John Miller
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychoactive compound psilocin upon ingestion. Psilocybin mushrooms are widely used as recreational drugs and have been consumed by various cultures for thousands of years, including in religious rituals. The effects of magic mushrooms can vary depending on individual factors such as personality, expectations, and biological sex, as well as the surrounding environment and the amount consumed. While magic mushrooms are not known to cause physical or psychological dependence, they can lead to short-term mental and physical effects, such as hallucinations, heightened emotions, and distorted senses.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Magic mushrooms, shrooms |
| Scientific name | Psilocybin mushrooms |
| Key ingredient | Psilocybin |
| Psychoactive chemical | Psilocin |
| Common types | Golden tops, blue meanies, liberty caps, Psilocybe mexicana |
| Effects | Hallucinations, altered state of consciousness, heightened emotions and senses, euphoria, muscle weakness, drowsiness, lack of coordination, nausea, vomiting, delayed headaches, flashbacks, increased tolerance |
| Use cases | Recreational, spiritual, therapeutic, microdosing |
| Legality | Varies by country; controlled internationally under the United Nations Drug Control Conventions; decriminalized in Oregon and Colorado in the US |
| Risks | Misidentification with toxic mushrooms, severe illness from commercial products, bad trips, mental health problems outside clinical settings, septic shock and multi-system organ failure from intravenous injection |
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What You'll Learn
- Magic mushrooms are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom
- They contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion
- Magic mushrooms are eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea
- The effects of magic mushrooms can vary from person to person
- There is little evidence that people can become physically or psychologically dependent on magic mushrooms
Magic mushrooms are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin-containing mushrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom and a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin. When ingested, psilocybin is converted by the body into psilocin, which is the chemical with psychoactive properties. The effects of psilocybin mushrooms come from the combination of psilocybin and psilocin. When psilocybin is ingested, it is broken down by the liver in a process called dephosphorylation, resulting in psilocin. Psilocybin mushrooms have been used for thousands of years, including in religious rituals, and are one of the most widely used psychedelic drugs today.
The most potent species of psilocybin mushrooms are members of the genus Psilocybe, such as P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens. However, psilocybin has also been isolated from several other genera, including Panaeolus (including Copelandia), Inocybe, Pluteus, Gymnopilus, and Pholiotina. In terms of appearance, magic mushrooms look much like ordinary mushrooms, but they can also come as dried material in capsules. Synthetic psilocybin appears as a white crystalline powder that can be processed into tablets or capsules or dissolved in water.
Magic mushrooms are typically eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. The effects of magic mushrooms usually begin within 30 minutes when eaten, or within 5–10 minutes when taken as a soup or tea, and can last approximately four to six hours. The effects of psilocybin mushrooms vary from person to person and can include perceptual changes, such as visual and auditory hallucinations, and an altered state of consciousness. Some people may also experience heightened emotions and senses, feeling happy, creative, or mentally and emotionally clear.
There are potential risks associated with the use of magic mushrooms. Although there is little evidence of physical or psychological dependence, regular use can lead to tolerance, where even high amounts of the drug will no longer produce the desired effect. Additionally, there is a risk of misidentifying mushrooms, as magic mushrooms can look similar to poisonous mushrooms that can cause illness or even death. Furthermore, the use of magic mushrooms can sometimes result in a ''bad trip, characterised by extreme fear, anxiety, panic, or paranoia. While rare, large amounts or strong batches of magic mushrooms can lead to life-threatening symptoms, and there have been reports of serious harm associated with intravenous injection of mushrooms, including septic shock and multi-system organ failure.
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They contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin. When ingested, psilocybin is converted by the body into psilocin, the chemical responsible for the mushrooms' psychoactive properties. This process, called dephosphorylation, occurs when psilocybin is broken down by the liver.
Psilocybin mushrooms have a long history of use, dating back to ancient rituals and practices. They are one of the most widely used psychedelic drugs today, with reports of their use spanning from Central Mexico to Oaxaca. In modern times, they are often used recreationally, with users seeking unique, spiritual, or enlightening experiences. Some people also engage in microdosing, taking very small amounts regularly to improve their mental state and productivity.
The effects of psilocybin mushrooms can vary significantly among individuals. They typically include hallucinations, perceptual changes, and an altered state of consciousness. Users may see or hear things that aren't real, experience distorted senses, and have shifts in their sense of reality. Psilocybin mushrooms can also induce a mystical experience, where individuals enter a dreamlike, euphoric state, sometimes with visions or reliving memories.
The potency of psilocybin mushrooms depends on the species. The most potent species belong to the genus Psilocybe, including P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens. However, psilocybin has also been found in several other genera, such as Panaeolus, Inocybe, and Gymnopilus. The effects of magic mushrooms usually begin within 30 minutes when eaten fresh and can last approximately four to six hours. When consumed as a soup or tea, the effects may appear faster, within 5 to 15 minutes.
While psilocybin mushrooms are not known to cause physical or psychological dependence, there are still health risks associated with their consumption. Poor mental health outcomes may be more likely when used outside of clinical settings. Additionally, there is a risk of misidentifying mushrooms, as magic mushrooms can look similar to poisonous varieties. It is important to note that the legality of psilocybin mushrooms and their active compounds, psilocybin and psilocin, varies across different countries and regions.
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Magic mushrooms are eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, mushies, psilocybin, cubenis, or liberty caps, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. They are often eaten raw, cooked, or brewed into a tea.
When eaten raw, magic mushrooms can cause side effects such as a cramped tummy. However, this can be avoided by cooking the mushrooms or brewing them into a tea. Cooking the mushrooms can be as simple as frying them, or they can be added to foods such as chocolate or soup to mask their bitter taste. Brewing the mushrooms into a tea is a popular method of consumption, as it avoids the potential side effects of eating raw mushrooms, provides more control over dosing, and allows for a wider spectrum of options for dosing.
