Some newcomers mistakenly think that consuming magic mushrooms means experiencing a full trip just to appreciate its effects. The reality is that before you dive into a high dose of mushrooms, magic mushrooms Montreal Beginners should select strains that provide a gradual introduction to the psychedelic experience.
Species like Costa Rican and Amazonian Psilocybe mushrooms are popular choices. Weighing your options carefully can help you determine which strain is best for you.
Psilocybe Cubensis and its effects
Psilocybe cubensis is one of the most popular types of psychedelic mushrooms worldwide. It thrives in warm, humid subtropical climates in the Americas, Oceania and Southeast Asia.
P. cubensis derives its psychedelic properties from two closely intertwined compounds: psilocybin and psilocin. Psilocybin serves as a precursor to psilocin, the main psychoactive component.
Psilocybe cubensis is known for inducing.
- Changes in feeling and perception
- Changes in mood and cognition
- Feelings of euphoria and tranquility
- Spiritual insights
- The environment can seem unreal
- Physical symptoms such as dilated pupils, dizziness and drowsiness
- Decreased concentration and muscle weakness
- Yawning
Costa Rican Mushroom
Costa Rican mushrooms take their name from their native country, Costa Rica, which is known for its diverse flora and fauna. In its lush, warm and moist habitat, these entheogenic mushrooms thrive in the fertile breeding grounds the environment provides.
Early settlers or indigenous tribes were the first to discover this mushroom, which they likely used in spiritual and religious ceremonies.
Appearance
| Function | Description | Maturity stage | Color changes | Unique character traits |
| Caps | Initially convex with a slight elevation in the center (umbo), but as the mushroom ripens it becomes flatter. The diameter varies from 2 to 8 cm. | Early to mature | Golden brown to light brown | Bluish bruising on handling |
| Stems | Measures 4-15 cm long and 1-2 cm in diameter. | All phases | White or cream to bluish near the base | Bluish bruises when damaged |
| Spore print | Appears dark purple-brown. | Adult | Dark purple-brown | Used for identification |
| Gills | Starts out light gray and gradually turns to deep violet or almost black as the mushroom matures and the spores develop. | Early to mature | Light gray to deep violet or black | Color change indicates spore development |
Potency
The Costa Rican strain may not have the highest potency, but it remains a favorite among many users due to its unique effects. The moderate potency translates into a gentler experience, which some may find appealing. The strain makes it suitable for various occasions. It is a ‘social mushroom’ that improves mood and clarifies perspectives in lower to moderate doses.
Effects and experiences
As doses increase into the moderate range (1 to 2.5 grams), users experience more pronounced effects.
- Distortions in visual and auditory perception
- Increased introspection
- Emotional sensitivity.
- Many report feeling more connected to nature and others.
- Greater openness to emotions
At doses of 2.5 grams and higher, users can undergo a full psychedelic experience.
- Vivid hallucinations
- Profound philosophical insights
- Sense of universal interconnectedness
Such experiences can also bring repressed thoughts or emotions to the surface, leading to emotional release or personal revelations.
Amazon Cubensis Mushroom
This mushroom species is native to the Amazon region, known for its lush vegetation, which promotes the growth of an extensive flora. On average, these mushrooms reach a height of about six inches, although some specimens can grow more than a foot tall.
Although often associated with South America, particularly the Amazon region, these psychedelic mushrooms also occur naturally in Central and North America.
Appearance
| Function | Size (mm) | Color changes | Unique character traits |
| Caps | 25 to 75 | Deep reddish brown to light golden | The color lightens as it matures |
| Gills | Not specified | Light gray to dark purple | Indicates spore development |
| Stems (Stipes) | Up to 150 | Off-white or white, may bruise | Thick and sturdy |
| Spore print | Not applicable | Dark purple or brown | Used for identification |
Potency
The average levels of psilocybin and psilocin (as a percentage of dried weight) are 1.12% and 0.20%, respectively. The total tryptamine concentration is 1.36%.
Effects and experiences
The effects extend beyond simply uplifting the spirit. Psilocybin can alter perception, leading to sensory hallucinations. It also influences mood and cognition, inducing euphoria, openness and inner peace that enable enhanced cognitive processes and revelations. The Amazonian mushroom packs a stronger punch. Its power results in trips that last up to six to eight hours.
