Emily Johnson
Magic mushrooms, also known as psychedelic mushrooms, have been used for thousands of years. They contain the psychoactive substances psilocybin and psilocin, which can induce hallucinations and distort one's sense of reality. The effects of magic mushrooms are often referred to as a 'trip', and can range from mild feelings of drowsiness to intense paranoia and panic attacks. The dosage of magic mushrooms typically ranges from 0.1 grams for microdosing to 1-2 grams for a common dose of dried mushrooms. They are usually consumed orally, either raw or mixed into food or tea, but should never be injected intravenously. It's important to note that the effects of magic mushrooms can be unpredictable and may lead to negative experiences or flashbacks. Additionally, there are risks associated with misidentifying poisonous mushrooms and combining magic mushrooms with other substances.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Active ingredients | Psilocybin, Psilocin |
| Forms | Fresh, dried, powder, tablets, capsules |
| Consumption methods | Eating raw, mixing with food, brewing in tea, injecting intravenously |
| Effects | Hallucinations, heightened emotions and senses, anxiety, paranoia, panic attacks, distorted sense of time, place and reality, flashbacks, nausea, yawning, drowsiness, relaxation |
| Dosage | Common dose: 1-2 grams of dried mushrooms, Micro-dose: 0.1 grams of dried mushrooms, Fixed dose in clinical trials: 25 mg |
| Safety considerations | Not physically or psychologically addictive, but can cause tolerance with regular use, May have unintended effects when mixed with other drugs, Should not be taken with psychiatric medications, Leave at least 3 months between uses |
| Legality | Covered by the Misuse of Drugs Act (1971) as Class A drugs in the UK, Illegal in Canada and Australia |
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What You'll Learn
Preparation and consumption methods
The preparation and consumption of psychedelic mushrooms should be approached with caution. It is important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects, as well as the legal status of these substances in your jurisdiction.
Psychedelic mushrooms, often referred to as "magic mushrooms," can be consumed in various ways. The most common methods include eating them raw or dried, mixing them with food or drinks, or brewing them into a tea. Here are some detailed instructions for common consumption methods:
Consuming Fresh or Dried Mushrooms:
- Identify the mushrooms: It is crucial to accurately identify the mushroom species before consumption. Many species of mushrooms resemble each other, and misidentification can lead to accidental ingestion of poisonous varieties, which can be harmful or even fatal.
- Prepare the mushrooms: If consuming fresh mushrooms, clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. If using dried mushrooms, they can be consumed as-is or rehydrated by soaking them in water.
- Dosage: A common dose of dried mushrooms is reported to be between 1 and 2 grams. However, it is essential to exercise caution when dosing, as the potency can vary significantly between different types of mushrooms. Always research the specific type of mushroom you are consuming to understand the appropriate dosage.
- Consumption: Fresh or dried mushrooms can be eaten directly. Due to their bitter taste, some people prefer to mix them with food or drinks to mask the flavor. Chocolate is a commonly used food item for this purpose.
Brewing Mushroom Tea:
- Preparation: Place the desired amount of fresh or dried mushrooms in a teapot or cup. Add hot water and allow the mixture to steep for several minutes. You can also add other herbs or tea varieties to enhance the flavor.
- Consumption: Drink the infused tea. This method may be gentler on the stomach compared to consuming the mushrooms directly.
It is important to note that the effects of magic mushrooms can vary widely and are influenced by factors such as individual physiology, dosage, and setting (environment and mental state). The effects typically begin within 15 to 60 minutes of consumption and can last for up to 6 hours or more, depending on the dosage.
It is strongly advised to have a trusted friend present during the experience and to ensure you are in a calm, safe, and familiar environment. This can help prevent negative experiences and provide support if needed.
Additionally, it is crucial to allow sufficient time between mushroom trips to fully process and recover from the experience. A gap of at least three months between trips is generally recommended.
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Short-term effects
The short-term effects of psychedelic mushrooms typically include euphoria, visual and auditory hallucinations, intensified emotions, an altered sense of time, and spiritual experiences. These effects can vary from person to person and depend on factors such as dosage, set, and setting. It is important to note that the risks associated with psychedelic mushrooms are mostly psychological rather than physical. However, common short-term physical reactions such as dilated pupils, elevated blood pressure, and increased heart rate have been observed.
Psychedelic mushrooms, commonly known as "magic mushrooms," contain the naturally occurring psychedelic compound psilocybin. These mushrooms are often sold illegally in the form of dried whole mushrooms, powder, or tablets and capsules. They should not be injected intravenously, as this can lead to serious health issues such as septic shock and multi-system organ failure.
When consumed, magic mushrooms can induce a variety of effects on perception, cognition, and emotions. The "trip" associated with mushroom use can vary in intensity and may be mild, leaving a person feeling drowsy or relaxed. However, higher doses or stronger mushrooms can lead to more intense experiences, including hallucinations, anxiety, paranoia, and nervousness. A distorted sense of time, place, and reality is also commonly reported.
