Emma Wilson
Mushrooms are fungi that have a variety of uses and benefits. They are a good source of vitamin D, help lower sodium and cholesterol levels, and stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in the body. Certain mushrooms, such as magic mushrooms or psilocybin, are known for their hallucinogenic effects and are consumed for recreational purposes. Interestingly, recent research suggests that mushrooms may even possess a form of communication, exhibiting patterns of electrical spikes that resemble a vocabulary of up to 50 words. While the interpretation of these spikes as a language is still debated, it showcases the intriguing complexities of mushrooms and fungi.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mushrooms communicate with each other | Using up to 50 'words' |
| This communication is | Electrical impulses |
| These impulses are generated when | The hyphae of wood-digesting fungi come into contact with wooden blocks |
| Purpose of communication | To share information about food or injury with distant parts of themselves or with hyphae-connected partners such as trees |
| Spiking events | Do not appear to be random |
| Spiking patterns | Resemble vocabularies of human languages |
| Human languages with similar patterns | English, Chinese, and Spanish |
| Health benefits | Rich in Vitamin D, B6, and Selenium |
| Low in sodium | |
| Help reduce cholesterol levels | |
| Stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria | |
| Support a healthy immune system | |
| May reduce the risk of developing Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) | |
| Magic mushrooms | Affect a person's thinking, sense of time, and emotions |
| Can cause hallucinations | |
| Can cause delayed headaches | |
| May experience flashbacks involving previous mushroom experiences |
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What You'll Learn
Mushrooms communicate with each other using up to 50 'words'
Mushrooms, or fungi, have long been considered silent and self-contained organisms. However, recent research has revealed that they may be sophisticated communicators, using electrical impulses to exchange information.
Prof Andrew Adamatzky from the University of the West of England's unconventional computing laboratory in Bristol led a study that analysed the electrical spikes generated by four species of fungi: enoki, split gill, ghost, and caterpillar fungi. The research, published in Royal Society Open Science, found that these spikes often formed patterns resembling vocabularies of up to 50 words. Interestingly, the distribution of these "fungal word lengths" closely matched those of human languages.
The study suggested that this electrical "language" could be used by fungi to share information about food sources, potential dangers, or injuries with distant parts of themselves or with connected partners such as trees. The firing rate of these impulses increases when the fungi come into contact with food sources or potential threats, indicating a possible communication of important information.
While the research provides intriguing insights into mushroom communication, some scientists remain cautious. They acknowledge the presence of rhythmic patterns in electric signals but seek more evidence before accepting them as a definitive form of language.
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The health benefits of mushrooms
Mushrooms are a fungus and a popular ingredient in dishes around the world. They are also increasingly being recognised for their health benefits.
Firstly, mushrooms are nutrient-dense and low in calories, making them an excellent addition to any diet. They are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Mushrooms are also one of the few non-animal sources of vitamin D, which is vital for bone and immune health. In fact, mushrooms exposed to UV light or sunlight can increase their vitamin D amounts. White button, portabella, and cremini mushrooms provide the most vitamin D after exposure to UV light or sunlight.
Secondly, mushrooms are a good source of selenium, which helps the body make antioxidant enzymes that prevent cell damage. Cremini and portabella mushrooms are good choices for selenium intake. They also contain vitamin B6, which helps the body form red blood cells, proteins, and DNA. Shiitake mushrooms are a good source of vitamin B6.
Thirdly, mushrooms are low in sodium and fat, which can positively impact heart health by reducing blood pressure. They are also a natural source of fibre, which promotes gut health by feeding the "good" bacteria in the intestines. These bacteria produce neurotransmitters that promote mood stability, concentration, brain health, and mental well-being.
Finally, mushrooms may help protect against cancer and cognitive impairment. Studies suggest that eating 1 to 2 cups of mushrooms each week may reduce the risk of cancer by up to 45%. Additionally, research has shown that participants who ate more than two cups of mushrooms per week had a lower risk of developing Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).
Overall, mushrooms offer a range of health benefits, from supporting heart health and brain function to providing essential vitamins and minerals. They are a versatile and tasty ingredient that can easily be incorporated into a balanced diet.
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How mushrooms can affect your mental state
Mushrooms, specifically magic mushrooms, can have a significant impact on an individual's mental state. Magic mushrooms are psychedelic drugs that contain psilocybin and psilocin, substances known for their hallucinogenic effects. When consumed, these mushrooms can alter a person's thinking, emotions, sense of time, and perception of reality.
The effects of magic mushrooms typically begin within 30 to 45 minutes and can last up to 6 hours. The initial phase may include nausea and excessive yawning, followed by a "trip" that can vary in intensity. A mild trip might leave one feeling relaxed or drowsy, while stronger doses or types of mushrooms can induce hallucinations, anxiety, paranoia, and nervousness. The sense of time, place, and reality can become distorted, significantly impacting an individual's mental state during the experience.
In some cases, the effects of magic mushrooms can extend beyond the immediate experience. Regular users may encounter flashbacks, which are visual distortions involving changes in emotions or perception. These flashbacks can occur without warning, even weeks, months, or years after the last time mushrooms were consumed. They can be triggered by various factors, such as using other drugs, stress, fatigue, or exercise. While typically brief, these episodes can be disturbing, especially if they recall frightening experiences or hallucinations.
