To some, mushrooms and LSD are very similar substances. To others, the difference is like night and day. For those who have little experience with either substance, it can be difficult to choose between them. Both substances have been proven to have similar therapeutic benefits. Their mechanism of action in the brain and body is also quite similar. However, there are a number of differences between these two substances.
This article will explore the differences between mushrooms and LSD so you can decide for yourself which is best.
How Does LSD Work?
LSD is a synthetic drug. Its basic form is crystalline, however, chemists generally mix it with a liquid solvent prior to distribution. It is sold in the form of blotter papers, small ‘microdot’ pills, gel tabs, or in liquid form.
LSD stands for lysergic acid diethylamide. LSD is synthesized from the compounds produced naturally by the ergot fungus which can grow on certain forms of rye bread.
LSD and the ergot alkaloids bear a very similar structure to serotonin, one of the most important neurotransmitters in the human body. The uncanny resemblance of LSD to serotonin allows it to fit neatly into the body’s serotonin receptors, almost as if it was meant to activate them.
LSD is considered a potent partial agonist of the 5ht2a serotonin receptor. Many of its effects result from modulation and activation of the serotonin system.
How Do Mushrooms Work?
Psychedelic mushrooms generally contain a compound known as psilocybin. Psilocybin occurs naturally in more than 200 species of mushrooms. These mushrooms have become an important component of both the counterculture movement and the medical community.
Psilocybin and its primary metabolite, psilocin, also work on the serotonin system. Much like LSD, they work by inhibiting certain sensory barriers that normally filter out unnecessary sensory information.
Similarities Between Mushrooms and LSD
Mushrooms and LSD share a number of similarities — perhaps more similarities than differences.
- Both work on the brain’s serotonin system
- Both work by deactivating certain sensory filters that prevent us from being overloaded by sensory input
- Both help to enhance communication between brain cells
- Both can be useful for helping to manage conditions like depression and PTSD
- Both contribute to significant distortions in sensory experience
- Both can facilitate the development of new ideas and thought patterns
- Both are believed to have a profound influence on an individual’s spiritual well-being
Mushrooms and LSD are actually so similar in their biological function that they can produce a cross-tolerance. This means that LSD can increase the amount of psilocybin required to experience any effects, and vice versa.
Both mushrooms and LSD are considered relatively safe in terms of physical effects. Both can cause changes in blood pressure, digestive upset, sweating, an increased heart rate, and tremors. These effects are generally not persistent and do not cause serious harm.
Psychologically, both LSD and mushrooms can cause risks. People with underlying psychological health problems, especially psychotic disorders like schizophrenia, may find that psychedelics exacerbate these conditions. People with a history of mental disorders in their families should avoid the use of either substance.
LSD and mushrooms can also cause psychological distress. Paranoia, fear, and anxiety are fairly common side effects among people who are sensitive or who have experienced psychedelics in the wrong set or setting.
Dosing Methods
These two substances are generally prepared differently.
Mushrooms can be eaten fresh. However, they are generally dried prior to consumption. The dried mushrooms can also be eaten straight, mixed with food, or brewed into tea.
LSD is sold in a number of different forms. The most common form of LSD is on blotter paper — a specific type of bibulous paper that is highly absorbent. It can also be pressed into microdot pills and gel caps. Liquid LSD can also be obtained, and in very rare cases, unadulterated crystal LSD can be acquired directly from the chemists.
Mushrooms and LSD – Pros & Cons
Here is a breakdown of the pros & cons of each substance.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are generally considered to produce a more full-bodied experience. However, not everybody agrees with this.
Pros:
- Mushrooms are all-natural and can be harvested in many different places in the world
- Mushrooms generally have a duration of around 6 hours which many people find preferable to the long duration of an LSD experience
- Dried mushrooms have a very long shelf life
- Mushrooms are fairly easy to cultivate
Cons:
- Mushrooms are notorious for causing gut-rot, an unpleasant symptom marked by queasiness and nausea
- Mushrooms have a very strong and distinct flavor that is not pleasant to everyone’s palate
- Mushrooms can be more difficult to transport than LSD
LSD
LSD is often considered to produce a more cerebral, cognitive experience. While it can certainly produce physical distortions, many people report that LSD produces more profound changes in their mind.
Pros:
- LSD is available in a number of different forms. This may make it more accessible to certain people.
- LSD can be easily stored in small spaces since it’s highly potent. A small bottle of LSD may contain enough for several months or years.
- LSD has no flavour.
Cons:
- LSD is extremely potent. This can make it easy to accidentally consume too much. LSD can even be absorbed through the skin which can cause unintentional dosing.
- LSD causes a very long experience which can easily last longer than 10 hours
Conclusion
Both LSD and magic mushrooms are similar in a nmber of ways. However, they have a few differences which may lead people to prefer one over the other.
LSD is easier to store and far more potent than mushrooms, however, the experience tends to last a lot longer. Mushrooms aren’t as easy to store, but they grow naturally and produce a shorter experience.
Both come with a similar (albeit relatively small) profile of side effects. They can both be used medicinally and therapeutically.
If you’re interested in magic mushrooms or LSD, hopefully this article has helped you decide which one will be best.
