Magic mushrooms are known to contain the naturally occurring hallucinogenic compound called psilocybin. More than anything, it is responsible for giving trippers the high they seek from these “magical” shrooms.
Compared to most psychedelics, magic shrooms hold qualities that make them safer and more appropriate for beginners and psychedelic novices. That said, before dabbling in magic mushrooms, it is imperative for one to get a complete understanding of its effects to ensure a relatively safe and fun venture.
Recognizing Magic Shrooms
Except for their slightly drier appearance, magic mushrooms might not look anything different from ordinary mushrooms. They have similar whitish-gray stems that are long and slender, as well as dark brown caps on the side and light brown in the center.
When dried out, both magic mushrooms and ordinary ones have a rusty brown effect with little off-white patches across the body. You’ll find that how they look isn’t too far off from how dehydrated ordinary mushrooms look.
Magic mushrooms are also edible. You can brew them for drinking or mix them with a wide variety of foods for snacking. You can mix them with other substances, too. In moderate amounts, you can smoke magic mushrooms with cannabis or tobacco.
How Do Magic Mushrooms Affect You?
Since magic shrooms contain the psychoactive and hallucinogenic psilocybin, they can make you see, hear, and feel things that aren’t actually there. Hallucination levels can vary depending on the dose and the conditions the user is in.
In the past, shroom usage was related to out-of-body experiences. It was believed to help people see their surroundings in a new and more exciting light. A lot of “spiritual” activities and self-discovery journeys back then were said to be enhanced by these sorts of psychedelics.
Many believed magic mushrooms weren’t much different from hemp, mescaline, and other sacred herbs that brought people to heightened spiritual states. Some grew to rely on these shrooms to get a sense of euphoria or an escape from the harsh realities of life.
As mentioned, magic mushrooms house the mind-heightening psilocybin. In the process of giving users their “high,” the chemical is converted into psilocin, which impacts the brain’s serotonin levels. It is what alters a user’s perception of their surroundings.
The state can last anywhere from 20 minutes to six hours depending on the dosage, with longer “highs” more likely to occur with higher doses of the more potent raw mushroom. Although mushrooms that have been dried or dehydrated still hold some potency, it’s not anywhere near their levels upon harvest.
Take It From the Experts
There is no doubting the magic shroom’s ability to provide peaceful highs. However, it can also induce paranoia, anxiety, and confusion when misused.
If you’re unsure about the mushroom’s effect on you, best talk to an expert or someone who can provide sound advice on the matter. Remember, underlying conditions can trigger frightening effects just as much as incorrect usage.
Despite being deemed a “safe” psychedelic, for the most part, a magic shroom’s safety is still dependent on how it is used and what condition the user is in. Be sure to keep that in mind to avoid the worst “trip” of your life.
Typical Adverse Effects
Like all hallucinogens, magic shrooms may trigger mental and emotional irregularities, which can lead to fights and accidents. Combined with other substances, particularly those at risk of being abused, the magic shroom’s physical and psychological effects could lead to fatal outcomes.
The very best that responsible users expect from this drug is a mild trip, characterized by relaxing images and feelings. However, beyond the shroom’s mild effects are panic-inducing hallucinations and delusions.
Depending on how much you take and your current condition, the drug might even be strong enough to cause convulsions. Magic shrooms can have both physical and mental adverse effects, namely:
- Headaches
- Drowsiness
- Dilated pupils
- Nausea
- Muscle fatigue
- Panic reactions
- Visual and auditory hallucinations
- Euphoria
- Psychosis
- Anxiety
As for the drug’s long-term effects, research has yet to come up with anything conclusive. However, there have been reports of these shrooms altering a user’s personality and inducing flashbacks over a period of years.
There’s also the matter of mushroom poisoning, which is unlikely but cannot be completely ruled out. Apparently, there are times when these shrooms don’t just resemble their poisonous counterparts; instead, they also take on their characteristics.
Should You Be Concerned About Magic Mushroom Effects?
The answer to that is a resounding yes. It would be best if you make it your business to learn about anything that has even the slightest chance of doing damage to your body, mind, or spirit.
While the world has become more accepting of recreational drug use, it’s vital that you go about the activity safely and responsibly. Ensure you’re out of harm’s way by educating yourself on the full extent of the magic shroom’s effects.
If someone you know has been misusing these psychedelics, chances are they will be nervous, paranoid, or jumpy all the time. Generally, irresponsible drug use manifests in changes in sleeping patterns, moods, and behavior. Keep an eye out for these signs if you or a loved one is taking the drug recreationally.
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