Mushrooms 101

Are you a hemp enthusiast who has decided to enter the world of mushrooms? Perhaps, you’re already into mushrooms, but aren’t quite sure of what’s out there or in what forms you can legally enjoy it in. Well, today we’re going to cover all the different types of mushrooms in terms of their overall uses and effects, and even how to take them properly.

What are Mushrooms?

Mushrooms, also knowns as “shroomz”, are divided into several category:

Category 1. Culinary Mushrooms: These are edible mushrooms used in cooking. Examples include white button mushrooms, portobello mushrooms, shiitake, oyster mushrooms, and more. These are widely available in grocery stores and farmers' markets.

Category 2. Agricultural Mushrooms: These are used in farming and composting. They play a role in soil health and are not typically used for consumption.

Category 3. Medicinal Mushrooms: Some mushrooms are used for their medicinal properties. Examples include reishi, cordyceps, and lion's mane mushrooms. These are often sold in health food stores or as dietary supplements.

Category 4. Psychoactive Mushrooms: This category includes mushrooms containing psilocybin, a substance known for its psychoactive properties. The legality of these mushrooms varies significantly across different jurisdictions. In some places, they are strictly illegal, while in others, they are either decriminalized or allowed for specific uses, such as medical research or therapeutic applications.

Category 5. Other Edible Wild Mushrooms: There are many varieties of wild mushrooms that are edible and can be legally foraged, depending on local regulations.

For this article, we’re focusing on categories 3, 4, and 5 for the most part here, since that’s what we also sell on our website. Now, there are two types of mushrooms that you’ve likely come across:

• Type 1: Psychedelic Mushrooms (also known as magic mushrooms) - A type of mushroom that contains psychoactive substances, primarily psilocybin and psilocin. These substances can induce psychedelic experiences, characterized by alterations in perception, mood, and thought. Common effects include visual and auditory hallucinations, an altered sense of time, and changes in emotional states. Psychedelic mushrooms have been used for centuries in various cultural and spiritual rituals.
• Type 2: Non-Psychedelic Mushrooms - Refer to the vast majority of mushrooms that do not contain psychoactive substances. These mushrooms can be edible, medicinal, or in some cases, poisonous. Edible mushrooms are widely consumed for their taste and nutritional value, while medicinal mushrooms are used for their health benefits, which can include immune system support and anti-inflammatory properties. It's important to be able to distinguish between these and poisonous varieties, which can look similar but are harmful or even lethal if consumed.

Essentially, the key difference lies in the presence of psychoactive substances in psychedelic mushrooms, which cause significant alterations in perception and consciousness, as opposed to non-psychedelic mushrooms which’re primarily used for culinary, medicinal, or other purposes without inducing a psychedelic state.

Note: Mushroom laws can be very specific to each country or even regions within a country, and they often change. For instance, in some places, the cultivation and sale of psychedelic mushrooms might be illegal, but possession and personal use might be decriminalized. Always check local laws and regulations to understand what is legally permissible in your area.

What are the Different Types of Mushrooms and Their Effects?

Now, we can dive into all the different types of mushrooms you can find here at The Calm Leaf. As you will see, each has unique effects that can really have you feeling totally blissed out.

Amanita Mushrooms

Amanita mushrooms are nothing new – they’re a naturally occurring mushroom that has grown in the wild for thousands of years, all over the world. Amanita mushrooms are a genus of fungi that includes both some of the most famous edible mushrooms as well as some of the most toxic. They are known for their distinctive appearance, often featuring a cap (pileus), gills (lamellae), and a stalk (stipe), with many species also having a ring (annulus) and a bulbous base with remnants of a universal veil, forming a volva.

Key points about Amanita mushrooms:

1. Diverse Species: The genus Amanita contains around 600 species. They vary widely in toxicity, edibility, and appearance.
2. Iconic Appearance: Some species, like the Amanita muscaria (fly agaric), are iconic with their red caps and white spots. This appearance has made them famous in popular culture and folklore.
3. Toxic Varieties: Some of the most poisonous mushrooms belong to this genus, such as Amanita phalloides (death cap) and Amanita virosa (destroying angel). These mushrooms contain potent toxins that can cause serious illness or death if ingested.
4. Psychoactive Properties: Certain species, like Amanita muscaria, have psychoactive properties and have been used traditionally in various cultures for their hallucinogenic effects.
5. Habitat and Distribution: Amanita mushrooms are commonly found in woodland and forest environments across the globe. They form symbiotic relationships with trees.
6. Identification: Accurate identification is crucial due to the presence of both edible and highly toxic species within the genus. Mushroom foraging, especially for Amanitas, should only be done by experienced individuals.
7. Ecological Role: They play an essential role in forest ecosystems as decomposers and in symbiotic relationships with plants.

Getting to Know Amanita Muscaria Mushrooms

Amanita muscaria, commonly known as the fly agaric or fly amanita, is a species of mushroom commonly found in boreal and temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, North America, and Asia. It typically grows in wooded areas, especially near pine, birch, and spruce trees.

This mushroom is notable for its distinctive appearance, featuring a bright red cap with white spots. It's one of the most recognizable and widely depicted mushrooms in popular culture. As with many mushrooms, Amanita muscaria has a crucial role in forest ecosystems. It forms symbiotic relationships with certain trees, helping them absorb nutrients from the soil.

Amanita muscaria contains psychoactive compounds like ibotenic acid and muscimol. These substances can cause hallucinations and an altered state of consciousness.

