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How Does the Experience with Dried Mushrooms Measure Up Against Other Psychedelics?

By August 13, 2024July 30th, 2025Psilocybin Mushrooms

Take a look at dried shrooms, one of the leading psychedelics available today. If you’ve heard of them and are considering trying them out, yet unsure if they are the perfect fit for you, keep reading.

Feeling uncertain about which psychedelic to start with is normal, especially for beginners. This guide aims to clarify how dried mushrooms compare to other substances and why they could be an excellent choice for your initial psychedelic experience.

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Main Points:

  • The main component in Psilocybe is the most researched psychedelic for mental health due to its safety, low potential for abuse, and brief duration of effects.
  • The most commonly used form is dehydrated Psilocybe, which retains its potency and extends its shelf life.
  • Psilocybin activates the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, leading to heightened perception, vivid imagery, complex hallucinations, and time distortions.
Psilocybin Mushrooms

A Deeper Look at Psilocybin Mushrooms: Journeying into the Psychedelic Fungi World

Psilocybin mushrooms contain the mind-altering compounds, psilocybin and psilocin, responsible for the hallucinogenic effects experienced by users. The best-known species, Psilocybe cubensis, features a light brown cap with dark spots, and a distinctive shape. Several other species within the Psilocybe genus also produce these compounds.

It’s worth noting that some harmful mushrooms with dangerous toxins resemble Psilocybe, which is why we recommend against picking your own shrooms.

Historically, many mushrooms played a crucial role in Central American spiritual rituals. Nowadays, they are under scientific exploration for their potential to treat mental health disorders, including substance abuse.

Preparation and Preservation: The Dehydrated Method

The most accessible form of Psilocybe is the dried version. Dehydration plays a key role in preserving the potency and extending the shelf life. Fresh mushrooms are typically dehydrated using a food dehydrator or left on a wire rack in a cool, dry area. 

This process is essential for removing excess

Magic mushrooms can retain their active compounds and be safeguarded from mould growth through proper drying and storage. This is crucial for preserving the mushrooms for future use.

Follow this step-by-step guide to efficiently dry and store magic mushrooms:

  1. Use a suitable food dehydrator or a wire rack to thoroughly dry the mushrooms.
  2. Preserve them in airtight containers to ensure potency and guard against excessive moisture.
  3. Store them in a dry, cool place to maintain their psychoactive attributes.
  4. Prevent exposure to direct sunlight to avert degradation.
  5. Regularly inspect for signs of spoilage such as mould or dark spots.

Comparing Psilocybe Cubensis with Other Psychedelics

Besides dried mushroom products, there is a range of psychedelic products available online. These products vary in their effects on the body and methods of consumption. Many of these substances are categorized as classic hallucinogens, akin to psilocybin.

SubstanceOriginPhysical EffectsResearch IndicationsDuration
PsilocybinExists naturally in over 200 mushroom speciesEnhanced perception, hallucinations, altered sense of timeDepression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Cluster headaches, Alzheimer’s disease4-6 hours
DMTOccurs naturally in plants like Psychotria viridisDeep spiritual experiences, visions, auditory hallucinationsDepression, Addiction15-30 minutes
LSDMan-made, initially produced by Albert Hofmann in 1938Intensified emotions, altered perception, auditory and visual hallucinationsDepression, Anxiety, Addiction, Cluster headaches, Alzheimer’s disease, Tourette’s syndrome, ADHD8-12 hours
MDMAMan-made, first synthesized by Anton Köllisch in 1912Increased release of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and potentially oxytocinPTSD, Autism spectrum disorder, Obesity, Narcolepsy, ADHD3-6 hours
KetamineMan-made, first synthesized by Calvin L. Stevens in 1962Anesthetic, generates psychedelic effects at high subanesthetic dosesDepression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, Suicidal ideation, Addiction, Autism spectrum disorder, Chronic pain, Arthritis, Fibromyalgia1-3 Effects: These can include changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and pupils’ size.

How Does Your Body Respond?

The theories regarding the functionality of each substance are based on observed effects. While they offer insights into how these substances may be producing their effects, they don’t provide a definitive explanation of the involved underlying processes.

  • Psilocybin: Easily stimulates the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, causing enhanced perception, vivid imagery, complex hallucinations, and distortions in time perception. It also incites changes in thalamic gating and increased activity in the prefrontal cortex.
  • DMT: Its overall effect is not fully understood, although it interacts with serotonin receptors. The serotonin receptor plays a vital role but doesn’t completely account for all the effects of DMT.
  • LSD: It functions in the serotonergic system in the Dorsal Raphe, attaching to the 5-HT2A receptor as a partial agonist and the 5-HT1A receptor as a full agonist.
  • MDMA: It stimulates an immediate pleasure response by encouraging the release of dopamine and serotonin.
  • Ketamine: Its exact functioning mechanism remains a mystery. Its antidepressant effect might be due to the blocking of NMDA receptors on neurons, although selective inhibition of NMDA receptors on GABAergic interneurons and suppression of AMPA receptors may also be contributing factors.

