Cannabis and psilocybin mushrooms are both known for their euphoric, mind-altering properties. They have developed a reputation as all-natural drugs—more clean and pure than synthetic alternatives. Since they are so closely linked, many people feel comfortable taking them together at the same time. Doing so is fine, as long as you know what you are doing, and what to expect.
Consuming cannabis and magic mushrooms together can be a lot of fun. Marijuana’s effects can alter those of psilocybin so as to create a more pleasant overall experience for the user. It is important to remember that the kind of cannabis you consume, when exactly you consume it, and how potent it is, will all affect the trip you have. Knowing what effects to expect, and how to handle them, can make the whole experience more safe and pleasant.
THE CANNABIS HIGH
The cannabis plant contains at least 113 different cannabinoids including THC and CBD. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the active cannabinoid responsible for the plant’s psychoactive properties. Conversely, cannabidiol (CBD) has been known to dampen some of the effects of THC, making it less intense.
Cannabis is considered to be a “downer” because of its calming, sedative effects. The high it produces can be both euphoric and sedating at the same time. The intensity of these effects will depend largely on the cannabinoid ratio found in the plant being consumed. A higher CBD count, and lower THC count, will result in a less psychoactive and sedative high, for instance. Cannabis’ sedative effects promote relaxation, oftentimes accompanied by heightened sensory perception and a warped sense of time.
Marijuana can have some negative effects on the brain’s short-term ability to function. It is known to negatively affect things like motor function, coordination, and reflexes. It also tends to cause dry mouth and dry eyes, especially in regular users. Moreover, those coming down from a cannabis high typically feel tired, drained, and drowsy. It is important to be mindful of these adverse effects when consuming cannabis.
THE MUSHROOM HIGH
Magic mushrooms induce a euphoric and hallucinogenic high. The primary psychoactive compounds in mushrooms are psilocybin and psilocin. Together, these compounds are responsible for the intense, mind-altering effects that characterise the high.
When consumed, psilocybin is quickly converted to psilocin through metabolisation. Psilocin then acts on serotonin receptors in the brain, partially activating several of them. Psilocin also indirectly increases the concentration of dopamine in the basal ganglia. It is these reactions that are primarily responsible for the strong euphoric sensations experienced when ingesting magic mushrooms.
Psilocybin mushrooms are considered to be “uppers” because of the energising mind and body buzz that they produce. This hallucinogenic high is usually accompanied by giddiness, joy, a distorted perception of time, closed-eye visuals, and out-of-body sensations.
It is believed that magic mushrooms work by rewiring the brain’s information processing pathways. This rewiring can oftentimes lead to intensely strong emotions being experienced during the trip. Sometimes, exceptionally intense trips are compared to profound religious experiences. The average psilocybin trip can last anywhere from 3–6 hours, depending on dosage. However, because of the intensity of the effects, it can feel much, much longer.
There are many possible adverse reactions that one can have during a magic mushroom trip. About a third of mushroom users report experiencing some form of anxiety or paranoia during their high. More acute anxious reactions can sometimes result in nausea or full-blown panic attacks. Other psychological side effects can take the form of depression, lethargy, and disorientation. The physical side effects of psilocybin mushrooms can include restlessness, dilated pupils, increased body temperature, fever, sweats, and chills.
THE EFFECTS OF MIXING BOTH
When combined, cannabis and mushrooms have a synergistic effect. Many people report that the inclusion of cannabis both increases the intensity of their mushroom trip, and keeps them relaxed throughout it.
Mixing magic mushrooms and cannabis can produce an intensely psychedelic high characterised by abstract and thought-provoking visuals and sensations. Marijuana’s calming effects can dull the come-up of a mushroom trip, keeping you more relaxed during the early stages of the high. Moreover, some believe that consuming cannabis can lead to a more intense peak, and can even keep you more relaxed during the come-down stage.
Both mushrooms and cannabis can have an indirect effect on dopamine, a neurotransmitter known as a “feel-good” or “reward” chemical. This effect is capable of producing feelings of motivation and ambition throughout a trip. However, it is also responsible for leading the brain into repetitive or indecisive thought patterns. By consuming both of these substances at the same time, the intensity of these effects will be significantly increased.
Regular users of mushrooms or cannabis may find mixing them to be a very enjoyable experience. Being comfortable with these two substances is crucial to allowing them to facilitate and enhance your exploration of the mind. If you are not comfortable with consuming either, then ingesting them both at the same time is not recommended.
CONTROLLING THE EFFECTS
The influence that marijuana will have on your mushroom experience will depend largely on genetics and dosage. Sativa strains that are high in THC have been known to provide users with extra energy and positivity throughout their trip. Meanwhile, indica strains, or CBD-rich strains, have been known to produce a calming sensation that may reduce anxiety, jitters, or even nausea. Due to the mix of effects they produce, hybrid strains can be somewhat unpredictable.
The timing of cannabis consumption will determine its precise outcomes. If consumed at the very beginning of your trip, cannabis will help to calm you down during the come-up. If consumed near the end, it will help relax you during the come-down. Consuming it during the peak of your mushroom trip can enhance visuals or sensations. If timed strategically, cannabis can help you to better navigate the phases of a mushroom trip that may usually bother you. Remember that cannabis low in THC content will not affect your high as much as potent marijuana containing more cannabinoids.
Combining magic mushrooms and cannabis can be an intensely pleasant experience. However, it is important to do so safely and deliberately. Knowing what to expect, and when to expect it, can go a long way towards reducing anxiety, and allowing you to enjoy the best psychedelic experience possible.
