How to eat magic mushrooms? A beginner's guide

Magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms, are fascinating plants that have sparked the interest of people around the world for centuries. In recent years, more and more people have become interested in consuming magic mushrooms because of their potential medical and psychological applications. However, before embarking on such an experience, it is important to understand how to consume magic mushrooms in a safe and responsible manner.

What are magic mushrooms?

Magic mushrooms are mushrooms containing the psychoactive substance psilocybin. Psylocybin is an alkaloid that affects the brain and causes changes in perception, mood and thinking. There are many different species of magic mushrooms, each of which can contain varying amounts of psilocybin. The most common magic mushroom species are Psilocybe cubensis, Psilocybe semilanceata and Psilocybe cyanescens.

History of magic mushrooms

Magic mushrooms have been known and used by many cultures around the world for thousands of years. In Mexico and Central America, magic mushrooms were used for religious and therapeutic purposes by many tribes, including the Mayans, Aztecs and Zapotecs. In Europe, magic mushrooms were used in the Middle Ages by shamans and witches for therapeutic and religious purposes.

Key Takeaways

• Magic mushrooms are mushrooms containing the psychoactive substance psilocybin.
• There are many different species of magic mushrooms, each of which can contain different amounts of psilocybin.
• Magic mushrooms have been known and used by many cultures around the world for thousands of years.

What are magic mushrooms?

Magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms, are plants that have sparked the interest of people around the world for centuries. They are mushrooms containing the psychoactive substance psilocybin, which affects perception, thoughts and feelings, leading to an altered state of consciousness.

Depending on the species, psilocybin levels in magic mushrooms can vary considerably. The most common species are Psylocybe cubensis, Psilocybe semilanceata, Psilocybe mexicana, Psilocybe tampanensis and Psilocybe cyanescens.

Magic mushrooms can be consumed in a variety of ways. They are most often dried and ground and consumed in capsule form or mixed into food or drinks. They are also often brewed as tea or juice and drunk.

It is important to bear in mind that magic mushrooms contain a psychoactive substance that can cause intense psychedelic experiences, as well as negative side effects such as nausea, vomiting, headaches or anxiety. Therefore, it is advisable to be cautious when consuming magic mushrooms and to adhere to specific doses, adapted to the individual's needs and tolerance.

History of magic mushrooms

Magic mushrooms have a long history of use for spiritual and medicinal purposes in various cultures, especially in Asia and Central America.

Primary communities

Early communities such as the Maya and Aztecs used magic mushrooms in their religious rituals. They believed that these mushrooms had the power to heal and help communicate with the gods. It was believed that after consuming magic mushrooms, a person was able to see visions, have clairvoyance and receive messages from the gods.

The modern era

In the 20th century, magic mushrooms became popular in hippie culture and New Age movements. In the 1960s, scientific studies showed that the psychoactive substances contained in magic mushrooms, such as psilocybin and psilocin, could be used for therapeutic purposes.

Currently, in some countries, magic mushrooms are legal and can be used for therapeutic purposes or as a way to achieve a psychedelic experience. However, due to their potential danger and illegality in other countries, it is important to consume them with caution and as recommended by a specialist.

Types of magic mushrooms

Magic mushrooms are plants that induce hallucinations and alter the perception of reality. There are two most common types of magic mushrooms in Poland: Psilocybe cubensis and Psilocybe semilanceata.

Psilocybe cubensis

Psilocybe cubensis, also known as 'cubensis', is one of the most common types of magic mushroom. It is found in tropical and sub-tropical climates and its cap is between 1 and 8 cm in diameter. It contains psilocybin, which is a psychoactive substance responsible for hallucinations.

Psilocybe semilanceata

Psilocybe semilanceata, also known as the 'parasite', is another common type of magic mushroom. It is found in Europe, North America and Asia and its cap is between 0.5 and 2 cm in diameter. It contains psilocyba and psilocin, which are psychoactive substances responsible for hallucinations.

Both types of magic mushrooms are legal in Poland, but their possession and consumption may be dangerous and illegal in other countries. It is worth remembering that consuming magic mushrooms can lead to unpleasant experiences, including anxiety, panic, disorientation and even psychosis. Therefore, always exercise caution and only consume them in a safe and controlled environment.

Health effects of consumption

Benefits

Magic mushrooms can have positive effects on mental and emotional health. According to research, substances in mushrooms can help treat depression, anxiety, addiction and other mental disorders. They can also help to develop creativity and improve mood.

In addition, magic mushrooms contain many nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. They can help strengthen the immune system, improve digestion and generally support the body's health.

Risks

However, there are some risks involved in consuming magic mushrooms. Some people may experience adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, disorientation, anxiety and hallucinations. It is therefore important to consume them in moderation and under the supervision of an experienced person.

In addition, magic mushrooms may have a negative effect on people with certain mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia or psychosis. People with a history of mental disorders or heart disease should also avoid consuming magic mushrooms.

In conclusion, magic mushrooms can have a positive impact on mental and emotional health, but should be consumed in moderation and under the guidance of an experienced person. People with certain mental or heart conditions should avoid consuming magic mushrooms.

