Psilocybin is a compound present in what is known as magic mushrooms that, just like THC in marijuana, has mind-altering effects.
In recent years, magic mushrooms have seen widespread recognition for the therapeutic properties of psilocybin. The drug causes euphoria, and experts argue it may help with depression.
Despite the good things you hear about psilocybin mushrooms, they come with certain risks.
There is a wide variety of psychedelic mushrooms, some of which are highly poisonous, and it’s not that difficult to mistake them for non-poisonous psilocybin.
How to Safely Consume Psilocybin
How you consume psilocybin may also result in harm, even if the drug itself is safe. There are issues like contamination and dosing to consider to avoid harm.
Let’s look at tips to help you consume psilocybin responsibly.
1. Mind Your Storage
Psilocybin mushrooms are barely regulated, and it’s not like you will buy them in safe packages with storing details. The responsibility of storage falls on you.
If you are not careful with storing the drug, it’s not just the potency you would have to worry about.
Magic mushrooms may develop mold or bacteria when the storage environment is not conducive. Considering the fungus is, well, a fungus, consuming it after it has gone bad is dangerous and can be fatal.
If you prefer your shrooms raw and fresh, ask a professional how you can keep it that way and for how long. Otherwise, drying the mushrooms and sealing it inside an airtight jar would be ideal.
Like cannabis, you may also grind your dried stash and combine it with a carrier like butter or honey.
2. Use Proper Channels
Now that psilocybin has been decriminalized in various cities like Denver, Oakland, and Somerville, it’s much easier to gain access to the mushroom. The risky part is street sales.
Buying mushrooms from street dealers is unsafe, especially if you’re new to psychedelic mushrooms. You wouldn’t know what you’re getting or what possible harm you may be exposed to.
While psilocybin is only legal and decriminalized in select places, legalization efforts are gathering momentum across the country, paving the way for safe access.
Presently, there’s a legal mushroom dispensary in Tampa, Florida offering mushrooms that lack psilocybin.
Ultimately, it’s best to discuss psilocybin mushrooms with an expert to avoid getting the drug from the wrong hands.
3. Consider Microdosing
While there haven’t been many studies on psilocybin, seeing as it’s a schedule 1 Substance, some researchers suggest that the psychedelic may help treat some mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
Still, the possible benefits don’t take away from the fact that psilocybin mushrooms can alter your state of mind and even cause hallucinations.
Through microdosing, a popular theory for safe consumption, you may be able to bypass some of the unpleasant effects while benefiting from the therapeutic properties.
4. Create a Safe Environment
Psychedelic experiences can lead to harm when you don’t choose your settings well.
Safe and responsible psilocybin consumption should include a carefully selected environment where you are least likely to harm yourself during your trip. A comfortable space without obstacles and sharp objects is ideal.
If possible, have someone around or let someone know where you are and what you are doing in case of an emergency. Remember, in the event of poisoning, you will require immediate medical intervention.
5. Avoid Mixing Substances
Mixing magic mushrooms with other drugs is not safe. The two substances may cause an unexpected reaction. The consequences may result in a bad experience, or you may suffer serious harm.
If you are on medications, consult your doctor before venturing into psychedelics. It’s never advisable to mix substances without the supervision of a healthcare practitioner.
6. Avoid Smoking
Much like marijuana, you can smoke dried shrooms. It’s a fast mode of delivery, and some people prefer it. But it’s one of the most unsafe ways to consume psilocybin or anything else.
Any substance you burn and inhale is a huge health risk that may result in damages similar to what you get from smoking tobacco.
Conclusion
Psilocybin mushrooms may have fewer negative effects compared to other drugs. But they can still be unsafe if you don’t take precautions.
Always ensure you have the right mushroom and the ideal storage conditions. It would be best to go slow until you get used to your dose to limit unwanted effects.
