Sarah Brown
Psilocybe cubensis, more commonly known as magic mushrooms or boomers, are among the better-known varieties of mushrooms with
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What You'll Learn
- Identification: Stalks are 4–15 cm tall, and 4–15 mm around. Caps are 1.5–8 cm in diameter
- Varieties: 'Magic mushrooms' are a well-known variety
- Geographic origin: Native to southern North America, Central America, and the Caribbean
- Psychoactive effects: Hallucinogenic, but toxic reactions and overdoses are rare
- Cultivation: Can be cultivated at home with a Boomer Shroomer Inflatable Monotub Kit
Identification: Stalks are 4–15 cm tall, and 4–15 mm around. Caps are 1.5–8 cm in diameter
When identifying mushrooms, it is important to look at both the stalks (stipes) and the caps (pilei). The stalks of mushrooms support the caps and are important for spore dispersal. The stalks of boomers mushrooms are 4–15 cm tall and 4–15 mm around. They are usually white or yellowish-brown, sometimes darkening with age.
The caps of boomers mushrooms are 1.5–8 cm in diameter, rarely up to 10 cm, and may be conical, oval, or bell-shaped. The caps may have a raised area in the centre called an umbo and are whitish to yellowish to cinnamon brown. The caps are the fleshy fruit bodies of the mushrooms and are made up of interwoven multicellular filaments called hyphae. The filaments on the surface of the caps may be coloured or gelatinised, giving mushrooms their familiar colours and slimy caps. Caps evolved to release spores, and most species with caps have some sort of spore-bearing tissue.
In addition to the stalks and caps, other physical characteristics such as shape and colour are important when identifying mushrooms. For example, when the flesh of a boomer mushroom is bruised, it turns bluish or blue-green, an unusual feature that is the result of the oxidation of some of the psilocybin.
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Varieties: 'Magic mushrooms' are a well-known variety
Psilocybe cubensis, commonly known as boomers, magic mushrooms, golden tops, shrooms, or gold caps, is a variety of mushroom with hallucinogenic effects. They are native to southern North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and many other localities worldwide.
Magic mushrooms are one of the better-known varieties of mushrooms with hallucinogenic or other neurotropic effects. They are often referred to as "shrooms" and are distinguished by their unique appearance and effects. While wild magic mushrooms are quite rare, there are at least 140 known species of Psilocybe and dozens or hundreds of other psychoactive mushrooms.
The stalks of magic mushrooms are typically 4-15 cm tall and 4-15 mm around. They are usually white or yellowish-brown, sometimes darkening with age. The caps of the mushrooms are 1.5-8 cm in diameter, rarely reaching 10 cm, and can be conical, oval, or bell-shaped. The caps may have a raised area in the center called an umbo and range in color from whitish to yellowish to cinnamon brown.
One distinctive feature of magic mushrooms is that when the flesh is bruised, it turns bluish or blue-green. This color change is due to the oxidation of some of the psilocybin present in the mushroom. Along with psilocybin and psilocin, magic mushrooms contain at least two other hallucinogenic compounds. The concentration of these ingredients can vary due to mushroom age and growth conditions.
Magic mushrooms have been studied for their potential therapeutic benefits. Some evidence suggests that they may be effective for treating cluster headaches and are being actively researched for possible benefits in treating anxiety, depression, and autoimmune conditions of the brain.
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Geographic origin: Native to southern North America, Central America, and the Caribbean
Psilocybe cubensis, more commonly known as "boomers", "magic mushrooms", "golden tops", "shrooms", or "gold caps", are a variety of mushrooms with hallucinogenic effects. They are native to southern North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, but can now be found in many localities throughout the world.
The stalks of boomer mushrooms are typically 4–15 cm tall and 4–15 mm around. They are usually white or yellowish-brown, sometimes darkening with age. The caps of the mushrooms are 1.5–8 cm in diameter, rarely reaching up to 10 cm, and can be conical, oval, or bell-shaped. The caps may have a raised area in the center called an umbo and are whitish to yellowish to cinnamon brown.
One distinctive feature of boomer mushrooms is that when the flesh is bruised, it turns bluish or blue-green. This colour change is due to the oxidation of psilocybin, one of the hallucinogenic compounds present in the mushrooms. Along with psilocybin, boomer mushrooms also contain psilocin, and at least two other hallucinogenic compounds. The concentration of these compounds can vary depending on the mushroom's age and growth conditions. For example, psilocin breaks down rather quickly, while psilocybin is more stable.
