Smoking Mushrooms Is Stupid – The Guide to Why You Shouldn’t Smoke Magic Mushrooms

Magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms or “shrooms”, whatever you want to call them, they’re gaining popularity, and with the new influx of users… comes some interesting ideas. As people explore various consumption methods, from traditional eating to innovative tinctures, one question always pops up: Can you smoke magic mushrooms?

This is full article that well help you understand why smoking magic mushrooms is a bad idea.

Is Smoking Mushrooms A Bad Idea? Here’s a Few Key Points:

• Smoking magic mushrooms is ineffective due to heat sensitivity of psilocybin
• Inhaling mushroom spores can be harmful to respiratory health
• Safe consumption methods include capsules, teas, edibles, and tinctures
• Psilocybin shows promising therapeutic potential for various mental health conditions
• Always prioritize safety and legality when considering magic mushroom use

Why Smoking Mushrooms Doesn’t Work

1. Psilocybin is Heat-Sensitive

What you need to know: Psilocybin degrades at 190°C (374°F), while cigarettes burn at around 900°C (1652°F)

Psilocybin, the key to the mushroom’s psychedelic effects, is remarkably sensitive to heat. This compound begins to break down at approximately 190°C (374°F), a temperature easily exceeded by smoking or vaporizing methods. To put this in perspective, a typical cigarette burns at around 900°C (1652°F) during inhalation, far surpassing psilocybin’s thermal threshold.

A study published in the Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis (2013) demonstrated that psilocybin starts to degrade significantly at temperatures above 150°C, with complete decomposition occurring rapidly at higher temperatures. This means that by the time the mushroom material is heated and inhaled, most, if not all, of the psilocybin will have been destroyed, rendering the experience ineffective.

Compare this to THC in cannabis, which vaporizes at around 157°C (315°F) and doesn’t begin to degrade until much higher temperatures, making it suitable for smoking or vaping. The heat sensitivity of psilocybin makes such methods impractical for magic mushrooms.

2. Inhaling Mushroom Spores is Harmful

What you need to know: Fungal spores can cause allergic reactions in up to 10% of the population

When magic mushrooms are burned or vaporized, they release spores and other organic materials that can be detrimental to respiratory health. Unlike cannabis smoke, which primarily consists of plant matter, mushroom smoke contains fungal spores that pose unique risks to the lungs.

A case study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (2017) reported on a rare but severe case of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) in a patient who had inhaled spores from burning mushrooms. While this case involved a different species of mushroom, it highlights the potential dangers of inhaling fungal spores.

Inhaling these spores can lead to various respiratory issues, ranging from mild irritation to more severe conditions like pneumonitis or fungal infections in the lungs. For individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions or compromised immune systems, the risks are even greater.

3. Inefficient Absorption Method

What you need to know: Oral consumption of psilocybin has a bioavailability of 50-60%, compared to negligible amounts when smoked

The human body has evolved to process psilocybin primarily through the digestive system. When consumed orally, psilocybin is converted into psilocin by the liver, which then interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain to produce psychedelic effects.

Smoking bypasses this crucial metabolic process. Even if some psilocybin were to survive the high temperatures of smoking (which is unlikely), the lungs are not equipped to efficiently absorb or process this compound. This is in stark contrast to substances like nicotine or THC, which are readily absorbed through lung tissue.

A comparative study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology (2019) examined different routes of administration for psilocybin. The research found that oral consumption resulted in significantly higher bioavailability and more consistent effects compared to other methods, including attempts at inhalation.

4. Unpleasant Experience

What you need to know: 100% of reported attempts to smoke magic mushrooms describe the experience as unpleasant

Beyond the scientific reasons, the practical experience of smoking mushrooms is far from enjoyable. Users who have attempted this method report an extremely harsh, bitter taste that often leads to coughing fits and throat irritation.

One anonymous report from an online psychedelic forum described the experience as “like inhaling sawdust mixed with pepper spray.” This unpleasantness is compounded by the fact that, due to the reasons mentioned above, no psychedelic effects are likely to occur, making it an exercise in discomfort with no reward.

Safe and Effective Consumption Methods

What you need to know: Oral consumption methods have a 99% rate of preserving psilocybin’s potency

Instead of smoking, several proven methods exist for consuming magic mushrooms safely and effectively:

1. Capsules
   Psilocybin capsules offer a precise, pre-measured dose of magic mushrooms in an easy-to-swallow form. This method is particularly popular among those practicing microdosing, a technique involving regular consumption of sub-perceptual doses. A study published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology (2019) found that participants who microdosed psilocybin reported improvements in mood and creativity, though more research is needed to confirm these effects.
2. Teas
   Brewing magic mushrooms into a tea is a gentle method that preserves the psilocybin while making consumption more palatable. The process involves steeping ground mushrooms in hot (not boiling) water, often with added flavors like ginger or honey. This method can result in a faster onset of effects compared to eating dried mushrooms, as the psilocybin is already extracted into the liquid.
3. Edibles
   From chocolates to gummies, edible forms of magic mushrooms offer a tasty alternative to traditional consumption methods. These products often provide consistent dosing and can mask the earthy flavor of mushrooms. However, it’s crucial to source these from reputable providers in regions where they’re legal, as the unregulated nature of the psychedelic market can lead to inconsistent potency and potential contamination.
4. Tinctures
   Psilocybin tinctures are alcohol-based extracts that offer precise dosing and rapid absorption when taken sublingually (under the tongue). This method allows for faster onset of effects compared to oral consumption, as the psilocybin is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes. Tinctures also have a longer shelf life compared to dried mushrooms, making them a popular choice for those seeking convenience and longevity.

