Laura Smith
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are a type of mushroom that contains the hallucinogenic drugs psilocin and psilocybin. They are commonly consumed for recreational purposes and have been used for thousands of years. The effects of magic mushrooms can vary from person to person, but typically include hallucinations and an altered state of consciousness. While there is ongoing research into the potential therapeutic benefits of magic mushrooms, they are currently illegal in many places. However, some cities have decriminalized the possession of magic mushrooms in small amounts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Magic mushrooms, shrooms, mushies, blue meanies, golden tops, liberty caps |
| Active ingredients | Psilocybin, psilocin |
| Effects | Hallucinations, altered state of consciousness, perceptual changes, feelings of drowsiness or <co: 5,6>relaxation, paranoia, panic attacks, fear of death, flashbacks, headaches |
| Dosage | 10-50 mg of psilocybin, typically between 1.0 and 3.5–5.0 g of dry mushrooms and 10 to 50 g of fresh mushrooms |
| Legality | Illegal in the US, Canada, and Australia |
| Risks | Poisoning, death, physical and psychological dependence, withdrawal effects, accidental consumption of poisonous mushrooms |
| Benefits | Potential therapeutic uses, treatment for mental and behavioral health conditions |
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What You'll Learn
Magic mushrooms are illegal in the US and Canada
Magic mushrooms, or mushrooms that contain hallucinogens like psilocybin and psilocin, are illegal in the US and Canada. The effects of magic mushrooms vary from person to person, with some experiencing heightened emotions and senses, while others may have terrifying thoughts, intense paranoia, panic attacks, and fears of death.
In the US, magic mushrooms are considered illegal under the Controlled Substances Act. However, there have been some moves to decriminalize their use in certain states. For example, in 2020, Oregon voters passed a ballot initiative that made "magic mushrooms" legal for mental health treatment. In 2022, Colorado became the second US state to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms. Additionally, the Native American ceremonial use of peyote, a psychedelic substance, is protected under federal regulation in at least 28 states.
In Canada, magic mushrooms are illegal under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). The production, sale, and possession of magic mushrooms are prohibited unless authorized by Health Canada. In 2023, the Canadian province of Alberta became the first to regulate and allow the use of psilocybin and other psychedelic substances for medicinal purposes in drug-assisted psychotherapy.
While the legalization of magic mushrooms for therapeutic use is gaining momentum in both countries, it is important to note that they remain illegal in most jurisdictions. The potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin are being studied through clinical trials, but as of now, there are no approved therapeutic products containing psilocybin in Canada or elsewhere.
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They contain the psychoactive substances psilocybin and psilocin
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the psychoactive substances psilocybin and psilocin. Psilocybin is the key ingredient in magic mushrooms, and when ingested, it is converted in the body to psilocin, which is the chemical responsible for the mushrooms' psychoactive properties.
Psilocybin mushrooms have been used for thousands of years, and there are over 200 species of them. They are typically found in subtropical humid forests and grow in meadows and woods in the subtropics and tropics, usually in soils rich in humus and plant debris. The most potent species are members of the genus Psilocybe, such as P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens. However, psilocybin has also been isolated from other genera, including Panaeolus, Inocybe, Pluteus, Gymnopilus, and Pholiotina.
The effects of magic mushrooms vary depending on the individual, the dosage, and the environment in which they are consumed. The mushrooms can cause hallucinations, distort a person's sense of reality, and affect their thoughts, emotions, and judgment. The effects typically begin within 15 to 45 minutes of ingestion and can last for up to six hours. While some people may have enjoyable experiences, others may have terrifying thoughts, intense paranoia, panic attacks, or fears of death. It is challenging to predict what kind of experience each user will have.
In terms of potential therapeutic uses, there is ongoing research into the effects of psilocybin on various mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and problematic substance use. However, it is important to note that psilocybin mushrooms are illegal in many places, including the United States, where they are classified as a Schedule I drug, and Canada, where their production, sale, and possession are prohibited. Despite the advocacy for removing legal restrictions, there are significant safety concerns due to the similarity in appearance between psilocybin mushrooms and poisonous mushrooms, which can cause severe illness or even death if consumed.
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They cause hallucinations and distort a person's sense of reality
Magic mushrooms are mushrooms that contain hallucinogens, usually psilocybin and psilocin. When psilocybin is ingested, it is converted in the body to psilocin, which is the chemical with psychoactive properties. These mushrooms can be eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. They can also come in dried material in capsules.
