John Miller
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms, are a pan-tropical fungal species that contain the psychoactive and hallucinogenic compounds psilocybin and psilocin. The effects of psilocybin typically last around 4 to 6 hours and commonly peak in the 2nd or 3rd hour. The duration for the effects to kick in varies from 30 to 120 minutes, and they can be influenced by factors such as metabolic rate, the number of mushrooms consumed, and whether they are taken with food. It is important to understand the potential risks associated with psilocybin mushroom consumption, as individuals may experience negative side effects such as nausea, paranoia, and dangerous hallucinations. Despite the risks, there is growing interest in the therapeutic potential of psilocybin, and it is being explored as a possible treatment for neuropsychiatric conditions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Magic mushrooms, shrooms |
| Active compounds | Psilocybin, psilocin |
| Forms | Powder, tablet, tea, fresh/dried mushrooms |
| Methods of consumption | Swallowing, injection, inhalation, snorting |
| Onset of effects | Typically 30-120 minutes, but can take up to 2 hours |
| Duration of effects | Typically 4-6 hours, peaking in the 2nd or 3rd hour |
| Dosage | Commonly 25 mg, previously 0.3 mg/kg weight-based dosing |
| Side effects | Nausea, paranoia, fatigue, mood changes, abdominal pain |
| Risks | Bad trips, dangerous behaviour, HPPD, poisoning |
| Contraindications | Renal impairment, concurrent use of addictive substances |
| Safety considerations | Consume in a calm, safe environment |
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Methods of consumption
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms, are not known for their rapid effect. The duration they take to function typically varies from 30 to 120 minutes. The time taken for the effects to kick in depends on various factors, such as metabolic rate, the number of mushrooms consumed, the quantity of food consumed, and the presence of addictive substances in the body.
There are several methods of consuming psilocybin mushrooms, including:
- Oral consumption: This is the most common method of consuming psilocybin mushrooms. The mushrooms can be eaten plain, cooked in a dried or fresh state, or soaked in tea. They can also be blended with cooked food items or fruit juice, especially in powdered form. It is recommended to consume psilocybin on a partially full stomach to reduce the risk of side effects like abdominal pain or nausea. Eating a large meal before consuming psilocybin could make the experience worse.
- Injection or insufflation: Psilocybin, in its powdered form, can be injected or snorted.
- Capsules and tablets: Psilocybin can be swallowed in capsule or tablet form.
It is important to note that the effects of psilocybin typically last around 4 to 6 hours and commonly peak during the second or third hour. The experience can vary significantly from person to person, and some individuals may have a bad trip or face negative side effects. It is crucial to consume psilocybin in a calm, safe environment to mitigate potential risks.
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Dosage
Psilocybin is a potentially illegal substance, and its use is not encouraged or condoned where it is against the law. It is important to understand the legal status of psilocybin mushrooms in your region before considering their use.
The dosage of psilocybin mushrooms depends on the psilocybin and psilocin content, which can vary between and within the same species. The typical psilocybin content of dried mushrooms ranges from 0.03% to 1.78%, with most species containing between 0.5% and 1%. Psilocin content, on the other hand, can range from 0% to 0.59%. These compounds are responsible for the psychedelic effects experienced by users.
When it comes to dosage, it is generally recommended to start with a low dose and increase gradually. For a first-time user, a good starting point is no more than one gram of dried mushrooms or 10 mg of psilocybin. This is often referred to as a "microdose" and can provide a subtle boost in mood and creativity without the full psychedelic experience. Microdoses are typically defined as 0.1 to 0.3 grams of dried mushrooms, or around 10% of a recreational dose.
Recreational doses of psilocybin mushrooms typically range from 1.0 to 3.5–5.0 grams of dried mushrooms, with 2.5 to 5.0 grams considered a strong dose, and anything above 5.0 grams classified as a heavy or "heroic" dose. It is important to note that the effects of psilocybin mushrooms can last from three to eight hours, with the first 3–4 hours being the most intense.
It is not advisable to take a high dose unless you are in a safe, supervised setting. The "heroic dose" popularized by Terence McKenna involves consuming five grams of dried mushrooms in silent darkness, providing a deep and intense psychedelic experience. However, it is important to remember that the effects of psilocybin mushrooms can vary greatly depending on individual factors such as body weight and metabolism. Therefore, it is always best to start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the dosage that works best for you.
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Onset and duration
The onset and duration of the effects of psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, depend on several factors, including dosage, individual metabolism, consumption method, and whether they are consumed on an empty or full stomach.