Due to their hallucinogenic properties, boomer mushrooms have been used recreationally and are also being studied for potential therapeutic benefits. Some research suggests that they may be effective for treating cluster headaches, and they are currently being investigated for possible benefits in treating anxiety, depression, and autoimmune conditions of the brain.
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Psychoactive effects: Hallucinogenic, but toxic reactions and overdoses are rare
Psilocybe cubensis, commonly known as "magic mushrooms" or "boomers", are hallucinogenic fungi that contain the psychoactive chemical psilocybin. When ingested, psilocybin produces a range of effects, including euphoria, hallucinations, and sensory distortions. While the effects of psilocybin are sought by some for spiritual or recreational purposes, they can also lead to negative experiences, such as anxiety, panic, and paranoia.
The psychoactive effects of boomers mushrooms are primarily attributed to the presence of psilocybin, which is converted into psilocin in the body. These chemicals act on serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly in areas such as the prefrontal cortex and amygdala, which influence mood, cognition, and perception. The concentration of these chemicals can vary depending on the mushroom's age and growth conditions. For example, psilocin breaks down rather quickly, while psilocybin is more stable.
Although boomers mushrooms are considered technically non-poisonous, toxic physical reactions and overdoses are possible, especially if mixed with other substances. However, these toxic reactions are rare. The negative effects of ingesting boomers mushrooms are more commonly psychological in nature, including intense panic attacks and extended or "bad trips". A "bad trip" refers to when the hallucinations and psychedelic sensations cause panic, evoke unwanted memories, or induce frightening visuals.
It is important to note that the risk of a "bad trip" or other negative psychological effects is not limited to high doses. Even on low doses, individuals may experience a "bad trip". Additionally, chronic use of hallucinogenic mushrooms can occasionally lead to a persistent state of psychosis, characterised by disorganised thoughts, visual disturbances, changes in mood, or feelings of paranoia.
While physical overdose is rare, it is still possible to experience a mushrooms overdose, which may require medical attention. Treatment for a mushroom overdose is typically dictated by the specific symptoms displayed and should ideally occur in a safe and supportive environment to help reduce anxiety.
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Cultivation: Can be cultivated at home with a Boomer Shroomer Inflatable Monotub Kit
Psilocybe cubensis, commonly known as "magic mushrooms" or "boomers", are mushrooms with hallucinogenic or neurotropic effects. They are native to southern North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and many localities throughout the world.
Boomer Shroomer offers an Inflatable Monotub Kit for cultivating mushrooms at home. The kit includes a drain port, plugs, filters, and a removable liner. It is made of clear, thick, and sturdy plastic for easy viewing and reuse. The monotub has a built-in liner that the mycelium clings to, eliminating the need for side pins. However, a removable liner is included for easier cleaning. The monotub also features multiple air holes for controlled humidity and ventilation, and a built-in drain hole for easy rehydration and draining.
The Boomer Shroomer Inflatable Monotub Kit is designed for simplicity and ease of use, making it perfect for first-time mushroom growers. It offers a cost-effective alternative to shipping a plastic tub and provides a virtually hands-free setup. The kit includes 10 red plugs, 10 1-inch filters, and 1 liner. When fully inflated, the monotub measures 19 inches by 11 inches by 11 inches.
Customer reviews for the Boomer Shroomer Inflatable Monotub Kit are generally positive, with users praising its ease of use, convenience, and good value for money. Some customers have reported successful mushroom growth and full canopies. The build quality and instructional video have also been well-received. However, there are mixed reviews regarding air retention and humidity control, with some users experiencing issues with the monotub not holding air or leaking water.
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Frequently asked questions
Boomer mushrooms, or Psilocybe cubensis, are a species of "magic mushrooms" with hallucinogenic effects. They are native to southern North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and many localities throughout the world.
Boomer mushrooms have stalks that are 1½–6″ (4–15 cm) tall, and ⅛–½″ (4–15 mm) around. They are usually white or yellowish-brown, sometimes darkening with age. The caps are ½–3″ (1.5–8 cm) in diameter and may be conical, oval, or bell-shaped. The caps may also have a raised area in the center called an umbo and are whitish to yellowish to cinnamon brown. When the flesh is bruised, it turns bluish or blue-green due to the oxidation of psilocybin.
You can grow Boomer mushrooms at home using a mushroom growing kit such as the Boomer Shroomer Inflatable Monotub Kit or the North Spore's Boomr Bin. These kits provide an easy and convenient way to cultivate mushrooms, offering features such as humidity control, fast colonization speeds, and step-by-step guides.
