Sarah Brown
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are hallucinogenic drugs that have been used for thousands of years. They contain substances such as psilocybin, psilocin, and LSD, which can cause hallucinations and alter a person's thoughts, emotions, and perception of time and space. While magic mushrooms are illegal in many places and can lead to serious health risks and adverse side effects, modern medical research is exploring their potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental and behavioural health conditions. Before consuming magic mushrooms, it is essential to consider the associated risks, legal implications, and potential consequences for your health, safety, and well-being.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Legality | Magic mushrooms are illegal in many places. In the US, they are a Class A drug, and possession can result in up to 7 years in prison. In Australia, federal and state laws provide penalties for possession, use, or sale. However, some cities have decriminalized possession of psilocybin mushrooms, allowing residents to possess a limited amount without criminal charges. |
| Effects | Psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, induces hallucinations and alters perception of time and space. It can also cause intense mood changes, paranoia, and fixation on certain things. The effects can last for up to 8 hours. |
| Risks | The biggest risk is accidentally consuming poisonous mushrooms, which can be fatal. Consuming a large amount of magic mushrooms can lead to severe side effects and, in rare cases, death. Regular use may cause tolerance to develop, increasing the risk of a "bad trip." Mixing with other substances, including alcohol, can lead to unpredictable effects. |
| Benefits | Magic mushrooms have been used for thousands of years in various cultures. Modern medical research is exploring their potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in treating psychiatric and behavioral conditions. Some users seek transcendent spiritual experiences or recreational use. |
| Safety Considerations | It is essential to ensure the mushrooms are not poisonous and to control the amount consumed. Using in a safe, calm environment with trusted friends can reduce the risk of a bad trip. Avoid driving or operating machinery, as mushrooms impair judgment and coordination. |
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What You'll Learn
What are magic mushrooms?
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin. This substance turns into the psychedelic drug psilocin when ingested. The effects of magic mushrooms are similar to those of LSD and include an altered perception of time and space, as well as intense changes in mood and feeling. The length and intensity of each trip can vary depending on the user's mood, personality, and expectations, as well as the strength of the mushrooms and the amount consumed.
Magic mushrooms can be eaten fresh or dried, or brewed into a tea. They have a strong earthy taste and a rubber-like texture, which some people find unpalatable. The effects of magic mushrooms typically begin after about 30 to 45 minutes and can last up to 6 hours, although they may be detected in the body for up to 8 hours. While some people report positive experiences with magic mushrooms, such as feeling relaxed or having a transcendent spiritual experience, others may have a bad trip, experiencing terrifying thoughts, paranoia, panic attacks, or fears of death.
The biggest danger associated with magic mushroom consumption is the risk of ingesting poisonous mushrooms, as some species can be extremely toxic and even life-threatening. Additionally, magic mushrooms can cause adverse side effects such as gastrointestinal illness, nausea, and anxiety. Regular use may lead to tolerance, and there is a risk of cross-tolerance with other drugs such as LSD and mescaline. It is important to note that magic mushrooms are illegal in many places, and possession or supply can result in significant legal consequences.
The decision to try magic mushrooms involves weighing the potential risks and consequences against the desired effects. It is important to prioritize safety and be well-informed about the substance, including its potential interactions with other substances and individual health considerations.
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Are magic mushrooms addictive?
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, are a commonly used hallucinogen with a long history of use in religious and spiritual rituals. While they are not considered physically addictive like other substances (e.g. opioids or alcohol), there is a risk of developing psychological dependence. This means that, while there are no significant physiological withdrawal symptoms, people may continue to use mushrooms to attain pleasurable feelings, which can lead to problematic and compulsive patterns of use.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) currently lists mushrooms as a Schedule I substance, indicating a high risk for abuse, no known medical benefits, and no approved use, even under medical supervision. However, there is a new surge of interest in researching psilocybin's therapeutic potential for treating various conditions, including substance use disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), addiction, pain, and neurodegenerative disorders.
The availability of magic mushrooms, especially with some states legalizing their use for medicinal purposes, has contributed to their abuse, particularly among younger populations. The belief that psilocybin mushrooms are a "natural" and relatively safe drug may also contribute to their popularity among younger individuals. It is crucial to address this concern through education, prevention efforts, and early intervention, providing accurate information about the risks and consequences of mushroom use.
While the addiction risk is generally considered low, some individuals may develop a psychological dependence on magic mushrooms. This can lead to frequent use, especially when strong associations are formed with using mushrooms in specific settings or with certain people. Additionally, repeated use can result in tolerance, requiring larger doses to achieve the same effects, which can further increase the risk of addiction.
If problematic hallucinogen use or polysubstance abuse involving mushrooms is negatively impacting someone's life, treatment options are available. Therapeutic support and inpatient rehab programs can help individuals struggling with mushroom misuse or co-occurring substance use disorders to get on the road to recovery.
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What are the effects of magic mushrooms?
