Exodus

Consuming an especially large or strong batch of mushrooms might lead to unwanted effects such as:

• Vomiting
• Agitation
• Muscle weakness
• Diarrhea
• Seizures
• Coma

Sometimes, magic mushrooms can cause fear, paranoia, and other negative effects, known as a “bad trip.” The effects of a bad trip can include:

• Anxiety
• Paranoia
• Panic
• Fear
• Intense hallucinations
• Unpleasant hallucinations
• Flashbacks to previous experiences

Research has shown that certain mushrooms could offer benefits for treating psychiatric and behavioral conditions, including:

• Depression
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Alcoholism
• Cocaine addiction
• End-of-life psychological distress related to cancer or other serious conditions

Additionally, these mushrooms may help people quit smoking and have the potential to be a treatment for cluster headaches.

However, none of these uses have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While these potential health benefits have been observed in studies, they haven’t been confirmed on a large scale. More research is needed to verify that these mushrooms are a reliable treatment for these conditions.

The best way to minimize the risk of unpleasant effects and bad trips is to be cautious when using magic mushrooms. Controlling the amount you consume and being mindful of your environment can greatly impact your overall experience.

You can reduce your risks by:

• Ensuring you know the mushrooms you're taking are safe and correctly identified
• Understanding the dosage you will be consuming
• Avoiding mixing magic mushrooms with other substances
• Not consuming mushrooms on a day when you feel stressed, sad, or fearful
• Taking mushrooms with safe and trusted people
• Consuming mushrooms in a pleasant, calm, and comfortable environment

Psilocybin mushrooms are classified as a Schedule I drug in the United States, making it illegal to possess, sell, or distribute them, with serious legal consequences for those who do. As more research highlights the potential health benefits of psilocybin mushrooms, we may see similar changes in legislation in other cities and states.

Legal Mushrooms Without Psilocybin

While psilocybin mushrooms are controlled, there are plenty of legal mushrooms that offer various health benefits and culinary uses. Here are a few:

• Reishi Mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum): Often used for their potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system.
• Lion’s Mane Mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus): Believed to support cognitive function and nerve health, these mushrooms have a unique, seafood-like flavor.
• Amanita Mushrooms: This category includes several species, such as Amanita muscaria (Fly Agaric), which are known for their distinctive appearance and historical use in traditional rituals. However, it is important to note that while some Amanita mushrooms are legal, they can be toxic and should only be used with caution and proper knowledge.