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Comparing Dried Mushrooms to Other Psychedelics: What are the Differences?

By August 13, 2024July 9th, 2025Psilocybin Mushrooms

Dried shrooms are a well-liked choice among psychedelic enthusiasts. If you’ve heard of them and considered trying them out, but you’re uncertain if they’re the right fit for you, read on.

Many beginners grapple with deciding which psychedelic to experiment with first. We’re here to highlight how dried mushrooms differentiate from other substances and why they could be an excellent introduction to your psychedelic exploration.

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Essential Points:

  • The active component in Psilocybe is the most studied psychedelic for mental health due to its safety, minimal abuse potential, and brief effects.
  • The most common form, dehydrated Psilocybe, retains potency and extends shelf life.
  • Psilocybin activates the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, leading to heightened perception, vivid imagery, complex hallucinations, and temporal distortion.
Psilocybin Mushrooms

Psilocybin Mushrooms: An In-Depth Look at Psychedelic Fungi

The psychoactive compounds, psilocybin and psilocin, are housed in a psilocybin mushroom and are responsible for the hallucinogenic effects experienced by users. The most recognized species—Psilocybe cubensis—is characterized by a light brown cap, dark spots, and a distinctive shape. Various other species within the Psilocybe genus are also known to produce these compounds.

Some toxic mushrooms, which contain harmful toxins, resemble the Psilocybe, which is why we discourage mushroom foraging.

In the past, several mushrooms played key roles in Central American spiritual ceremonies. Nowadays, their potential for treating mental health disorders, including substance use disorders, is being examined by researchers.

Dehydration: Method of Preparation and Preservation

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

This process is essential to remove excess moisture and prevent mold formation.

Once dried, magic mushrooms can be preserved for future use, helping to prevent mould growth and degradation of their active compounds.

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

  1. Use a suitable food dehydrator or a wire rack to dry the mushrooms thoroughly.
  2. Keep them in airtight containers to safeguard their potency and prevent exposure to excess moisture.
  3. Store in a dry, cool place to maintain their psychoactive properties.
  4. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight to prevent degradation.
  5. Regularly inspect for signs of spoilage like mould or dark spots.

Comparing Psilocybe Cubensis with Other Psychedelics

In addition to dried mushroom products, other psychedelic products are available online. These substances have diverse effects on the body and can be consumed in various ways. Some of these substances are considered classic hallucinogens, much like psilocybin.

SubstanceOriginPhysical EffectsResearch IndicationsDuration
PsilocybinOccurs naturally in over 200 mushroom speciesEnhances perception, induces hallucinations, alters sense of timeUsed in research for Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Cluster headaches, Alzheimer’s disease4-6 hours
DMTNaturally occurring in plants like Psychotria viridisInduces profound spiritual experiences, visions, auditory hallucinationsUsed in research for Depression, Addiction15-30 minutes
LSDSynthetic, first created by Albert Hofmann in 1938Intensifies emotions, alters perception, induces auditory and visual hallucinationsUsed in research for Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Cluster headaches, Alzheimer’s disease, Tourette’s syndrome, ADHD8-12 hours
MDMASynthetic, first produced by Anton Köllisch in 1912Increases release of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and potentially oxytocinUsed in research for PTSD, Autism spectrum disorder, Obesity, Narcolepsy, ADHD3-6 hours
KetamineSynthetic, first created by Calvin L. Stevens in 1962Acts as an anesthetic, produces psychedelic effects at high subanesthetic dosesUsed in research for Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, Suicidal ideation, Addiction, Autism spectrum disorder, Chronic pain, Arthritis, Fibromyalgia1-3 effects: These can include nausea, dilated pupils, increased heart rate, and changes in blood pressure.

How Does Your Body Respond?

The way each substance functions is based on theoretical assertions derived from observed outcomes. These theories shed light on the possible effects of these substances, but they don’t offer a conclusive explanation of the involved processes.

  • Psilocybin: It easily activates the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, resulting in improved perception, intense images, complex hallucinations, and distortions of time. It also initiates modifications in thalamic gating and enhances prefrontal cortex activity.
  • DMT: Its engagement with serotonin receptors is just a fraction of its overall impact, the entirety of which remains elusive. Despite the importance of the serotonin receptor, it doesn’t fully account for all the effects of DMT.
  • LSD: It functions within 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 creates an immediate feeling of pleasure by encouraging the release of dopamine and serotonin.
  • Ketamine: The exact way it operates remains uncertain. Its antidepressant effect could arise from blocking NMDA receptors on neurons, but it’s also plausible that selective inhibition of NMDA receptors on GABAergic interneurons and suppression of AMPA receptors contribute as well.

