Written by Casandra Jones on 11/13/2023.
Data Last Updated: 07/22/2024.
Cannabis and magic mushrooms offer distinct psychoactive properties. Cannabis contains cannabinoids that induce feelings of relaxation and euphoria, while mushrooms contain alkaloids that alter consciousness more intensely. Some users combine the two in hopes of achieving synergistic effects. But is it safe and effective to mix cannabis and shrooms? While clinical research is lacking, anecdotal reports suggest cannabis may both enhance and quell the effects of mushrooms depending on dose, cannabinoid content, and timing.
It’s important to note that both cannabis and psilocybin mushrooms remain illegal at the federal level in the United States. While medical and recreational cannabis is legalized in a growing number of states, it remains a Schedule I controlled substance federally alongside psilocybin. Magic mushrooms containing psilocybin are classified as Schedule I at both the state and federal level, though certain cities have decriminalized personal use and possession. Users should understand the laws in their jurisdiction before consuming these substances recreationally or combining them.
To understand how cannabis and mushrooms interact, it’s helpful to overview how they differ.
Active Compounds
Cannabis contains compounds known as cannabinoids, with the most well-known being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Magic mushrooms, on the other hand, contain psilocybin, which converts to psilocin in the body, responsible for the psychedelic effects.
THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, interacts with the endocannabinoid system by binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors. This interaction leads to the release of neurotransmitters, including dopamine, which can result in the characteristic effects of increased relaxation, altered perception, and heightened sensory experiences. Psilocybin, found in magic mushrooms, is metabolized in the body to psilocin. Psilocin primarily influences cognitive processes by binding serotonin receptors, specifically the 5-HT2A receptor. This binding results in alterations in perception, mood, and consciousness, which can lead to vivid visual and auditory hallucinations and introspective experiences.
As a plant, cannabis can be consumed through smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures, topicals and more. Mushrooms have fewer options, mainly being eaten whole, dried, brewed into tea or added to food.
Common effects of THC-rich cannabis may induce relaxation, altered perception of time, heightened sensory perception, increased appetite, euphoria, creativity and sedation. Mushrooms alter consciousness more dramatically in high doses causing hallucinations, altered perception, changes in mood and thought or even “ego death” and complete detachment from reality temporarily.
Duration:
The effects of cannabis are relatively short-lived, typically lasting a few hours. Magic mushrooms tend to have a longer duration, often lasting around 4 to 6 hours but potentially extending to 8 hours or more.
Dosage:
Cannabis is typically measured in milligrams of THC or CBD, and the dosage can be precisely controlled. Magic mushrooms are measured by weight, usually in grams. The potency of magic mushrooms can vary widely based on the specific species and growing conditions.
Both shrooms and weed interact with specific receptors in the brain, affecting the serotonin receptors and cannabinoid receptors, respectively.
Psilocybin, found in magic mushrooms, acts as a serotonin receptor agonist. It mimics the neurotransmitter serotonin and activates serotonin receptors. This interaction leads to the psychedelic effects associated with shrooms, such as hallucinations, changed thoughts and feelings, and mystical-type experiences.
THC in cannabis acts as a partial agonist on cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 located throughout the brain and body. This interaction results in the characteristic effects of being “high”, including altered senses, changed mood, difficulty thinking and problem solving, impaired memory, and slowed reaction time.
Anecdotes suggest combining weed and shrooms depends on:
Formal research is still needed, but users report both synergistic and adverse effects mixing the two depending on the factors above.
Possible benefits of mixing weed and shrooms include:
Potential downsides of mixing weed and shrooms:
In addition to recreational use, magic mushrooms also show promise as a therapeutic tool. Small doses of psilocybin mushrooms may help treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction according to emerging research. Studies show psilocybin can produce lasting personality changes related to openness, imagination, and pro-social attitudes. This has led to investigation of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for mental health conditions. While research is still early, psychedelic-assisted therapy may one day help treat a range of psychological disorders. However, psilocybin usage carries risks, especially for those with certain mental health conditions. More clinical trials are underway to better understand the risks and benefits of psilocybin as medicine.
If you plan to experiment with this combo, maximize safety with these tips:
Begin with very small doses of both cannabis and mushrooms to assess effects before increasing. Don’t overdo it.
Stick to non-intoxicating CBD-rich cannabis or mellow THC varieties. Avoid edibles, concentrates, and high doses of THC.
Trip in a secured, familiar, and comfortable place with trusted companions present. Avoid public spaces.
Have a trusted sober friend available to assist in case reactions become difficult or overwhelming.
Don’t combine cannabis and mushrooms with alcohol or other drugs.
Most users recommend consuming cannabis and shrooms together at specific points:
Consuming cannabis before and after mushrooms appears safest. When combining cannabis during an intense trip, use extreme caution to avoid overwhelming effects..
Anecdotal evidence suggests cannabis and psilocybin mushrooms can produce both synergistic and unpredictable effects when combined depending on dosage, cannabinoid content, timing and the individual. While some users report benefits, others warn combining the two increases anxiety and impairs the mushroom insights. More human research is needed, but proceed with caution if mixing cannabis and magic mushrooms given the many unknowns. For maximum safety and benefit, consume each separately first to understand your personal reactions before combining.
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