How Do Dehydrated Mushrooms Stack Up Against Other Psychedelic Substances?

Dried shrooms are among the most sought-after psychedelics available today. You might have heard about them and considered trying them out, but are unsure if they’re the right fit for you. 

It’s not uncommon for novices to feel uncertain about which psychedelic to start with. We’re here to help you understand how dried mushrooms stand out from other substances and why they could be an excellent pick for your initial psychedelic experience.

Essential Points:

• The active ingredient in Psilocybe is the most studied psychedelic for mental health due to its safety, low risk of abuse, and brief effects.
• The most common form is dehydrated 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 distortions.

Psilocybin Mushrooms: An Exploration of the Psychedelic Fungi Realm

A psilocybin mushroom contains the psychoactive substances, psilocybin and psilocin, that induce the hallucinogenic effects users experience. The most renowned 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.

As some toxic mushrooms with harmful toxins resemble Psilocybe, we strongly recommend against gathering shrooms in the wild.

Historically, numerous mushrooms were vital to Central American spiritual practices. Presently, their potential for treating mental health disorders, including substance abuse issues, is being explored by researchers.

Preparation and Preservation: The Dried Variant

The most commonly accessible form of Psilocybe is the dried variant. Dehydration is key to preserving potency and prolonging shelf life. Fresh mushrooms are usually dried using a food dehydrator or placed on a wire rack in a cool, dry area. 

This process is essential for removing excess

Once properly dried, magic mushrooms can be stored for later use. Doing so will prevent moisture accumulation that could lead to mould growth and compromise the potency of the mushrooms.

Below is a comprehensive guide on how to dry and preserve magic mushrooms:

1. First, thoroughly dry the mushrooms using a suitable food dehydrator or a wire rack.
2. Next, place them in an airtight container to maintain their potency and shield them from excess moisture.
3. Store the container in a dry, cool place to preserve the mushrooms’ psychoactive properties.
4. Avoid exposing the mushrooms to direct sunlight to prevent their degradation.
5. Periodically inspect the mushrooms for mould or dark spots as these are indications of spoilage.

Comparing Psilocybe Cubensis with Other Psychedelics

Alongside dried mushroom products, there are a variety of other psychedelic substances available online. These substances have diverse effects on the body and can be ingested in a number of ways. Some of these products are categorized as classic hallucinogens, akin to psilocybin.

How Does Your Body Respond?

The working mechanisms of every substance are hypothetical, based on the outcomes observed. While these theories shed light on how these substances might generate their effects, they don’t offer a concrete understanding of the underlying processes at play.

• Psilocybin: It activates the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor effortlessly, resulting in enhanced perception, vivid imagery, complex hallucinations, and temporal distortions. It also induces alterations in thalamic gating and heightened prefrontal cortex activity.
• DMT: Its effect on serotonin receptors constitutes only a fraction of its overall impact, the full range of which is still unknown. While the serotonin receptor is important, it doesn’t entirely account for all of DMT’s effects.
• 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: Elicits an immediate feeling of joy by stimulating the release of dopamine and serotonin.
• Ketamine: Its exact method of action remains a mystery. Its antidepressant effect might stem from blocking NMDA receptors on neurons, although selective inhibition of NMDA receptors on GABAergic interneurons and dampening of AMPA receptors could also contribute.

What Can You Expect From Consuming Psychedelic Mushrooms?

The psychological and physical effects can vary widely based on dosage, environment, and the mental state of the user. Typical experiences associated with the consumption of psychedelic mushrooms include:

• Visual and Auditory Hallucinations: Individuals may observe patterns, colours, and shapes that aren’t present in the real world.
• Distorted Perception of Time: Time might appear to either lengthen or shorten.
• Changed Perception: Sensory experiences can be intensified or distorted.
• Emotional Shifts: A wide array of emotions, ranging from happiness to anxiety.
• Spiritual Insights: Occurrences of a spiritual or mystical nature.
• Physical Effects: These could include an increased heart rate and blood pressure, or sensations of nausea

While shroom consumption is generally considered safe when done responsibly, those who are unprepared may have unpleasant experiences. More seasoned users may find larger doses effective, but beginners trying to consume substantial amounts could have a negative experience, often referred to as a “bad trip.”

It is quite manageable to have a positive experience with this substance. Choose a peaceful, quiet environment and consider having a sober “trip guide” to assist you. 

A Preferable Alternative to Other Substances

Many medical professionals prefer dried shrooms because of their longer shelf life and easy dosing. Their shorter duration and more manageable intensity make them an appropriate choice for those just beginning psychedelic therapy. They are also more natural than other synthetic hallucinogens, except for DMT.

Distinguishing the benefits of different compounds can be challenging, as many clinical trials show similar results, particularly between LSD and psilocybin. The latter is the most extensively researched psychedelic for mental health issues, primarily because of its strong safety record, low abuse potential, and brief perceptual trips.

Health Benefits

• This natural compound may lessen “cognitive rigidity,” reduce negative self-perception, and promote self-kindness. 
• A 2022 study found that a single 25 mg dose could reduce depression scores in individuals suffering from treatment-resistant depression. A 2023 study reported significant and enduring decreases in depressive symptoms with the combined use of regulated substances and psychotherapy.
• A 2022 clinical trial found that psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy significantly lowered the number of heavy drinking days over an eight-month span compared to a placebo.
• A 2017 study published in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse suggested that two to three doses, combined with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), helped 10 out of 15 participants 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 shroom dose with psychotherapy. Two of them also experienced a reduction in anxiety.
1. Preparation Phase: This initial stage may include one or several sessions (each lasting between 1-6 hours) with a facilitator. These sessions aim to address any worries you may have, help you define your goals, and set realistic expectations. The key objective here is to cultivate trust and create a safe environment.
2. Dosing Phase: This phase lasts between 5-8 hours. You will spend this time lying down, wearing an eye mask, and listening to a preselected playlist. A therapist will be by your side throughout the entirety of this experience.
3. Integration Phase: This phase is about post-session discussions designed to assist you in understanding and making sense of your experience. These sessions are spread over several meetings, each lasting a few hours.

Are shroom products more economical compared to other substances?

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