“Magic mushrooms” is a common term used to describe wild or cultivated

mushrooms that contain psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic
compound (Hartney, 2020). Magic mushrooms belong to the group of drugs
known as “psychedelics because of the changes experienced to perception,
mood and thought” (ADF, 2020).
Mushrooms containing psilocybin look like regular or dried mushrooms
(Harntey, 2020). Additionally, magic mushrooms can come in the form of a
powder (Government of Canada, 2020). While magic mushrooms may look
similar, they can contain different concentrations of the active ingredients,
therefore the effects of the mushroom can vary greatly (Government of
Canada, 2020).

Magic mushroom effects usually begin within 30-40 minutes when

eaten or within 5-10 minutes when taken as a liquid and can last for
approximately 4-6 hours (Drug Policy Alliance, 2017).

Side effects of magic mushrooms can include short-term physical and

mental effects.

People may choose to take magic mushrooms in a variety of ways:

Numbness, particularly in the Distorted sense of Drank as a tea or a mixture with a fruit juice
face Eating the mushroom raw
time, place, and
Increased heart rate, blood Eating the mushroom cooked
reality
pressure, and temperature Sniffed up the nose when in a powder form
Euphoria
Lack of coordination The dried version of magic mushrooms can be smoked
Hallucinations (visual
Exaggerated reflexes
or auditory)
Loss of urinary control ( (Government of Canada, 2020).
Anxiety and panic
Dry mouth, sometimes
attacks
leading to nausea and
Fear or paranoia
vomiting
Changes in mood
The Government of Canada has listed a number of risks related to the recreational
use of magic mushrooms (2020).

A “bad trip” may occur particularly at high doses

According to the Government of Canada “Currently no studies
have evaluated the long-term effects of repetitive use of magic
mushrooms” (2020).
While there are currently no approved products that contain
psilocybin in Canada, Magic mushrooms are being studied for
its potential therapeutic uses to treat anxiety, obsessive-
compulsive disorder, depression, and problematic drug use
(Government of Canada, 2020). A study that was published in
the Journal of Psychopharmacology on JAMA Psychiatry found
that "a single dose of psilocybin produced substantial and
enduring decreases in depressed mood and anxiety along with
increases in quality of life" (2020). Listed below are some of the
other possible positive effects that have been found when
studying this drug:
Mood enhancement
Decreased stress
Relaxation
Alleviation of conditions such as depression, anxiety,
ADD/ADHD, PTSD
Increased productivity
Improved memory
Users may experience frequent or overly intense psychedelic events that may
induce abrupt “flashbacks”
Co-use of magic mushrooms with substances such as cannabis and
amphetamines can elevate the risk of side effects
For individuals predisposed or with psychiatric conditions, there may be an
elevated risk of side effects.
For individuals with cardiac diseases, the short-term effects like increased blood
pressure and heart rate can be potentially harmful.
According to Harm Reduction Toronto in order to reduce the possible harms
of magic mushrooms, the following is suggested:
Avoid using magic mushrooms alone
It is recommended to not use magic mushrooms during stressful or negative
periods in your life. Psychedelics can intensify “the negative effects of these
factors which can lead to difficult or unpleasant experiences”
(Harm Reduction TO, n.d.)
When taking psychedelics consider your environment, make sure you are in
a safe and comfortable place.
Avoid driving as your coordination may be impaired.