It is worth noting that a ""bad trip"" may occur, particularly at high doses, which can be a frightening experience. During a bad trip, individuals may experience paranoia, loss of boundaries, and a distorted sense of self. Impaired judgment during these episodes can lead to risk-taking behaviour, which may result in traumatic injuries or, in rare cases, death. Additionally, some users may experience "flashbacks," reliving parts of their drug trip even when no longer under the influence.
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Long-term effects
While the long-term effects of magic mushrooms are relatively unknown, there is some evidence that they can cause long-term harm. The active ingredients in magic mushrooms, psilocybin and psilocin, are hallucinogens that can cause a distorted sense of reality and affect the user's perception of time. The mushrooms can also induce hallucinations and increase heart rate and blood pressure, which may be harmful to individuals with cardiac diseases.
The psychological effects of magic mushrooms can lead to an increased risk of accidental injury, as well as an increased risk of being assaulted or robbed. The mushrooms can also induce panic attacks and psychotic symptoms, such as paranoia, loss of boundaries, and a distorted sense of self. In certain cases, users may experience flashbacks or "HPPD", which is characterised by flashbacks to visual distortions that affect daily functioning.
It is important to note that the effects of magic mushrooms can vary greatly depending on the dose and type of mushroom used. There is also a risk of consuming poisonous mushrooms, as many species look similar. While it is difficult to become physically or psychologically dependent on magic mushrooms, it is possible to become tolerant of their effects with regular use.
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Safety and legality
While magic mushrooms are considered to be among the safest recreational drugs based on reported rates of emergency medical treatment, there are still some safety considerations to keep in mind when consuming them. Firstly, it's important to be in a good state of mind and have trusted friends with you in a safe and familiar environment before taking magic mushrooms, as this can reduce the risk of having a bad trip. Magic mushrooms can cause hallucinations and distort a person's sense of reality, so it's crucial to be in a calm, quiet, and relaxed setting to contribute to a pleasant experience. It's also important to get a good night's sleep after taking magic mushrooms to help integrate your psychedelic experience into your daily life.
Additionally, when consuming magic mushrooms, it's essential to start with a low dose, especially if it's your first time or you're trying a new batch, as the potency of psilocybin can vary. Using a digital scale to accurately weigh your dose is recommended. It's also worth noting that magic mushrooms can interact with some psychiatric medications, potentially leading to a relapse or worsening of the condition. Therefore, it's advisable to avoid mixing magic mushrooms with other substances, including medications and alcohol.
In terms of legality, psilocybin mushrooms are illegal at the federal level in the United States and are listed as a Schedule 1 narcotic. However, they might be partially legal or decriminalized in some states, and their legal status is subject to change over time. It's important to stay informed about the legal status of magic mushrooms in your specific location before considering their consumption.
Lastly, it's worth mentioning that mushrooms can be extremely poisonous, and it's hard to know how strong or safe a particular batch is. Therefore, it's crucial to exercise caution and common sense when consuming magic mushrooms to avoid potential harm.
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Microdosing
Dosage and Timing
The exact dosage of a microdose depends on the substance. For psilocybin mushrooms, a microdose is typically between 0.1 and 0.3 grams (100 to 300 mg) of dried Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms. This is about 5-10% of a standard psychoactive dose. For LSD, a microdose is typically between 5 and 20 micrograms. It is important to start with the lowest dose to gauge individual sensitivity as factors such as personal biology and tolerance can significantly influence the effects.
To accurately measure a psilocybin microdose, it is crucial to use a precise digital scale capable of measuring small amounts. Grinding the mushrooms into a fine powder can also help ensure a more consistent dosing experience.
The Fadiman protocol, developed by James Fadiman, one of the most recognized authorities on microdosing, suggests a cycle of one day on, two days off for four to ten weeks, then abstaining from the drug for two to four weeks before resuming the process.
Safety
Psilocybin is generally thought to be safe in low dosages and has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples. However, it is important to note that if one takes too large a dose, it can result in a terrifying or even traumatic experience. Psilocybin mushrooms must come from a trusted source as the chemical composition can be unknown or inconsistent.
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Frequently asked questions
Psychedelic mushrooms can be eaten raw or dried, mixed into food or brewed into tea. They should never be injected intravenously. Psilocybin and psilocin can also be sold as a powder, in tablets or capsules, or dissolved in water.
The effects of psychedelic mushrooms usually begin between 15 to 60 minutes after dosing and can last 4 to 6 hours, or more for heavier doses. The effects include heightened emotions and senses, hallucinations, and a distorted sense of reality. Music may sound clearer, colours may appear more vivid, and overall sensations such as touch and temperature may be enhanced.
The common dose of psychedelic mushrooms is between 1 to 2 grams of dried mushrooms, but this can vary depending on the strain of mushrooms. It is important to research the type of mushroom and understand the active dose, as some mushrooms will produce a stronger effect than others.
Yes, there are risks associated with taking psychedelic mushrooms. It is possible to mistakenly consume poisonous mushrooms, which can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Additionally, magic mushrooms can cause negative side effects such as nausea, anxiety, paranoia, and panic attacks. It is important to be in a safe and relaxed environment and to leave enough time between doses to fully process and recover from the experience.
