John Miller
Mushroom tea is an infusion of mushrooms in water, made using edible or medicinal mushrooms, or psychedelic mushrooms. The active ingredient in psychedelic mushrooms is psilocybin, while the active ingredient in medicinal mushrooms is thought to be beta-glucans. The dose of mushroom tea depends on the desired potency and how many uses you want out of your brew. A common dose of dried mushrooms is between 1 and 2 grams, but this can vary depending on the strain of mushrooms and individual tolerance. It's important to research the specific type of mushroom being used to understand the appropriate dose and potential risks. Mushroom tea can be made by grinding the mushrooms into a powder and adding them to simmering water for 15-20 minutes, or steeping them in hot water for at least 10 minutes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of mushroom | Reishi, Lion's Mane, Chaga, Shiitake, Maitake, Turkey Tail, Magic Mushrooms, etc. |
| Amount of mushroom | 1-2 grams of dried mushrooms, adjust based on tolerance and experience |
| Preparation | Dry mushrooms thoroughly, grind into a powder, add to boiling water and simmer for 15-20 minutes |
| Add-ins | Tea bag, lemon slices, honey or other sweetener, plant-based milk, cinnamon, ginger, or turmeric |
| Brewing time | Steep for at least 10-15 minutes for desired effects |
| Effects | Boosted immune system, improved cognitive function, antioxidant properties, stress reduction, improved gut health, enhanced alertness, mental relaxation |
| Health benefits | Treating digestive problems, heart disease, and cancer |
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What You'll Learn
The effects of different doses
The effects of magic mushrooms can vary depending on the dose, the type of mushroom, and individual factors such as metabolism. It's important to note that the information provided here is not medical advice and that the use of magic mushrooms may be illegal in your jurisdiction. If you are considering consuming magic mushrooms, it is important to do your own research, understand the legal implications, and make an informed decision about potential risks.
A common dose of dried magic mushrooms is considered to be between 1 and 2 grams, but this can vary depending on the strain and individual tolerance. Some people practice "micro-dosing," which involves consuming a smaller amount, such as 0.1 grams, to achieve a milder effect without the full psychedelic experience.
The effects of magic mushrooms are often referred to as a "trip," and they can cause changes in perception, enhanced sensations, and altered states of consciousness. At lower doses, magic mushrooms may cause colours to appear brighter, enhance overall sensations such as touch and taste, and induce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Higher doses can lead to more intense hallucinations, altered perception of time, dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion, and nausea.
The specific effects of different doses can vary depending on the type of mushroom and individual factors. For example, some varieties of mushrooms, such as Penis Envy, Flying Saucers, and Liberty Caps, are known to produce stronger effects than others. Additionally, the way mushrooms are prepared and consumed can impact the dosage and effects. Making mushroom tea, for instance, allows for more control over dosing and can reduce the sensation of nausea associated with consuming raw mushrooms.
It's important to remember that the effects of magic mushrooms are unpredictable and can be influenced by factors such as one's mental state, environment, and individual biology. Therefore, it is crucial to approach mushroom dosing with caution and to start with lower doses to understand how your body and mind respond to the active compounds.
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How to prepare the mushrooms
Preparing mushrooms for tea is a simple process. The first step is to decide which mushrooms to use. Popular options include Chaga, Lion's Mane, Reishi, and Turkey Tail. Chaga mushrooms, for example, are known for their immune-boosting properties and antioxidant content, while Reishi mushrooms have a pleasantly bitter taste with woody notes.
Once you've selected your mushrooms, you can use either fresh or dried mushrooms, or opt for mushroom powder. If using whole mushrooms, grinding them up will result in a more potent tea. The mushrooms can then be simmered in water for a prolonged period, typically between 30 minutes to an hour, to extract their beneficial compounds. This process, known as hot water extraction, breaks down the tough cell walls of the mushrooms, allowing the release of water-soluble compounds, including polysaccharides, beta-glucans, and triterpenes.
For those who prefer a faster method, steeping dried mushrooms or mushroom powder in hot water is an option. This typically involves steeping the mushrooms or powder in hot water for 10 to 20 minutes. You can also add other ingredients to enhance the flavour of your tea, such as honey, almond milk, cinnamon, or maple syrup.
It is important to note that when preparing mushroom tea, especially with psilocybin mushrooms, the dosage and potency should be carefully considered. The amount of mushrooms used, as well as the volume of water, will impact the strength of the tea. Additionally, individual physiology, environment, and mindset can all influence the effects of the tea.
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Choosing the right mushroom
Source
Purchase mushrooms from reputable suppliers specializing in medicinal mushrooms. Ensure they test their products for potency and contaminants. Mushrooms grown using wildcrafted methods ensure the highest quality and concentration of nutrients.
Organic Certification
Opt for certified organic mushrooms to avoid pesticide residues. Mushrooms readily absorb compounds from their growing environment, so choosing organic can help you avoid unwanted chemicals in your tea.
Whole Mushrooms vs. Extracts
Whole dried mushrooms typically contain a broader range of beneficial compounds, but they require longer extraction times. Powdered extracts are more convenient and often standardized for specific active compounds. If you're short on time, extracts are a good option, but for a broader spectrum of benefits, choose whole mushrooms.
