For decades, psychedelic mushroom strains have made a significant impact on society. They’ve been used by various cultures, tribes and belief systems from around the world.
Their use in religious and spiritual rituals over the years have sparked an interest in its many potential applications. Mycology has also made it possible to explore the various strains and their medicinal properties.
In this guide, we’ll learn more about the different mushroom genera and strains available. We’ll also look at the characteristics for each.
Understanding Psychedelic Mushrooms
Psychedelic shrooms are known for the mystical effects that they induce. These effects are the result of psychoactive compounds like psilocin and psilocybe cubensis.
Many have reported a change in perception, philosophical thoughts, and deeper emotions. These effects are considered therapeutic and present potential medicinal breakthroughs.
But, what are psychedelic mushrooms?
This fungi group contains the psychoactive compound named psilocybe cubensis. While it’s known for its hallucinogenic properties, it could result in significant mood, thought, and perception changes.
The mind-altering experiences reported make them a popular choice for spiritual practices. Their history is deeply rooted in various cultures for their ritualistic and medicinal uses.
Key Components of Psychedelic Mushrooms
Psilocybe cubensis is the most common genus of psychedelic mushrooms, with its popularity dating back to ancient times. These mushrooms contain the hallucinogenic compounds psilocybe cubensis and psilocin.
With the growing interest in the therapeutic potential of mushrooms, studies in mycology have revealed promising outcomes. It’s believed that psychedelic mushrooms could help to treat the following conditions:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Substance abuse
- OCD
- PTSD
While trials have shown promising results for the therapeutic potential of psychedelic mushrooms, no products containing psilocybe cubensis have been approved yet.
The Diversity of Psychedelic Mushroom Strains
Psychedelic mushrooms can be found growing worldwide, with four significant genera: psilocybe, pluteus, panaeolus, gymnopilus. Each of these presents unique characteristics.
Psilocybe
Psilocybe refers to the most common psychedelic mushroom genus. They’re easy to identify and have over 180 species found across the globe.
These fungi contain the psychoactive compound, psilocybe cubensis, which is transformed to psilocin in the body. Ultimately, this compound is the catalyst for an altered conscious state. These mushrooms are best known for their pronounced hallucinogenic effects and use in spiritual practices through history.
Pluteus
The Pluteus mushrooms are known as the woodland species due to their origins. They’re identified by their unique appearance and pink gills. These fungi often thrive on dead logs or tree stumps and other decaying plant matter.
Mushrooms in this genus typically have a convex cap that flattens out as they mature. Some Pluteus mushrooms may contain psilocybe cubensis, but not many of them. It’s vital to understand the identifying characteristics for safe foraging.
Panaeolus
Panaeolus mushrooms are best identified by their dark-colored spores. Species like Panaeolus cinctulus and Panaeolus subbalteatus are best known for containing psilocybe cubensis as well as psilocin.
These fungi are commonly found in manure-rich or grassy environments. They typically have slender stems with dark brown to black spore prints. Though less popular than the Psilocybe genera, Panaeolus delivers potent effects when consumed.
Gymnopilus
The bitter taste of Gymnopilus sets it apart from other genera. In these mushrooms, the gymnopilin and psilocybe cubensis compounds are responsible for the psychoactive effects.
You’ll find this fungi growing on wood, being able to identify them by their rusty-orange caps and orange-yellow gills. They closely resemble some poisonous mushrooms, so proper identification is crucial.
Overview of popular strains
As mentioned, psilocybe is the most common genera of psychedelic mushrooms. With over 180 species in this genus, we’re looking at the well known Psilocybe cubensis (P. cubensis) and its most popular strains.
Golden Teacher
These golden brown mushrooms are possibly the most common among psychedelic fungi. It’s a resilient strain that produces heavy fruit yields, making it available in abundance. The slow growing time is made up for by the straightforward cultivation requirements.
The Golden Teacher mushrooms are identified by their golden caps with white spots and thick, white stems.
Studies have categorized these mushrooms with medium to high potency. Many consumers have reported that the effects lean more toward the philosophical side. They inspire deep, thoughtful conversations.
Despite the feelings of euphoria and deep relaxation, Golden Teacher is reported to have less of a psychedelic effect. Many believe that the mushrooms are helpful to those who struggle with anxiety.
Penis Envy
Another famous strain, Penis Envy is known for its potency, with the psilocybe cubensis content reaching 50% higher than others. The distinct phallic-shaped cap and thicker, white stem gave the strain its name.
The P.E. strain is more challenging to grow as they only drop around 5% of their spores. The growing cycle is significantly longer and they produce less fruit than most strains.
The effects are incredibly intense and beginner enthusiasts are encouraged to steer clear. Many have reported intense experiences with feelings of time and visual distortion.
Shakti
One of the most exotic strains, Shakti mushrooms are in high demand for their intense psychedelic effects. Originating from the Malabar coast of India, this fungus is identified by its pure white, wavy, rounded caps and white, long and thick stems.
Consumers report experiencing a unique euphoric world. The strain is reported to help with combatting depression, PTSD, and anxiety. In microdoses, it’s believed to promote cognitive function and enhance creativity. With its high potency, this strain is best suited for veteran consumers.