What Are the Impacts of Psychedelic Mushrooms?

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

  • Visual and Auditory Hallucinations: Users may see patterns, colors, and shapes that don’t actually exist.
  • Distorted Time Perception: Time may appear to slow down or speed up.
  • Altered Sensory Perception: Sensory experiences can be intensified or distorted.
  • Emotional Swings: Experiencing a wide range of emotions, from happiness to anxiety.
  • Spiritual Insights: Undergoing mystical or spiritual experiences.
  • Physical Changes: These may include alterations in heart rate, blood pressure, and pupil dilation.
Effects: These may include an increased heart rate and blood pressure, as well as feelings of nausea.

When used responsibly, this substance is considered safe. However, unprepared users may have unpleasant experiences. While more seasoned users might find higher doses effective, beginners consuming large amounts could have a “bad trip.”

Managing your experience with this substance is straightforward. Choose a calm, quiet environment and have a sober “trip guide” on hand for support. 

A Preferred Alternative to Other Substances

Medical professionals often prefer dried shrooms for their long shelf life and easy dosing. Their shorter duration and more manageable intensity make them an ideal choice for those unaccustomed to psychedelic therapy. They are also more natural compared to other synthetic hallucinogens, excluding DMT.

Establishing the benefits of different 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 conditions, mainly due to its excellent safety profile, low abuse potential, and short perceptual trips.

Health Benefits

  • This natural compound may help ease “cognitive rigidity,” reduce self-defeating thoughts, and promote self-compassion. 
  • A 2022 study found that a single 25 mg dose lowered depression scores in individuals with treatment-resistant depression. A 2023 study reported significant and long-term reductions in depressive symptoms with the combined use of regulated substances and psychotherapy.
  • A 2022 clinical trial found that psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy significantly reduced the number of heavy drinking days over eight months compared to a placebo.
  • A 2017 study published in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse found that two to three doses, along with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), helped 10 out of 15 participants to quit smoking for a year.
  • In a 2022 pilot study published in Biological Psychiatry, four out of five patients with anorexia reported symptom improvement after a single dose of shroom with psychotherapy. Two of them also noted a reduction in anxiety.
  • Studies performed on individuals with terminal cancer have demonstrated that this substance, when combined with other supportive treatments, can significantly reduce depression, anxiety, drug addiction, and the fear of death. It also enhances the quality of life and fosters a sense of optimism. The positive impacts were maintained for six months.
  • For a large majority (80%) of the participants, the benefits continued to be experienced for several months.

Choose Your Favourite Dried Mushrooms and Start Your Exploration

The rise of easy-to-use online services makes the exploration of these products a breeze. Simply place an order and have it conveniently delivered to your front door.

CharacteristicBlue MeaniesGolden TeacherAlacabenzi
EffectsBliss, Hallucinations, Happiness, Profound LaughterSpiritual Awakening, Connection with Nature, Spiritual HealingPhysical and Spatial Effects, Relaxation, Altered Perception
AppearanceBrownish-yellow caps with blue bruisingBroad pale caps, slender stemsThick caps, reddish-brown stems
StrengthHighMediumMedium
Suggested UseFestivals, Celebrations, Artistic ExpressionShamanic, Spiritual Journey, EnlightenmentRelaxation, Evening Unwind, Meditative State

Choose Properly Dried Magic Mushrooms for Their Proven Effects and Benefits

Dried mushroom products offer a unique and powerful psychedelic experience, comparable to LSD, MDMA, DMT, and Mescaline. They’re renowned for their introspective effects and potential therapeutic value. As the most studied compound, it’s easier to understand its benefits and learn how to use it effectively. Mushroom Coffee Canada offers a variety of these fungi, from highly potent strains to ones ideal for beginners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should consider (or avoid) psychedelic therapy?

If you’re struggling with depression, anorexia, alcohol addiction, looking to quit smoking, or coping with a terminal illness, this therapy may help. However, if you or your family have a history of schizophrenia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, or borderline personality disorder, it’s crucial to consult your physician before engaging in this therapy.

What should you expect from psilocybin therapy?

Despite its intensity, psilocybin therapy can deliver long-lasting benefits. The therapy unfolds in three primary stages:

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  1. Preparation Phase: This stage includes one or more sessions, each lasting between 1-6 hours, with a facilitator. These sessions aim to address your concerns, clarify your objectives, and set realistic expectations. The ultimate goal is to build trust and create a safe environment.
  2. Dosing Phase: This phase lasts anywhere between 5-8 hours. During this period, you will be lying down, wearing an eye mask, and listening to a pre-selected playlist. A therapist will accompany you throughout the entire experience.
  3. Integration Phase: This phase consists of follow-up sessions aimed at helping you understand and make sense of your experience. These sessions are spread over multiple meetings, each lasting several hours.

Is it more economical to buy shroom products as compared to other compounds?

When compared to LSD products, dried mushrooms are considerably cheaper. For example, you can buy 3.5 grams for around $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 could potentially cost up to $90.

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