Several species of mushrooms can have {hallucinogenic} effects. However, distinguishing hallucinogenic from poisonous mushrooms is a complex skill, requiring knowledge of botany & mushroom classification. They may be eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed in tea, & can be preserved by drying.
SHORT-TERM USE: Effects like mild LSD experience, but may also include {euphoria} & increased heart-rate, {blood pressure} & {pupil} size. Effects occur after 30min, peaking 3hrs later & lasting 4-9hrs. Low dose effects are {euphoria} & detachment. At higher doses, visual distortions progress to vivid {hallucinations} of color & movement, often with {nausea}, {vomiting} & stomach pains.
Occasionally 'bad trips' invoke deep fear & {anxiety}, & may develop into a {psychotic} experience. These are most common after repeated or unusually high doses, or if user is inexperienced or anxious. They can usually be dealt with by friendly reassurance.
!b! By far the greatest danger is the risk of using a poisonous mushroom by mistake.
!n! LONG-TERM USE: As with LSD, tolerance rapidly develops & the next day it might take twice as many mushrooms to repeat the experience, which discourages frequent use. Sometimes longer lasting disturbances, such as {anxiety} attacks & flashbacks to the original experience, can occur.