Magic mushrooms cause hallucinations and distort a person's sense of reality. They can induce visual and auditory hallucinations, making people see, hear, or feel things that are not there. They can also lead to terrifying thoughts of losing control, paranoia, panic attacks, and fears of death. The hallucinations and distorted sense of reality caused by magic mushrooms can be disturbing and lead to a "bad trip". 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 behaviours, which may result in traumatic injuries or even death.
The effects of magic mushrooms vary widely, and the intensity of hallucinations and distorted reality can differ depending on various factors. The quantity of mushrooms consumed, an individual's past experiences, expectations, mood, and environment all play a role in shaping their reaction to psilocybin. The setting, such as being in a noisy, crowded place, can also contribute to a negative experience.
It is important to note that the only way to eliminate the risk of a bad trip is by not consuming magic mushrooms. While the use of magic mushrooms rarely results in life-threatening symptoms, large doses or strong batches can have severe side effects. Additionally, regular use may lead to tolerance, and cross-tolerance occurs with other drugs such as LSD and mescaline.
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They can be eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea
Magic mushrooms, or shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. They are mostly illegal in the US and Canada, but there is increasing interest in their potential therapeutic uses. While there is no approved therapeutic product containing psilocybin, clinical trials are ongoing, and research is showing promise.
Magic mushrooms can be consumed in a variety of ways, including eating them fresh, cooking them, or brewing them into a tea. They can also be dried and turned into extracts or food products such as mushroom edibles. The effects of mushrooms generally begin after about 30 to 45 minutes and can last up to 6 hours. Early effects typically include nausea and excessive yawning, followed by a trip that can be mild, leaving one feeling drowsy or relaxed, or intense, leading to terrifying thoughts, paranoia, panic attacks, or fears of death.
It is important to note that magic mushrooms alter a person's sense of reality and affect their judgment, making activities like driving while under the influence dangerous. Additionally, it can be hard to distinguish between magic mushrooms and poisonous mushrooms, which can have severe and even deadly consequences. Therefore, it is essential to be cautious when consuming mushrooms and to seek medical help immediately if any adverse reactions occur.
The effects of magic mushrooms can vary depending on the individual and the environment in which they are consumed. Being in a good state of mind, with trusted friends, and a safe environment can reduce the risk of having a bad trip. It is also important to note that combining magic mushrooms with other substances, including over-the-counter or prescribed medications, can lead to unpredictable and dangerous outcomes.
While physical dependence on magic mushrooms is rare, it is possible to become tolerant to their effects with regular use. Additionally, some people may experience flashbacks involving previous magic mushroom experiences, which can occur without warning and last for months or even years. Overall, it is crucial to approach the consumption of magic mushrooms with caution and to prioritize one's health and safety.
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They have been used for thousands of years
Magic mushrooms, or mushrooms containing psilocybin, have been used for thousands of years. They are consumed for their hallucinogenic effects, which can cause a person to hallucinate, seeing or hearing things that do not exist or are distorted. They also affect a person's sense of time and emotions.
The use of magic mushrooms dates back to ancient times, with evidence of their consumption by indigenous people in Central America as far back as 3000 B.C. In ancient cultures, these mushrooms were used for healing and spiritual rituals, and they played a significant role in traditional ceremonies.
Over time, the interest in magic mushrooms and their potential benefits has persisted. Today, some people continue to use them for spiritual and recreational purposes, as well as for self-treating medical disorders like depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.
Magic mushrooms are often consumed fresh, cooked, or brewed into tea. They can also be dried and encapsulated. The effects of magic mushrooms typically begin within 30 minutes when ingested, and they can last for up to six hours.
While magic mushrooms have a long history of use, it's important to approach them with caution. They can have varying effects on individuals, and consuming large amounts or particularly strong batches can lead to negative experiences, including intense paranoia, panic attacks, and in very rare cases, even death.
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Frequently asked questions
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. The effects of magic mushrooms typically begin after about 30 to 45 minutes and can last up to 6 hours.
Yes, psilocybin-containing mushrooms and products may be purchased in some jurisdictions. Synthetic psilocybin can also be processed into tablets or capsules.
Magic mushrooms affect everyone differently and can cause perceptual changes, such as hallucinations, distorted senses, and altered states of consciousness. While it is rare for magic mushrooms to result in life-threatening symptoms, consuming large amounts can lead to severe side effects and even death. Additionally, magic mushrooms closely resemble some types of poisonous mushrooms, which can be dangerous if consumed.
