Laura Smith
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom and a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. They are mostly illegal in the US and internationally controlled under the United Nations Drug Control Conventions. The effects of magic mushrooms vary from person to person, with some experiencing euphoria and creativity, while others may have terrifying thoughts, intense paranoia, panic attacks, and fears of death. The length and intensity of each trip depend on the strength of the mushrooms, how much was consumed, and the user's mood, personality, and expectations.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Magic mushrooms, shrooms |
| Scientific name | Psilocybin mushrooms |
| Active ingredients | Psilocybin, psilocin, norpsilocin, baeocystin, norbaeocystin, aeruginascin, β-carbolines, harmine, harmane, tetrahydroharmine (THH), harmaline |
| Effects | Euphoria, anxiety, paranoia, nervousness, hallucinations, altered state of consciousness, flashbacks, drowsiness, relaxation |
| Forms | Fresh, dried, extracts, edibles, tea |
| Dosage | Depends on psilocybin and psilocin content, typically 0.5% to 1% of dried weight |
| Legality | Illegal in most of the U.S. and Canada, decriminalized in some U.S. cities like Denver |
| Risks | Bad trip, poisoning, physical illness, death, withdrawal effects, relapse or worsening of psychiatric conditions |
| Benefits | Potential therapeutic effects on anxiety, depression, OCD, substance use |
| Distribution | Worldwide, commonly found in Mexico, North America, Europe, Asia, Australia |
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What You'll Learn
- Magic mushrooms are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains psilocybin and psilocin
- They are used as recreational drugs and may have been depicted in Stone Age art
- The effects of magic mushrooms vary and may be influenced by the user's state of mind and environment
- There are risks associated with consuming magic mushrooms, including the possibility of a ''bad trip'
- Research suggests that magic mushrooms may have benefits for physical and mental health
Magic mushrooms are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains psilocybin and psilocin
Magic mushrooms, also known as shrooms, are a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. They are hallucinogenic and can induce euphoria, hallucinations, and an altered state of consciousness. The effects of magic mushrooms can vary, with some trips being enjoyable and others leading to terrifying thoughts, paranoia, and panic attacks. The length and intensity of each trip depends on the user's mood, personality, and expectations, and the amount consumed.
Psilocybin mushrooms are typically consumed in their whole form, either fresh or dried, or turned into extracts or food products such as edibles or tea. The dosage depends on the psilocybin and psilocin content, which can vary between and within species. Psilocybin content is usually around 0.5% to 1% of the dried weight of the mushroom, while psilocin content can range from 0% to 0.59%.
Magic mushrooms are considered recreational drugs and have been used for ceremonial and medicinal purposes for thousands of years. In Central America, Aztec and Mazateca cultures believed in their divine properties and used them during important events. Despite their long history of use, magic mushrooms are currently illegal in most parts of the world, including the United States and Canada, where they are controlled under the United Nations Drug Control Conventions and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), respectively.
While the use of magic mushrooms rarely results in life-threatening symptoms, there are some risks associated with their consumption. One of the main risks is the possibility of consuming poisonous mushrooms, as some toxic species closely resemble psilocybin mushrooms. Additionally, consuming large amounts or strong batches of magic mushrooms can lead to negative experiences known as ""bad trips,"" which may include paranoia, distorted sense of self, and intense fear. It is important to be cautious and informed about the use of magic mushrooms to reduce the risks of unpleasant effects.
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They are used as recreational drugs and may have been depicted in Stone Age art
Psychedelic mushrooms, often referred to as "magic mushrooms," are fungi that contain the hallucinogenic compounds psilocybin and psilocin. When ingested, these compounds can induce a range of psychological effects, including altered perception, hallucinations, and changes in thought patterns. Magic mushrooms have a long and intriguing history of use in ritual and recreational contexts. While their use as a recreational drug is well-documented in modern times, there is also evidence to suggest that they may have played a role in the lives of our ancient ancestors, with potential depictions of magic mushrooms in Stone Age art.
