Can You Smoke Shrooms? A Deep Dive into the Psychedelic Realm

There’s been a growing interest in the world of psychedelics, especially in the context of personal growth, spirituality, and alternative medicine. As scientific research continues to strengthen the growing body of evidence recommending the prescription of psychedelics as part of a revolutionary treatment for mental health, people are becoming more curious (Kargbo, 2020).

Psilocybin is arguably the psychedelic that has received the most academic attention. The more common name for psilocybin is ‘Magic Mushrooms’ or ‘Shrooms’ the botanical which produced psilocybin. Among the many curious questions that arise to do with psilocybin is, “Can you smoke shrooms?” This blog post explores this query and dives into the specifics of psychedelic mushrooms.

What are Shrooms?

For clarity’s sake, when we refer to “shrooms”, we’re talking about psychedelic mushrooms, primarily those containing the psychoactive compound psilocybin. These fungi have been used for centuries in various cultures for spiritual and shamanic rituals.

Traditional Methods of Ingesting Shrooms

Historically, cultures around the world have primarily ingested psychedelic mushrooms, commonly referred to as “shrooms,” through oral consumption (Stamets, 1996). There are several traditional methods for this:

1. Fresh Consumption: Some enthusiasts prefer consuming shrooms in their fresh state, believing that it provides a more potent and immediate onset of effects.
2. Drying and Eating: Many choose to dry the mushrooms, which not only helps in preservation but also concentrates the psychoactive components. Dried shrooms can be eaten on their own or incorporated into food dishes.
3. Brewing into Tea: Another favoured method involves boiling the mushrooms and brewing them into a tea. This method can make the taste more palatable and allows for a more even distribution of the psilocybin throughout the drink, ensuring a consistent experience.

All these traditional methods have a common purpose: to facilitate the effective absorption of the shroom’s psychoactive compounds, mainly psilocybin, within the digestive system. This ensures that the user experiences the full range of effects that the mushroom offers.

Can You Smoke Shrooms?

To answer the main question directly: Yes, technically, you can smoke shrooms. However, the real question is whether it’s effective or recommended.

The Challenges of Smoking Shrooms

The question “can you smoke shrooms?” might seem straightforward at first glance, but diving deeper reveals various challenges associated with this method:

Heat Sensitivity and Psilocybin Degradation:

At the heart of a shroom’s psychedelic properties is psilocybin, its primary psychoactive compound. However, psilocybin is sensitive to heat. When exposed to the high temperatures generated during smoking, psilocybin can degrade rapidly. As a result, a substantial portion of this compound might get destroyed in the process, which can lead to a significantly diminished experience or potentially render the shroom ineffective.

Hazards of Smoke Inhalation:

Beyond the psychoactive effects, there’s the physical aspect to consider. Smoking any organic material can produce tar and other byproducts that are harmful when inhaled. When it comes to shrooms, the dried mushroom material can be particularly abrasive, causing irritation to the sensitive tissues of the lungs and throat. Continuous exposure could lead to respiratory issues.

Questionable Efficiency:

From an efficiency standpoint, smoking might not be the best bang for your buck. The process of combustion and the potential degradation of psilocybin mean that only a fraction of the active compounds might reach your bloodstream. This contrasts sharply with traditional methods like ingestion, where the body can absorb a more significant portion of the mushroom’s psychoactive properties, leading to a more pronounced and consistent effect.

My Observations on the Effects of Smoking Shrooms

Having engaged in various discussions and personally explored the realm of psychedelics, I’ve come across numerous accounts from individuals who have tried smoking shrooms. A recurring theme in their testimonials is that the effects of smoking shrooms often appear milder or distinctly different than those experienced through traditional oral consumption.

However, it’s important to tread cautiously here. The subtler or altered effects could be attributed to a placebo effect, where the expectation of an outcome can, in itself, produce noticeable sensations. Additionally, it’s conceivable that a few active compounds might survive the harshness of the combustion process, leading to some level of psychoactive effect. Yet, it’s clear that the experience differs considerably from the more direct and profound impacts of ingesting shrooms.

Why Some People Choose to Smoke Shrooms

Though smoking shrooms isn’t typically hailed as the most efficient way to experience their effects, a segment of the psychedelic community is drawn to this method. Their motivations are varied and deeply personal:

Driven by Curiosity:

At the root of many explorations is simple human curiosity. The allure of the unknown compels some individuals to experiment with smoking shrooms. They’re intrigued by questions like: “What does it feel like?” or “How does the experience compare to traditional consumption methods?”

The Quest for Speed:

A common belief is that inhaling substances can lead to a quicker onset of effects. This perception is grounded in the idea that compounds absorbed through the lungs enter the bloodstream more directly than when consumed orally. Thus, some choose to smoke shrooms hoping for a rapid, albeit possibly milder, psychedelic journey.

Synergy with Cannabis:

The world of psychedelics is rife with experimentation, and combining substances is a part of that. Many report blending shrooms with cannabis in their smoking rituals. The underlying belief is that the cannabis might either amplify the shroom’s effects, introduce a new dimension to the trip, or possibly smooth out the experience.

While these reasons provide insight into the motivations behind smoking shrooms, it’s always essential to approach any form of substance use with caution, research, and respect for individual limits.

Alternatives to Smoking Shrooms

For those drawn to the idea of smoking shrooms in the hopes of achieving a faster onset or a uniquely different psychedelic experience, there are alternative methods worth considering. These alternatives not only tend to be safer but can also offer a more optimised and potent experience:

Lemon Tek – A Citrus-Enhanced Journey:

The Lemon Tek method is gaining traction among psychedelic enthusiasts. Here’s how it works: First, the shrooms are finely ground to increase the surface area. Then, they are soaked in fresh lemon juice for a specified duration. The acidity of the lemon plays a crucial role, acting as a catalyst.

It’s believed that the citric acid helps in converting psilocybin, the primary active compound in shrooms, into its more potent form, psilocin. This conversion process typically happens in the stomach, but the Lemon Tek method speeds it up, potentially leading to a faster and more intense onset of effects when the mixture is consumed.

Shroom Edibles – A Tasty Psychedelic Treat:

For those who might be put off by the natural taste of shrooms or are looking for a more controlled dosage, shroom edibles present an excellent option. By incorporating powdered or finely chopped shrooms into delectable treats like chocolates, gummies, or even blending them with honey, the experience becomes not just about the trip but also the joy of savouring a delightful treat.

Additionally, the gradual digestion of edibles can lead to a smoother and more extended release of the psychoactive compounds, offering a sustained and potentially more manageable experience.

While both methods offer intriguing alternatives to smoking, it’s vital always to prioritise safety, start with a modest dose, and be informed about potential effects and interactions.

Safety and Considerations

Regardless of the method of consumption, it’s essential to be cautious. Always start with a small dose, especially if you’re a beginner or trying a new method. Remember that the effects of shrooms can be intense and vary from one person to another.

The Role of Set and Setting

No matter how you decide to consume shrooms, the importance of set (your mindset) and setting (your environment) can’t be understated. These factors play a crucial role in shaping your psychedelic experience.

Conclusion: Can You Smoke Shrooms? Yes, But…

While you technically can smoke shrooms, it might not be the most efficient or effective method. If you’re looking to explore the world of psychedelics, it’s always best to do thorough research, consult knowledgeable sources, and prioritise safety above all else.