How Does the Experience with Dried Mushrooms Compare to Other Psychedelic Substances?

Dried mushrooms are a leading choice among psychedelic products. You may have come across them and considered experimenting with them, but you’re uncertain if they’re the right fit for you. 

It’s normal for newcomers to psychedelics to question which one to try first. We’re here to clarify how dried mushrooms stand out from other substances and why they could be an excellent selection for your inaugural psychedelic experience.

Main Points:

• The primary compound in Psilocybe is the most extensively studied psychedelic for mental health due to its safety, low risk of misuse, and brief duration effects.
• The most common form is dehydrated Psilocybe, which retains its potency and extends its shelf life.
• Psilocybin stimulates the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, causing enhanced perception, vivid imagery, complex hallucinations, and time distortions.

Psilocybin Mushrooms: An Exploration into the Psychedelic Fungal Realm

A psilocybin mushroom contains the psychoactive compounds, psilocybin and psilocin, which are responsible for the hallucinogenic effects experienced by users. The most recognized species—Psilocybe cubensis—features a light brown cap, dark spots, and a distinctive shape. Several other species within the Psilocybe genus also produce these compounds.

We strongly caution against picking mushrooms, as certain toxic ones, containing harmful toxins, can closely resemble Psilocybe.

Historically, a variety of mushrooms played key roles in Central American spiritual practices. Presently, their potential in treating mental health issues, including substance use disorders, is being explored by researchers.

Preparation and Preservation: The Dried Variant

The dried form of Psilocybe is the most accessible. Dehydration is essential for preserving potency and extending shelf life. Fresh mushrooms are usually dried using a food dehydrator or left on a wire rack in a cool, dry area. 

This process is crucial for removing excess

Magic mushrooms, when dried, can be stored for future use. However, care must be taken to avoid moisture as it can induce mould growth and degrade the active compounds.

Follow this step-by-step guide to correctly dry and store magic mushrooms:

1. Dry the mushrooms thoroughly using a suitable food dehydrator or a wire rack.
2. Preserve them in airtight containers to ensure potency and prevent moisture damage.
3. Store in a dry, cool place to maintain their psychoactive properties.
4. Avoid direct sunlight exposure to prevent degradation.
5. Regularly inspect for signs of spoilage such as mould or dark spots.

Comparing Psilocybe Cubensis with Other Psychedelics

Besides dried mushroom products, various other psychedelic products are available online. While these substances also create diverse effects on the body and can be consumed differently, some are categorized as classic hallucinogens, akin to psilocybin.

Grasping Your Body’s Response to Various Substances

The functional mechanisms of each substance are largely theoretical, derived from observed results. While these theories shed light on potential effects of the substances, they do not definitively explain the underlying processes at work.

• Psilocybin: This substance easily stimulates the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, leading to heightened perception, vivid imagery, complex hallucinations, and time distortions. It also triggers alterations in thalamic gating and increased activity in the prefrontal cortex.
• DMT: Its interaction with serotonin receptors only partially explains its effects, the full extent of which remains uncertain. Despite the importance of the serotonin receptor, it alone cannot account for all the effects of DMT.
• LSD: This substance operates within the serotonergic system in the Dorsal Raphe, binding as a partial agonist to the 5-HT2A receptor and as a full agonist to the 5-HT1A receptor.
• MDMA: This substance triggers an immediate feeling of pleasure by encouraging the release of dopamine and serotonin.
• Ketamine: Its exact method of action remains unclear. Its antidepressant effect may result from blocking NMDA receptors on neurons. However, selective inhibition of NMDA receptors on GABAergic interneurons and dampening of AMPA receptors might also contribute.

What Impact Do Psychedelic Mushrooms Have?

The mental and physical effects can vary significantly based on dosage, environment, and the user’s mental state. Typical experiences associated with the use of psychedelic mushrooms include:

• Visual and Auditory Hallucinations: Users may perceive non-existent patterns, colors, and shapes.
• Distorted Sense of Time: Time may appear to either slow down or speed up.
• Altered Perception: Sensory experiences may be amplified or distorted.
• Emotional Fluctuations: Users may experience a wide range of emotions, from joy to anxiety.
• Spiritual Revelations: Users may have experiences that they interpret as spiritual or mystical.
• Physical Effects: For example, increased heart rate and blood pressure, or sensations of sickness

The use of shrooms is HTML:

This substance is considered safe when used responsibly. However, inadequate preparation can result in unpleasant experiences for some consumers. While more seasoned users may find higher doses beneficial, beginners who try to take large amounts may experience a “bad trip.”

Controlling your experience with this substance is straightforward. Choose a calm, quiet environment and enlist the help of a sober “trip guide.” 

A Better Choice Compared to Other Substances

Due to their long shelf life and easy dosage, dried shrooms are often preferred by medical professionals. Their shorter duration and manageable intensity make them a fitting option for those new to psychedelic therapy. They’re also more organic than other synthetic hallucinogens, except for DMT.

Distinguishing the benefits of different compounds can be challenging, as many clinical studies produce similar outcomes, particularly between LSD and psilocybin. The latter is the most extensively researched psychedelic for mental health concerns, mainly because of its excellent safety profile, low abuse potential, and short-lived perceptual trips.

Health Advantages

• This natural substance may help reduce “cognitive rigidity,” lessen negative self-thoughts, and encourage self-compassion. 
• A 2022 study revealed that a single 25 mg dose reduced depression scores in individuals with treatment-resistant depression. A 2023 study reported significant and enduring reductions in depressive symptoms with the combined use of regulated substances and psychotherapy.
• A 2022 clinical trial found that psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy significantly decreased the number of heavy drinking days over eight months compared to a placebo.
• A 2017 study published in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse showed that two to three doses, along with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), enabled 10 out of 15 participants to quit smoking for a year.
• In a 2022 pilot study published in Biological Psychiatry, four out of five patients with anorexia reported an improvement in their eating disorder symptoms after a single dose of shroom with psychotherapy. Additionally, two of them experienced a reduction in anxiety.
1. Preparation Stage: This initial phase includes one or more sessions that last between 1-6 hours each, led by a facilitator. These sessions aim to clarify any doubts you might have, define your goals, and set appropriate expectations. They are designed to build trust and ensure a safe space.
2. Dosing Stage: This stage lasts between 5-8 hours where you’ll lie down with an eye mask on, listening to a pre-selected playlist. A therapist will accompany you throughout the entire experience.
3. Integration Stage: This phase includes post-session discussions to help you understand and make sense of your experience. These sessions are divided over several meetings, each lasting a few hours.

Is it more economic to buy shroom products compared to other substances?

When compared to LSD products, dried mushrooms are considerably cheaper. For example, you can buy 3.5 grams for around $20. Conversely, the price of LSD in gel tabs varies depending on the dosage. For instance, six tabs, each with a strength of 100 micrograms, could cost up to $90.