The use of psychedelic mushrooms as a recreational drug is widespread and often associated with the desire to induce a hallucinogenic state and alter one's perception of reality. When consumed, psilocybin is converted into psilocin in the body, and this compound acts on serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to the hallucinogenic effects. Users may experience distorted perceptions of time and space, intensified emotions, and synesthesia, where the stimulation of one sense leads to sensations in another, such as "seeing" sounds or "tasting" colors. While the effects can be pleasant and even spiritually significant for some, there are also risks, including the potential for negative psychological experiences, commonly known as "bad trips."
The potential connection between magic mushrooms and Stone Age art is an intriguing aspect of their history. In the early 20th century, archaeologist and anthropologist Gaston de Navarro proposed that certain rock art depictions found in the Pyrenees mountains of France and Spain might represent magic mushrooms. The rock art in question features mushroom-like figures with dotted patterns, and de Navarro interpreted these as symbolic representations of the hallucinogenic variety. While this interpretation is not universally accepted, it has sparked ongoing debate and research into the potential role of psychedelic mushrooms in ancient cultures.
One of the most well-known examples of potential mushroom art is the "Champignon Magique" or "Magic Mushroom" cave painting found in the Lascaux caves of France, which date back to the Upper Paleolithic period, approximately 17,000 years ago. The painting depicts a mushroom-like form with a distinct stem and cap, surrounded by human and animal figures. While there is ongoing debate about the interpretation of this artwork, some scholars suggest that it may represent the spiritual or ritual significance of magic mushrooms in the lives of our ancient ancestors.
In addition to their recreational and potential ancient use, magic mushrooms have also been the subject of modern scientific research. There is ongoing investigation into the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, including its use in treating depression, anxiety, and addiction. Some controlled clinical trials have shown promising results, leading to a renewed interest in the potential medicinal value of these mushrooms. However, it is important to note that the use of magic mushrooms also carries risks, and their consumption can lead to negative psychological experiences and adverse reactions, particularly in uncontrolled settings or without proper guidance.
While the use of magic mushrooms as a recreational drug is well-documented, the potential connection to Stone Age art adds a layer of intrigue to our understanding of these fungi. The interpretation of ancient artwork and the ongoing scientific exploration of their therapeutic benefits contribute to a complex and fascinating history surrounding magic mushrooms.
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The effects of magic mushrooms vary and may be influenced by the user's state of mind and environment
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, are naturally occurring fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin. When ingested, psilocybin is converted into the psychoactive chemical psilocin, which influences serotonin in the brain, leading to altered and unusual perceptions. The effects of magic mushrooms vary and may be influenced by the user's state of mind and environment.
The effects of magic mushrooms are highly variable and influenced by a number of factors, including dosage, age, weight, personality, emotional state, environment, and history of mental illness. For example, feelings of stress or anxiety before using magic mushrooms may result in a bad trip. Being in a good state of mind, with trusted friends and in a safe environment before taking magic mushrooms reduces the risk of having a bad trip.
The effects of magic mushrooms typically include euphoria and hallucinations, which can be either positive or negative. Positive effects include a peaceful high, a sense of euphoria, connection, and a distorted sense of time. Negative effects include anxiety, paranoia, short-term psychosis, and frightening hallucinations. In some cases, users may experience flashbacks involving a previous magic mushroom experience, which can be disturbing, especially if a frightening experience or hallucination is recalled.
The risk of a bad trip may increase if a person takes higher doses of psilocybin or has feelings of anxiety before taking it. Additionally, the effects of magic mushrooms can be unpredictable and dangerous when taken with other drugs, including over-the-counter or prescribed medications. Magic mushrooms should not be taken by people on psychiatric medications as a relapse or worsening of the condition could occur.
Magic mushrooms are not a harmless or legal high and carry the risk of triggering mental and emotional problems and causing accidents while under the influence. They are considered a Schedule I substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which believes they have a high potential for abuse and serve no legitimate medical purpose. However, researchers have explored the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, and in 2018, researchers from Johns Hopkins University recommended reclassifying psilocybin from Schedule I to Schedule IV to allow for medical use.