Magic mushrooms, or shrooms, are hallucinogenic drugs that can cause a range of effects, including altered perception of time and space, intense mood changes, and physical side effects such as an increased heart rate or nausea. The effects of magic mushrooms typically occur within 20 to 40 minutes of ingestion and can last between four and twelve hours. The duration of the effects depends on various factors, including dosage, age, weight, personality, emotional state, environment, and history of drug use.
Magic mushrooms contain psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic drug. Psilocybin is converted to psilocin in the body, which is believed to influence serotonin in the brain, leading to altered and unusual perceptions. The mushrooms are typically consumed dried, powdered, or prepared as tea. They have a bitter taste, so some people mix them with food or drinks to mask the flavour.
The effects of magic mushrooms can vary widely, and adverse side effects are often mild to moderate. However, some people may experience more intense side effects, such as hallucinations, paranoia, panic, and psychosis. The risk of a "bad trip" increases with higher doses or feelings of anxiety before taking the mushrooms. Additionally, magic mushrooms can cause unpredictable and potentially dangerous behaviour, and users may engage in activities that put themselves or others at risk of harm.
While magic mushrooms are not considered addictive, regular use can lead to tolerance, and cross-tolerance with other drugs such as LSD and mescaline has been observed. Magic mushrooms are illegal in many places, and possession or supply can result in severe penalties, including prison sentences and fines. It is important to note that the only way to eliminate the risk associated with magic mushrooms is to abstain from their use.
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What are the risks of taking magic mushrooms?
Magic mushrooms, or shrooms, are mostly illegal in the US, but some cities have decriminalized them. They are classified as a Class A drug in the UK, where possession can result in up to seven years in prison and supplying can lead to life imprisonment.
There are several risks associated with taking magic mushrooms. Firstly, there is a risk of accidental poisoning from mistaking poisonous mushrooms for psilocybin mushrooms. Poisonous mushrooms can cause severe illness and even death, with symptoms such as muscle spasms, confusion, and delirium requiring immediate medical attention.
Secondly, magic mushrooms can induce a ""bad trip,"" which may include feelings of anxiety, paranoia, and short-term psychosis. The risk of a bad trip is higher with larger doses or increased feelings of anxiety beforehand. During a trip, individuals may act unpredictably, with behaviours ranging from excessive laughter to paranoia.
Thirdly, magic mushrooms can trigger mental and emotional problems, particularly in individuals with a history of mental health issues. They can also cause accidents due to impaired judgment and coordination, similar to the dangers of drink-driving. Mixing mushrooms with other substances, such as cannabis and alcohol, can further increase these risks.
Lastly, regular use of magic mushrooms can lead to tolerance and cross-tolerance with other drugs. While psilocybin is not considered addictive, developing a tolerance can be risky as it may lead to consuming larger amounts, resulting in overdose symptoms.
It is important to note that the only way to eliminate the risk of a bad trip is to refrain from taking magic mushrooms altogether.
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Are magic mushrooms legal?
The legality of magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, varies across the world and is subject to change over time. Psilocybin is a Schedule I drug under the United Nations 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, which requires members to prohibit it. However, the mushrooms themselves were not included in the convention, and their legal status varies worldwide.
In the United States, psilocybin is federally prohibited and classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This means it is deemed to have no medicinal benefit and a high potential for abuse and addiction. However, some states and cities have enacted policies that make investigations and arrests for possession and use of psilocybin mushrooms a low priority for law enforcement. As of January 2025, Colorado is the only state where personal use and private cultivation of small amounts of magic mushrooms are legal for adults 21 and older, although Oregon has licensed "psilocybin service centers" where people 21 and older can consume magic mushrooms in a supervised setting. Other states, such as California, still make it illegal to possess, use, or distribute magic mushrooms.
In Canada, the province of Alberta has announced it will regulate and allow the use of psilocybin for medicinal purposes, and Australia has approved psilocybin for prescription medications for the treatment of PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. In the European Union, Germany has specifically criminalized the possession of psilocybin mushroom spores since 1998.
It is important to note that the legality of magic mushrooms is subject to change and can vary by jurisdiction. If you are considering using magic mushrooms, it is essential to research the specific laws and regulations in your area and consult a legal professional if necessary.
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Frequently asked questions
Magic mushrooms are hallucinogenic drugs that contain psilocybin or psilocin. They are often referred to as 'shrooms'.
The effects of magic mushrooms vary widely. They can cause hallucinations and intense changes in mood and feelings. They can also alter a person's perception of time and space.
The biggest danger when taking magic mushrooms is accidentally consuming poisonous mushrooms, which can be life-threatening. Consuming a large amount of magic mushrooms can also lead to severe side effects and, in very rare cases, death. Mixing magic mushrooms with other substances, including alcohol, can also be dangerous and unpredictable.
Magic mushrooms are illegal in many places and are considered a Class A drug in some jurisdictions. However, possession of psilocybin mushrooms has been decriminalized in certain cities, and there is advocacy for removing legal restrictions in other places due to their potential health benefits.
