John Miller
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are hallucinogenic fungi that contain the psychedelic drug psilocybin. They have been used for thousands of years and are ingested to induce an intense psychedelic experience. The effects of magic mushrooms vary depending on dosage, individual sensitivity, and environmental factors, but they typically include hallucinations, distorted time perception, and mood swings. While some people view magic mushrooms as a recreational substance, they can have serious negative effects, including nausea, paranoia, and impaired judgment, which may lead to risk-taking behaviour and traumatic injuries. It is also important to note that the biggest danger of consuming magic mushrooms is the possibility of ingesting poisonous mushrooms, which can be life-threatening.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First effects | Usually felt within 20 to 40 minutes of ingestion |
| Effects | Physical sensations, changes in perception, nausea, increased heart rate, hallucinations, intense mood swings, paranoia, loss of boundaries, distorted sense of self, detachment, dreamy feeling, time distortion, feelings of unity, joy, transcendence of ego, afterglow, improved mood, clarity of thought, sense of well-being, lasting changes in outlook or behaviour |
| Peak effects | Last 2 to 3 hours |
| Plateau phase | Lasts for another 1 to 2 hours |
| After effects | Fatigue, emotional drain |
| Delayed effects | Headaches |
| Long-term effects | No studies have evaluated the long-term effects of repetitive use of magic mushrooms |
| Bad trip | May occur, particularly at high doses or in a negative environment |
| Flashbacks | Visual distortions, changes in perception, reliving a previous experience |
| Poisoning | Can occur if poisonous mushrooms are consumed by mistake |
| Treatment | Contact the Victorian Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26) or, in an emergency, ring triple zero (000) for an ambulance |
| Addiction | No physical addiction, but a risk of psychological dependence or habitual use |
| Legality | Illegal in many places |
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What You'll Learn
- Magic mushrooms are illegal drugs that cause hallucinations
- A bad trip may occur, especially at high doses
- Poisonous mushrooms can be mistaken for magic mushrooms
- The effects of magic mushrooms vary based on dosage, individual sensitivity, and environment
- There is a risk of developing addictive habits and misuse
Magic mushrooms are illegal drugs that cause hallucinations
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are illegal drugs that cause hallucinations. They have been used for thousands of years, and there are over 200 species of them. The active ingredients in magic mushrooms are chemicals called psilocybin and psilocin, which are classified as psychedelic drugs. These substances are controlled internationally under the United Nations Drug Control Conventions and are often illegal under national laws, such as in Canada, where they are regulated under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA).
The effects of magic mushrooms can vary depending on dosage, individual sensitivity, and environmental factors. The first effects are usually felt within 20 to 40 minutes of ingestion, with physical sensations, changes in perception, and the initial stages of the trip. Nausea and an increased heart rate are common during this "come-up" phase. The peak effects, which last around 2 to 3 hours, are characterised by intense visuals, distorted time perception, and a dreamy, detached feeling. Some users report positive experiences such as feelings of unity, joy, and transcendence of the ego.
However, magic mushrooms can also lead to negative experiences, commonly known as ""bad trips". These are more likely to occur at high doses and can include paranoia, loss of boundaries, distorted sense of self, and impaired judgment, which may lead to risk-taking behaviour and potential injury. The risk of a bad trip is influenced by factors such as the user's state of mind, previous encounters with psychedelic drugs, expectations, and the surrounding environment. Mixing magic mushrooms with other substances, such as cannabis, amphetamines, alcohol, or certain medications, can also increase the chances of a bad trip and lead to serious side effects.
In addition to the immediate effects, magic mushrooms can have short-term and potential long-term impacts on mental health. Some users experience "flashbacks," which are spontaneous recurrences of trip effects that can occur days, weeks, or even months after initial mushroom use. While flashbacks are usually not a significant concern, they can be disturbing, especially if frightening hallucinations are recalled. The use of magic mushrooms may also lead to lasting changes in outlook or behaviours, and there is a risk of developing psychological dependence, habitual use, and neglect of responsibilities.
It is important to note that one of the biggest dangers associated with magic mushrooms is the risk of consuming poisonous mushrooms by mistake, as many species look alike. Consuming poisonous mushrooms can have severe health consequences, including violent illness and, in some cases, death. Therefore, responsible and mindful use is essential when it comes to magic mushrooms, and individuals should seek medical advice if they have any concerns or experience adverse effects.
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A bad trip may occur, especially at high doses
A "bad trip" is a common term used to describe a frightening experience during a mushroom trip, which may occur, especially at high doses. The active ingredient in mushrooms, psilocybin, can lead to hallucinations, intense mood swings, paranoia, loss of boundaries, and a distorted sense of self. During a bad trip, individuals may experience panic attacks, engage in dangerous or risky behaviour, or suffer from impaired judgment, which may lead to traumatic injuries or even death.
A bad trip can be influenced by various factors, such as dosage, individual sensitivity, and environmental factors. For example, feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression before taking mushrooms may increase the likelihood of a bad trip. Additionally, the setting, such as being in a noisy, crowded place, can also contribute to a negative experience.
To reduce the risk of a bad trip, it is advisable to be in a good state of mind, surrounded by trusted friends, and in a safe, calm, and familiar environment. It is also important to avoid mixing mushrooms with other drugs or substances, as this can elevate the risks of serious side effects and adverse events.
While mushroom trips are typically temporary, some individuals may experience lasting changes in their outlook or behaviours, including frequent or disturbing flashbacks to their mushroom experience. These flashbacks can be triggered by various factors and may involve visual distortions, changes in emotions, or alterations in perception.
If you or someone you know is experiencing negative effects from mushroom use, it is important to seek support and make use of the available resources, such as drug rehabilitation and recovery services. Responsible and mindful use of mushrooms is essential to mitigate the risks associated with their consumption.
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Poisonous mushrooms can be mistaken for magic mushrooms
A "mushroom trip" refers to the experience of consuming hallucinogenic mushrooms, also known as "magic mushrooms". These mushrooms contain substances that cause people to hallucinate and alter their sense of reality. While the use of magic mushrooms rarely leads to life-threatening symptoms, there are risks associated with their consumption, including the possibility of a ""bad trip"" and the potential for negative interactions with other drugs or medications.
However, one of the most significant dangers associated with mushroom trips is the risk of mistaking poisonous mushrooms for magic mushrooms. Mushroom identification can be extremely challenging, and many poisonous mushrooms closely resemble their hallucinogenic counterparts. The consequences of misidentifying a mushroom can be severe and even life-threatening.
Amanita mushrooms, for example, include both hallucinogenic and poisonous species. Amanita muscaria, also known as Fly Amanita or toadstool, has been consumed for its hallucinogenic effects for thousands of years. However, in large doses, even this "magic mushroom" can be lethal. Other Amanita species, such as the Destroying Angel (Amanita virosa) and Panther Cap (Amanita pantherina), are highly toxic and potentially fatal. These mushrooms can be found in woody areas, putting children and foragers at risk of accidental ingestion.
Additionally, some poisonous mushrooms may resemble puffballs, which are generally edible. However, younger poisonous mushrooms may be misidentified as puffballs, leading to accidental poisoning. Galerina autumnalis, or Autumn Galerina, is another genus that includes seriously toxic mushrooms that can be mistaken for hallucinogenic "magic" mushrooms.
To avoid the dangers of misidentification, it is crucial to follow the advice of mushroom experts: "Never eat a mushroom unless you can positively identify it." When foraging for mushrooms, it is essential to use a comprehensive mushroom guide or online catalogue that includes detailed information and images of both poisonous and edible mushrooms. By cross-referencing the characteristics of the mushroom in question, one can significantly reduce the risk of ingesting a poisonous mushroom.
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The effects of magic mushrooms vary based on dosage, individual sensitivity, and environment
The effects of magic mushrooms are highly variable and influenced by a range of factors, including dosage, individual sensitivity, and environment. Magic mushrooms, or 'shrooms', contain the psychoactive substances psilocybin and psilocin, which induce hallucinations and distort a person's perception of reality. The effects of magic mushrooms typically include visual distortions, intensified emotions, and an altered sense of time.
