Functional and Magic Mushrooms: Is Lion’s Mane a Psychedelic?

Looking for a way to keep your brain healthy? Want more focus, a better immune system and improved mental health conditions? Lion’s mane mushrooms could be the answer.

These incredible functional mushrooms have been taking centre stage as more and more research shows the incredible benefits they have to offer for the mind, body and spirit. But mushrooms, which are not culinary, seem to still have a stigma attached to them.

When many people hear ‘mushrooms’ they jump straight to either the ones you’ll cook in a stir fry or the ‘magic’ type that makes you ‘high’... so where do Lion’s Mane functional mushrooms stand?

What makes them so special and how do they differ from magic mushrooms? This is exactly what this blog will explore. Read on to find out more and debunk common functional mushroom myths.

 

What Is Lion’s Mane?

Lion's Mane, the "smart mushroom," is nature's brain booster. Its cascading tendrils hide a powerful secret: the ability to supercharge your mind.

Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane mushroom) isn't your average fungi. Loaded with bioactive compounds, it supports cognitive health and is a nerve growth factor which allows you to say goodbye to brain fog and hello to mental clarity.

Lion's Mane isn't magic; it's a science-backed wonder. Whether battling mental fog or seeking improved cognitive function, this fungi friend has your back.

 

What Does Psychedelic Mean?

Psychedelics have a strong ability to produce abnormal effects on the human body. Imagine colours dancing, shapes shifting, and perceptions bending. Psychedelic experiences are mind-bending journeys, often induced by substances like LSD or magic mushrooms.

These substances unlock doors to the subconscious, creating visions and profound introspection. But it's not just about visuals; psychedelics can evoke deep emotions and spiritual insights. The term "psychedelic" derives from Greek, meaning "mind-revealing."

So, when you hear "psychedelic," think of a key to the doors of perception, offering a glimpse into the infinite.

So… Is Lion's Mane a Psychedelic?

The short answer: No. Lion's Mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) are not classified as psychedelic mushrooms. They are NOT magic and they won’t get you high.

 

What Causes Hallucinations in Psychedelic Mushrooms?

In psychedelic mushrooms, compounds such as psilocybin and psilocin are present, which cause changes to the brain’s serotonin reception. As a result, they open up a universe of perception-bending events, or, should we say… psychedelic experiences.

 

What Are the Potential Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane Extract?

Lion's Mane extract isn't just any supplement; it holds a wide range of powerful benefits for your mind and body. Incorporating Lion's Mane extract into your routine could be the key to a sharper mind, brighter mood, and healthier body. Here are the remarkable benefits that Lion's Mane can provide:

• Better brain health.
• Better moods.
• Neuroprotection.
• Immune support.
• Improved gut health and digestive health.
• Reduced inflammation within the body.
• Increased energy and vitality.

  

Is Lion’s Mane Mushroom Legal in the UK?

Yes, Lion's Mane mushrooms are legal in the UK and many other countries. Unlike magic mushrooms, which are classified as Class A drugs in the UK, Lion's Mane is widely available as a supplement and for culinary use.

They are widely available in health stores and online. Lion's Mane is classified as a food supplement rather than a controlled substance, making it legal for purchase and sale.

Regulations can change, so it's advisable to stay updated with authorities or consult healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement regimen.

 

Magic Mushrooms vs Functional Mushrooms

In this section, we’ll highlight the key differences between magic mushrooms and functional mushrooms to help you recognise facts from myths.

Magic Mushrooms Make You High, Functional Mushrooms Don’t

Many mushrooms have functional properties (magic mushrooms included!) but not all mushrooms with these properties contain the psychedelic compounds that make you hallucinate.

Magic mushrooms contain psilocybin, psilocin and baeocystin, which are responsible for the “trip” or "high" that many people associate with mushrooms. But functional mushrooms, like Lion’s Mane, don’t contain them and can NOT make you high or distort your experience of reality.

Magic Mushrooms Are Illegal, Functional Mushrooms Are Not

Magic mushrooms are illegal in the UK. While they do grow wild, as a Class A drug, it is against the law to possess them.

However, functional mushrooms, such as Lion’s Mane, are totally legal. You can grow them, eat them or sell them, just like any type of mushroom that you’d find in the supermarket. However, you should not pick them from the wild.

Magic and Functional Mushrooms Have Health Benefits

Studies show that both magic mushrooms and functional mushrooms have health benefits to offer, such as reduced anxiety, better mood, improved immune system function and better brain preservation.

Both Magic and Functional Mushrooms Have Been Used For Centuries

All types of mushrooms have been used for centuries. Functional mushrooms (ones that do not contain psilocybin or cause a high) give us a huge selection of pharmacological uses.

They have antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiallergic effects. And the list goes on!

 

 

Functional and Magic Mushrooms Explained

When it comes down to it, the most obvious difference between a magic mushroom and a functional mushroom is whether it contains hallucinating compounds.

Mushrooms that have the chemical psilocybin produce a high and are usually illegal in the UK, but studies still show that they have promise in mental health treatments, making them functional in their own way.

On the other hand, functional mushrooms, like Lion’s Mane, have been a staple in human society and used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

With its increasing popularity, Lion’s Mane is quickly becoming the most used and studied shroom due to its immense positive effects on health without giving a high sensation.

If you’re looking to naturally increase your mental and physical health or improve your spiritual practices, Lion’s Mane is your go-to companion. At TwentyTwo our capsules are clean, green and high in strength. Add this shroom to your daily routine to improve your well-being. Subscribe to better health today!

 

Lion's Mane Mushroom FAQ’s

Is Lion's Mane a Magic Mushroom?

No, Lion's Mane is not a magic mushroom. Magic mushrooms typically refer to species containing psilocybin, which induces hallucinations and altered perceptions. Lion's Mane lacks this compound and therefore is not associated with psychedelic experiences.

Lion's Mane Hallucinations: Myth vs. Reality

Contrary to popular misconceptions, Lion's Mane does not cause hallucinations. Hallucinations are a hallmark of psychedelics like magic mushrooms, but Lion's Mane offers a different kind of experience. Its effects are more subtle, focusing on cognitive enhancement rather than altering perception.

Lion's Mane Psychoactive Properties

The psychoactive properties of Lion's Mane are rooted in its impact on brain health. Compounds in Lion's Mane, such as hericenones and erinacines, can stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production. NGF plays an important role in the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons.