The Ultimate Guide to Shrooms: Everything You Need to Know

So you’re going to eat magic mushrooms for the first time?  These natural fungi, known for their psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin, have a history of use that spans cultures and continents, offering profound insights into the workings of the human mind.

Below is a detailed guide on everything you should know about shrooms from what are shrooms through various kinds and how they affect us when we eat them, and some commonly asked questions you should know the answers to before eating shrooms for the first time. 

Understanding Shrooms

Shrooms, also known as magic mushrooms or psilocybin mushrooms, are naturally occurring fungi that contain psychoactive compounds, primarily psilocybin and psilocin. When consumed, these compounds can induce profound changes in perception, mood, and consciousness ^[1].

What Are Shrooms?

Psilocybin mushrooms come in various species, with the most common ones in Australia being golden tops, blue meanies, and liberty caps ^[1]. These mushrooms can be consumed fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. The effects typically begin within 30 minutes when eaten or 5-10 minutes when taken as a soup or tea, and can last for approximately four to six hours.

Different Types of Shrooms Do Different Things

There are over 180 species of mushrooms that contain the psychoactive compounds psilocybin, psilocin, baeocystin and norbaeocystin ^[1]. These mushrooms are often referred to as “magic mushrooms” or “shrooms” and are consumed for their hallucinogenic effects.

The most common psychedelic mushrooms belong to the genus Psilocybe, but species across several other genera like Conocybe, Galerina, Gymnopilus, Inocybe, Panaeolus, Pholiotina, and Pluteus also contain these psychoactive compounds ^[1].

Types of Shrooms

• Psilocybe cubensis: Also known as “golden caps”, this is the most widely cultivated and consumed species. It is found throughout tropical and subtropical regions.
• Psilocybe semilanceata: Commonly called “liberty caps”, these mushrooms are small with a pointed cap and are widespread in North America and Europe.
• Psilocybe cyanescens: Known as “wavy caps”, these mushrooms are potent and found in woody debris in the Pacific Northwest.
• Psilocybe azurescens: Among the most potent psilocybin mushrooms, they are found in sandy soils, particularly in the Oregon coast.

In addition to the psychoactive varieties, there are also many species of non-psychoactive mushrooms that are sometimes confused for psilocybin mushrooms. These include mushrooms in the genera Conocybe, Galerina, Gymnopilus, and Inocybe ^[1]. Some of these, like Galerina autumnalis, contain dangerous toxins and can be potentially lethal if consumed.

It’s crucial to properly identify mushrooms before consumption, as many poisonous species can closely resemble psilocybin mushrooms. Misidentification can lead to severe illness and even death. Psilocybin mushrooms are illegal in many countries, so cultivation, possession, and consumption can also carry legal risks.

How Shrooms Work

Psilocybin, the primary psychoactive compound in magic mushrooms, is a tryptamine alkaloid that is structurally similar to serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain ^[1]. When consumed, psilocybin is rapidly metabolized into psilocin, which acts as a partial agonist at serotonin 2A receptors (5-HT2A) ^[2]. The activation of these receptors is thought to be responsible for the psychedelic effects of shrooms.

Chemical Composition

Magic mushrooms contain a variety of compounds, but psilocybin and psilocin are the main active ingredients. Psilocybin (C12H17N2O4P) is a prodrug that is quickly converted into psilocin (C12H16N2O) by the body ^[1]. Other compounds present in magic mushrooms include baeocystin, norbaeocystin, and aeruginascin, but their effects are less well-understood ^[3].

Effects on the Brain

Recent studies have shed light on how psilocybin and psilocin affect brain function. When psilocin binds to 5-HT2A receptors, it leads to increased activity in the prefrontal cortex, a region involved in mood, cognition, and perception ^[2]. This increased activity is thought to underlie the changes in perception, thought patterns, and emotional processing that occur during a psychedelic experience.

Psilocybin has also been shown to reduce activity in the default mode network (DMN), a group of brain regions that are active during rest and self-referential thought ^[3]. The DMN is often overactive in conditions like depression, and the ability of psilocybin to reduce its activity may contribute to its potential therapeutic effects.

Furthermore, psilocybin has been found to increase connectivity between different brain regions, allowing for more fluid and flexible thinking ^[2]. This enhanced connectivity may facilitate the formation of new neural connections and the dissolution of rigid thought patterns, which could have implications for treating mental health disorders.