What are the Effects of Psychedelic Mushrooms?

Psychedelic mushrooms can elicit vastly different mental and physical reactions based on factors like dosage, environment, and the user’s psychological state. Typical experiences stemming from the use of these mushrooms include:

  • Visual and Auditory Hallucinations: Patterns, colors, and shapes that don’t exist may be perceived by users.
  • Distorted Perception of Time: Time may seem to slow down or speed up.
  • Modified Perception: Senses may become amplified or distorted.
  • Emotional Swings: A wide range of emotions, from extreme happiness to intense anxiety.
  • Spiritual Insights: Users may have experiences of a mystical or spiritual nature.
  • Physical effects: These can involve symptoms such as nausea, pupil dilation, elevated heart rate, and blood pressure changes.
Effects: These may include an increased heart rate and blood pressure or sensations of nausea.

While this substance is considered safe when used responsibly, inadequate preparation may lead to unpleasant experiences for some individuals. While more seasoned users might find larger doses beneficial, beginners who try to ingest substantial amounts may experience a “bad trip.”

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

An Excellent Alternative to Other Substances

Medical experts often prefer dried shrooms due to their long shelf life and easy dosage. Its shorter duration and more manageable intensity make it a better choice for those new to psychedelic therapy. It’s also more organic than other synthesized hallucinogens, with DMT being the only exception.

Differentiating the benefits of various 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 concerns, mainly due to its excellent safety profile, low risk of misuse, and short-lived perceptual trips.

Health Benefits

  • This natural compound can potentially reduce “cognitive rigidity,” lessen negative self-thoughts, and promote self-compassion. 
  • A 2022 study showed that a single 25 mg dose significantly lowered depression scores in individuals with treatment-resistant depression. A 2023 study reported substantial and lasting reductions in depressive symptoms with the combined use of regulated substances and psychotherapy.
  • A 2022 clinical trial found that psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy significantly cut down the number of heavy drinking days over an eight-month period compared to a placebo.
  • A 2017 study in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse reported that two to three doses, along 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 symptom improvement after a single dose of shroom paired with psychotherapy. Additionally, two of them also reported decreased anxiety levels.
  • Studies on terminal cancer patients reveal that this compound, when paired with supportive measures, reduces depression, anxiety, substance dependence, and fear of death while improving life quality and optimism. The positive impacts lasted for six months.
  • Notably, 80% of participants continued to experience these effects for several months.

Choose Your Favorite Dried Mushrooms and Embark on Your Journey

The rise of convenient online platforms has made discovering these products a breeze. Make a purchase and have it delivered straight to your home.

CharacteristicBlue MeaniesGolden TeacherAlacabenzi
EffectsBliss, Hallucinations, Happiness, Profound LaughterSpiritual Enlightenment, Connection with Nature, Healing of the SpiritPhysical and Spatial Effects, Relaxation, Modified Perception
AppearanceYellowish-brown caps with blue stainsBroad pale caps, slender stemsThick caps, reddish-brown stems
StrengthHighMediumMedium
Suggested UseCelebrations, Festivals, Artistic CreativitySpiritual Exploration, Enlightenment, Shamanic PracticesRelaxation, Evening Downtime, Meditative State

Choose Properly Dried Magic Mushrooms for Their Established Effects and Benefits

Dried mushroom products deliver a unique and powerful psychedelic experience, comparable to drugs like LSD, MDMA, DMT, and Mescaline. They’re renowned for their introspective effects and potential therapeutic benefits. As the most extensively researched compound, understanding its advantages and effective usage is more straightforward. Shroom Gummies 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, desire to quit smoking, or facing a terminal illness, this therapy could be helpful. However, if you or your family have a history of schizophrenia, psychosis, bipolar disorder, or borderline personality disorder, it’s crucial to consult your doctor before engaging in this therapy.

What should you expect from psilocybin therapy?

Though psilocybin therapy can be intense, it’s also potentially long-lasting. It typically involves three main stages:

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  1. Preparation Phase: This stage consists of one or more sessions, each lasting between 1-6 hours, with a facilitator. The purpose of these sessions is to address any concerns, establish your objectives, and set clear anticipations. They are designed to build trust and create a safe environment.
  2. Dosing Phase: This phase lasts for 5-8 hours. During this time, you will lie down with an eye mask on, listening to a preselected playlist. A therapist will accompany you throughout the entire session.
  3. Integration Phase: In this phase, you will have post-session discussions aimed at helping you understand and make sense of your experience. These sessions are spread over several meetings, each lasting a few hours.

Is buying shroom products more economical than other substances?

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

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