Fruiting Body vs. Mycelium
Products made from the actual mushroom fruiting body generally contain higher concentrations of beneficial compounds than those made from mycelium grown on grain. Check the label to ensure you're getting a product made from the fruiting body.
Variety
Different varieties of mushrooms offer unique flavours and health benefits. Chaga mushrooms, for instance, are known for their high antioxidant content and mild, slightly vanilla-like flavour. Reishi mushrooms also offer high concentrations of antioxidants but tend to have a more bitter taste with woody notes. Lion's Mane has a subtle seafood-like umami flavour and is known for its cognitive benefits, while Cordyceps offers earthy, nutty flavours and has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries.
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Brewing methods
The first step in brewing mushroom tea is deciding which mushrooms to use. Popular choices include reishi, lion's mane, chaga, shiitake, and maitake mushrooms. Reishi mushrooms have an earthy, pleasantly bitter flavour with woody notes, while lion's mane has a sweet and savoury flavour with a meaty essence. Chaga mushrooms have a mild flavour with a slight hint of vanilla, and maitake mushrooms have a fruity, earthy, and spicy flavour profile.
Once you have chosen your mushrooms, you will need to prepare them. If using fresh mushrooms, make sure they are thoroughly dried before grinding them into a powder using a coffee grinder. This step is crucial for releasing the active compounds in the mushrooms.
Next, bring two cups of water to a gentle boil in a pot. You can adjust the water quantity based on your desired potency, adding more water for a lower dose per cup. Once the water is bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add your ground mushrooms. Allow the mushrooms to simmer for 15-20 minutes. This low heat helps extract the active compounds without damaging them.
If you prefer a stronger flavour or additional health benefits, you can add a tea bag of your choice, lemon slices, cinnamon, ginger, or turmeric during the last 5 minutes of simmering. These ingredients can help mask the earthy notes of the mushrooms and enhance the taste of your tea.
Finally, strain out the mushroom bits, and your mushroom tea is ready to be served. You can add honey, maple syrup, or your preferred sweetener to taste. Additionally, blending your tea with plant-based milk can create a creamy and indulgent latte.
For a refreshing alternative, try cold brewing your mushroom tea. Simply steep the mushrooms in cold water overnight, and your refreshing mushroom tea will be ready to enjoy the next day.
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Enhancing the flavour
Mushroom tea is known for its earthy flavours, but different mushroom varieties provide unique flavours and health benefits. For instance, Lion's Mane has a sweet, savoury flavour with a meaty essence, while Maitake mushrooms have a fruity, earthy, and spicy flavour. Reishi mushrooms offer an earthy, pleasantly bitter flavour with woodsy notes. Chaga mushroom tea has a mild flavour and can be brewed for long periods without turning bitter. Cordyceps tea has an earthy, slightly nutty flavour with a hint of bitterness.
To enhance the flavour of mushroom tea, you can add natural sweeteners, spices, and other tea varieties. Here are some specific suggestions:
- Honey, milk, or lemon can be added to enhance the flavour of mushroom tea. Honey pairs well with the earthy notes of Reishi mushrooms, while lemon can brighten and uplift the earthy flavours of mushroom tea.
- Ginger complements the earthy and nutty notes found in some mushroom teas, such as Cordyceps and Maitake.
- Cinnamon adds a sweet and spicy dimension to the tea, especially if your mushroom tea has a more subtle flavour like Chaga.
- Green tea, especially Japanese varieties, will lend a sweeter, more vegetal flavour to your mushroom tea.
- Herbal blends like hibiscus, licorice, and chai can be added to mushroom tea for additional flavour.
- Cayenne and black pepper can spice up your mushroom tea, especially if you're looking for a warming effect.
- Flowers, such as jasmine and chamomile, can be used to sweeten mushroom tea and add a delicate, floral touch.
- Almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk can be added to mellow out the strong flavours of mushroom tea and make it more palatable.
Remember, the flavour of your mushroom tea will depend on various factors such as the type of mushroom, the quality of the product, your brewing method, and water temperature. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and adjust the steeping time to find the perfect flavour for your taste buds!
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Frequently asked questions
The amount of mushroom you should use depends on the desired potency and how many uses you want out of your brew. A common dose is between 1 and 2 grams of dried mushrooms, but this can be adjusted based on tolerance and experience.
It is recommended to steep the tea for at least 10-15 minutes to ensure you are getting a sufficient dose.
There are many types of mushrooms that can be used for tea, including Lion's Mane, Chaga, Reishi, and Maitake. It is important to distinguish between psychedelic mushrooms and edible/medicinal mushrooms, as well as research the appropriate dose for each type.
Yes, you can add honey or another sweetener to taste. You can also add a tea bag of your choice and some lemon slices to enhance the flavor and mask the earthy notes of the mushrooms.
As with any drug use, there are risks involved. Mushroom tea may cause nausea or a "stomach churning" sensation. It is important to note that the effects of mushroom tea can vary depending on the individual, the strain of mushroom, the dose, and other factors. Always research the type of mushroom and understand the active dose before consuming.