While the exact mechanisms are still being researched, it is clear that psilocybin and psilocin have a profound impact on brain function, altering perception, mood, and cognition in ways that are both acute and potentially long-lasting. As research continues, a clearer picture of how these compounds work in the brain will emerge, paving the way for potential therapeutic applications.

Beginner? Here Are Some Commonly Asked Questions About Consuming Shrooms

PreParing To Eat Magic Mushrooms

Should I eat before taking shrooms?

It’s advisable to eat a light meal before taking shrooms to minimize nausea and digestive discomfort. Avoid heavy, greasy foods.

How many shrooms should I take my first time?

For first-time users, 1-2 grams of dried mushrooms is recommended. Start with a low dose to gauge your sensitivity and reaction.

Understanding Potency and Effects

Is there a way to tell how strong magic mushrooms are?

Potency varies based on strain, growing conditions, and drying process. Lab testing is the most accurate method but not always available. Otherwise, research the specific strain.

Do different types of shrooms have different effects?

Yes, different strains can have varying levels of potency and slightly different effects. Psilocybe cubensis is common, but others like Psilocybe cyanescens are more potent.

Building a Tolerance to shrooms and Frequency of Use

Do you build tolerance to psilocybin in shrooms?

Yes, tolerance builds quickly, often after one use. It’s advisable to wait at least a week between trips to avoid diminished effects.

What happens if I eat shrooms back-to-back days?

Consuming shrooms on consecutive days significantly reduces their effects due to rapid tolerance build-up and increases the risk of negative psychological effects.

Enhancing the Experience

What can I eat to make my shrooms stronger?

Consuming shrooms with lemon juice (lemon tek) can enhance and accelerate effects. Proceed with caution as this intensifies the experience.

What are the best activities to do while on shrooms?

Nature walks, listening to music, meditating, or engaging in creative activities like drawing or painting are popular. Choose calming, enjoyable activities.

Managing Adverse Effects of Mushrooms

How can I prevent a bad trip on magic mushrooms?

To minimize the risk, ensure a safe, comfortable environment with trusted people. Start with a low dose and consider having a trip sitter.

How to stop a bad trip?

Stay calm, change your environment, and focus on breathing. Having a trusted friend for reassurance helps. In severe cases, seek medical help.

What is gut rot?

Gut rot refers to gastrointestinal discomfort from consuming magic mushrooms, often due to indigestible chitin in the mushroom cell walls.

How to stop gut rot?

To reduce gut rot, grind shrooms into a powder and mix with food or tea. Some find lemon tekking helps, as citric acid breaks down chitin.

Duration and Side Effects

How long do the effects of magic mushrooms last?

The effects typically last 4-6 hours, with the peak around 2-3 hours after ingestion.

What are the side effects of shrooms?

Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, anxiety, paranoia, dizziness, confusion, and hallucinations.

Safety and Legal Considerations

Can I drive after taking shrooms?

No, it is unsafe and illegal to drive under the influence due to impaired judgment, coordination, and reaction time.

Storing and Preparing Magic Mushrooms

What is the best way to store magic mushrooms?

Store dried mushrooms in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Vacuum sealing and refrigeration or freezing extend their shelf life.

How do I prepare magic mushrooms for consumption?

Shrooms can be eaten raw, dried, made into tea, or incorporated into food. Grinding them and mixing with lemon juice (lemon tek) enhances effects.

Psychological and Hallucinatory Effects

Can shrooms cause hallucinations?

Yes, psilocybin can cause visual and auditory hallucinations, and altered perceptions of reality.

What is ego death, and can it occur with magic mushrooms?

Ego death is a complete loss of subjective self-identity, which can occur at high doses. It is often a profound and sometimes unsettling experience.

Onset and Dietary Considerations

How long does it take for shrooms to kick in?

Shrooms typically take 20-60 minutes to start affecting, depending on metabolism and stomach contents.

Are there any foods or drinks to avoid when taking shrooms?

Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine as they can intensify anxiety and dehydration. Also, avoid foods that are hard to digest or cause nausea.

Therapeutic Use

Can magic mushrooms help with anxiety or depression?

Growing evidence suggests psilocybin can help with anxiety and depression, especially in therapeutic settings. More research is needed for conclusive evidence.

Microdosing and Optimal Environments

What is microdosing?

