound, and individuals should take harm-reduction measures such as starting with low doses and ensuring a safe and comfortable environment when consuming these substances.

Frequently asked questions