Emily Johnson
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are hallucinogenic mushrooms that contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. They are used as recreational drugs and have been depicted in Stone Age rock art in Africa and Europe. They are also used for medicinal purposes, with studies showing encouraging results in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other challenging mental health conditions. Psilocybin mushrooms can be obtained by growing them at home, as the spores of magic mushrooms do not contain psilocybin and are therefore legal. They can also be obtained through licensed facilitators and service centers in places like Oregon, which has established a regulatory framework for receiving psilocybin. However, it is important to note that psilocybin is still considered illegal at the federal level in the United States and other countries.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Magic mushrooms, shrooms, psychedelic mushrooms |
| Active ingredients | Psilocybin, psilocin, norpsilocin, baeocystin, norbaeocystin, aeruginascin |
| Effects | Hallucinations, altered state of consciousness, heightened emotions and senses, happiness, creativity, giggles, mental and emotional clarity, distorted sense of reality, synesthesia, auras around light, "breathing" surfaces, afterimages or "tracers" |
| Forms | Dried whole mushrooms, powder, tablets, capsules, tea, edible food products (e.g. chocolate), extract |
| Consumption methods | Oral consumption (e.g. eating, drinking tea, swallowing capsules), **not intravenous injection |
| Legality | Illegal in most places, including federally in the US and Canada. Decriminalized in Denver, Oakland, and Oregon. |
| Natural habitats | Meadows and woods in subtropics and tropics, usually in soils rich in humus and plant debris. Found on all continents, but the majority of species are in subtropical humid forests. |
| Notable species | Psilocybe semilanceata, Psilocybe cubensis, Panaeolus subbalteatus, P. azurescens, P. cyanescens, P. maluti, P. ingeli |
| Therapeutic uses | Potential to aid in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, addiction, and other mental health conditions |
| Resources | Books (e.g. "Psilocybin Mushrooms in Their Natural Habitats" by Paul Stamets), licensed facilitators, service centers, online courses (e.g. DoubleBlind) |
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What You'll Learn
Growing your own psilocybin 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 most potent species are members of the genus Psilocybe, such as P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens.
Psilocybin mushrooms occur on all continents, but the majority of species are found in subtropical humid forests. They typically grow in meadows and woods in the subtropics and tropics, usually in soils rich in humus and plant debris.
Materials and Equipment:
- Mason jar with a wide mouth for good airflow and visual inspection
- Rye grain or grain spores as a substrate
- Sterilization equipment
- Spores of the desired mushroom species
Steps:
- Fill the Mason jar with rye grain or grain spores as a substrate for the mushrooms to grow on.
- Sterilize the substrate and the Mason jar to prevent contamination.
- Inoculate the rye grain or grain spores with the spores of the desired mushroom species.
- Maintain proper temperature, humidity, and airflow to encourage mushroom growth.
- Once the mushrooms start to grow, continue to monitor the environment and adjust conditions as needed.
It is important to note that the cultivation and consumption of psilocybin mushrooms may be illegal in your region, and it is essential to follow local laws and regulations. Additionally, consuming psilocybin mushrooms can lead to short-term mental and physical effects, and it is crucial to approach their use with caution and proper knowledge.
For more detailed instructions and information on growing psilocybin mushrooms, consider consulting resources such as the Psilocybin Mushroom Handbook: Easy Indoor and Outdoor Cultivation or the Psilocybin: Magic Mushroom Grower's Guide. These guides can provide specific techniques, species information, and safety precautions for successful and responsible cultivation.
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Purchasing from a licensed service center
The legal status of psilocybin mushrooms varies across the world. While they are illegal in most countries, some jurisdictions allow their sale and possession. In the United States, for instance, psilocybin was first subjected to federal regulation by the Drug Abuse Control Amendments of 1965, which regulated the unlicensed "possession, manufacture, or sale of depressant, stimulant, and hallucinogenic drugs." Despite this, many people were exempt from prosecution, as the statutes permitted the possession of such drugs for personal use.
