Emma Wilson
Magic mushrooms are illegal in most of the US and come with serious health warnings. However, they are increasingly being studied for their potential use as a treatment for some mental and behavioural health conditions. If you are going to take them, it's important to be aware of the risks and how to reduce them. The only way to guarantee you won't have a bad trip is not to take them at all, but if you do decide to take mushrooms, it's recommended that you do so in a calm, safe, peaceful, and familiar environment, preferably with a friend who is sober and who you trust.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Environment | Safe, peaceful, comfortable, calm, familiar, clean, uncluttered, with a couch or bed nearby, easy access to the toilet, soft pillows and blankets, open space, earphones, group of people |
| Company | A friend or a buddy who is not tripping, preferably someone you feel safe with and who knows about the drugs they sell |
| Substances | Only one substance at a time, no cannabis or alcohol |
| Preparation | Check your drugs, test strips, drug checking service, know your reasons for taking hallucinogens, be in the right frame of mind |
| Duration | 8-12 hours |
| Effects | Mild trip, drowsiness, relaxation, hallucinations, anxiety, paranoia, nervousness, distorted sense of time, place and reality, psychosis, flashbacks, nausea, excessive yawning |
| Legality | Illegal in most of the U.S. |
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What You'll Learn
Indoors vs outdoors
The decision to take mushrooms indoors or outdoors depends on personal preference, the desired experience, and the level of comfort and safety. While there is no right or wrong place to consume mushrooms, it is crucial to choose a calm, safe, and peaceful environment to ensure a positive and controlled experience.
Taking mushrooms indoors offers the comfort and familiarity of one's home, providing a sense of security and privacy. It is recommended to select a clean and uncluttered space with easy access to essential amenities like a toilet. Having a couch or a bed nearby, along with soft pillows and blankets, can enhance comfort during the trip. Setting up a stereo system and playing music can also stimulate the senses and create a desired ambiance. This option is particularly suitable for those who prefer to take mushrooms alone or in a more intimate setting with close friends.
On the other hand, consuming mushrooms outdoors provides a sense of freedom and openness. Opting for an outdoor setting allows for more space to move around and explore the surroundings, which can be beneficial when taking mushrooms with a group of people. It is advisable to find an open space where one can feel unconstrained and connected to nature. Bringing a blanket, pillows, and music through earphones can add comfort and personalization to the outdoor experience.
It is important to consider potential distractions or interruptions that may occur in either setting. For example, mirrors are known to cause unpleasant or unexpected experiences during a trip, so it is generally advised to avoid them. Additionally, it is crucial to prioritize safety, especially when consuming mushrooms outdoors. This includes being mindful of potential hazards in the environment, such as uneven terrain or bodies of water, and taking necessary precautions to ensure a secure experience.
Ultimately, the choice between indoors and outdoors depends on individual preferences and the desired atmosphere for the mushroom trip. Whether opting for a cozy indoor sanctuary or an expansive outdoor landscape, creating a safe, comfortable, and controlled environment is key to a positive and memorable experience.
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Safe and peaceful
If you are considering taking magic mushrooms, it is important to remember that they are mostly illegal in the US and the UK, and there is a big risk of accidentally taking the wrong kind of mushroom. Poisonous mushrooms can cause severe illness and even death.
If you are going to take them, it is recommended that you do so in a safe, calm, quiet, and relaxed environment to contribute to a positive experience. Being in a good state of mind, with trusted friends, and a sober "guide" or "sitter" to take care of you can reduce the risk of a bad trip. It is also important to avoid taking other drugs or alcohol with mushrooms, as this can change your experience in unpredictable ways.
Before taking magic mushrooms, it is important to do your research and be aware of the potential risks and benefits. While magic mushrooms are not considered to be habit-forming and have been found to have minimal harmful effects, they can cause anxiety, panic, and depersonalisation. It is also important to know what type of mushrooms you are consuming, as some mushrooms that resemble psilocybin mushrooms are toxic and can be fatal.
If you are considering taking magic mushrooms, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits and make an informed decision. It is also crucial to have a plan in place in case of a bad trip, including a trusted friend who can help you through the experience.
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Alone vs with friends
Taking magic mushrooms alone or with friends each has its own advantages and drawbacks.
Taking mushrooms with friends
Taking mushrooms with friends can be a fun and social experience. It can be helpful to have others around who are sharing the same experience, and who can help you if you have a "bad trip". A friend can act as a "trip sitter", helping to guide you through the process, making you comfortable, and keeping you grounded in reality. This can be especially important if you are in a public place or somewhere you might come into contact with strangers.
