Sarah Brown
Magic mushrooms, also known as 'shrooms', are hallucinogenic when eaten and can induce an intense psychedelic experience. The effects of magic mushrooms vary from person to person and depend on factors such as dosage, individual sensitivity, and environmental factors. While some people may experience feelings of euphoria, unity, and transcendence of the ego, others may have a bad trip, experiencing paranoia, fixation, or emotionality. The duration of a trip typically lasts around 4 to 6 hours, with the first effects felt within 20 to 40 minutes. Despite their potential for misuse and legal consequences, magic mushrooms have been shown to have benefits for mental and physical health, including the potential to ease anxiety and depression.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effects | Distorted world, mild hallucinations, unpredictable behaviour, increased heart rate, nausea, dreamy and detached feeling, distorted time perception, euphoria, joy, unity, transcendence of the ego, improved mood, clarity of thought, sense of well-being, addictive habits, misuse, dependence, paranoia, emotional, fixated on certain things |
| Duration | 4 to 6 hours, effects come in waves |
| Dosage | 1 to 2 grams for most people |
| Legality | Illegal in most of the U.S. and many other places, possession can get you up to 7 years in prison, an unlimited fine or both |
| Risks | Poisoning, worsening of mental health issues, bad trip, long-term impact on mental health, driving when high |
| Benefits | Relief from mental health conditions, increased neuroplasticity, improved well-being, connectedness, improved ability to think freely, escape from negative thoughts, treatment for PTSD, treatment for depression, treatment for anxiety, treatment for smoking addiction |
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What You'll Learn
The hallucinogenic effects of 'shrooms'
"Shrooms", also known as "magic mushrooms" or "psilocybin mushrooms", are hallucinogenic fungi that can induce an intense psychedelic experience. The effects of these mushrooms vary from person to person and are influenced by factors such as dosage, individual sensitivity, and environmental factors. While some people may view shrooms as a recreational substance, they can have both short-term and long-term effects on the mind and body, and it is important to be aware of the risks associated with their consumption.
The hallucinogenic effects of shrooms can cause the world to appear distorted. Colours, sounds, objects, and even time perception can all seem very different. Some people experience mild hallucinations, also known as "visuals". Physical sensations and changes in perception are also common during the initial stages of the trip, which usually begin within 20 to 40 minutes of ingestion. Nausea and an increased heart rate may accompany this "come-up" phase.
The peak effects of the hallucinogenic experience typically last for 2 to 3 hours, during which the visuals are most intense. Users may feel dreamy and detached from reality. Some people report feelings of unity, joy, and transcendence of the ego during this phase. After the peak, the trip enters a plateau phase, which can last for another 1 to 2 hours.
As the effects of the mushrooms start to wear off, users may experience an "afterglow" or residual effects, which can last for a few hours. During this time, individuals often report an improved mood, clarity of thought, and a sense of well-being. It is important to note that the duration of a mushroom trip can vary depending on factors such as metabolism, dosage, and the specific mushroom species.
While shrooms are not physically addictive, there are risks associated with their consumption. They can make pre-existing mental health issues worse, and mixing them with other drugs can be dangerous. Additionally, it is important to be cautious when consuming shrooms due to their similarity in appearance to poisonous mushrooms. Always use a trusted source or guide when obtaining mushrooms, and start with a low dose to gauge their effects.
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The intensity of the experience
A typical magic mushroom trip lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, but the effects tend to come in waves. The first effects are usually felt within 20 to 40 minutes of ingesting the mushrooms. This phase may include physical sensations, changes in perception, and the initial stages of the "trip". Nausea and an increased heart rate are also common during the "come-up". During the peak of the trip, which tends to last 2 to 3 hours, the visuals are most intense, and one may experience a dreamy, detached feeling. Time perception is often distorted, and some people may experience mild hallucinations. Some people report feelings of unity, joy, and transcendence of the ego.
After the peak, the trip enters a plateau phase, which can last for another 1 to 2 hours. As the individual starts to come down, they may experience an "afterglow" or residual effects, which can last for a few hours. During this phase, users often report an improved mood, clarity of thought, and a sense of well-being. It is important to note that the trip is temporary and will end.
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How to prepare for a trip
If you are considering consuming magic mushrooms, it is important to prepare and be aware of the potential risks and side effects. Magic mushrooms are mostly illegal in the U.S. and other parts of the world, and possession or distribution can lead to serious legal consequences. It is also important to note that magic mushrooms can have both short-term and long-term effects on your mental and physical health.
Do Your Research: Understand the effects of different mushroom strains and dosage levels. Educate yourself on the potential risks and side effects to know what to expect. Be aware that the strength of magic mushrooms can vary depending on their freshness, the season, and where they are grown.