B+
Whether cultivating or consuming, B+ is a beginner-friendly strain. In the psychedelic mushroom world, this fungi strain is believed to be a hybrid resulting from crossing P. cubensis and P. azurescens. B+ is identified by its medium wide, fairly long, white stem and large, caramel-colored cap.
The B+ strain has been most popular among cultivators since the 90s. It’s more resilient against cold conditions and produces large yields, dropping large amounts of spores.
Reported to have medium potency, the strain delivers feelings of connectedness to those around you. Many consumers report feeling deeply relaxed, almost lethargic. It’s a common choice for those looking for a spiritual experience.
Albino Penis Envy
Similar to the regular P.E. strain, this albino hybrid has a thick white stem and small cap. The strain has a milky white appearance, with an occasional dark blue cap.
While the effects of A.P.E. are reportedly similar to those of P.E., they’re believed to be more potent.
Dosage and Effects
As explained above, each strain of psychedelic mushroom has a unique profile and contains varying levels of psilocybe cubensis. It’s vital to note, though, that the compound on its own is inactive. It must be metabolized by the body to become the active component psilocin.
When you buy psychedelic mushrooms online in the USA, it’s crucial to understand the psilocybe cubensis levels and reported effects before consuming. Keep in mind that the content makeup of mushrooms can vary even among fungi from the same strain.
Let’s explore how to identify the desired effects and the correct dosage you should take to achieve them.
Dried mushroom dosage | Psilocybin level | Reported effects | |
Low dosage | 1g | 10 mg | Heightened senses, euphoria |
Medium dosage | 1.75g | 17.5 mg | Distorted perception, intense euphoria |
High dosage | 3.5g | 35 mg | Intense distorted perception, ego dissolution |
Ultra-high dosage | 5g | 50 mg | Complete disconnect of reality |
- Low dosage refers to 1g of dried mushrooms containing 10 mg of psilocybe cubensis. While the dosage is small, the reported effects are notable, though not “full-blown psychedelic”. Euphoria and heightened senses, like seeing more vibrant colors, are the most common reported effects.
- Medium dosage entails taking 1.75g of dried mushrooms with 17.5 mg psilocybe cubensis. Expect to experience visual hallucinations, synesthesia, psychedelic effects, and intense euphoria.
- High dosage involved taking an eighth-ounce (or 3.5g) of dehydrated mushrooms containing 35 mg of psilocybe cubensis. With this dosage, expect a full-blown psychedelic experience with intense cognitive and perceptual distortions. These effects may change how you perceive your surroundings. It’s best to ensure that you’re in a safe, supervised environment when taking a high dosage.
- Ultra-high dosage, also known as the “heroic dose”, refers to taking 5g of dried psychedelic mushrooms which contain 50 mg of psilocybe cubensis. This dosage level could leave you incapacitated, so it’s best to lie down somewhere dark and quiet. The experience may be overwhelming, making it a rare preference. It’s strongly advised that you don’t take this dosage unless you have significant experience.
Microdosing
The act of microdosing refers to taking a smaller, unnoticeable dosage of the substance. It allows consumers to experience beneficial effects without the psychedelic trip. Common methods of consuming a microdose include mushroom edibles like gummies, chocolates, capsules, or tinctures.
Some benefits of microdosing include:
- Improved energy and focus
- Reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, and social anxiety
- Better communication skills
- Creativity boost
- Improved mood
- Heightened senses
We recommend taking a microdose daily, or as needed. Allow yourself at least one day off each week to prevent building a tolerance and lowering the efficacy of the products.
Safety tips
Before you embark on this enlightening journey with P. cubensis, it’s essential to follow this microdose checklist for a safe experience:
- Understand and respect the psychedelic mushroom products.
- Know the laws and regulations of the country or state where you reside. Avoid unwanted trouble by staying on the right side of the law—especially about driving under the influence!
- Get the dosage right. Understand what your expectations are and the dosage required to reach those goals. Start off with a small dosage and increase it gradually until you’ve reached the desired effects.
- Do not mix psychedelic mushrooms with other substances like alcohol, drugs, or prescribed medications.
- Though Good Moods tests the integrity of every product sold, we encourage all customers to perform independent testing if possible.
- Ensure that you are in an environment where you feel safe and comfortable, with people you can trust. Since psychedelic mushrooms can alter your perception of your surroundings, your environment could negatively impact your experience.
- Appoint a sober guide. This person will be responsible for remaining sober and vigilant while keeping an eye on the group for everyone’s safety. (typically required for larger doses)
- Your initial state of mind can also impact your psychedelic experience. Meditate, practice deep breathing, and yoga to obtain the proper mindset. Just be kind to yourself.
- Take extra precautions if you have underlying health problems. As with any wellness routine change, we advise that you consult your healthcare professional before embarking on a P. cubensis journey.
Conclusion
With their growing popularity and various strains essentially being readily available worldwide, it’s more crucial than ever to understand these incredible fungi. Their roots date back centuries and their applications play a significant part in many cultures.
While some have proven therapeutic advantages, some can cause more harm than good. Be sure that you understand each strain and only buy psychedelic mushrooms online from a reputable source.
Each of the products found at Good Moods has undergone extensive testing to verify their authenticity, efficacy, and safety. Browse our store for the very best in psychedelic mushroom products.