Laura Smith
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. The effects of psilocybin mushrooms include hallucinations, an altered perception of space and time, sensory distortion, and a changed perception of one's place in the universe. Psilocybin mushrooms are often ingested orally and have been used in traditional cultures for religious and spiritual intentions. While they have been illegal in most countries, some states have recently legalised their use for medicinal purposes, and there is growing interest in their therapeutic potential for treating mental health disorders.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Magic mushrooms, shrooms, mushies, psychedelic mushrooms, psychotropic mushrooms, psilocybin |
| Active ingredient | Psilocybin, a chemical that can be found in certain types of fresh or dried mushrooms |
| Effects | Hallucinations, a deep sense of anxiety, panic, terror, psychosis, synesthesia, nausea, vomiting, euphoria, muscle weakness, drowsiness, lack of coordination, dilated pupils, increased heart rate, hilarity, lack of concentration, muscular relaxation, distorted perception of time and space, a feeling of communing with a higher power |
| Health risks | Poisoning, pathogens, physical or psychiatric medical emergency, exacerbation of mental illness, fatal events related to emotional distress and trip-induced psychosis, serotonin poisoning |
| Legality | Illegal in most countries, classified as a Schedule I drug by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in the US |
| Addiction | Low risk of physical or psychological dependence, but psychological dependence can develop |
| Abuse | A growing concern among younger populations due to their availability and perception as a "natural" and safe drug |
| Therapeutic uses | Potential to reverse debilitating effects of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD, substance-abuse disorders |
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What You'll Learn
Health risks
Psilocybin, or magic mushrooms, are naturally occurring psychedelic drugs that alter a person's thinking, sense of time, emotions, and senses. While the use of magic mushrooms has been explored for its potential therapeutic benefits, there are several health risks associated with their consumption.
One of the biggest risks is the possibility of ingesting poisonous mushrooms. Magic mushrooms look very similar to certain types of poisonous mushrooms, which can cause severe illness and even death. Accidental ingestion of poisonous mushrooms can result in minor gastrointestinal illness, but in severe cases, it may require immediate medical attention. Therefore, it is crucial to be well-informed about the proper identification of magic mushrooms to mitigate this risk.
Another risk associated with magic mushroom consumption is the potential for negative psychological experiences. While current research suggests that psilocybin is not addictive, some individuals may have adverse reactions, including feelings of anxiety, paranoia, and short-term psychosis. Higher doses of psilocybin and pre-existing mental health conditions may increase the risk of these negative experiences. Additionally, individuals with underlying psychological disorders may be more susceptible to long-term psychological effects, which can impact their emotional well-being and mental health.
The setting and state of mind in which magic mushrooms are consumed can also influence the experience. Being in a calm, quiet, and familiar environment with trusted friends can contribute to a positive experience. Conversely, being in a crowded, noisy place or having feelings of anxiety before taking magic mushrooms can increase the risk of a "bad trip." Furthermore, combining magic mushrooms with other drugs, including certain medications, can lead to unpredictable and dangerous effects.
It is important to note that the field of psychedelic research is rapidly evolving, and more research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and benefits associated with magic mushroom consumption. While some individuals may benefit from their use, it is crucial to approach magic mushrooms with caution and implement harm reduction strategies to mitigate potential harm to overall well-being.
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History
The history of psychedelic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, dates back thousands of years. Some of the earliest known depictions of hallucinogenic mushroom use are found in prehistoric rock art and cave paintings from around 9000 to 4000 BCE in Algeria, Spain, and near Villar del Humo in Spain. These ancient artworks suggest that psilocybin mushrooms played a role in religious rituals and spiritual practices.
In Mesoamerica, specifically among the South American Aztec Indians, psilocybin mushrooms were known as "teonanacatl" or "god's flesh." They were used in religious ceremonies, divination, and healing practices. A statuette from around 200 CE found in Colima, Mexico, depicts a mushroom resembling Psilocybe mexicana, indicating the significance of these fungi in ancient cultures.
During the 16th century, Spanish missionaries attempted to erase the evidence and knowledge of psilocybin mushroom use among the Aztecs. However, a Spanish Franciscan friar and historian documented the term "teonanacatl" in his writings, sparking interest in the 20th century. In 1957, a photo essay in a popular magazine introduced the Western world to the traditional use of these mushrooms.
In the 1960s, psilocybin mushrooms gained widespread attention in the United States. This was largely influenced by Gordon Wasson, a U.S. banker who, along with his wife, participated in a mushroom ceremony in Oaxaca, Mexico. They shared their transformative experience, breaking the promise of confidentiality made to the shaman. Wasson also provided a mushroom sample to Swiss chemist Albert Hoffman, who isolated psilocybin and produced pills for research.
During this time, Harvard University psychology professors Timothy Leary and Richard Alpert became interested in the potential of psilocybin after reading about Wasson's experiences. They travelled to Mexico to try the mushrooms themselves, and their subsequent endorsement of hallucinogenic drugs contributed to their popularity. The “hippie movement” of the 1960s further popularized magic mushrooms, with figures like Bob Dylan and John Lennon also advocating for their use.
However, the increasing popularity of psychedelic mushrooms and the counterculture movement concerned authorities. President Richard Nixon initiated the War on Drugs in 1971, which led to the classification of psilocybin mushrooms as a Schedule I substance. This halted research and contributed to negative perceptions of psychedelics, with claims that magic mushrooms were highly addictive and destructive to the brain.
Despite these setbacks, there has been a resurgence of interest in the therapeutic potential of psilocybin mushrooms in recent years. Research institutions like Johns Hopkins have explored their medical applications, and states like Colorado and Oregon have legalized their use. Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy has shown promise in treating conditions such as PTSD, depression, and end-of-life care.