Dosage plays a significant role in the effects of magic mushrooms. Higher doses often lead to more intense and unpredictable behaviour. Users may experience paranoia, emotional outbursts, or fixation on certain things. They may also exhibit risk-taking behaviour, which could lead to injuries or accidents, especially if operating machinery or driving. The duration of the effects is also influenced by dosage, with larger doses resulting in longer-lasting experiences.
Individual sensitivity refers to a person's unique response to magic mushrooms, which can be influenced by their physical and mental health, previous encounters with psychedelic drugs, and their expectations. For example, individuals with cardiac diseases may experience harmful short-term effects, such as increased blood pressure and heart rate. Those with pre-existing psychiatric conditions or a predisposition to certain mental health disorders may be at a higher risk of experiencing negative side effects, including \"bad trips\" and flashbacks.
The environment in which magic mushrooms are consumed, including physical surroundings and social context, also influences the overall experience. Consuming magic mushrooms in a calm, quiet, and familiar environment with trusted friends can contribute to a positive experience. On the other hand, taking magic mushrooms in a noisy, crowded, or unfamiliar place may increase the likelihood of a negative experience or a \"bad trip\".
It is important to note that the strength of magic mushrooms varies, and it can be difficult to determine their potency. They should not be consumed with other drugs or substances, as this can lead to unpredictable and dangerous effects. The biggest danger associated with magic mushroom consumption is the risk of ingesting poisonous mushrooms, which can have severe health consequences or even lead to death.
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There is a risk of developing addictive habits and misuse
While the risk of addiction to magic mushrooms is low, psychological dependence can develop. This is because people may continue to use mushrooms to attain pleasurable feelings associated with their use, which can lead to problematic, compulsive patterns of use. However, there is no significant physiological dependence associated with the drug, and there are currently no medications that treat addiction to mushrooms or other hallucinogens. Tolerance develops rapidly with continued use, resulting in the drug having little to no effect over time. However, discontinuing use for a week or so will return people to their normal tolerance level.
Magic mushrooms are not known to cause physical dependence, so it is unlikely that someone would find it challenging to stop using them. There are not many known withdrawal effects for magic mushrooms, apart from some potential mild psychological effects or feelings of tiredness. However, there is some evidence that classic hallucinogens such as psilocybin may trigger or worsen certain mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, manic episodes, or depression.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) currently lists mushrooms as a Schedule I substance, which means they have a high risk for abuse, no known medical benefits, and are not approved for any use, even under a doctor's care. The abuse of psilocybin mushrooms is a growing concern, especially among younger populations, due to their availability and the perception that they are a "natural" and relatively safe drug. The consequences of mushroom abuse can vary depending on how much and how often the drug is used.
Treatment and rehabilitation for psilocybin mushroom abuse may include individual counselling or group therapy to help individuals understand their drug use triggers and develop coping skills. While some people may experience "flashbacks" or have an experience where they feel the effects of psilocybin mushrooms long after the drug was last used, these experiences are usually not troubling and typically last only a minute or two.
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Frequently asked questions
A mushroom trip refers to the experience of consuming hallucinogenic mushrooms, also known as "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms". These mushrooms contain psychoactive substances called psilocybin and psilocin, which can induce an intense psychedelic experience with both short- and long-term effects on the mind and body.
The effects of a mushroom trip can vary depending on dosage, individual sensitivity, and environmental factors. The first effects are usually felt within 20 to 40 minutes of ingestion, with physical sensations, changes in perception, and the initial stages of the trip. The peak effects, which last around 2 to 3 hours, are characterised by intense visuals, a distorted sense of time, and altered emotions or perceptions. After the peak, the trip enters a plateau phase lasting around 1 to 2 hours, followed by a gradual return to the normal state of consciousness, which can take several hours.
Mushroom trips carry certain risks, including the possibility of a "'bad trip", where individuals may experience paranoia, loss of boundaries, distorted sense of self, and impaired judgment, which can lead to risk-taking behaviours and potential injuries. Additionally, consuming mushrooms may result in negative physical effects such as nausea, increased heart rate, and stomach cramps. The biggest danger, however, is the potential consumption of poisonous mushrooms, which can be life-threatening. Mixing mushrooms with other substances, including certain medications, can also lead to unpredictable and dangerous outcomes.