However, being with friends can also be a distraction, and it might be difficult to focus on your own experience or feelings. It can also be more difficult to get lost or run into situations you can't handle if you are in a group.
Taking mushrooms alone
Taking mushrooms alone can allow for deep thinking and the ability to truly focus on your mental health. It can be a very positive experience, especially for those seeking solitude or a profound experience. It can also minimize the chances of getting lost or encountering people or situations that might be challenging to deal with while on mushrooms.
However, there is always some level of risk when taking mushrooms alone. It is generally recommended that first-time users do not take mushrooms alone, as it can be unpredictable, and it might be difficult to know what's going on. If something goes wrong, you won't have anyone to help you out if you feel emotional or physical discomfort. It is important to have a sober friend on standby who knows what you are doing and can help if needed.
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Poisonous mushrooms
One of the most well-known poisonous mushrooms is the Amanita species, which includes the Destroying Angel (A. virosa) and its relative, the Death Cap (Amanita phalloides). Other deadly species in this genus include Amanita bisporigera and Galerina marginata, which can be easily mistaken for edible mushrooms due to their development from "Amanita eggs".
Another group of poisonous mushrooms is the Webcap family, which includes the Deadly Webcap (Cortinarius rubellus) and the Fool's Webcap (Cortinarius orellanus). These mushrooms contain orellanin, a poison that causes symptoms similar to the common flu, which can lead to kidney failure if left untreated. In 2008, English author Nicholas Evans mistakenly served webcap mushrooms to his relatives, resulting in hospitalizations and kidney transplants for some of them.
To prevent mushroom poisoning, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with both edible and toxic mushroom species, especially those that have a similar appearance. Some poisonous mushrooms have distinct features that can help with identification. For example, the Chanterelle mushroom, which is edible, can be distinguished from the poisonous Jack O'Lantern mushroom by its folds and gills. Additionally, certain edible mushrooms, like the Yellow Morel (Morchella americana), have unique appearances that make them beginner-friendly for mushroom foragers.
It is important to note that cooking or preparing mushrooms in certain ways does not always eliminate their toxicity. Some toxins, such as amatoxins, are heat-resistant, and cooking will not render the mushrooms safe to eat. Therefore, it is essential to accurately identify mushrooms before consumption and seek medical attention if any negative symptoms occur.
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Legality
The legality of taking psilocybin mushrooms, often called "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms", varies by location. In the United States, psilocybin and psilocin were first subjected to federal regulation by the Drug Abuse Control Amendments of 1965 and were officially banned in 1970. They are listed as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act, which means they are considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. However, this classification has been contested by researchers who suggest reclassifying magic mushrooms as Schedule IV drugs for medical use in treating depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.
At the federal level in the US, the possession, use, sale, and cultivation of psilocybin mushrooms are illegal. However, there are some states and cities that have decriminalized or legalized their use to varying degrees. For example, in 2020, Oregon became the first state to decriminalize psilocybin and legalize its supervised use for mental health treatment. Other states that have made moves towards decriminalization include Colorado, California (specifically Oakland, Santa Cruz, and Sacramento), Washington D.C., Michigan, Massachusetts (Somerville, Cambridge, and Northampton), and Washington. In addition, some states such as Connecticut and Texas have authorized research on psilocybin and its effects.
Outside of the US, magic mushrooms are currently legal in Brazil, Bulgaria, Jamaica, Samoa, and the Netherlands (although packaged mushrooms have since been banned there). Many other countries have decriminalized the possession and cultivation of mushrooms, and some countries only consider the dried form to be illegal.
It is important to note that the legal landscape surrounding psilocybin mushrooms is evolving, and laws may change. Interested parties should consult with legal professionals in their jurisdiction to stay informed about the current legal status of psilocybin mushrooms in their specific location.
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Frequently asked questions
The best place to take mushrooms is somewhere you feel comfortable and safe. If you want to take mushrooms alone, your home might be the best option. If you want to take mushrooms with friends, opt for a familiar indoor space or a peaceful outdoor area.
It's important to do your research and understand the risks involved with taking mushrooms. Only take mushrooms if you're in the right frame of mind and make sure you're in a calm, safe environment. It's also a good idea to have a friend with you who isn't taking mushrooms.
Avoid taking mushrooms alone, as this can be dangerous if you get injured or have a bad trip. Don't drive or climb on things, and don't take other substances like cannabis or alcohol at the same time.