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Effects
The effects of psychedelic mushrooms vary from person to person and depend on the dose and type of mushroom consumed. The active ingredient in psychedelic mushrooms is psilocybin, a hallucinogenic chemical that can cause a range of effects, including euphoria, hallucinations, and sensory distortion. The effects of psilocybin are generally similar to those of LSD, including altered perception of time and space, and intense changes in mood and feelings.
Psilocybin works by binding to and activating serotonin receptors in parts of the brain that affect mood, cognition, and perception. It can also affect other regions of the brain that regulate arousal and panic responses. The quantity of the drug consumed, along with an individual's past experiences and expectations, can influence their reaction to psilocybin. The hallucinogenic effects typically occur within 15 to 45 minutes of ingestion and can last between four and six hours.
The setting or environment in which psychedelic mushrooms are consumed can also impact the experience. Taking them in a calm, quiet, and relaxed environment can contribute to a pleasant experience, while being in a noisy and crowded place may result in a negative experience. The risk of a "bad trip" increases with higher doses or if the individual has feelings of anxiety before taking the mushrooms. During a bad trip, individuals may experience extreme fear, anxiety, panic, or paranoia.
In addition to the immediate effects, regular users of psychedelic mushrooms may experience flashbacks, which are typically visual distortions involving changes in emotions or perception. These flashbacks can occur weeks, months, or even years after the last time the drug was taken and can be triggered by stress, tiredness, or exercise.
While current research suggests that psilocybin is not addictive, there are still potential risks associated with its use. Accidental ingestion of poisonous mushrooms or misidentifying mushrooms is possible, which can lead to severe illness or even death. Additionally, there have been reports of serious harm associated with intravenous injection of mushrooms, including septic shock and multi-system organ failure. Combining psychedelic mushrooms with certain medications or other drugs can also lead to unpredictable and dangerous effects.
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Legality
The legality of psychedelic mushrooms varies across the world. Psilocybin and psilocin are listed as Schedule I drugs under the United Nations 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances. Schedule I drugs are defined as drugs with a high potential for abuse or drugs that have no recognized medical uses. However, the convention does not specifically mention the mushrooms containing the drug, and many countries have some level of regulation or prohibition of psilocybin mushrooms.
In the United States, federal law and most state laws classify psilocybin as a Schedule I drug, making it illegal to possess, sell, or grow. However, there are some exceptions. Colorado and Oregon have legalized certain uses, and a few cities have deprioritized arrest and prosecution for personal possession of psilocybin. In Colorado, adults aged 21 and older can legally possess and cultivate small amounts of magic mushrooms for personal use. In California, there is a pending bill that would legalize the possession, obtaining, giving away, or transportation of specified quantities of psilocybin. The District of Columbia passed a similar initiative in 2020, allowing the possession and non-profit gifting or distribution of psilocybin mushrooms.
Outside of the United States, the legality of psychedelic mushrooms varies. In Canada, the province of Alberta has allowed the use of psilocybin for medicinal purposes in drug-assisted psychotherapy since January 2023. Australia has approved the use of psilocybin in prescription medications for the treatment of PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. In Germany, the possession of psilocybin mushroom spores has been illegal since 1998.
It is important to note that the legality of psychedelic mushrooms is subject to change, and it is recommended to consult a lawyer or legal professional for the most current and accurate information regarding the legality of psilocybin in a specific jurisdiction.
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Therapeutic uses
Psilocybin, the active compound in "magic mushrooms", is known for its hallucinogenic effects. It has been used by some Indigenous communities for over 1000 years and is often consumed fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea.
In terms of therapeutic uses, psilocybin has been explored for its potential in treating mental health disorders. While it is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the US, indicating no accepted medical use, there is growing interest in its therapeutic benefits. This includes its potential in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorders.
Several studies have shown positive results. For example, a study by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers found that two doses of psilocybin, combined with psychotherapy, led to significant reductions in depressive symptoms in adults with major depression. Another study reported that a small number of longtime smokers quit smoking after a carefully controlled and monitored use of psilocybin within a cognitive-behavioral therapy treatment program. Additionally, psilocybin has been found to increase neuroplasticity, enhancing the brain's ability to form new connections and break out of negative thought patterns, which may contribute to its effectiveness in treating various mental health disorders.
Despite the potential therapeutic benefits, it is crucial to emphasize that psilocybin should be used under professional supervision in a controlled environment to minimize the risk of adverse effects. The therapeutic use of psilocybin is an emerging field, and ongoing research is necessary to establish its safety and efficacy in treating specific conditions.
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Frequently asked questions
Psychedelic mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, shrooms, or simply mushrooms, are mushrooms that contain hallucinogens, usually psilocybin and psilocin. They are found on nearly every continent and have been used for thousands of years.
The effects of consuming psychedelic mushrooms can vary from person to person and depend on factors such as dose, type of mushroom, and individual body type. Common effects include hallucinations, sensory distortion, euphoria, anxiety, fear, nausea, and muscle twitches.
While research suggests that psilocybin is not addictive and does not typically lead to addiction, consuming psychedelic mushrooms can result in negative experiences such as \"bad trips\" and \"flashbacks. There is also a risk of misidentifying mushrooms and consuming poisonous or toxic mushrooms.
The legality of psychedelic mushrooms varies by location. In some cities in the United States, possession of psilocybin mushrooms has been decriminalized up to a certain amount. However, they remain illegal in most of the country and are controlled under international law.
Psychedelic mushrooms have a long history of use, with evidence of their consumption dating back to 3000 B.C. by indigenous people in Central America for healing and spiritual rituals. In the 1960s, mushroom use became associated with psychedelia and youth counterculture. Today, they are used for recreational and therapeutic purposes, with ongoing research exploring their potential benefits for mental health treatment.