Factors to consider when using magic mushrooms
Starting dosage for beginners
- Microdosing (0.1 to 0.5 grams): This minimal amount produces subtle changes that improve mood, increase creativity, and sharpen focus without producing full-blown psychedelic effects.
- Low dose (0.5 to 2 grams): Perceptual shifts become more intense, with colors becoming more vibrant, sounds becoming clearer, and thoughts taking on a greater sense of depth and creativity. Compared to higher doses, the hallucinatory aspects remain relatively mild. Many people are drawn to this dosage range for its ability to enhance daily activities without overwhelming the senses.
- Medium dose (2 to 3 grams): This dose increases the feeling of creativity and introspection. It is ideal for those seeking deeper self-exploration or therapeutic benefits. You may encounter visual distortions and synesthesia. You may also experience ego dissolution – a deep sense of connection with the surrounding world.
Mindset and attitude
Your mindset is called the ‘set’, and the physical environment and atmosphere, also called the ‘setting’, shapes your journey.
Prepare by creating a conducive environment before your trip and surrounding yourself with supportive friends. Choose a familiar environment where you feel at ease.
Psychoactive substances intensify your perception of your environment and emotions. Feeling uncomfortable in an unfamiliar environment or with unfamiliar people can lead to a painful or anxiety-provoking trip. A positive mindset contributes to a satisfying experience. Consider playing music with a positive or uplifting tone in the background to enhance the atmosphere.
Personal preference
Personal preference may include your consumption method, medication intake, and desired effects.
Method of consumption
The caps of mushrooms contain a greater concentration of psychoactive substances than the stems. You can make tea or consume dried mushrooms directly. You can also use them in edibles or put them in capsules to disguise the taste.
Medication intake
Mixing magic mushrooms with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) can result in serotonin syndrome. Antipsychotics and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may interact negatively with psilocybin due to their impact on the serotonergic system.
Consult a doctor before using magic mushrooms if you are taking a prescription.
Desired effects
The effects depend on the dosage you use (see the starting dosage for beginners). It is important to remember that as a beginner it is best to start with a low dose. Let your body get used to the effects before considering higher amounts, even if you’d like to experience a full trip.
Comparison of Costa Rican and Amazon mushrooms
| Criteria | Costa Rican | Amazon |
| Origin | Costa Rica | Amazon region |
| Appearance | Golden brown with long stems | Deep reddish brown with sturdy and thick stems |
| Effects | Dosage dependent but with gentle experience | Dosage dependent, but powerful |
| Potency | Average | Above average |
| Recommended beginner dosage | Microdose or low dose | Microdose |
What do you start your first mushroom trip with?
Costa Rican mushrooms provide an ideal starting point for those curious about the effects of magic mushrooms. Their gentle impact in moderate doses provides a manageable experience, especially for beginners. To appreciate the benefits of mushrooms for mood and mental health, you must start with a positive first experience. Start with a low dose to get used to the subtle effects, then adjust the dosage or try stronger strains like the Amazonian variety from Zoomies Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe for a beginner to consume the Costa Rican strain daily?
Regardless of the potency of the strain, avoid daily consumption of magic mushrooms. Even if you take them in micro doses, taking breaks is necessary to avoid developing tolerance to the substance.
As your tolerance increases, you will need larger amounts to feel the effects. This practice is not advisable as it becomes more expensive due to the greater amount required and reduces the potency of the effects compared to your previous experiences.
How many mushrooms should I buy as a beginner?
Online pharmacies sell magic mushrooms in a minimum quantity of 3.5 grams. You can start with this amount, but many pharmacies require a minimum spend. You can add more to your order and store the purchased mushrooms to extend their lifespan.
Do magic mushrooms retain their original appearance after being dried?
Distinguishing dried mushrooms can be challenging, as they lose their original appearance, although some may retain subtle features, such as large caps. This underlines the importance of purchasing from a reputable pharmacy, where each mushroom is carefully labeled. The dispensary maintains accurate inventory records to ensure customers receive the specific mushrooms they intend to purchase.