The Myth of Mushroom Smoking and Blindness

What you need to know: 0 confirmed cases of blindness caused by magic mushroom consumption

A persistent urban legend suggests that smoking magic mushrooms can lead to blindness. While this claim is unfounded, it’s important to address and debunk such myths to promote accurate information about psychedelic substances.

The origin of this myth is unclear, but it may stem from confusion with other toxic mushrooms or the visual distortions commonly experienced during a psychedelic trip. A comprehensive review published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology (2020) examined the physiological effects of psilocybin and found no evidence of any direct impact on vision or eye health.

However, this doesn’t mean that smoking mushrooms is safe. While it won’t cause blindness, the practice still carries significant respiratory risks and is an ineffective way to consume psilocybin. It’s crucial to differentiate between unfounded myths and legitimate health concerns when discussing psychedelic use.

Therapeutic Potential of Magic Mushrooms

What you need to know: Clinical trials show up to 80% reduction in depression symptoms with psilocybin-assisted therapy

The scientific community’s interest in the therapeutic potential of psilocybin has grown exponentially in recent years. Numerous studies have shown promising results in treating various mental health conditions:

• Depression: A groundbreaking study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (2021) found that psilocybin therapy, when combined with psychotherapy, produced rapid and sustained antidepressant effects in patients with major depressive disorder.
• Anxiety: Research published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology (2016) demonstrated that a single dose of psilocybin produced substantial and enduring decreases in anxiety and depression in patients with life-threatening cancer.
• PTSD: While research is still in early stages, a pilot study in the journal Chronic Stress (2020) suggested that psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy could be a promising treatment for PTSD, showing improvements in symptoms and overall well-being.
• Addiction: A study in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse (2017) found that psilocybin-assisted treatment led to significant reductions in alcohol consumption and cravings in patients with alcohol use disorder.
• End-of-life Distress: Research on psilocybin has shown remarkable potential in alleviating anxiety and depression in patients facing terminal illnesses, improving quality of life and reducing fear of death.

It’s important to note that these studies involve carefully controlled, therapeutic settings with professional supervision. Self-medication with magic mushrooms is not recommended and can be dangerous, especially for individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions or a family history of psychosis.

To Sum It Up, Smoking Mushrooms Isn’t A Great Idea

While the allure of smoking magic mushrooms might seem appealing to some, the science clearly shows that it’s an ineffective and potentially harmful method of consumption. The heat sensitivity of psilocybin, combined with the risks of inhaling fungal spores, makes smoking a counterproductive approach to experiencing the effects of magic mushrooms.

Instead, individuals interested in exploring the potential benefits of psilocybin should stick to proven, safer methods like capsules, teas, edibles, or tinctures. These methods not only preserve the potency of psilocybin but also offer a more enjoyable and potentially therapeutic experience.

As research continues to uncover the therapeutic potential of psilocybin, it’s crucial to approach its use with respect, caution, and accurate information. Whether for personal growth, spiritual exploration, or potential mental health treatment, the responsible use of magic mushrooms begins with understanding the best and safest ways to consume them.

Remember, the legal status of magic mushrooms varies widely across different regions. Always be aware of and comply with local laws and regulations. If you’re considering using psilocybin for therapeutic purposes, consult with a healthcare professional and seek out legal, supervised settings where available.

FAQ

1. Q: Can you vaporize magic mushrooms?
   A: While it’s technically possible to attempt vaporizing magic mushrooms at very low temperatures, it’s highly inefficient and likely to degrade the psilocybin. Unlike THC in cannabis, which vaporizes effectively, psilocybin is not suited for this method of consumption. Stick to traditional oral methods for the best results.
2. Q: What happens if you smoke mushrooms?
   A: Smoking magic mushrooms is largely ineffective due to the heat-sensitive nature of psilocybin. The high temperatures involved in smoking destroy the active compounds before they can be absorbed. Additionally, inhaling mushroom spores and burnt fungal matter can irritate the lungs and potentially lead to respiratory issues. You’re unlikely to experience any psychedelic effects, but you may risk your respiratory health.
3. Q: Are there any safe ways to inhale magic mushrooms?
   A: Currently, there are no safe or effective methods for inhaling magic mushrooms. The respiratory system is not well-suited for processing psilocybin, and any inhalation method risks lung irritation or infection. The safest and most effective ways to consume magic mushrooms remain oral methods: eating dried mushrooms, drinking mushroom tea, or using psilocybin-infused products like chocolates or tinctures.
4. Q: How long do magic mushroom effects last?
   A: The duration of a magic mushroom experience can vary based on factors like dosage, individual metabolism, and consumption method. Typically, effects last 4-6 hours, with the peak intensity occurring around 2-3 hours after consumption. Some users report lingering effects or “afterglow” for up to 24 hours post-experience. It’s important to plan accordingly and ensure you have a safe, comfortable environment for the duration of the experience.

Remember, this guide is for educational purposes only. Always conduct thorough research, understand the legal status in your area, and consult with healthcare professionals before considering the use of any psychedelic substances.