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There are risks associated with consuming magic mushrooms, including the possibility of a ''bad trip'
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom and a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin. When ingested, psilocybin is converted into the psychedelic psilocin, which produces psychoactive effects.
There are risks associated with consuming magic mushrooms, including the possibility of a bad trip. A bad trip can be influenced by a person's state of mind, previous encounters with psychedelic drugs, expectations, and the environment in which the drug is consumed. For example, feelings of stress or anxiety before using magic mushrooms may result in a bad trip. Being in a calm, quiet, and relaxed environment can contribute to a pleasant experience, while being in a noisy, crowded place may result in a negative experience. The risk of a bad trip can also increase if a person takes higher doses of psilocybin.
In addition to bad trips, there are other risks associated with consuming magic mushrooms. Magic mushrooms can cause unpredictable and potentially dangerous behaviour, leading to injuries. They may also contain other substances that can affect their safety profile. While magic mushrooms are not considered highly addictive, regular use can lead to tolerance, meaning that higher doses are required to achieve the same effect. Consuming large amounts of magic mushrooms can result in overdose symptoms, such as tachycardia, hypertension, hyperthermia, nausea, and vomiting.
It is also important to note that some magic mushrooms may look very similar to certain types of poisonous mushrooms, posing a risk of poisoning if the wrong type is consumed. Additionally, magic mushrooms should not be consumed by people taking certain medications, as this can lead to unpredictable and dangerous effects.
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Research suggests that magic mushrooms may have benefits for physical and mental health
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom and a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. They are used as recreational drugs and may be eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea.
Research suggests that magic mushrooms may have benefits for both physical and mental health. At the Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic & Consciousness Research (CPCR), participants in clinical trials for psilocybin have facilitators who stay with them for the entire experience. During the experience, they wear a blindfold, lie on a couch, and listen to a curated playlist. Participants also have counseling sessions before and after their psychedelic journeys and journal throughout the process. In such a controlled lab setting, researchers have found that psilocybin can help treat depression and/or anxiety, has therapeutic effects for people with substance use disorder, and can help ease existential distress caused by life-threatening diseases.
The largest prospective survey on naturalistic psilocybin use to date found significant improvements in mental health, well-being, and psychological functioning. A majority of participants experienced reduced anxiety, depression, and alcohol misuse; increased cognitive flexibility, emotion regulation, spiritual well-being, and extraversion; and reduced neuroticism and burnout after psilocybin use. However, a minority of participants reported continuing negative effects such as mood fluctuations and depressive symptoms.
In 2021, the Australian government announced $15 million in grants for researchers studying the mental health benefits of psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin. Several clinical trials are underway in Australia, including one at St. Vincent's Health Australia, which aims to provide relief for methamphetamine addiction. From July 1, 2023, medicines containing psilocybin can be prescribed by authorized psychiatrists in Australia to people experiencing treatment-resistant depression.
While magic mushrooms have shown potential benefits for physical and mental health, it is important to note that they should be used under professional supervision to reduce risks. Psychedelic therapy should take place under the supervision of a medical professional, who can determine the appropriate dose and provide a therapeutic space to reduce the likelihood of adverse reactions.
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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. Magic mushrooms have been used for thousands of years for ceremonial and medicinal purposes.
The effects of magic mushrooms vary from person to person. Some people experience heightened emotions and senses, while others may have a ""bad trip""*, characterised by paranoia, loss of boundaries, and a distorted sense of self. Early effects typically include nausea and excessive yawning. The length and intensity of each trip depend on the strength of the mushrooms and the amount consumed.
The main risk of taking magic mushrooms is that they can be difficult to identify, and some types of poisonous mushrooms closely resemble psilocybin mushrooms. It is important to know what you are consuming, as poisonous mushrooms can make you severely ill or even kill you. There is also a risk of experiencing a "bad trip", which can be frightening and lead to a long-term mental health condition such as psychosis.