Microdosing involves taking sub-perceptual doses (usually 0.1-0.3 grams) of psilocybin mushrooms to enhance creativity, focus, and emotional balance without full psychedelic effects.

What are the best places to eat magic mushrooms?

Consume them in a safe, comfortable, and familiar environment, ideally at home or in nature with trusted friends.

Legal Status of Shrooms In Canada

Shrooms, also known as magic mushrooms or psilocybin mushrooms, remain illegal on a federal level in Canada. While some cities like Vancouver and Toronto have decriminalized possession in certain circumstances, this is not the same as legalization ^[1].

Legal Regulations by Province and Territory

In Alberta, the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) regulates physicians and surgeons holding Alberta licensure to practice medicine in the province. As of April 2023, the CPSA does not have a specific Standard of Practice addressing psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, although the Standard of Practice “Practicing Outside of Established Conventional Medicine” applies to facilities and physicians practicing in this area ^{[12] [5]}.

Patients in Alberta require a referral from their physician to be treated at a psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy facility. The facility must be accredited by the CPSA and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy must be provided within a CPSA-accredited medical facility by a psychiatrist or a physician in consultation with a psychiatrist ^[13].

Recent Changes in Legislation

In January 2022, Health Canada issued a Section 56 class exemption for practitioners, pharmacists, and other healthcare providers to conduct certain activities with psilocybin and MDMA ^[10]. This allows healthcare providers to provide psychedelic therapy with psilocybin or MDMA obtained through Canada’s special access program (SAP) without being in contravention of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act ^[8].

Prior to 2022 regulatory amendments, restricted drugs like psilocybin were not eligible for the SAP, leaving clinical trials or a Section 56 Exemption as the only means for patients to access these therapies. The lifting of this prohibition means psilocybin and other psychedelic therapies can once again be requested through the SAP for emergency treatment purposes ^{[6] [9]}.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are shrooms legal in Canada?
   No, the production, sale, and possession of magic mushrooms remain illegal in Canada under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act ^[2].
2. Can healthcare practitioners access psilocybin for patients?
   Yes, healthcare practitioners can request access to psilocybin on behalf of a patient through Health Canada’s Special Access Program. Individuals who are not healthcare professionals are not permitted to make a request ^[3].
3. What is the legal status of shrooms in popular Canadian cities?
   While some cities like Vancouver and Toronto have decriminalized possession of small amounts of psilocybin, this is not the same as legalization. Possession, production, and sale remain illegal under federal law ^[1].

Benefits of Shrooms

Recent research has shown that psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms or shrooms, may have potential benefits for mental health and well-being ^[4]. While more studies are needed to fully understand the effects of psilocybin, preliminary findings suggest that it could be useful in treating a range of psychiatric and behavioral disorders ^[4].

Medical Benefits

One of the most promising areas of research for psilocybin therapy is in the treatment of depression. In fact, the FDA has granted psilocybin therapy a “breakthrough therapy” designation for the treatment of depression, which could accelerate its approval process ^[4]. Studies have also shown that psilocybin may be effective in treating other mental health conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) ^[4].

Psilocybin has also shown potential in treating substance abuse disorders. A small study found that psilocybin therapy significantly improved the odds of smokers abstaining from cigarettes after a 12-month period ^[4]. Researchers are also exploring the use of psilocybin for treating alcohol and cocaine addiction ^[4].

Therapeutic Uses

Psilocybin therapy has shown promise in alleviating psychological distress in people with life-threatening cancer diagnoses. A randomized, double-blind trial from Johns Hopkins in 2016 found that a single dose of psilocybin substantially improved quality of life and decreased depression and anxiety in this population ^[4].

The therapeutic use of psilocybin is conducted in carefully controlled clinical settings, with patients receiving the drug under the guidance of trained medical professionals ^[4]. The sessions often take place in a comfortable, living room-like environment designed to put patients at ease ^[4].

Recreational Benefits

While the medical and therapeutic benefits of psilocybin are the primary focus of current research, many people also use magic mushrooms for recreational purposes. Psilocybin can produce profound changes in perception, including visual distortions, altered sense of time, and feelings of euphoria and connectedness ^[4].

However, it’s important to note that psilocybin is still classified as a Schedule I drug in the United States, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use ^[4]. Possession and use of magic mushrooms remain illegal under federal law, although some cities have moved to decriminalize them ^[5].