Today, psilocybin is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), making it illegal to possess, sell, or grow in most states. However, some states and cities have enacted laws or policies that make the enforcement of psilocybin laws a low priority or have decriminalized its use. For example, in 2020, Denver, Colorado passed a ballot measure decriminalizing psilocybin mushrooms, and Oregon has licensed "psilocybin service centers," where adults 21 and older can legally buy, possess, and consume psilocybin under supervision. These centers are overseen by the Oregon Health Authority, which also manages provider licenses.
It is important to note that the legislation around psilocybin is constantly evolving as research into its therapeutic benefits continues to grow. As a result, many localities, particularly in North America, are revising their legal frameworks. While some places have made the enforcement of psilocybin laws the lowest priority for law enforcement, others, like Oregon and Colorado have legalized specific psychedelics.
If you are considering purchasing psilocybin mushrooms from a licensed service center, it is crucial to consult the latest local laws and regulations. While psilocybin may be decriminalized or legal for medicinal or therapeutic purposes in certain areas, it remains illegal under federal law in the United States and many other countries. Therefore, it is essential to understand the specific regulations in your jurisdiction before making any purchases to avoid potential legal consequences. Additionally, it is always advisable to seek legal advice from a qualified lawyer in your area to ensure you are complying with the relevant laws and regulations.
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Foraging for psilocybin mushrooms
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are hallucinogenic and can be found in many parts of the world. They are often sought for recreational use due to their mind-altering effects. While foraging for psilocybin mushrooms can be a rewarding experience, it is important to approach it with caution and responsibility. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Know the Legal Status
Before considering foraging for psilocybin mushrooms, it is crucial to understand their legal status in your region. In the United States, for example, psilocybin mushrooms are listed as a Schedule 1 narcotic and remain illegal at the federal level. However, some local jurisdictions, such as Denver, Colorado, and Oakland, California, have passed measures to decriminalize the possession and use of psilocybin mushrooms, making them a low law enforcement priority. Be sure to research and understand the specific laws and regulations in your area before engaging in any foraging activities.
Identify Mushroom Habitats
Psilocybin mushrooms can be found in various habitats, but they particularly favour subtropical and tropical environments with high humidity. They tend to grow in meadows and woods, often near cattle due to the ideal conditions provided by their dung. These mushrooms can also be found in urban areas, such as office parks and apartment complexes, near damp wood chips or garden beds with mulch. The deep wilderness is not the most likely place to find them, as they appear more frequently near urban spaces with subtropical climates.
Safety Precautions
Sustainable Foraging Practices
Mushroom picking is considered a sustainable practice as it does not harm the mushroom patch or its ecosystem. When foraging, it is important to leave some mushrooms behind for animals and insects that depend on them. Avoid compacting the soil, scraping away the duff layer, or damaging nearby trees or plants. By following these sustainable practices, you can help ensure the continued growth and spread of mushrooms in that area.
Effects and Risks of Psilocybin Mushrooms
Psilocybin mushrooms contain the prodrug psilocybin, which converts into the psychedelic compound psilocin upon ingestion. The effects of these mushrooms include heightened emotions, distorted senses, hallucinations, and an altered state of consciousness. While some users report positive experiences, such as joy and heightened creativity, there is also a risk of a ""bad trip," especially at high doses. This can include frightening experiences such as paranoia and a distorted sense of self. It is important to approach the use of psilocybin mushrooms with caution and to always seek professional guidance if you choose to consume them.
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Buying psilocybin spores
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are hallucinogenic mushrooms that contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. The legality of psilocybin and its spores has long been debated and misunderstood. While psilocybin is classified as a Schedule I substance under the federal Controlled Substances Act ("CSA"), which means that the cultivation, possession, or sale of psilocybin is illegal in all contexts under federal law, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has confirmed that psilocybin spores are not prohibited under federal law. This is because psilocybin mushrooms as a whole are not classified as a federally illegal controlled substance; rather, it is the presence of psilocybin or psilocin that makes them controlled substances. Thus, spores that do not contain these substances are not controlled under the CSA.
