Debunking Common Myths Surrounding Magic Mushrooms
by ANNIE FRESHWATER and DEAN FOOR with Entangled Biome
While mushrooms, in general, have been greatly maligned by much of the world, Psilocybin stands out as the most misunderstood fungus. It is often vilified as a hallucinogen or labeled a “drug,” with no deeper thought given to its clinical efficacy or storied history that extends to prehistoric use for both therapeutic and religious purposes.
To truly understand the benefits of Psilocybin, it is critical to dispel some of the common misconceptions surrounding this incredible mushroom. Only when we approach medicinal mushrooms without prejudice can we unlock their true potency.
Myth #1: Psilocybin is primarily used by people who want to trip
Although Psilocybin’s psychoactive properties can induce hallucinations, clinical trial participants describe the experience as life-changing on a spiritual or personal level. In other words, the trip is not casual or recreational. Nonetheless, Psilocybin is often grouped with LSD and MDMA as a party drug.
Unlike recreational drugs commonly used to trip, the post-effects of Psilocybin are remarkable: Many participants in clinical studies have professed to experienced ego death, shedding negative perspectives or patterns and emerging as better versions of themselves.
Myth #2: Psilocybin is an addictive drug
Psilocybin is not classified as an addictive substance. In fact, addiction is unlikely due to the tolerance that the body quickly builds up against Psilocybin: Even after just a few days of macro-dosing, Psilocybin typically does not induce hallucinations.
Tripping on Psilocybin is less a recreational experience than a revelatory one. Most individuals do not wish to repeat the intense, often life-changing journey, so even psychological addiction is uncommon.
Myth #3: Psilocybin causes brain damage
Psilocybin does not impact the brain negatively in the same way that other substances can. A point of fact, Psilocybin may improve the brain by reshaping brain cells and altering the prefrontal cortex. As these changes impact the way information is relayed across our brain, Psilocybin has the potential to change the way we think--and to even address mental health concerns.
Any substance at inappropriate quantities/frequencies can be dangerous, of even naturally occurring ones. But Psilocybin holds the unique distinction of being deemed the safest known drug, according to a scientific study. The real risk Psilocybin poses is that it is illegal in most areas of the United States, which means that many do not have the opportunity to experience its benefits or adequately study it.
Myth #4: You have to ingest large quantities of Psilocybin to experience its benefits
If the point of Psilocybin ingestion is to induce hallucinations, 5 grams is a standard dosage. But what if the point is to balance mood, treat PTSD or depression, or restructure the brain?
This is where microdosing comes into play. Microdosing typically involves taking a mere 0.1 grams of Psilocybin. The frequency varies from once a day to once every three days for several weeks or months. Even at such infinitesimal amounts, people report significant, lasting changes in their mood or perception.
Myth #5: Microdosing makes you trip
When it comes to Psilocybin, a little goes a long way--but a little does not make you trip. Microdosing does not produce perceptible hallucinogenic effects.
For some, microdosing leads to increased clarity and energy in the hours immediately after ingestion. Others report heightened senses. Many individuals microdose alongside their morning coffee, while others make it part of their nightly ritual, but in either case, the effects do not interrupt their usual routine.
In Search of Psilocybin’s Truths
Found in at least fifteen species of mushrooms, Psilocybin is among the most potent natural substances on the planet—and yet so little information is available for those who genuinely want to understand its benefits. Much of what we hear about Psilocybin is anecdotal experience, while still more is simply untrue.
One thing we know to be true is this: There are people in genuine need looking for alternative modalities to improve mood, cognitive function, and more. Psilocybin stands out as one of those potential modalities—more importantly, one that can make a marked difference in a relatively short amount of time at a very low dose.
Consider the facts that research is beginning to yield. One study showed that Psilocybin has promise in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines: A low dose given twice to chronic sufferers during two weeks led to fewer migraines, less head pain, and reduced functional impairment.
Education is critical to help demystify this mushroom, as is further scientific/clinical research. Through what limited studies and clinical trials have been carried out, we can see the disruptive power of Psilocybin. As research begins to take off and individuals start to educate themselves, we hope to move away from the dark reputation of Psilocybin and shine some positive light on its massive potential.