Magic mushrooms are typically consumed orally, and their effects usually begin within 20 to 60 minutes. However, the onset time can vary, ranging from as little as 5 minutes to up to 90 minutes. The duration of the effects typically lasts between 4 to 6 hours. The peak effects of psilocybin mushrooms occur around 60 to 90 minutes after consumption.
Consuming magic mushrooms on an empty stomach can lead to a faster onset and shorter duration, as the body absorbs psilocybin more quickly. Conversely, a full stomach can delay the effects and potentially make the experience feel less intense. Individual factors such as body weight and metabolism also play a role in the onset and duration of the effects.
It is worth noting that the length and intensity of each mushroom trip can vary, and it is challenging to predict the exact experience. The effects of magic mushrooms depend on the strength of the mushrooms and the amount consumed. Higher doses typically result in longer-lasting and more intense effects.
While magic mushrooms are commonly consumed orally, they can be ingested in various ways. They can be eaten fresh or dried, incorporated into food to mask their bitter taste, or brewed into tea. The method of ingestion can impact the onset and intensity of the effects.
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Side effects
Psilocybin, or magic mushrooms, are naturally occurring psychedelic drugs that can cause hallucinations and distort a person's thinking, sense of time, and emotions. The key ingredient in magic mushrooms, psilocybin, is converted to psilocin in the body, which is the chemical with psychoactive properties.
The side effects of psilocybin mushrooms can vary widely and may be influenced by the quantity consumed, past experiences, and expectations of the experience. The effects usually occur within 20 to 40 minutes of ingestion and can last between four and six hours, with changes in sensory perception and thought patterns sometimes lasting longer.
The most common side effects include nausea, yawning, drowsiness, nervousness, paranoia, panic, and hallucinations. In some cases, a ""bad trip" may occur, which can be influenced by higher doses or feelings of anxiety before taking the mushrooms. During a bad trip, a person may experience anxiety, paranoia, and a distorted sense of time, place, and reality.
In very rare cases, taking a huge amount of mushrooms can lead to severe side effects and even death. Additionally, there is a risk of poisoning from picking the wrong types of mushrooms. Delayed headaches may also occur after taking magic mushrooms, usually lasting no longer than a day. Long-term effects can include changes in personality, flashbacks, and, in some cases, the development of a mental health condition known as psychosis.
It is important to note that the use of any drug, including magic mushrooms, can have risks, and it is always advisable to exercise caution when taking any substance.
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Safety considerations
While the therapeutic use of psilocybin mushrooms is being explored, there are currently no approved therapeutic products containing psilocybin. This means that the safety, efficacy, and quality of products containing psilocybin have not been assessed or scientifically reviewed.
Poisonous Mushrooms: It is difficult to distinguish between different species of mushrooms, and some mushroom species are extremely poisonous and can cause violent illness or even death.
Hallucinations and Mental Health Risks: Psilocybin mushrooms are hallucinogenic and can cause an altered state of consciousness. In some cases, they may lead to terrifying thoughts, intense paranoia, panic attacks, and fears of death. A very high dose can lead to a long-term mental health condition called psychosis.
Unpredictable Experiences: The effects of psilocybin mushrooms vary from person to person, and it is challenging to predict the type of experience each user will have. The mushrooms may induce a trip that can be mild or intense, with hallucinations, anxiety, paranoia, and a distorted sense of time, place, and reality.
Tolerance and Dependence: Regular use of psilocybin mushrooms can lead to tolerance, where even high amounts of the drug may not produce the desired effect. However, there is little evidence that individuals can become physically or psychologically dependent on psilocybin mushrooms.
Drug Interactions: Psilocybin mushrooms may interact with other substances, medications, or drugs, leading to adverse effects or unpredictable outcomes.
Legal Status: In many places, activities involving psilocybin mushrooms, such as sale, possession, and production, are illegal unless authorized by the relevant authorities. It is important to be aware of the legal implications and restrictions in your specific location.
It is essential to approach the use of psilocybin mushrooms with caution and to prioritize your safety and well-being. The potential risks and unpredictable nature of the mushroom's effects should be carefully considered before consumption.
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Frequently asked questions
The dosage varies depending on factors such as weight, age, and previous experience with psilocybin. A common fixed dose in clinical trials is 25 mg, but it's important to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
On an empty stomach, the effects can be felt within 30 to 120 minutes. However, if consumed after a meal, it may take up to 2 hours for the effects to start, depending on your food intake, digestion time, and other factors.
Psilocybin mushrooms can cause hallucinations, nausea, paranoia, and fatigue. There is also a risk of a bad trip, where individuals may have negative experiences. Additionally, poisonous mushrooms can pose significant dangers. It is important to be in a calm and safe environment when consuming psilocybin mushrooms.
