Functional Mushrooms Vs Psychedelic Mushrooms: What's the Difference?

If psychedelic art and the color spectrum come to mind when you hear the word mushroom, you are partly right and partly otherwise. Most think mushrooms are magic mushrooms that they can ride on to the world of psychedelia, but the idea falls flat when functional mushrooms are brought into the conversation. Not all mushrooms are psychedelic drugs. Let’s explore!

What are psychedelic mushrooms?

Shrooms, magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms are all psychedelics. They are the different names of the same thing - psychedelic mushrooms - a hallucinogenic fungus that contains psilocybin. Upon consumption, psilocybin breaks down in the body to create psychedelic effects, which means an altered state of perception.

Psychedelic mushrooms are hallucinogenic drugs that interact with the nervous system, sometimes boosting your senses and often making you see or hear things that aren’t there. There are more than 100 types of psychedelic mushrooms—they typically grow in the woods and meadows in rich soil filled with plant debris.

These shrooms have been used for thousands of years in ancient Aztec rituals. Some spiritual practices continue to use them even today, and many people use them for recreational enjoyment.

Users report many positive effects of taking these mushrooms, including relaxation, increased creativity, euphoria, and altered perception.

Studies have shown their potential for medicinal use too. Recent research shows shrooms have immense potential to treat medical illnesses like anxiety and depression in chronically ill patients, but they are not without negative effects.

Do you know about bad trips? It refers to an undesirable state of mind, which may involve anxiety, confusion, drowsiness, headaches, nausea, and paranoia. Consuming mushrooms without being mindful can cause bad trips.

Are Psychedelic Mushrooms Legal?

Their legal status varies from one country to another. Growing, possessing, and using psychedelic mushrooms are illegal in some countries. However, different countries like Canada may allow the use of mushrooms.

Effects of Psychedelic Mushrooms

● Altered perception of time and space

● Visual and auditory hallucinations

● Emotional breakthroughs

● Enhanced introspection

● Possible feelings of euphoria or fear, depending on the setting and dosage

While research is promising, psychedelics should always be used responsibly and with professional guidance when used for mental health treatment.

What are Functional Mushrooms?

Functional mushrooms, also known as medicinal mushrooms, are non-psychoactive fungi used to support various aspects of health and wellness. They’re packed with bioactive compounds, antioxidants, and polysaccharides that may benefit the immune system, cognition, energy levels, and stress response.

Unlike psychedelic mushrooms, functional mushrooms won't make you hallucinate. Instead, they can be consumed daily as part of a wellness routine — often in the form of powders, capsules, tinctures, or drink mixes.

 They are divided into two groups:

• Medicinal Mushrooms: They contain compounds loaded with health benefits. Many of them have antioxidative and cytotoxic properties, which means they may slow down the damaging process of oxidation and kill harmful cells. While they are known to provide medicinal benefits and are made into functional mushroom supplements, they are not considered dietary supplements and are not regulated by the FDA, neither as food nor as drugs.
  
  
• Adaptogenic Mushrooms: These mushrooms contain adaptogens, which are compounds that can help the body combat physical, biological, and chemical stress. They don’t provide relief from cough or inflammation but help the body’s stress response systems to function as they should.

Benefits of Functional Mushroom Supplements

Functional mushroom supplements offer a wide range of benefits:

• Mushroom supplements for energy: Cordyceps and chaga are two popular choices for natural energy and endurance support without caffeine crashes.
• Mushroom supplements for focus: Lion’s mane is the go-to mushroom for concentration, mental clarity, and memory enhancement.
• Immune support: Reishi, shiitake, and chaga mushrooms help balance and strengthen the immune system.
• Stress and sleep: Reishi, in particular, may promote relaxation and restful sleep through its adaptogenic properties.

Functional mushrooms work best when taken consistently over time. They aren’t a quick fix, but rather a daily supplement that gradually supports the body’s systems.

Are Functional Mushrooms Legal?

Functional mushrooms are legal and are not on the list of the World Anti-Doping Agency. Functional mushrooms are used worldwide without restrictions.

What are the Common Types of Functional Mushrooms?

If you want to add mushrooms to your daily lifestyle, you need to know how they can help. It will help you fit shrooms into the big picture.

Reishi Mushroom Supplements

Known as the “Mushroom of Immortality,” reishi is deeply revered in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Reishi mushroom supplements are often taken for their calming properties and potential to support immune health, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality. Many people incorporate reishi into their nightly routines to unwind and promote a sense of balance. Some studies have shown that it may reduce depression, anxiety, and blood sugar and improve good cholesterol and quality of life. You may try reishi mushroom extract gummies to boost your immune system.

Cordyceps Mushroom Supplements

These mushrooms aren’t available on trees and logs but are found on the caterpillars they parasitize. They may not sound like the ideal delicacy but are perfect for easing fatigue and stabilizing the heartbeat. They may help reduce inflammation.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplements

Perhaps the most well-known nootropic mushroom, lion’s mane mushroom supplements are praised for their brain-boosting abilities. This shaggy-looking fungus contains hericenones and erinacines — compounds that may stimulate the growth of new brain cells. Many people take mushroom supplements for focus and memory that include lion’s mane to help boost productivity and cognitive clarity.

Chaga Mushroom Supplements

Chaga mushroom supplements are rich in antioxidants and have been used traditionally in Siberian and Russian folk medicine for centuries. Often brewed as a tea or taken in capsule form, chaga is believed to help fight inflammation, combat oxidative stress, and support skin and digestive health.

Shiitake Mushroom Supplements

You may know shiitake mushrooms from your favorite stir-fry, but they’re also a powerhouse when it comes to immunity and cardiovascular health. Shiitake mushroom supplements contain lentinan, a compound known for its immune-modulating properties. 

This mushroom is native to East Asia and is prized for its meaty, umami flavor. While delicious, shiitake mushroom tinctures may boost your immunity. Many users also report it to be beneficial in fighting gastric problems.

Also Read: Maitake Mushroom Vs Shiitake

Turkey Tail Mushroom Supplements

Like lion’s mane, turkey tail mushroom derives its name from the obvious - a turkey’s tail. With varying shades of yellows, grays, oranges, and browns, it is one of the most beautiful functional mushrooms.

Functional vs. Psychedelic Mushrooms: Key Differences

The Takeaway

Both functional and psychedelic mushrooms put forth unique benefits. Their biggest difference is that they cater to different needs and experiences. Functional mushrooms like reishi and lion’s mane are popular for their ability to boost health, such as the immune system and cognitive function. Psychedelic mushrooms, on the other hand, contain psilocybin primarily, which offers transformative experiences and has therapeutic potential.

Whether you want functional mushroom extract capsules for daily wellness support or explore deep psychological healing, understanding the distinct advantages of each type can help guide your choice and enrich your journey toward better health and well-being.

Also Read: Should You Take Mushroom Supplements On An Empty Stomach?