John Miller
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are hallucinogenic fungi that contain psilocybin, a substance that induces psychedelic experiences. The method of consuming these mushrooms can significantly impact the experience, with some methods resulting in softer experiences and others leading to more intense and potent highs. The most common ways to consume magic mushrooms include eating them whole, brewing them into a tea, or combining them with lemon juice (lemon tek). When consuming magic mushrooms, it is essential to be mindful of the dosage, individual metabolism, consumption method, and whether one has an empty stomach, as these factors influence the onset time and intensity of the experience. Additionally, it is crucial to prioritize safety by ensuring a supportive environment and considering having a trip sitter present, especially for those struggling with addiction or substance abuse.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Consumption methods | Chew and swallow, mushroom tea, lemon tek, shroom chocolate, fresh, cooked, brewed |
| Effects | Varying intensity of hallucinations, nausea, excessive yawning, drowsiness, relaxation, anxiety, paranoia, nervousness, distorted sense of time, place and reality |
| Risks | Poisoning, death, psychosis, flashbacks, adverse drug interactions, addiction |
| Precautions | Consume in a safe environment, ensure accurate weighing and dosing, do not mix with other drugs or alcohol, do not drive |
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Eating them raw
While some people prefer mushrooms cooked for taste and texture, eating them raw is generally considered safe for many commonly consumed varieties. These include button, cremini or baby bella, Portobello, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms. Eating raw mushrooms can be a convenient and nutritious snack, adding a crunchy texture and a fresh and mild taste. They can be easily added to dishes such as salads, sandwiches, sushi rolls, and charcuterie boards.
However, it is important to note that not all mushrooms are safe to eat raw, especially wild mushrooms, as some varieties can be toxic or cause digestive issues. For example, morel mushrooms are considered toxic when consumed raw, while honey mushrooms can cause nausea, stomach pain, or cramping. Reishi mushrooms have a woody texture, making them challenging to consume raw, and boletus mushrooms have a rough texture that is tough to eat. Even commonly consumed varieties like white button mushrooms contain agaritine, a naturally occurring toxin and potential carcinogen that is deactivated by heat. Therefore, it is generally recommended to consume mushrooms in cooked form to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and increase the accessibility of certain nutrients.
When consuming raw mushrooms, it is essential to ensure they are clean and free from traces of compost or other growing media. Washing raw mushrooms before consumption is a good practice to remove any contaminants. It is also important to know which mushrooms are safe to eat and which ones should be avoided, especially when foraging or consuming wild mushrooms.
While raw mushrooms can be a tasty and nutritious snack, cooking them can enhance their flavour and make them more digestible. Sautéing or roasting mushrooms, for example, can bring out their rich umami taste and create a delectable accompaniment to various dishes. Cooking also helps break down the tough cell structure of mushrooms, making certain nutrients more available and releasing their medicinal compounds. Therefore, while consuming raw mushrooms is generally safe for certain varieties, cooking them is generally recommended for improved taste, texture, and nutrition.
In conclusion, while some varieties of mushrooms can be consumed raw, it is important to be mindful of potential safety concerns and nutritional considerations. Cooking mushrooms is generally recommended to enhance their flavour, improve digestibility, and increase the accessibility of certain nutrients. However, raw mushrooms can still be enjoyed in moderation as a crunchy and flavourful addition to various dishes or as a quick and nutritious snack.
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Brewing mushroom tea
Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms
Start by grinding the mushrooms into a fine powder. The amount of mushroom powder will depend on your desired potency and how many cups of tea you want to make. As a starting point, you can use an eighth of mushrooms to make 2 cups of tea. If you prefer a lower dose, you can increase the amount of water to 3 cups.
Step 2: Boil the Water
For the best flavour and to avoid bacterial growth, it is recommended to use freshly boiled water that is close to the boiling point (212°F). If you are making a smaller batch (1-2 cups), an insulated cup with a lid will help retain the heat.
Step 3: Steep the Tea
Add the mushroom powder to your boiling water and steep for at least 10 minutes. For a stronger brew, you can steep for up to 60 minutes. Use a timer to keep track of the steeping time.
Step 4: Strain the Tea
After steeping, use a sieve or a coffee filter to strain the tea into a teapot or cup. This will remove any remaining mushroom particles.
Step 5: Add Flavourings (Optional)
This is the perfect time to add honey, ginger, or other tea additives to enhance the flavour of your mushroom tea. Many people do not enjoy the taste of plain mushroom tea, so feel free to experiment with different additives.
Step 6: Store Any Leftovers
If you have brewed more tea than you can consume in one sitting, store the leftover tea in a glass container in the refrigerator. It is recommended to consume the tea within 3 to 5 days for optimal freshness and to avoid bacterial growth.
