In the context of addiction treatment, understanding the intricate interplay between various psychoactive substances is paramount to addressing the impact of substance misuse. The experts at our Banyan Lake Worth rehab delve into the intersection of psilocybin mushrooms (shrooms) and weed (cannabis), shedding light on the potential physical, psychological, and addictive consequences that may arise when these two substances are combined. With the growing interest in the therapeutic applications of psychedelics and the widespread use of cannabis, it is imperative for healthcare providers and individuals alike to stay informed about the effects and risks associated with this dangerous drug combination, offering guidance to individuals seeking assistance on their journey toward recovery.
Questions about our Programs?
Our admissions coordinators are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have as you consider whether treatment at Banyan is right for you or your loved one.
Shrooms vs. Weed: What Are They?
Shrooms, scientifically known as psilocybin mushrooms, are a type of fungi that contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. Psilocybin is a hallucinogen that can cause altered perceptions, hallucinations, and changes in consciousness when ingested. Psilocybin mushrooms have a long history of use in various cultures for their hallucinogenic effects and are classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States and some other countries due to their potential for abuse and limited accepted medical use.
On the contrary, weed, also known as marijuana or cannabis, is a plant that contains a psychoactive compound called delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It produces a range of effects, including altered perception, relaxation, and increased appetite. The legal status of cannabis varies widely by location, with some places legalizing its use for medical and/or recreational purposes while others maintain strict regulations.
Are Shrooms Like Weed?
Although both are psychoactive substances, shrooms and weed are not the same thing. Below is a breakdown of weed vs. shrooms:
- Active compounds: Shrooms contain psilocybin, while weed contains delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Both of these active compounds can produce varying effects.
- Effects: Shrooms typically produce hallucinogenic effects, including visual distortions, a sense of interconnectedness, and profound introspection. On the other hand, weed produces a range of effects, including relaxation, euphoria, and altered time perception.
- Duration of effects: Shroom trips can last several hours, often ranging from 4 to 6 hours or longer, while the effects of weed are relatively shorter in duration, typically lasting 2 to 4 hours.
- Medical use: Some compounds in cannabis, particularly cannabidiol (CBD), are used to treat various conditions, such as chronic pain, epilepsy, and nausea. Psilocybin from shrooms is being studied for its potential therapeutic uses, including in the treatment of depression and PTSD, but its medical use is less established.
- Legality: The legal status of both weed and shrooms varies by location. Cannabis has been legalized for medical and/or recreational use in some places, while it remains illegal in others. Shrooms, which contain psilocybin, are generally classified as Schedule I controlled substances in many countries, making their possession and use generally illegal.
Side Effects of Mixing Weed and Shrooms
Mixing shrooms with weed is discouraged due to the potential for unpredictable and intensified side effects. It’s important to note that the specific reaction can vary depending on factors like the individual’s tolerance, the dosage of each substance, and their overall physical and mental health.
With that in mind, here is what can happen when you mix shrooms and weed:
- Intensified effects: Mixing weed with shrooms can intensify the hallucinogenic and psychoactive effects of both substances. This can lead to more pronounced visual distortions, altered perceptions, and changes in consciousness.
- Anxiety and paranoia: Some individuals may experience heightened anxiety, paranoia, or feelings of unease when combining these substances. The interaction between THC from cannabis and psilocybin can contribute to increased anxiety and confusion.
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure: Both cannabis and psilocybin can individually lead to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. When combined, these effects may be more pronounced and uncomfortable, particularly for individuals with preexisting heart conditions.
- Nausea and vomiting: Nausea is a common side effect of both shrooms and cannabis. Mixing the two can increase the likelihood of experiencing nausea and vomiting, which can be especially unpleasant during a trip.
- Cognitive impairment: The combination may impair cognitive function, making it difficult to think clearly or make sound judgments. This can be a safety concern, particularly if individuals are in unfamiliar or risky environments.
- Unpredictable reactions: Combining these substances can result in unpredictable and idiosyncratic reactions, which may be challenging to manage, especially for those who are inexperienced with psychedelics.
- Extended duration: The effects of shrooms typically last several hours, and adding cannabis to the mix may extend the duration of the experience, potentially leading to exhaustion.
- Risk of “bad trip”: The combined use of these substances may increase the risk of having a “bad trip” characterized by extreme anxiety, panic, and a sense of losing control. This can have lasting psychological effects.
- Legal implications: Using a combination of these substances may have legal consequences depending on the legal status of cannabis and psilocybin in your location.
Given the potential for unpredictable and adverse effects, it’s best to avoid mixing weed and shrooms. If you or someone you know experiences significant distress or adverse reactions, seek medical assistance immediately.
Can You Smoke Shrooms With Weed?
No, you cannot smoke shrooms with weed in the traditional sense. Psilocybin is not heat-stable and will degrade when exposed to the high temperatures typically used for smoking cannabis. Additionally, smoking shrooms on weed or with it is neither safe nor effective and will not produce the desired psychoactive effects.
Psilocybin mushrooms are typically ingested orally, either by eating them directly or brewing them into a tea. Smoking them will destroy the psilocybin, rendering the mushrooms ineffective. Additionally, combining these substances is not recommended, as the intensified effects and unpredictable reactions mentioned earlier may occur.
Does Weed Enhance Shrooms?
While weed can enhance shrooms, this reaction isn’t positive. As previously mentioned, combining shrooms and weed can lead to dangerous physical and psychological effects. While individuals may combine the two in an attempt to experience a more intense high, “bad trips,” anxiety, paranoia, and unpredictable side effects are more likely to occur.
Get a Free Insurance Verification Today!
"*" indicates required fields
Are Shrooms Safer Than Weed?
While shrooms can be considered safer than weed because they don’t have as high of a potential for abuse or addiction, the safety of shrooms versus weed depends on factors like individual tolerance, the context of use, the presence of preexisting medical or psychological conditions, and the legal framework in which these substances are used.
It’s also important to keep in mind that more and more drugs are being laced with deadly substances, including fentanyl, in drug dealers’ attempts to increase their effects. In this context, neither weed nor shrooms taken outside of a medical setting are safe.
Help for Substance Abuse at BHOPB
Ours is one of few rehab centers in Palm Beach County that offers addiction treatment for substances such as marijuana, synthetic weed, and shrooms. Whether it’s marijuana abuse or alcoholism, our facility can make recovery possible.