Sarah Brown
Testing for mushrooms involves identifying the presence of psilocybin, the main active psychedelic ingredient in mushrooms. Most standard drug tests do not screen for psilocybin, so specific tests are available for this purpose. These tests typically involve providing a urine sample, which can be collected at a lab or through a urine test strip, such as the ones offered by Worldwide Nutrition on Amazon. The NARK Psilocybin/Psilocin Reagent is another test designed to identify psilocybin, but it is intended for presumptive field testing and must be confirmed by an approved analytical laboratory. It's important to note that mushrooms contain hundreds of chemicals, and some can lead to false positive results. Results from laboratory tests typically take 7-14 business days, with an additional 2-4 days for confirmation in case of a positive result.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Test type | Urine test |
| Detection method | Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) |
| Detection time | 15-20 minutes |
| Test result | Positive, negative, or inconclusive/invalid |
| Detection window | 24 hours to 3 days |
| Active ingredients | Psilocybin, Psilocin |
| Reagent test | NARK Psilocybin/Psilocin Reagent |
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What You'll Learn
Testing for psilocybin (magic mushrooms)
Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, shrooms, or purple passion, are not detected in standard drug tests. A specific test must be ordered to monitor their use. These tests are often expensive and must be performed as soon as possible because the half-life of the drug is 2-5 hours and the detection window is usually less than one day.
The NARK Psilocybin/Psilocin Mushrooms Reagent is a test designed to presumptively identify psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms. It is a field test meant for law enforcement and the results must be confirmed by an approved analytical laboratory. A positive reaction for psilocybin will show a distinct pink color, while the presence of psilocin will turn the reagent purple.
The NarcoCheck ID-Test Psilocin & Psilocybin is another test that can be used to identify the presence of hallucinogenic molecules in certain fungi. It is based on a wet chemical reaction where a small quantity of the substance is introduced into the test, causing the granules in the ampoule to change color. The color is then compared to a colorimetric chart to interpret the results. This test is very simple to use and reliable, but it is important to note that it is not designed to test "anything and everything," as everyday products can contain chemical compounds that may cause false or erroneous results.
At a laboratory, a technician will provide a cup for a urine sample to test for psilocybin. The urine is tested using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) at a threshold of 1.0 ng/mL. If the first test is positive, a second confirmatory test is run using the same method to ensure the most accurate result. It may take 7-14 business days to receive the results, and longer if the result is positive. To ensure the most accurate results, it is recommended to avoid drinking an excessive amount of liquid before providing the sample, as this can result in an "invalid" test where a new sample is needed.
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Using a reagent test
It is important to note that reagents may also react with compounds found in legal products, so all test results must be confirmed by an approved analytical laboratory. The results of this test are merely presumptive. The Psilocybin/Psilocin Reagent is meant for presumptive field drug testing and is only for sale to law enforcement.
There are also urine test strips available that can detect the presence of psilocybin and psilocin in the body. These strips provide rapid results in 15-20 minutes and are easy to use. However, it is recommended to not solely rely on these strips as they can give false positives, and one should always read the labels, warnings, and directions before using any product.
If you are looking for a more definitive answer, you can opt for a lab test. These tests are more accurate and reliable but may take longer to provide results. At the lab, a technician will give you a cup to provide a urine sample. The urine is then tested using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) at a threshold of 1.0 ng/mL. If the first test is positive, a second confirmatory test is run using the same method to ensure the most accurate result.
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Urine sample collection
- Timing: The detection window for psilocybin, the active compound in mushrooms, is relatively short. It can be detected in urine for up to 24 hours after consumption. Therefore, the urine sample should be collected within this timeframe. In some cases, especially with chronic users, traces of psilocybin can be detected for up to 3 days, but this is rare.
- Sample Protection: Urine samples must be protected from light exposure to prevent degradation. It is recommended to wrap the sample in foil to block light and maintain the integrity of the sample.
- Sample Collection: Standard urine collection procedures should be followed. This includes providing a clean and private space for the individual to provide the sample. Ensure that the individual follows proper hygiene practices before providing the sample.
- Storage and Transportation: Urine samples should be stored and transported following standard protocols. This includes using properly labelled and sealed containers and maintaining a secure chain of custody.
- Specialized Testing: Note that standard drug tests do not typically screen for psilocybin or psilocin. Specialized tests are required to detect these compounds. These tests are more costly and may not be routinely administered.
- Individual Factors: Keep in mind that individual factors can affect the detection window. For example, dosage, potency, type of mushroom, personal tolerance, preparation method, and food or drink consumption can all influence how long psilocybin remains detectable in the urine.
By following these instructions, you can effectively collect urine samples for mushroom detection. Remember to act promptly, as the compounds are eliminated from the body relatively quickly, and ensure that specialized tests are ordered for accurate analysis.
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False positives
Psilocybin and psilocin are rapidly metabolised and eliminated from the body, typically within a few hours to a couple of days, making them difficult to detect unless testing occurs soon after ingestion. Basic or standard drug tests are often not designed to detect these compounds, and false positives can occur due to structurally similar compounds. For example, some over-the-counter medications, like certain antibiotics or antidepressants, can cause false positives. Consuming large amounts of poppy seeds, which contain trace amounts of morphine-like alkaloids, may also trigger a false positive.
It is important to note that false positives can occur with less specific tests due to potential cross-reactivity with other substances. For instance, hemp products might be mistaken for marijuana, and certain antibiotics might mimic other substances. These instances of cross-reactivity occur because the products share chemical structures with the drugs the tests are designed to detect.
To avoid false positives, it is recommended to use specialised tests designed specifically to identify psilocybin and psilocin. These tests can employ liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) to confirm the presence of these compounds. Additionally, individuals can prioritise abstinence before drug tests to ensure accurate results and comply with legal requirements.
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Lab testing
Laboratory testing for mushrooms can be done in a few different ways. The most common type of drug test is a urine test, but mushrooms generally do not show up on a standard urine test. This is because standard urine tests are designed to detect substances such as THC, opioids, amphetamines, and cocaine. However, there are specialized tests that can detect psilocybin, the active ingredient in mushrooms. These tests are more expensive and less commonly used, but they can be employed in certain situations, such as research studies or legal proceedings.
Another method of laboratory testing for mushrooms is through hair follicle testing. Hair tests can detect drug use, including mushroom use, for up to 90 days. However, this type of test is not very common due to its cost. Additionally, mushroom metabolites are cleared from the body too quickly to be detected by blood or saliva tests.
When it comes to testing the potency and safety of mushroom products, laboratories may use advanced techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography, clinical mass spectrometry, and ultra-violet spectroscopy. These methods can identify the presence of specific chemical components and ensure product purity. Some laboratories also conduct ongoing research to better understand the active ingredients in mushrooms and their effects.
In terms of identifying mushroom species, chemical tests can be employed. For example, Melzer's reagent and potassium hydroxide are commonly used to determine the variety of certain fungi. Schaeffer's test, which uses the reaction of aniline and nitric acid, can help identify Agaricus species. Other chemical tests include the Meixner test, which detects deadly amatoxins, and the use of iron salts to identify Russula and Bolete mushrooms.
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Frequently asked questions
You can test for mushrooms using a urine sample. You can collect a urine sample at a lab or use a urine test strip at home.
Your urine will be tested for the presence of psilocybin and psilocin, the active psychedelic ingredients in mushrooms.
Results from a lab test may take 7-14 business days. Home test strips can give rapid results in 15-20 minutes.
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