Hangover Cure: Can Mushrooms Help?

While it is generally understood that psilocybin mushrooms, or shrooms, do not cause hangovers in the way that alcohol or MDMA does, some people do report feeling pretty rough the day after taking them. Characterised by pounding headaches, nausea, and a general feeling of being unwell, these so-called shroom hangovers are not yet fully understood by science. However, some people have reported that staying hydrated and taking supplements such as potassium, vitamin D, and probiotics can help to alleviate the symptoms of a shroom hangover.

Shroom hangovers: fact or fiction?

There is some evidence to suggest that hangovers from shrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, may be possible. While the ""trip"" from shrooms is intense, it is not comparable to a hangover from alcohol or other drugs. However, some people have reported feeling rough the day after taking shrooms, experiencing symptoms like headaches, nausea, and general discomfort. It is important to note that the cause of these hangover-like symptoms is not yet fully understood, and more research is needed in this area.

The active substance in shrooms, psilocybin, is a serotonin receptor agonist. Unlike MDMA, which blocks serotonin reuptake, psilocybin does not deplete serotonin levels in the brain. Instead, it appears to decrease serotonin release by depressing the activity of neurons. This means that the hangover-like symptoms associated with shrooms are not due to serotonin depletion, as is the case with MDMA.

Some people have suggested that shroom hangovers may be related to serotonin activity and super-sensitivity to serotonin in isolated parts of the brain. However, this theory is not yet supported by definitive research. Additionally, it is important to note that psilocybin is being studied for its potential in treating migraines, which further complicates the understanding of its relationship with headaches and hangover-like symptoms.

To alleviate the hangover-like symptoms associated with shroom use, some people have found that staying hydrated before and during the trip can help prevent headaches. Others have suggested taking supplements like potassium, vitamin D, functional mushrooms, probiotics, and CBD to support the body and mind before, during, and after a psychedelic journey. Getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and staying hydrated are also recommended. While the ill effects of a shroom hangover are transient, it is always important to pay attention to what your body needs during the recovery process.

In conclusion, while shroom hangovers may not be as severe as those associated with alcohol or other drugs, they can still cause discomfort for some individuals. More research is needed to fully understand the cause of these hangover-like symptoms and how to effectively manage them. It is always important to approach the use of substances like shrooms with caution and to prioritize your health and safety, especially when combining with other substances such as alcohol, LSD, or weed.

Do shrooms deplete serotonin?

Shroom hangovers are real, and while they are not as bad as a hangover from binge drinking, they can cause pounding headaches, nausea, and general sickness. Shroom hangovers may be related to serotonin activity, but this is not certain. Psilocybin, once converted to psilocin in the body, appears to decrease serotonin release by depressing the activity of neurons. However, the headache that follows a shroom trip is not a result of reduced serotonin but rather a super-sensitivity to serotonin in isolated parts of the brain once the direct pharmacological effects of psilocin wear off.

Psilocybin is the main psychedelic component of magic mushrooms, and it stimulates serotonin 2A receptors (5-HT2ARs) in the brain. It is believed that psilocybin's activation of serotonin receptors reduces the energy needed for the brain to switch between different activity states. This results in a stronger communication between parts of the brain that are normally disconnected from each other, and a different connectivity pattern in the brain that is only present in a hallucinogenic state.

While shrooms do not deplete serotonin in the same way that MDMA does, some people take serotonin supplements after a trip to combat the hangover feeling. However, it is important to note that the cause of shroom hangovers is still unclear, and more research is needed to fully determine what causes them. In the meantime, staying hydrated before and after a trip is a good way to avoid a shroom hangover.

How to prep to avoid a hangover

Although there is limited scientific research on the topic, some people do experience a hangover after consuming mushrooms. This hangover is not as bad as one from a night of binge drinking, but it can cause headaches, nausea, and a general feeling of being unwell.