To make magic mushroom tea, also known as shroom tea or psilocybin tea, you will need to steep the mushrooms in hot water for at least 10 minutes to ensure a sufficient dose of psilocybin. You can also add ingredients such as honey, ginger, or lemon juice to enhance the flavor and provide additional health benefits. After brewing, it is important to use a sieve or coffee filter to strain the tea and remove any mushroom bits.
The effects of magic mushrooms typically begin within 30 to 45 minutes when eaten raw and can last up to 6 hours. When consumed as a tea or soup, the effects may appear more quickly, usually within 5 to 10 minutes. It is important to note that the effects of magic mushrooms can vary depending on individual factors such as the user's mood, mindset, and expectations. Additionally, the effects can be influenced by the environment and setting in which the mushrooms are consumed.
While magic mushrooms are widely used and have a long history in various cultures, it is important to approach their consumption with caution. Magic mushrooms are considered a drug and are classified as a controlled substance in many places. The effects of magic mushrooms can vary widely, ranging from mild trips with feelings of drowsiness or relaxation to intense paranoia, panic attacks, and fears of death. Additionally, consuming large doses of magic mushrooms can lead to severe side effects and, in very rare cases, even death. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct thorough research, plan your dose, and consume magic mushrooms responsibly and in a safe environment.
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The effects of magic mushrooms can vary from person to person
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom and a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin. When ingested, psilocybin is converted by the body into psilocin, a chemical with psychoactive properties. The effects of magic mushrooms can vary from person to person, and several factors can influence this variation.
Dosage is a critical factor in determining the effects of magic mushrooms. Higher doses of psilocybin are associated with an increased risk of negative experiences, such as a ""bad trip." A bad trip can include feelings of extreme fear, anxiety, panic, paranoia, and frightening hallucinations. It is important to note that the only way to eliminate the risk of a bad trip is by not taking magic mushrooms.
Individual characteristics, such as age, weight, sex, personality, emotional state, and history of mental illness or drug use, also play a role in how people respond to magic mushrooms. For example, a person's mental state or set, including their mood, expectations, and previous encounters with psychedelic drugs, can influence their experience. Similarly, the surrounding people and environment, or the setting, can impact how the drug affects an individual.
The effects of magic mushrooms typically include perceptual changes, such as visual and auditory hallucinations, distorted senses, and altered thinking and emotions. These effects usually occur within 20 to 45 minutes after ingestion and can last between four and six hours. However, in some individuals, changes in sensory perception and thought patterns may persist for longer.
While psilocybin mushrooms have a low potential for addiction, they can cause mild to moderate adverse side effects. These side effects often resolve with time but may require medical treatment in some cases. Additionally, there is a risk of misidentifying mushrooms, as poisonous mushrooms can closely resemble magic mushrooms, leading to toxic effects.
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There is little evidence that people can become physically or psychologically dependent on magic mushrooms
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. The effects of psilocybin mushrooms come from the interplay of psilocybin and psilocin. When psilocybin is ingested, it is broken down by the liver, resulting in the compound psilocin, which is responsible for the psychedelic effects.
Magic mushrooms have been used for thousands of years, including in religious rituals. Today, some people use them in hopes of having a unique, interesting, enlightening, and/or spiritual experience. Others engage in microdosing, taking very small amounts regularly to improve their mental state and productivity. While the effects of magic mushrooms can vary from person to person, they typically cause shifts in how a person perceives reality, leading to hallucinations, sensory distortions, and a feeling of oneness with the universe.
Despite their widespread use, there is little evidence that people can become physically or psychologically dependent on magic mushrooms. Current research suggests that psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, is not addictive. In fact, psilocybin creates short-term increases in tolerance, making it difficult to misuse. The more often magic mushrooms are taken within a short period, the weaker the resultant effects are. Additionally, there aren't many known withdrawal effects, and discontinuing use for a week or so returns individuals to their normal tolerance levels.
However, it is important to note that magic mushrooms are not without risks. The line between therapeutic use and abuse can be thin, and adverse side effects, while often mild or moderate, may sometimes require medical treatment. Regular use may lead to tolerance, and cross-tolerance with other drugs like LSD and mescaline has been observed. Moreover, the risk of a "bad trip" or negative experience increases with higher doses or feelings of anxiety before consumption. Extreme fear, anxiety, panic, or paranoia may accompany the hallucinogenic effects, and flashbacks involving previous magic mushroom experiences can occur long after the drug was last taken.
Furthermore, the potential for misidentifying mushrooms is a significant concern. Many species of magic mushrooms resemble poisonous mushrooms that can cause severe illness or even death. Magic mushrooms should never be injected intravenously, as this has been linked to serious complications, including septic shock and multi-system organ failure. While the toxicity of psilocybin is low, and life-threatening symptoms are rare, the potential for harm underscores the importance of caution when using any type of drug.
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Frequently asked questions
Drug mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychoactive psilocin upon ingestion. Psilocybin mushrooms are also commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms.
The effects of drug mushrooms vary from person to person and can be influenced by factors such as the amount taken, the surrounding environment, and the individual's personality and expectations. Some common effects include hallucinations, an altered state of consciousness, heightened emotions and senses, and a distorted sense of reality.
While psilocybin mushrooms have a low level of toxicity and are not known to cause physical or psychological dependence, there are still health risks associated with their consumption. These risks include the possibility of a bad trip, which can involve extreme fear, anxiety, panic, or paranoia. Additionally, there is a risk of misidentifying mushrooms and consuming a toxic variety by mistake. It is also important to note that the legality of psilocybin mushrooms varies by region.