Start with a Low Dose: Begin with a small amount, typically 1 to 2 grams, to assess your tolerance. You can always increase the dosage gradually in subsequent trips, but it's important to start slow and be cautious.
Have a Trusted Guide: Consider tripping with an experienced friend who can help you navigate the experience. They can provide support and assistance if needed.
Choose a Safe Setting: Pick a comfortable and secure location where you won't be disturbed. Nature can be a great choice, but ensure the area is free of hazards. Create a calm and relaxing environment to enhance your experience.
Stay Hydrated and Fed: Drink plenty of water and have light snacks available. Eat light, easy-to-digest snacks to avoid nausea, especially if you're consuming mushrooms on an empty stomach.
Accept the Experience: Remind yourself that the trip is temporary and will end. Don't fight the effects of the mushrooms, but rather embrace the experience. Go with the flow and remind yourself that it's a unique and transformative journey.
Remember, it is always important to use caution and discretion when consuming magic mushrooms. If you have any mental health issues or are taking medication, consult with a healthcare professional before considering the use of magic mushrooms.
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The risks of a 'bad trip'
Psilocybin, the psychedelic component in shrooms, can create hallucinations that may be scary or traumatic to some people. The risks of a bad trip on mushrooms are varied and can be influenced by many factors. Firstly, the environment is crucial. Certain settings may induce traumatic memories or unpleasant emotions, making it challenging to calm down. The amount of the drug consumed also matters; higher doses of psilocybin increase the risk of a bad trip.
Additionally, individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions, particularly psychosis, are more susceptible to bad trips. The combination of substances can also heighten the risk of an adverse experience. Consuming alcohol or other psychoactive drugs alongside mushrooms can lead to unpredictable changes in the tripping experience. It is also important to be mindful of your mindset and emotional state before taking mushrooms. Feelings of anxiety or stress can increase the likelihood of a bad trip.
Furthermore, the risk of a bad trip is always present when consuming psychedelic substances. Even experienced users who have used psychedelics for years without incident can still encounter a bad trip, even without any apparent changes in their usage patterns. This underscores the inherent risk associated with these substances.
To mitigate the risks of a bad trip, it is advisable to take several precautions. Firstly, choose a safe and peaceful environment, and ensure you have a sober companion whom you trust. Additionally, be mindful of your reasons for wanting to use hallucinogens; they should not be used as a means of avoiding or coping with problems. Knowing your dealer and checking your drugs are also important steps to reduce risks. Lastly, it is crucial to understand that the only guaranteed way to avoid a bad trip is by refraining from consuming hallucinogens.
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The potential health benefits
Mushrooms are increasingly being recognised for their health benefits, with certain varieties demonstrating medicinal properties. Here are some of the potential health benefits of mushrooms:
Vitamin D
Mushrooms are one of the few non-animal sources of vitamin D. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium to maintain and build strong bones. Mushrooms exposed to UV light or sunlight can increase their vitamin D content.
Immune System Support
Mushrooms contain macronutrients that support a healthy immune system. For example, selenium helps the body make antioxidant enzymes to prevent cell damage, while vitamin B6 helps form red blood cells, proteins, and DNA.
Cholesterol Reduction
Mushrooms are low in sodium and make an excellent substitute for red meat, helping to minimise calories, fat, and cholesterol. Shiitake mushrooms, in particular, contain compounds that inhibit cholesterol production, block absorption, and lower overall cholesterol levels in the blood.
Neurodegenerative Conditions
Mushrooms may have potential benefits in the management of neurodegenerative conditions. A study in Singapore found that participants who ate more than two cups of mushrooms weekly had a 50% lower risk of developing Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).
Mental Health
Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as "magic mushrooms," have been used for thousands of years in various cultures for ceremonial and medicinal purposes. Modern research is exploring their potential in treating mental and behavioural health conditions, including substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. However, it is important to note that psilocybin mushrooms are mostly illegal and should be used with caution due to potential risks and adverse effects.
It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating significant amounts of mushrooms into your diet or considering the use of psilocybin mushrooms for therapeutic purposes.
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Frequently asked questions
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are hallucinogenic fungi that can cause psychedelic effects when ingested. They are illegal in most places.
The effects of magic mushrooms vary from person to person and depend on factors such as dosage, individual sensitivity, and environment. Some common effects include distorted time perception, mild hallucinations, nausea, increased heart rate, euphoria, and heightened senses.
Magic mushrooms are not physically addictive, but they can cause negative side effects such as a bad trip and long-term impacts on mental health, especially for those predisposed to certain conditions. There is also a risk of consuming poisonous mushrooms by mistake, which can be life-threatening. It is important to educate yourself about the effects and potential risks before consuming magic mushrooms.