If you want to avoid a mushroom hangover, here are some preparation tips to follow:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after consuming mushrooms. Dehydration is often cited as a cause of headaches and feeling unwell after taking mushrooms, so make sure you have a glass of water handy.
• Take supplements: Although there is no clinical evidence, some people suggest taking supplements such as potassium, vitamin D, functional mushrooms (lion's mane, cordyceps, reishi, etc.), probiotics, and CBD. These supplements are believed to support your mind and body, ease emotional distress, and boost your immune and gut health.
• Avoid mixing substances: Do not combine mushrooms with alcohol or other drugs, as this can lead to unpredictable and dangerous results. Mixing mushrooms with alcohol may alter your level of intoxication, leading to accidents or bodily injury. It can also be dangerous to mix mushrooms with other psychedelics, such as LSD or peyote, as it can boost the intoxicating effects.
• Plan ahead: Avoid consuming mushrooms the night before work or important activities. The trip may last around 6 hours, but your thoughts may still be affected the next day, impacting your concentration and focus.
• Start with a low dose: If you are new to mushrooms, start with a small dose and increase gradually. This will help you gauge your body's reaction and reduce the risk of an intense experience or hangover.
• Eat a healthy meal beforehand: Eating a nutritious meal and taking care of your body before consuming mushrooms can help you feel more grounded and reduce the intensity of any potential hangover symptoms.

Remember, the effects of mushrooms can vary from person to person, and more research is needed to fully understand their impact. Always be mindful of your body's reactions and seek medical advice if you have any concerns.

Supplements to take before and after

While there is limited research on the effects of mushrooms on hangovers, there are several supplements that can be taken before and after drinking alcohol to help prevent and cure a hangover.

Supplements to Take Before Drinking Alcohol

To help prevent a hangover, it is recommended to take supplements that support liver function and reduce oxidative stress. Some supplements that can be taken before drinking alcohol include:

• Liver support supplements, such as milk thistle, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), and glutathione, which help protect the liver and reduce oxidative damage.
• B-complex vitamins, including vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B6, and vitamin B12, which can be lost due to excessive urination caused by alcohol's diuretic effect.
• Myrkl, a supplement containing bacteria and L-cysteine, which has been shown to break down alcohol and help combat tiredness and fatigue.
• BioStack Labs Cell Shield, a supplement containing glutathione, liposomal vitamin C, and chlorella, which supports liver function and reduces oxidative stress.
• Pantethine, which helps the liver process alcohol and reduce the production of aldehydes, which contribute to hangover symptoms.
• Curcumin (turmeric and black pepper) and cannabis, which have been shown to reduce oxidative stress in the liver.

It is also important to stay hydrated while drinking alcohol, as dehydration is a major contributor to hangover headaches.

Supplements to Take After Drinking Alcohol

In addition to continuing to take liver support supplements and B-complex vitamins, there are a few other supplements that can be taken after drinking alcohol to help cure a hangover:

• Electrolyte powder, such as LMNT or Liquid IV, to replace lost electrolytes and rehydrate the body.
• Vitamin C, which is included in some antioxidant formulas, can help boost overall health and reduce the negative effects of drinking alcohol.
• Dihydromyricetine (DHM), which helps the body metabolize alcohol faster and can be taken the morning after drinking to help speed up the recovery process.

It is also recommended to eat fruit and vegetables while drinking alcohol, as they can provide essential vitamins and minerals that may be lost due to excessive urination.

Mixing shrooms with other substances

Although magic mushrooms are considered to have a low risk profile when taken on their own, they are significantly more dangerous when taken with other substances. Mixing mushrooms with other drugs can cause unpredictable results and is considered a high-risk activity by experts.

Mixing mushrooms with alcohol

Combining mushrooms with alcohol can lead to unpredictable and intensified effects, side effects, and risks. Some people report that mixing the two substances lessens the effect of each drug, while others find it makes it more difficult to think clearly. Drinking alcohol while taking mushrooms can also increase the risk of a ""bad trip," which may include frightening hallucinations and emotions. The psilocybin in mushrooms may reduce the perceived effects of alcohol, potentially leading to increased alcohol consumption.

Mixing mushrooms with stimulants

Mushrooms interact particularly badly with stimulants, as both can increase heart rate and blood pressure.

Mixing mushrooms with depressants

Combining mushrooms with depressants like alcohol and opioids can increase the risk of accidents and injuries.

Mixing mushrooms with hallucinogens

Mushrooms should not be mixed with other hallucinogens, such as LSD or peyote, as this can dangerously boost the intoxicating effects of the drugs.

Mixing mushrooms with antidepressants

Mushrooms should not be taken with any other substance that acts on serotonin, such as antidepressants, as this could lead to serotonin syndrome, which can be fatal.

Mixing mushrooms with cannabis

Psilocybin and marijuana are a common combination, with nearly 60% of university students who had recently taken magic mushrooms reporting that they consumed cannabis at the same time. However, users have reported adverse effects when combining these two substances.

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