Cannabis is not the only naturally occurring substance that became popular during the Psychedelic Era. As the name suggests, psychedelic or magic mushrooms also played a role in the cultural and social dynamics of the 60s to the 70s.

These shrooms are known to many solely as a hallucinogen, but recent studies are showing its medical properties. In fact, some practitioners of medicine have been using a substance obtained from shrooms to treat some conditions. Ancient cultures have also been using it for the same application, just like cannabis.

If you are interested in these mushrooms, but you are concerned about its hallucinogenic effects, you may be curious as to how it can affect your brain. Here’s what you need to know.

Magic Mushroom Consumption

Whether you are consuming natural hallucinogens or traditional medications, the most important thing you should remember is to take it moderately. This applies even with food, our primary source of nutrition, or with alcohol, an impairing substance. So, it is only sensible that consuming shrooms should be done in moderation.

Now, let’s say you consumed these mushrooms. What happens in your body? The first you should know is that these shrooms contain the compound psilocybin, which is the chemical responsible for the psychoactive effects of the fungus. Once it enters your body through your digestive system, this chemical is converted to psilocin within 30 minutes. Psilocin is the compound that interacts with your brain.

Psilocin and its Effects on the Brain

• Activates Serotonin Receptors

One of the most prominent effect of consuming magic mushrooms is that it activates your serotonin receptions called 2A. According to studies, this causes a neuronal avalanching, which is described as a domino effect of various changes in your brain. So, when 2A is activated, your brain is more susceptible to changes, which you can experience through your sensory and network activities.

This can increase the activity of your virtual cortex, which could be the reason why many experience changes in perception. This activation is also known to lower your network activity, which is the reason that consumers lose their ego. It is also known to increase mood and cognition. When combined, scientists believe that this is why users feel a sense of unity and transcendence.

•  ‘Reshapes’ Brain Cells

With the 2A receptors activated, the psilocin allows users to tap into parts of their brains that were previously inaccessible. This is because brain cells are ‘reshaped’ to become more efficient. Now, keep in mind that the ‘hardware’ in our brains are fixed, which means that this compound does not break it down and reconfigures your brain cells. What the chemical does is it lets the individual networks connect with others to form a more global network. This is what makes the network more efficient

• Rebalances Nerves

Because individual networks are now connected, scientists believe that the activation of the 2A receptors can aid in treating disorders such as depression and addiction. Moreover, some studies show that new networks are formed, allowing users to utilize more of their brain. This triggers creativity, love and happiness, which can greatly increase the potential of the consumer, when combined with the other effects of psilocin on human brain.

The Bottom Line

In moderation, magic mushrooms can have positive effects on the brain. You can check out the practice of microdosing psychedelics to see how consuming this in small amounts can be beneficial. Just keep in mind that this could interact with your existing medications, if you are taking any, so make sure to consult your doctor to ensure the safe and advantageous use of shrooms.