Adaptogenic mushrooms are not psychedelic. While both adaptogenic and psychedelic mushrooms come from the fungi kingdom, they serve different purposes and have very distinctive effects on the body and mind.
Adaptogenic Mushrooms
- Definition: These are mushrooms that help the body resist stressors of all kinds, whether physical, chemical, or biological. They are believed to help balance the body's systems and support overall health and wellness.
- Examples: Reishi, Chaga, Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps
- Effects: They do not cause hallucinations or alter perception. Instead, they are used to enhance resilience to stress, support immune function, improve cognitive function, and boost energy levels.
- Adaptogenic Mushrooms: "I take reishi and lion’s mane daily. They help me manage stress and keep my mind sharp. I feel more balanced and resilient, especially during busy work weeks."
People take Reishi and Lion's Mane daily, helping them manage stress and keep their mind sharp. Adaptogenic Mushrooms offer a steady energy boost without any side effects.
Some clinicians recommend them for immune-supportive and cognitive-enhancing properties. They are gentle yet effective for long-term health
Psychedelic Mushrooms
- Definition: These are mushrooms that contain psychoactive compounds, most commonly psilocybin, which can cause altered states of consciousness, including hallucinations and changes in perception, mood, and thought.
- Examples: Psilocybe cubensis, Psilocybe semilanceata.
- Effects: They induce a psychedelic experience, which can include visual and auditory hallucinations, changes in time perception, and profound alterations in thought processes.
Psilocybin is a completely different experience. It opens up parts of the mind that can offer profound insights about the user and their life. It is transformative, but not something that would be done regularly. It is also illegal.
Psilocybin or LSD is a drug of discovery, but it is crucial to use with respect and proper guidance.
In a controlled settings, psilocybin can be a powerful adjunct to therapy. It’s not about recreational use but about facilitating deep psychological healing. Many studies and therapies have been carried out to heal depression and anxiety.
It can be a profound experience, helping a person confront and process trauma in a way that traditional therapy can't. It’s not for everyone, but it can be incredibly healing for me.
While adaptogenic mushrooms are used for their health-supporting properties, psychedelic mushrooms are used primarily for their mind-altering effects.