Certainly, while smoking shrooms is feasible, experiencing their psychedelic effects akin to ingestion is uncertain.
Dried shrooms can be pulverized and smoked alone or with substances like tobacco or cannabis. Some individuals even resort to using purified psilocybin crystals in pipes. However, these methods are not advisable.
Biocleve does not advocate the use of illicit substances and acknowledges that abstaining from them is the safest choice. Nonetheless, we prioritize providing accessible and accurate information to mitigate potential harm associated with their use.
Regarding the Effects
Limited research exists on the consequences of smoking shrooms, leaving anecdotal accounts from online platforms like Reddit as the primary source of information. While some users report a mild euphoria, the majority find it ineffective, often leading only to nausea.
The lack of psychological impact may be attributed to heat exposure, as psilocybin, the primary compound responsible for hallucinogenic effects, degrades under high temperatures when smoked.
Is it Risky?
Smoking shrooms poses several hazards, including those inherent in consuming shrooms in general.
General smoking hazards
Inhaling any form of smoke poses health risks, containing harmful toxins and particulates that can harm lung tissue, blood vessels, and increase the risk of lung cancer. If combined with tobacco, additional risks arise.
Mold spores
Smoking shrooms introduces the risk of inhaling mold spores, which can lead to lung inflammation and infections, particularly dangerous for individuals with mold allergies, preexisting lung conditions, or weakened immune systems.
Physical Effects
Physical effects of shrooms encompass heightened heart rate and blood pressure, nausea, increased body temperature, abdominal discomfort, muscle weakness, and lack of coordination. At higher doses, shrooms and similar hallucinogens distort reality, potentially leading to uncharacteristic behavior. While smoking shrooms may not induce significant trips, it remains a possibility.
Safety precautions
While complete safety in substance use isn’t guaranteed, there are ways to minimize risks with shroom consumption:
- Opt for alternative ingestion methods, as smoking shrooms may yield minimal effects and potentially expose you to harmful spores.
- Begin with the smallest dose possible and gradually increase it, as hallucinogens’ effects can vary unpredictably, with higher doses increasing the likelihood of negative experiences.
- Select a positive mood and a safe, familiar environment for consumption.
- Stay hydrated to counteract shrooms’ potential to raise body temperature and cause dry mouth.
- If smoking shrooms, avoid holding your inhale to reduce prolonged exposure to toxins.
- Ensure the presence of a sober and dependable trip-sitter who can assist if needed.
- Avoid mixing substances, including alcohol, as it heightens unpredictability and risk.
- Eat before consuming shrooms to mitigate gastrointestinal discomfort.
Note from Biocleve
Smoking shrooms may not result in the desired psychedelic experience; thus, alternative methods are preferable. Scientific evidence does not support the psychoactive effects of smoking psilocybin, and inhaling smoke poses health risks. Although hallucinogens are generally less addictive, regular use can still impact daily functioning.