What are Magic Mushrooms?

What exactly are magic mushrooms?

They’re scientifically known as psilocybin mushrooms, these fascinating fungi occur naturally and are often consumed for their hallucinogenic effects.
As psychedelic drugs, they can impact all of a person’s senses, leading to altered thinking, a changed sense of time, and shifts in emotions. Users may find themselves hallucinating, seeing or hearing things that aren’t real or that seem distorted.

A good and clear photo of Magic mushrooms in a dark place growing.

The Magic Within

The magic within these mushrooms comes from psilocybin. Once taken, psilocybin is converted in the body into psilocin, the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects. So, what do magic mushrooms actually look like? At first glance, they can easily be mistaken for regular mushrooms. There are various types of magic mushrooms, with some of the most common in Australia being golden tops, blue meanies, and liberty caps. It’s essential to note that these mushrooms can resemble some poisonous varieties, which can lead to severe illness or even death if ingested. They can also be found in dried form, packaged in capsules, or as synthetic psilocybin, which appears as a white crystalline powder that can be made into tablets or dissolved in water.

Magic mushrooms go by several other names too, including shrooms, mushies, blue meanies, golden tops, and liberty caps. Now, let’s talk about how magic mushrooms are typically used. They can be consumed fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. Like any substance, using magic mushrooms carries risks, and it’s crucial to approach them with caution.

The Effects of Magic Shrooms.

The effects can vary widely from person to person, influenced by factors such as size, weight, health, previous experiences with mushrooms, any other drugs taken at the same time, the quantity consumed, the mushroom’s strength, and the environment in which they are taken. Generally, the effects of magic mushrooms kick in about 30 minutes after ingestion or within 5 to 10 minutes if consumed as a tea, lasting roughly four to six hours.
During this period, individuals might experience feelings of euphoria, changes in consciousness, and perceptual shifts, often referred to as a trip. This can include pupil dilation and sensory distortions, such as visual or auditory hallucinations.

However, there can also be unpleasant side effects, including stomach discomfort, headaches, a racing heart, and even nausea or vomiting. It’s worth mentioning that while magic mushrooms rarely lead to life-threatening situations, consuming a large quantity or a potent batch can result in serious symptoms like agitation, panic, or in severe cases, seizures and coma. Sometimes, users may find themselves on a ‘bad trip,’ characterized by intense anxiety, paranoia, or distressing hallucinations.

After the Effects

After the effects wear off, some individuals might experience delayed headaches or feelings of exhaustion and anxiety. Interestingly, those who use magic mushrooms regularly might encounter flashbacks to past experiences, which can be unsettling, especially if associated with negative emotions. These flashbacks can occur long after the last use and may be triggered by stress or other drugs. The mood and setting play a significant role in the experience with magic mushrooms.

The ‘set’ refers to a person’s mindset before taking them, including any prior experiences with psychedelics and their expectations. For instance, feeling anxious beforehand can lead to a more challenging experience. On the other hand, the ‘setting’ encompasses the physical environment where the mushrooms are consumed. A calming, familiar space can enhance the experience, while a noisy or chaotic environment might lead to discomfort. To minimize the chances of a bad trip, it’s wise to be in a good mental state and surrounded by supportive friends.

Combining magic mushrooms with other substances can lead to unpredictable and potentially dangerous outcomes. For example, mixing magic mushrooms with stimulants like ice or ecstasy can increase the risk of a bad trip. Additionally, those on psychiatric medications should avoid magic mushrooms, as this could exacerbate their condition. Overall, understanding the nature of magic mushrooms and their effects can lead to a more informed and safer experience.