Common Questions:

1. Are magic mushrooms addictive?
   While psilocybin is not considered to be physically addictive, some people may develop a psychological dependence on the drug ^[5].
2. How long do the effects of magic mushrooms last?
   The effects of psilocybin typically begin within 30 minutes of consumption and can last for 3-6 hours ^[5].
3. Can magic mushrooms be used to treat depression?
   Preliminary research suggests that psilocybin therapy may be effective in treating depression, but more studies are needed to confirm its safety and efficacy ^[4].

Risks of Eating Magic Mushrooms

While shrooms have been explored for their potential therapeutic benefits, it is crucial to understand the risks and side effects associated with their consumption. The effects of shrooms can vary among individuals, and factors such as mental health, setting, dosage, and expectations may influence the experience ^[6].

Common Side Effects

Psilocybin, the primary psychoactive compound in shrooms, can induce a range of short-term effects, including altered perception of time, hallucinations, problems separating reality from fantasy, panic, symptoms of psychosis, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, impaired coordination, increased heart rate, and blood pressure ^[7]. These effects typically occur within 20-30 minutes of ingestion and can last for several hours ^{[6] [7]}.

Long-Term Risks

While psilocybin is not considered physically addictive ^{[6] [7]}, regular use may lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects ^[6]. Long-term psychological effects can include persistent psychosis, characterized by visual disturbances, disorganized thinking, mood changes, and paranoia ^[7]. Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD), also known as “flashbacks,” can cause individuals to experience mild to intense hallucinations, panic, and dissociation long after the initial use ^[7].

Furthermore, individuals with a family history of psychosis face an increased risk of adverse psychiatric reactions to psilocybin ^[6]. In rare instances, the use of psychedelic drugs can trigger serious physical injury and even attempted suicide ^[7].

Safety Precautions

To minimize the risks associated with shroom consumption, it is essential to approach their use with caution. Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions should avoid using psilocybin, as it may exacerbate symptoms ^[6]. It is also crucial to consume shrooms in a safe and supportive environment, as challenging experiences can be mitigated by a comfortable setting and the presence of a trusted individual ^[6].

Moreover, proper identification of mushroom species is vital, as consuming poisonous mushrooms by mistake can lead to severe illness and potentially fatal consequences ^[6]. Symptoms of mushroom poisoning may include muscle spasms, confusion, and delirium, requiring immediate medical attention ^[6].

FAQs:

1. Are shrooms addictive?
   While psilocybin is not considered physically addictive, some individuals may develop a psychological dependence on the experience ^[7].
2. Can shrooms cause long-term mental health issues?
   In rare cases, the use of psychedelic drugs like psilocybin can trigger persistent psychosis or Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) ^[7].
3. What should I do if I experience adverse effects from shrooms?
   If you or someone you know experiences severe anxiety, paranoia, or is at risk of harming themselves or others after consuming shrooms, seek immediate medical assistance ^[6].

Consumption Methods

There are several ways to consume shrooms, each with its own unique effects and experiences. The most common methods include eating raw shrooms, brewing shroom tea, and microdosing ^[8].

Eating Raw Shrooms

One of the simplest ways to consume shrooms is by eating them raw. This method involves chewing and swallowing the dried or fresh mushrooms. The effects typically begin within 30 minutes when eaten and can last for approximately four to six hours ^[9].

It’s important to note that eating raw shrooms can often lead to a cramped stomach, as the psychedelic aspect of mushrooms comes from lightly poisoning oneself with fungus ^[9]. This can do a number on the digestive system.

Shroom Tea

Shroom tea has become an increasingly popular method of consumption. To make shroom tea, you’ll need the following ingredients ^[9]:

• 3.5 grams mushrooms of your choice
• 2-3 decaffeinated and/or herbal tea bags (caffeine may impact your trip)
• Honey, herbs, or other tea additives
• 2 cups of water

The process involves grinding the shrooms, boiling water, steeping the shrooms and tea bags for 10-15 minutes, straining the tea, and adding any desired garnishes ^[9].

Drinking shroom tea offers several benefits over eating raw shrooms ^[9]:

• No stomachaches, as the liquid delivery into the intestines’ absorbent tissue is easier on the digestive system
• Quicker onset, often cut in half compared to eating raw shrooms
• More dosing control, allowing for a wider spectrum of options
• Discretion, as shroom tea can be taken around without anyone finding evidence on your person

Microdosing

Microdosing involves taking small amounts of psychedelic substances, typically ten to twenty percent of a dose that delivers a psychoactive response ^[10]. The goal is to experience the positive effects on the mind without a full-blown psychedelic experience.

