How Does the Effect of Dried Mushrooms Compare to Other Psychedelics?

Dried shrooms are among the most sought-after psychedelics available today. If you’ve heard of them and are considering trying them, but you’re uncertain if they’re the right choice for you, continue reading.

It’s not unusual for newcomers to the world of psychedelics to be unsure about which substance to try first. We’re here to clarify the differences between dried mushrooms and other substances, and why they might be an ideal starting point for your psychedelic exploration.

Key Points to Remember:

• The active compound in Psilocybe mushrooms is the most extensively researched psychedelic for mental health due to its safety, low likelihood of misuse, and brief effects.
• The most common form is dried Psilocybe, which retains potency and extends shelf life.
• Psilocybin stimulates the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, leading to enhanced perception, vivid imagery, complex hallucinations, and time distortion.

Delving into the World of Psychedelic Fungi: Psilocybin Mushrooms

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, is identifiable by its light brown cap, dark spots, and distinctive shape. There are also various other species within the Psilocybe genus that produce these compounds.

Some toxic mushrooms that contain harmful toxins resemble the Psilocybe species, which is why we strongly advise against foraging for shrooms in the wild.

In the past, many mushrooms played a significant role in Central American spiritual practices. Presently, their potential for treating mental health disorders, including substance abuse issues, is being explored by researchers.

The Process of Preparation and Preservation: Dried Mushrooms

The most commonly found form of Psilocybe is the dried variant. The process of 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 location. 

This procedure plays a crucial role in eliminating excess

Drying magic mushrooms prevents moisture accumulation, thereby preventing the growth of mould and the degradation of their active compounds. Once dried, these mushrooms can be stored for future use.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to properly dry and store magic mushrooms:

1. Use a food dehydrator or a wire rack to effectively dry the mushrooms.
2. Preserve them in airtight containers to protect from excessive moisture and maintain their potency.
3. Store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their psychoactive effects.
4. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight to prevent degradation.
5. Inspect them regularly for any signs of spoilage such as mould or dark spots.

Comparing Psilocybe Cubensis with Other Psychedelics

In addition to dried mushroom products, a variety of psychedelic products are available online. These substances produce different effects on the body and can be consumed in various ways. Some of these substances are considered classic hallucinogens, similar to psilocybin.

How Does Your Body Respond?

The operational mechanics of each substance are speculative, drawing upon observed outcomes. These hypotheses shed light on how the substances could possibly yield their effects, yet they do not offer a concrete understanding of the intricate processes at play.

• Psilocybin: Easily stimulates the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, resulting in enhanced perception, vibrant imagery, complex hallucinations, and distortions of time. It also prompts changes in thalamic gating and amplified activity in the prefrontal cortex.
• DMT: While its interaction with serotonin receptors is significant, it only forms part of its overall impact. The complete range of effects DMT has is yet to be fully understood.
• LSD: It functions within the serotonergic system in the Dorsal Raphe, binding to the 5-HT2A receptor as a partial agonist and the 5-HT1A receptor as a full agonist.
• MDMA: It triggers an immediate feeling of joy by promoting the release of dopamine and serotonin.
• Ketamine: Its exact operational mechanism continues to be ambiguous. Its antidepressant effect may be attributed to the blockage of NMDA receptors on neurons. However, selective inhibition of NMDA receptors on GABAergic interneurons and suppression of AMPA receptors may also contribute.

What Are the Impacts of Psychedelic Mushrooms?

The mental and physical reactions can vary significantly depending on dosage, environment, and the user’s mental condition. Common experiences associated with the use of psychedelic mushrooms encompass:

• Visual and Auditory Hallucinations: Users may perceive non-existent patterns, colors, and shapes.
• Distorted Sense of Time: Time may seem to dilate or shrink.
• Altered Perception: Sensory experiences may intensify or distort.
• Emotional Fluctuations: A wide array of emotions, ranging from delight to apprehension.
• Spiritual Revelations: Encounters of spiritual or mystical nature.
• Physical Effects: These may include increased heart rate and blood pressure, or feelings of sickness.

Shrooms can be safely consumed with careful use. However, without adequate preparation, some users may have unpleasant experiences. Experienced users may find higher doses effective, but beginners attempting to consume large amounts might experience a “bad trip.”

Managing your experience with shrooms is straightforward. Choose a calm, quiet environment and enlist a sober “trip guide” for help. 

A Preferable Choice Over Other Substances

Medical practitioners often prefer dried shrooms due to their long shelf life and easy dosage. Their shorter duration and more manageable intensity make them a suitable option for those new to psychedelic therapy. It’s also more natural than other synthetic hallucinogens, except for DMT.

Comparing the benefits of various compounds can be challenging, as many clinical trials produce similar outcomes, particularly between LSD and psilocybin. The latter is the most extensively researched psychedelic for mental health issues, primarily due to its excellent safety profile, low abuse potential, and short perceptual trips.

Health Benefits

• This natural compound can help to lessen “cognitive rigidity,” reduce negative self-thoughts, and promote self-compassion. 
• A study in 2022 discovered that a single 25 mg dose reduced depression scores in individuals with treatment-resistant depression. A 2023 research found significant and enduring reductions in depressive symptoms with the combined use of regulated substances and psychotherapy.
• A clinical trial in 2022 found that psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy significantly lowered the number of heavy drinking days over an eight-month period compared to a placebo.
• Research in 2017 published in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse suggested that two to three doses, paired with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), allowed 10 out of 15 participants to stop smoking for a year.
• In a 2022 pilot study published in Biological Psychiatry, four out of five patients with anorexia reported a reduction in their disorder’s symptoms after a single dose of shrooms and psychotherapy. Two of these patients also saw a decrease in anxiety levels.
1. Preparation Phase: This first stage may include one or several sessions, each lasting between 1-6 hours, with a facilitator. The purpose of these sessions is to address any concerns you have, define your goals, and lay out clear expectations. They aim to build trust and ensure a safe environment.
2. Dosing Phase: This stage lasts for 5-8 hours. You will spend this time lying down, wearing an eye mask, and listening to a preselected playlist. A therapist will accompany you throughout the experience.
3. Integration Phase: This is a series of post-session meetings designed to support you in understanding and interpreting your experience. These sessions are divided over a few meetings, each lasting several hours.

Is buying shroom products more economical than other substances?

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