However, it is important to note that the DEA's position does not mean that the sale or possession of psilocybin spores is completely protected under the law. There are still several sources of legal risk associated with engaging with psilocybin spores. For example, under the CSA, it is federally illegal to possess psilocybin spores with the intent to cultivate psilocybin mushrooms. Additionally, a person may be charged with manufacturing or selling psilocybin spores under the provisions of the CSA that criminalize the possession and sale of drug paraphernalia. As such, it is essential to be aware of the legal risks and implications before considering buying psilocybin spores.
Psilocybin spores can be purchased from various online retailers, such as Amazon, and specialty websites like North Spore, which offers mushroom-growing supplies and kits. When buying psilocybin spores, it is important to consider the legal status of psilocybin and its spores in your specific location, as the laws and regulations vary across different states and countries. Additionally, it is crucial to prioritize safety and follow the instructions and guidelines provided by the seller to ensure proper handling and usage of the spores.
While the cultivation, possession, and sale of psilocybin mushrooms are illegal under federal law, several cities and states have taken steps toward decriminalization. For example, Denver, Colorado, passed a ballot measure decriminalizing the adult possession and use of psilocybin mushrooms, and Oregon and Colorado have legalized the use of psilocybin. These changes in local and state laws reflect a shift in perspectives and an increasing interest in the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin. However, it is essential to stay informed about the legal status and any updates or amendments to the laws regarding psilocybin and its spores.
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Obtaining psilocybin in decriminalized areas
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are hallucinogenic mushrooms that contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. They are used as recreational drugs and have been shown to have therapeutic benefits in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and other challenging mental health conditions.
In the United States, psilocybin mushrooms are listed as a Schedule 1 narcotic and are illegal at the federal level. However, some states and cities have decriminalized the possession and use of psilocybin mushrooms, including:
Oregon
Oregon was the first state in the United States to establish a regulatory framework for psilocybin services through the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act, approved by voters in 2020. Under this law, the state issues licenses to manufacturers, laboratories, facilitators, and service centers involved in the cultivation, processing, testing, and administration of psilocybin products. To consume psilocybin legally in Oregon, individuals must first meet with a licensed facilitator for a preparation session. Psilocybin can be consumed in various forms, including dried mushrooms, tea, edible food products, capsules, or extracts.
Denver, Colorado
In 2019, Denver, Colorado passed a ballot measure decriminalizing psilocybin mushrooms, making the adult possession and use of psilocybin the city's lowest law enforcement priority. This means that law enforcement will not prioritize prosecuting individuals for possessing or using psilocybin. However, it is important to note that psilocybin remains illegal under federal law, and individuals may still face legal risks if they are found to be cultivating, selling, or distributing psilocybin mushrooms.
Oakland, California
Following Denver's lead, the city council of Oakland, California passed a similar resolution to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms in 2019. While local law enforcement will deprioritize prosecuting individuals for possession and use, psilocybin remains illegal under California state law and federal law.
In decriminalized areas, individuals may be able to obtain psilocybin mushrooms through licensed service centers or by growing their own mushrooms for personal use. Growing psilocybin mushrooms at home can provide a sense of connection and intimacy with the fungi and ensure a dependable supply chain. However, it is important to note that the spores of magic mushrooms do not contain psilocybin and are therefore legal, but once the mushrooms are grown, they are considered illegal in most places, including by federal authorities. Additionally, there are safety risks associated with consuming mushrooms, and it is crucial to be able to distinguish between non-poisonous and highly toxic mushrooms.
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Frequently asked questions
Psilocybin mushrooms are decriminalized in Denver, Colorado, and Oregon. In Oregon, the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act establishes a regulatory framework for receiving psilocybin. However, it is important to note that psilocybin is still considered a Schedule I substance under the Federal Controlled Substances Act and is illegal at the federal level.
Yes, it is possible to grow your own psilocybin mushrooms at home. The spores of magic mushrooms do not contain psilocybin and are therefore legal to obtain. However, once the mushrooms are grown, they contain psilocybin and are illegal in most places.
There are several ways to consume psilocybin mushrooms, including eating dried, whole mushrooms, drinking tea, consuming edible products like chocolate, swallowing capsules containing ground homogenized fungi, or consuming an extract.
