Do “Shrooms” Show Up On Drug Tests?
Some recreational drug users believe that natural substances are safe for consumption, including popular street drugs like magic mushrooms. But is this true? And for those facing mandated workplace, academic, or athletic drug testing, do magic mushrooms show up on drug tests?
The answers to these questions are a little complicated. Today, we will explore whether magic mushrooms show up on drug tests and discuss some of the dangers associated with their active compound, psilocybin.
What Are Magic Mushrooms?
Magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms, are a type of mushroom that contains the psychedelic compound psilocybin. This compound can cause hallucinations, changes in perception, and euphoria.
While magic mushrooms are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, they can also be cultivated. In fact, magic mushrooms have a long history of use in religious and spiritual rituals.
Recreationally, magic mushrooms became popular in the 1960s as a way to experience psychedelic effects without the use of other drugs, like LSD. Nowadays, they are still popular among some users as a way to experience altered states of consciousness. Psilocybin mushrooms are sometimes mixed with other drugs, like cannabis, to enhance their effects. However, there is no evidence to suggest that this combination is safe or effective.
What Is Psilocybin?
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound that is found in magic mushrooms. When psilocybin is ingested, it is converted into psilocin, which is responsible for the psychoactive effects of magic mushrooms.
Psilocybin acts on serotonin receptors in the brain and can cause changes in perception, mood, and cognition. The effects of psilocybin typically last between 4 and 6 hours, although they can vary depending on the person and the dose.
Are Magic Mushrooms Legal?
The legal status of magic mushrooms varies from country to country. Some nations, like the Netherlands, have decriminalized magic mushrooms, meaning they are not subject to criminal penalties. However, this does not necessarily mean that magic mushrooms are legal in these countries.
In the United States, magic mushrooms are considered a Schedule I substance, which means they have a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use. This classification makes magic mushrooms illegal to possess, sell, or cultivate. However, they are still sold in some states for “research purposes,” and are circulated illegally by drug dealers, who sell them for recreational use or microdosing.
What Is Microdosing?
Though magic mushrooms are illegal in many places, including the U.S., they are still used recreationally or via microdosing. Microdosing is the practice of taking small doses of psychedelics, such as psilocybin, to experience subtle changes in mood and perception. Some people who microdose magic mushrooms report feeling more creative, productive, and focused. Others say that microdosing helps them to feel less anxious and more present in the moment.
While there is some anecdotal evidence to support the benefits of microdosing, there is still no scientific research to back up these claims. And because magic mushrooms can cause hallucinations and changes in perception, there is a potential for adverse effects, especially if the dose is too high.
Does Psilocybin Have Medicinal Uses?
Psilocybin has shown promise as a treatment for a number of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and addiction. In fact, clinical trials are currently underway to test the efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy for these and other conditions. But while this compound has been shown to have some therapeutic benefits, it can also be dangerous if taken in high doses.
The Dangers of Psilocybin
While magic mushrooms are often considered a “natural” and therefore safe substance, they can actually be quite dangerous. Psilocybin can cause hallucinations, changes in perception, and impaired judgment, which can lead to accidents and injuries. In high doses, psilocybin can also cause nausea, vomiting, and panic attacks.
In addition, magic mushrooms can be contaminated with harmful bacteria or toxins such as lead and mercury. And because they are often found in the wild, it can be challenging to know if they have been contaminated.
Furthermore, since magic mushrooms are usually taken in uncontrolled settings, it’s difficult to know precisely what you’re taking. Because psilocybin mushrooms are illegal and unregulated in many places, there is no way to be sure that a seller is even offering the right species of fungus. This can be highly dangerous, as other mushrooms that look similar to magic mushrooms can be poisonous.
Potential Side Effects
While the psychoactive effects of magic mushrooms are typically considered safe in small doses, there are some potential side effects that users should be aware of. These include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Muscle weakness
- Dizziness
- Changes in blood pressure and heart rate
- Hallucinations
- Anxiety and paranoia
Signs of a Psilocybin Overdose
In rare cases, magic mushrooms can cause an overdose. Signs of a psilocybin overdose include:
- Severe nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Muscle weakness
- Dizziness
- Changes in blood pressure and heart rate
- Hallucinations
- Anxiety and paranoia
- Coma
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Magic mushroom overdoses are rare, but they can be very dangerous.
Are Magic Mushrooms Addictive?
Magic mushrooms are not considered to be addictive. However, some people who use magic mushrooms may develop a tolerance to the drug, which means they will need to take larger doses to achieve the same effects. This can lead to risky behaviors, such as taking higher doses of magic mushrooms or combining them with other drugs.
Do Magic Mushrooms Show Up on Drug Tests?
Magic mushrooms will not show up on most drug tests. However, if a person is specifically tested for psilocybin, it is possible that the drug will be detected. Psilocybin can stay in the system for up to three days.
If you are concerned about magic mushrooms showing up on a drug test, consider checking yourself with at-home test kits. These tests can detect psilocybin in urine, hair, and saliva.
Get Answers with Countrywide Testing
If you’re concerned that a loved one may be using psilocybin, drug tests can offer answers and help you get them the support they need. Or, if you are worried about magic mushrooms showing up on a mandated drug test, the best thing to do is to take a drug test on your own and monitor the results.
If you’re in need of an at-home drug test for any reason, Countrywide can help. We offer easy, multi-panel drug tests that can be used in the comfort of your own home.
At Countrywide, we provide results you can trust. To learn more, explore our catalog of convenient, at-home drug tests, or contact our team today!