Microdosing has been claimed to offer a range of benefits, including ^[8]:

• Enhanced creativity
• Reduced depression symptoms
• Heightened focus, productivity, and energy
• Decreased anxiety and stress
• Reduced menstrual pain
• Emotional openness
• Increased spiritual awareness
• Reduced cravings for addictive substances

However, current research suggests there’s limited evidence to support the effectiveness of microdosing, and more high-quality studies are needed ^[8].

FAQs:

1. How long do the effects of shrooms typically last?
   The effects of shrooms can last for approximately four to six hours when eaten raw ^[9]. Shroom tea tends to have a faster onset and may metabolize quicker ^[9].
2. What is the recommended dosage for microdosing shrooms?
   Most experts consider a microdose to be ten to twenty percent of a dose that delivers a psychoactive response ^[10]. However, individual sensitivity to the substance may vary.

Dosage Guide

When determining the appropriate dosage of shrooms, it’s important to consider several factors that can influence the intensity and duration of the psychedelic experience. Psilocybin, the primary psychoactive compound in shrooms, is metabolized into psilocin, which acts as a partial agonist at serotonin 2A receptors (5-HT2A) ^[2]. The activation of these receptors is thought to be responsible for the psychedelic effects of shrooms.

Determining the Right Dosage

The effects of psilocybin can vary among individuals, and factors such as mental health, setting, dosage, and expectations may influence the experience ^[6]. It’s crucial to approach shroom consumption with caution and to consume them in a safe and supportive environment, as challenging experiences can be mitigated by a comfortable setting and the presence of a trusted individual ^[6].

While there is no universally accepted dosage guide for shrooms, a common approach is to start with a low dose and gradually increase it over time to assess individual tolerance and sensitivity. The following table provides a general guideline for psilocybin dosages based on the desired intensity of the experience:

It’s important to note that these dosages are approximate and can vary depending on the potency of the shrooms and individual factors ^[11].

Factors Affecting Dosage

Several factors can influence the appropriate dosage of shrooms, including:

1. Body weight: While some studies have used weight-adjusted doses of psilocybin ^[12], recent analyzes suggest that the effects of psilocybin may not be significantly influenced by body weight when administered in the therapeutic range of 20-30 mg/70 kg ^[12].
2. Tolerance: Regular use of psilocybin may lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects ^[6]. It’s recommended to space out shroom experiences to avoid building tolerance.
3. Potency of the shrooms: The concentration of psilocybin and psilocin can vary between different species and even individual mushrooms within the same batch ^[11]. It’s important to be aware of the potency of the shrooms being consumed.
4. Set and setting: The mindset and environment in which shrooms are consumed can greatly influence the experience ^[12]. A comfortable, safe, and supportive setting can help mitigate challenging experiences.

When consuming shrooms, it’s essential to start with a low dose, be in a safe and comfortable environment, and have a trusted individual present. It’s also crucial to properly identify the mushroom species, as consuming poisonous mushrooms by mistake can lead to severe illness and potentially fatal consequences ^[6]. If you or someone you know experiences severe anxiety, paranoia, or is at risk of harming themselves or others after consuming shrooms, seek immediate medical assistance ^[6].

Final Thoughts

Through the exploration of shrooms, from their ancient cultural significance to modern scientific inquiry, we’ve traversed a substantial terrain, uncovering the multifaceted nature of these psychoactive fungi. This exploration has shed light on the vast potential shrooms hold for enhancing mental health, fostering deeper introspection, and contributing to the ongoing discourse on psychedelic research and legality. By understanding the different types, dosages, and effects, alongside acknowledging the legal and safety considerations, readers are equipped to navigate the complexities of shrooms with a comprehensive perspective.

As we stand at the precipice of a new era in psychedelic research, the implications of our findings hold promise for transformative therapeutic applications, warranting further investigation and open, informed discourse. The journey through the realm of shrooms illustrates not only the potency of these natural compounds in transcending conventional consciousness but also highlights the importance of approaching their use with respect, mindfulness, and an unwavering commitment to safety. In the continuum of human exploration, shrooms represent both a key to ancient wisdom and a portal to potential future discoveries in the realm of psychological and spiritual well-being.