Preparation for consumption

Methods of preparation

Magic mushrooms can be consumed in a variety of ways. Most commonly they are dried and eaten as a tea or in some other form. They can also be eaten raw, but are usually dried to prevent spoilage.

To make magic mushroom tea, the mushrooms must first be crushed into smaller pieces. Then pour boiling water over them and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. After this time, the tea should be strained and can be drunk.

Another way to consume magic mushrooms is to add them to food. They can be added to soup, sauce or salad. However, it is important not to exceed the recommended dose, as magic mushrooms can have a strong effect.

Safety tips

Before consuming magic mushrooms, there are some important safety tips to consider. Firstly, make sure the mushrooms come from a trusted source. Never eat mushrooms that are not of a certain origin.

Secondly, it is important to remember that magic mushrooms can have strong effects and are not recommended for people with mental illnesses or for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Thirdly, the recommended dose must be observed. Consuming too much magic mushrooms can lead to unpleasant side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or respiratory problems.

Finally, it is important to remember that magic mushrooms can affect the perception of reality and lead to hallucinatory states. Therefore, you should not drive or perform other activities that require you to focus your attention after consuming magic mushrooms.

Experience after consumption

After consuming magic mushrooms, a person can experience a variety of effects, both physical and psychological. This chapter will discuss these effects.

Physical effects

After ingesting magic mushrooms, a person may experience physical effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, sweating, muscle tremors and increased heart rate. These effects can last from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the dose and type of mushroom.

To reduce the risk of these effects, it is recommended to consume magic mushrooms on an empty stomach. In addition, the consumption of alcohol and other substances before and after consuming mushrooms should be avoided, as this can increase the risk of adverse effects.

Psychological effects

After ingesting magic mushrooms, a person may experience a variety of psychic effects, such as intense visions, altered states of consciousness, feelings of euphoria, anxiety, panic, depression, and changes in perception of time and space. These effects can last from a few hours to several days.

In order to reduce the risk of adverse psychological effects, it is recommended to consume magic mushrooms in a safe and familiar environment, in the company of trusted people. In addition, the person should have a positive attitude and be ready for an experience that can be intense and difficult to understand.

It is worth remembering that the consumption of magic mushrooms can be dangerous for people with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, depression or anxiety disorders. These people should avoid eating magic mushrooms or consult a doctor before consuming them.

In summary, the consumption of magic mushrooms can cause a variety of physical and psychological effects. In order to reduce the risk of adverse effects, mushrooms should be consumed on an empty stomach, alcohol and other substances should be avoided, they should be consumed in a safe and familiar environment, in the company of trusted people, a positive attitude should be maintained and consumption by people with mental illness should be avoided.

Legal aspects

Magic mushrooms are illegal in many countries, including Poland. Possession, cultivation, transport, sale and consumption of magic mushrooms is punishable and carries severe legal consequences.

In some countries, such as the Netherlands or Portugal, magic mushrooms are legal and can be bought in shops there. However, in these countries, there are some restrictions on the amount that can be bought at once, as well as on the age of the person who buys and consumes them.

In Poland, magic mushrooms are considered a psychoactive substance and are on the list of drugs. Their possession is punishable by up to three years' imprisonment.

It is worth remembering that magic mushrooms are dangerous to health and life. The consumption of magic mushrooms can lead to serious disturbances in perception, thinking, and hallucinations. In extreme cases, the consumption of magic mushrooms can lead to death.

Therefore, the consumption of magic mushrooms is not only illegal, but also dangerous to health and life.

Principles of responsible use

Magic mushrooms are plants containing the psychoactive substance psilocybin, which can lead to deep spiritual and emotional experiences. However, their consumption requires adequate preparation and a responsible approach.

Here are some rules to follow when using magic mushrooms:

1. Dosage: It is important to always use the correct dosage and never exceed the recommended amount. In the case of magic mushrooms, the dose depends on the person's body weight and the degree of experience with this type of substance. Always start with a lower dose and gradually increase it.

2. Set and setting: Before taking magic mushrooms, the right environment and mood should be taken care of. The person should feel comfortable and safe, and the place should be quiet and peaceful. It is also a good idea to provide appropriate music, which can help to achieve positive effects.

3. Companions: When taking magic mushrooms, it is always a good idea to have a companion with you who can help with any problems. This person should be aware that they should not take psychoactive substances themselves.

4. Water: When taking magic mushrooms, it is a good idea to keep your body properly hydrated. Water will help avoid dehydration, which can lead to serious health problems.

5. Mental health: People who have any health problems, especially mental health problems, should avoid taking magic mushrooms. Consumption of psychoactive substances can lead to increased symptoms of mental illness.

Following these rules is crucial for the safe and responsible use of magic mushrooms.

Potential medical applications

Magic mushrooms are gaining popularity for their potential medical uses. Research suggests that the psychoactive substance psilocybin, present in magic mushrooms, can help treat anxiety, depression, addiction and other mental disorders.

Magic mushrooms can also help treat depression. According to https://drpsy.eu/gb/, psilocybin may affect neurotransmitter levels in the brain, which may help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

However, it is important to remember that magic mushrooms are psychoactive substances and their consumption can lead to unpleasant experiences. Always consult your doctor before starting any treatment with magic mushrooms.

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