Types of Psychedelic Mushrooms

In this post, we’ll discuss the most common types of psychedelic mushrooms. Often referred to as ‘magic mushrooms,’ many people consume an excess amount of these fungi. That’s one of the reasons we wanted to publish this article. People for whom mushroom use has become a problem will benefit greatly from a little knowledge. First, you need to know hat psilocybin is the active ingredient in many, though not all, magic mushroom varities. Psilocybin is a naturally-occurring psychedelic compound produced by more than 200 species of mushrooms.  Many of these mushroom species include other psychoactive substances that also act as hallucinogens. We’ll summarize the effects of different types of magic mushrooms in just a bit. However, most of these effects have a powerful effect on the way the user perceives reality. 

The Three Most Common Types of Psychedelic Mushrooms

The names of magic mushrooms may seem unfamiliar, but most users have encountered one or more of these common varieties.

1. Psilocybe cubensis 

Of all the different types of magic mushrooms, Psilocybe cubensis is one that most users are familiar with. This kind of mushroom has a cap that is usually reddish-brown, with a white to yellowish stem. Mushroom hunters tend to find it in damp, humid climates, often growing on the feces of grazing animals. 


2. Psilocybe semilanceata

Also known as the liberty cap, the psilocybe semilanceata is another common psilocybin mushroom. P. semilanceata tends to thrive in areas like moist, grassy fields that are used for cattle. This is a relatively small mushhroom, ranging in color from light yellow to brown and has a pointed cap.


Psilocybe baeocystis

Also known as bluebell or bottle cap is yet another and has a dark brown wavy cap and yellowish or brownish stem when fresh. It can be found in fields and also on rotting logs, peat or mulch. 


Psilocybin is usually eaten or brewed as a tea, after which the body rapidly converts it to psilocin. Psilocin can produce mind-altering effects comparable, in some ways, to those produced by DMT, LSD, and mescaline. Effects may include euphoria, hallucinations, changes in perception, a distorted perception of time, and spiritual experiences, as well as adverse reactions like nausea, anxiety, and panic attacks.


Psilocybin Abuse

Psilocybin is classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration as a Schedule I controlled substance. This classification indicates that it is not considered to have any legitimate medical purpose and has a high potential for abuse. Possession of psilocybin mushroom is also illegal in most states.  Perhaps more significantly, chronic psilocybin abuse can lead to an emotional addiction. Physiologically, it can also cause a condition that clinicians call hallucinogen use disorder.  This condition is hallmarked by problematic drug use that causes significant impairment in a person’s life. Furthermore, he or she will continue to abuse psilocybin mushrooms despite adverse consequences that occur. Common signs and symptoms of substance abuse and addiction include the following:

  • Using more of the substance than initially intended or for a longer period.
  • Spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using, and recovering from substance abuse.
  • Experiencing strong drug cravings.
  • Using the substance even when it results in a failure to fulfill personal obligations, social and interpersonal problems, or causes severe physical or psychological health problems.
  • Using the substance in hazardous situations, such as when operating a motor vehicle.
  • Neglecting activities that were once considered important or pleasurable as a result of substance abuse.
  • Difficulty cutting back or quitting the substance of choice.
  • Needing increasing amounts of the substance to produce the desired effects.

Effects of Psilocybin Abuse

Effects of Psilocybin Abuse

The short-term effects of psilocybin mushrooms usually appear within 20-90 minutes of consumption and can include the following:

  • Hallucinations
  • Mixed-sensory experiences
  • Changes in time perception
  • Spiritual experiences
  • Detachment from reality
  • Loss of sense of self
  • Intense emotions
  • Rapid respiration
  • Excessive sweating
  • Increased body temperature
  • Higher blood pressure
  • Heart palpitations
  • Tremors
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dry mouth
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Nausea
  • Blurred vision
  • Impaired coordination
  • Paranoia
  • Psychosis

According to The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the potential for psilocybin mushrooms to cause long-term adverse effects is not fully understood and requires more research. However, there is no question that when a person is intoxicated by psilocybin, their logic and reasoning capabilities can be severely compromised. Also, some people may have frightening experiences as a result of use, otherwise known as “bad trips” and can have lasting adverse effects on the user. In rare cases, a user may develop hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD), which occurs in around 4.2% of people who use hallucinogens. Those with this condition experience “flashbacks” or a re-experiencing of psilocybin mushroom intoxication despite having abstained from use for a prolonged period.  People who use psilocybin may also be more vulnerable to injury or death as a result of poor judgment and accidents. Mushroom users also expose themselves to poisoning risk and possible death by consuming a variety they believe to be safe. 


Get Help Now

Unlike with most drugs of abuse, studies have not established that psilocybin leads to withdrawal symptoms. However, psychoactive substances such as these mushrooms have the potential to be habit-forming. Chronic users may also develop a tolerance, which means that they will need increasing doses of psilocybin to achieve the desired effects. In this way, it is similar the average person’s experience with smoking marijuana.  Harmony Recovery Center offers comprehensive, evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, individual and family counseling, and group therapy, that address the underlying reasons why people choose to abuse substances of any kind. We believe that every person, regardless of their past, has the right to receive the very best treatment available. Even though there are several types of psychedelic mushrooms, they still take many people to a similar place. If you or someone you love is struggling to overcome the abuse of drugs or alcohol, contact us today. We feel a deep commitment to helping those who need it most break free from the chains of addiction. It’s the best way to enjoy the long-lasting wellness that they deserve!


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