It is important to note that magic mushrooms can affect everyone differently. While they do not appear to cause physical dependence, there can be mild psychological effects associated with their use. Additionally, consuming mushrooms can impair judgment and affect one's ability to perform tasks such as driving, increasing the risk of accidents. Therefore, it is crucial to approach the consumption of magic mushrooms with caution and be aware of potential risks to mental health and overall well-being.
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The seven stages of mushroom cultivation
Mushroom cultivation, or fungiculture, involves growing mushrooms as a food source, medicine, or construction material. The process was first developed in caves in France, which provided a stable environment for temperature and humidity.
Regardless of location, species, and method, there are seven main steps to growing mushrooms. These are:
- Strain Selection: The strain is similar to a plant breed, and individual species of mushrooms will have thousands of different strains or expressions of their genetic makeup. For example, the oyster mushroom has thousands of different strains.
- Substrate Preparation: The substrate is any material that is a food source for mushroom mycelium. Common substrates include logs, stumps, woodchips, straw, sawdust, coffee grounds, grain hulls, and other carbon-rich materials. The substrate must be prepared by ensuring optimal moisture content and cleanliness, and sometimes placing it into a bag.
- Inoculation: This is the process of introducing the mushroom spawn to the substrate. Sterility is critical when using high-nitrogen materials like agar, grain, and supplemented sawdust. On a small scale, low-budget equipment can be used to mimic a lab setting, but the success rate is lower.
- Incubation: After inoculation, the substrate is left to incubate for a period, which can range from 12 to 15 months, depending on the species.
- Initiation: Mushroom initials develop after rhizomorphs have formed in the casing. Once an initial quadruples in size, it becomes a pin, which will continue to expand and grow into a button, and then a mushroom.
- Fruiting: Mushrooms fruit when they are ready to be harvested. This stage is susceptible to pests and diseases, including Trichoderma green mold and mites.
- Harvest: Mushrooms are typically harvested in a 7- to 10-day cycle, but this can vary depending on temperature, humidity, cultivar, and the stage when they are picked.
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The different types of substrates used to grow mushrooms
Mushrooms are unique organisms that grow differently from plants. While plants grow in soil, mushrooms grow on substrates, which are materials that provide energy, nutrition, and structure for the mushroom mycelium. The mycelium is the root system of mushrooms and the vegetative part of fungi. The substrate acts as a foundation for the mushrooms, providing physical support and essential nutrients for the mycelium to develop and produce mushrooms.
Different types of mushrooms require different substrates for optimal growth. The choice of substrate depends on factors such as the mushroom species, availability of materials, and desired yield. Here are some of the most commonly used substrates for growing mushrooms:
Straw
Straw is a cheap and effective substrate that works well for many types of mushrooms, especially oyster mushrooms. It is the stem portion of grains such as wheat, barley, rice, or oats and is readily available at farm shops, pet stores, and other locations that sell animal feed or bedding. Before using straw as a substrate, it needs to be chopped, cleaned, and pasteurized.
Hardwood
Hardwoods such as maple, oak, and beech make excellent substrates for several kinds of mushrooms. Hardwood pellets or sawdust can be used, and most hardwood stores carry them at inexpensive prices. Wood alone may not provide sufficient nutrients for mushroom growth, so it is often supplemented with bran or soybean hulls.
Manure-Based Compost
Manure-based compost is a good substrate for growing certain types of mushrooms, such as common button mushrooms, as it is high in nutrients and provides an ideal environment for their growth. However, it is important to use properly composted manure to kill any harmful bacteria or mold. Manure from horses, chickens, cows, or other animals can be used.
Coffee Grounds
Spent coffee grounds can be a great substrate for some mushroom species, such as oyster and shiitake mushrooms. Coffee grounds are easily accessible and cost-effective, making them a popular choice for urban growers.
Wood Chips
Wood chips offer a nutrient-packed option for growing mushrooms. They also help retain moisture in the substrate, creating an ideal growing environment. Wood chips can be blended with other ingredients like straw, hardwood sawdust, or coco coir, depending on the mushroom type.
The success of mushroom cultivation heavily relies on choosing the right substrate. Each substrate has unique characteristics that influence the texture, flavor, and aroma of the mushrooms grown on them. Additionally, the substrate's water content and pH level are critical factors that impact the growth and health of the mycelium.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, mushrooms hold information. For example, mushrooms contain macronutrients that support a healthy immune system.
Mushrooms hold nutritional information. For instance, mushrooms are a great source of vitamin D, vitamin B6, and selenium.
Mushrooms have many health benefits. They are a source of vitamin D, which is important for maintaining and building strong bones. They also contain vitamin B6, which helps the body form red blood cells, proteins, and DNA. Additionally, mushrooms are low in sodium, which can help lower blood pressure.
Magic mushrooms are a type of mushroom that contains the substances psilocybin and psilocin, which have hallucinogenic effects. They are often consumed for their ability to alter a person's thinking, sense of time, and emotions.
According to a study by Prof Andrew Adamatzky, mushrooms may communicate with each other using electrical impulses that resemble a vocabulary of up to 50 words. However, more evidence is needed to confirm this.