When brewing and consuming mushroom tea, it is important to prioritize safety and cleanliness. Clean and sanitize your tea-making equipment before and after use to prevent bacterial contamination. Additionally, always source your mushrooms from a trusted provider, as different species of mushrooms have varying levels of psilocybin and other active compounds.
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Lemon tek
To prepare a lemon tek, start by grinding your desired dose of mushrooms into a fine powder. Place the powder in a glass, such as a shot glass or a small Pyrex container, and cover it completely with lemon juice. Allow the mixture to soak for 15 to 30 minutes, stirring or shaking occasionally. After soaking, the mixture can be consumed directly or diluted with water to improve the taste. Some users prefer to take it as a shot for a quicker onset, while others may mix it with tea or honey to make it more palatable.
It is important to note that lemon tekking can significantly alter the parameters of your mushroom experience, and caution should be exercised when determining the dosage. It is recommended to start with a lower dose than you would normally consume when trying lemon tek for the first time, as the effects may be more intense and faster-acting. Additionally, it is advised to consume magic mushrooms in their plain form a few times first to familiarise yourself with their effects before attempting lemon tek.
While lemon tekking offers a unique way to experience the effects of psilocybin mushrooms, it should be approached with caution. The use of substances, including psilocybin, should not substitute addressing underlying mental health challenges. It is crucial to understand the legal status of psilocybin in your area, as the laws and regulations surrounding it can vary significantly. Always prioritise your safety and well-being when considering the use of substances.
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Safe environment
The "setting" is the environment in which someone takes a psychedelic drug. This includes the location, the people present, the music, the lighting, and the emotional environment or "vibe". The ideal setting is entirely based on the individual. For example, some people like to take mushrooms in a private, semi-natural setting with friends, while others may prefer to be alone while playing video games. Being in a good state of mind, with trusted friends, and in a safe environment before taking magic mushrooms reduces the risk of having a bad trip.
It is important to be in the right frame of mind when taking magic mushrooms. Feelings of stress or anxiety before using magic mushrooms may result in a bad trip. It is also important to be flexible and prepared to "roll with" the experience, rather than trying to control it.
To ensure a safe environment, it is recommended to have a “sober sitter” present. This person can be a friend, family member, or a paid professional guide or sitter. Ideally, this person should have experience with mushrooms and will be better equipped to handle things that might come up during the trip.
It is also important to be aware of the dangers of poisonous mushrooms, which can closely resemble psilocybin mushrooms. Even professionals sometimes mistake these mushroom types, so it is generally not safe to consume a mushroom based solely on its appearance.
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Side effects
Magic mushrooms are hallucinogens that produce effects similar to LSD. They are classified as Schedule I controlled substances in the US and are controlled internationally under the United Nations Drug Control Conventions. The active ingredients in magic mushrooms are chemicals called psilocybin and psilocin.
When consumed, the effects of magic mushrooms can vary from person to person and depend on the dose and type of mushroom used. The most common side effects include confusion, fear, hallucinations, headache, high blood pressure, nausea, and paranoia. Other potential side effects include:
- Delayed headaches, which usually don't last longer than a day.
- Feelings of anxiety, stress, or depression.
- Flashbacks involving a previous magic mushroom experience, which can happen weeks, months, or even years after the drug was last taken. These can be triggered by using other drugs, stress, tiredness, or exercise.
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure.
- Intense psychological experiences that can be disturbing or cause a "bad trip".
- Nausea.
It is important to note that the effects of magic mushrooms can be unpredictable and dangerous when taken with other drugs, including over-the-counter or prescribed medications. Additionally, magic mushrooms should not be injected intravenously, as this can lead to serious harms such as septic shock and multi-system organ failure.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to take mushrooms, including eating them whole, brewing them into a tea, or making shroom chocolate. Some people also like to squeeze lemon juice over them first.
The onset time of mushrooms depends on factors such as dosage, individual metabolism, consumption method, and whether they are taken on an empty stomach. Typically, magic mushrooms start to take effect within 20-40 minutes, but this can vary from 10 minutes to 2 hours.
Mushrooms can have profound effects on the body and mind, including altered perception, intense emotional experiences, spiritual experiences, and thought pattern changes. In rare cases, taking a large amount of mushrooms can lead to severe side effects such as psychosis, anxiety, depersonalization, and dangerous behavior. Additionally, mixing mushrooms with other drugs or alcohol can increase or decrease the intensity of the experience and may have unintended consequences. It is important to approach mushroom use with caution and respect, starting with a low dose and gradually increasing if needed.
