What comes to mind when you hear the word mushroom? Most people think about mushrooms as a food topping, while some automatically think about "magic shrooms" and psychedelic trips. At Hekate, we know that many mistake psychedelic mushrooms up with functional mushrooms or medicinal mushrooms. That's why we wrote an eye-opening blog to clear up any confusion as we explain the differences between psychedelic and functional mushrooms.
What are psychedelic mushrooms?
Psychedelic mushrooms go by many names such as "magic mushrooms," "psilocybin mushrooms," or "shrooms." They are a hallucinogenic fungus containing psilocybin, which breaks down in the body to psilocin, contributing to psychedelic effects and an altered state of perception. They are also hallucinogenic drugs which means that they act on the nervous system, often causing you to see or hear things that aren't there.
Historic use of psilocybin mushrooms dates to 6,000 years ago in Aztec ritual practices. In the present, it's still used for spiritual practices but also recreational use and more and more commonly, medicinal use. There are over 100 mushrooms with psychoactive or hallucinogenic effects. Typically, psychedelic mushrooms grow in the woods and meadows in rich soil filled with plant debris.
The positive effects felt by some users of psychedelic mushrooms include euphoria, increased creativity, alteration of perception, and relaxation.
Recent medical research has shown that the psilocybin in psychedelic mushrooms can be used to treat medical illnesses, including depression, anxiety in chronically ill patients, and addiction & substance abuse disorders
When not used mindfully or carefully, some of the negative effects of psychedelic mushrooms which are also known as a “bad trip” include confusion, nausea, vomiting or upset stomach, headaches, anxiety, drowsiness, and paranoia.
Are psychedelic mushrooms legal?
The legal possession, growing, use of psychedelic mushrooms varies from country to country but in some countries it is still illegal. Click here to view the legal status in your country of location.However this is quickly changing,as countries like Canada open new legal pathways for psychedelic treatment. With the recent acknowledgement of its positive effects on mental health, we anticipate that psilocybin will be more widely used in the coming years.
What are functional mushrooms?
Functional mushrooms, also known as medicinal mushrooms or adaptogenic mushrooms, have traditionally been taken to enhance performance, support the body's stress management and protect against illness. Functional mushrooms do not cause any psychedelic or hallucinogenic effects but instead improve your body’s overall functioning so that you can achieve optimal performance throughout your day.
Are functional mushrooms legal?
The short answer: Yes, they are 100% legal.
Longer answer: Yes, functional mushrooms do not appear on the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) list and are legal worldwide.
What types of functional mushrooms are there?
That being said, just because functional mushrooms aren't psychedelic, it doesn't mean that they don't have their own magic. Functional mushrooms have a list of potent health benefits associated with each type of mushroom.
REISHI MUSHROOM BENEFITS: Calm your mind and body with mood-boosting terpenes in Reishi functional mushrooms.
These are the most common health benefits of Reishi mushrooms.
- Promote cardiovascular health
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Improve sleep and recharge
- Support the immune system
- Manage stress levels
- Support overall wellness
CORDYCEPS MUSHROOM BENEFITS: Cordyceps mushrooms are great for giving the energy boost you need in the morning, pre-workout, or after your workout. These are the most common health benefits of Cordyceps mushrooms.
- Strengthen the body with energy and stamina
- Support health oxygen uptake levels
- Improve lung health
- Boost energy and vitality
- Support the immune system
- Build up a healthy libido
- Support healthy liver & kidney function
- Support overall wellness
LION'S MANE MUSHROOM BENEFITS: Lion's Mane is a fluffy mane-like fungus that supports brain health, helping you beat brain fog to be your best self. These are the most common health benefits of Lion's Mane mushrooms.
- Increase mental clarity and focus
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Boost memory
- Enhance cognitive function and brain health
- Boost energy and vitality
- Support gut health
- Manage stress levels
- Support the immune system
CHAGA MUSHROOM BENEFITS: Chaga mushroom is rich in antioxidants and slows down skin ageing. These are the most common health benefits of Chaga mushrooms.
- High in antioxidants
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Enhance cognitive function and brain health
- Support gut health
- Boost energy and vitality
- Rich in beta-glucans
- Support the immune system
Are Functional mushrooms safe and edible?
Yes, they are safe! If you are ready to get your mushroom fix, then make sure that you get them from safe and reputable sources. Always take recommended dosage suggested on the product. At Hekate, we are a functional mushroom company that is certified sports and offers edible organic adaptogenic products, including Star Power Adaptogenic Mushroom capsules and a Star Power Adaptogenic Mushroom Cocoa powder made to boost your physical performance and soothe your mental health.
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