Understanding the Cultural and Historical Aspects Muscaria Mushrooms

Amanita muscaria has a rich history in various cultures, often associated with religious rituals and folklore. For centuries at least, tribes around Asia, Europe, and North America have consumed these mushrooms as part of their sacred ceremonies. The mushroom is famously associated with ancient Vikings, using the mushrooms ritually and before battle. Its striking appearance has made it a frequent subject in art, literature, and even video games.

What Effects and Potential Benefits Do Amanita Muscaria Mushrooms Have?

Amanita muscaria gets its primary effects from muscimol. Muscimol happens to be a GABA agonist, so it interacts with the nervous system to support healthy levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter associated with calm. Because of this, amanita mushrooms are generally considered more sedative-like than mushrooms that contain psilocybin. GABA is also associated with improved sleep, and helps aid in neuroplasticity, which can play an important role in helping a person heal from post-traumatic stress.

Muscimol is also intoxicating, and thus, is psychedelic. This means that the ‘high’ has the potential to cause hallucinations, depending on the dosage you take. The hallucination associated with muscimol seem to be mostly visual. Otherwise, the high is said to be euphoric, yet relaxing, and people often describe gaining spiritual insight from the experience, as well as enhanced creativity, due to its perception-changing and introspective nature.

It’s also worth mention that a good number of people report feeling relief from physical discomfort in the muscles and joints. Again, this likely has to do with the way in which the compound interacts with the nervous system.

What Kinds of Amanita Muscaria Products are Available?

Amanita muscaria can be found in the following forms:

• Edibles: Easily, edibles are the most in-demand choice for amanita mushroom products. This includes gummies, chocolate bars, and other tasty snacks. They contain an equal amount of this mushroom extract, making the dosing process very easy.
• Capsules: The same applies to capsules, which also contain an equal amount of the mushroom, and are taken like any ordinary capsule.
• Tinctures: These are sublingual oils taken below the tongue, which come in a variety of strength options.
• Disposable Vapes: These All-In-One (AIO) devices house in their cartridge either 1 or 2 grams of E-Liquid containing Amanita muscaria and sometimes other cannabinoids.

Getting to Know Amanita Pantherina Mushrooms

Amanita pantherina, commonly known as the “panther cap” or “false blusher”, is a species of mushroom found in Europe and Western Asia. It's closely related to the infamous Amanita muscaria (the fly agaric), both belonging to the Amanita genus. It's commonly found in deciduous and coniferous forests, often forming symbiotic relationships with trees. The mushroom appears in late summer to late autumn.

Amanita pantherina typically features a brownish cap that’s typically 5 to 10 cm in diameter with white or yellowish warts, which’re remnants of the universal veil that encloses the mushroom when it's young. These warts may also wash away with heavy rain. The gills are white, free from the stem, and quite crowded. The cap is usually domed and can flatten with age. The stem is white with a ring and a bulbous base.

Speaking of the Amanita pantherina’s stem, it is white and measures about 5 to 15 cm in height and 1 to 2 cm in thickness. It's adorned with a persistent white ring (annulus) and a bulbous base, often surrounded by a cup-like structure known as a volva. The flesh of the mushroom is white and doesn't change color when cut or bruised.

Understanding the Cultural and Historical Aspects Pantherina Mushrooms

While not as famous or culturally significant as Amanita muscaria, Amanita pantherina has been used in some traditional practices, though its use is far less common due to its toxicity and potent psychoactive effects. However, in the history of mycology (the study of fungi), Amanita pantherina has been a subject of interest due to its distinctive features (like the panther-spotted cap) and its classification within the Amanita genus, which includes both edible and highly toxic species.

In contemporary times, there is a growing interest in the study and use of psychoactive fungi, including Amanita pantherina, for their potential therapeutic properties. Still, due to its toxic nature, it’s not widely used and is often subject to legal restrictions in many countries.

What Effects and Potential Benefits Do Amanita Pantherina Mushrooms Have?

Muscimol happens to be a GABA agonist, meaning that it interacts with the nervous system to support healthy levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter associated with calm. Because of this, all amanita mushrooms are generally considered more sedative-like than mushrooms that contain psilocybin. GABA is also associated with improved sleep, and helps aid in neuroplasticity, which can play an important role in helping a person heal from post-traumatic stress.

Muscimol is also intoxicating, and thus, is psychedelic. Hence, the high has the potential to cause hallucinations, depending on the dosage you take. The hallucination associated with muscimol seem to be mostly visual. Otherwise, the high is said to be euphoric, yet relaxing, and people often describe gaining spiritual insight from the experience, as well as enhanced creativity, due to its perception-changing and introspective nature.

There is ongoing research into the potential therapeutic applications of the compounds found in Amanita pantherina, although this is a very early and experimental field. Some studies are exploring their use in treating neurological disorders, but this is not yet a mainstream medical practice.

What Kinds of Amanita Pantherina Products are Available?

Similar to muscaria, pantherina can be found in the following forms:

• Edibles: Easily, edibles are the most in-demand choice for amanita mushroom products. This includes gummies, chocolate bars, and other tasty snacks. They contain an equal amount of this mushroom extract, making dosing quite simple.
• Capsules: The same applies to capsules, which also contain an equal amount of the mushroom, and are taken like any ordinary capsule.
• Tinctures: These are sublingual oils taken below the tongue, which come in a variety of strength options.

Other Types of Mushrooms

The mushrooms we will be covering here also have unique effects, such as immune-boosting to increase energy levels. Keep in mind though, that for these shrooms, while there is some promising research, more comprehensive studies are needed to fully understand the extent of their benefits and overall effects. Still, they can be found in all sorts of edible goods, along with being used in capsules and tinctures.

Royal Sun Mushrooms

Royal Sun Mushrooms, also called the “Almond Mushroom” or scientifically known as Agaricus brasiliensis or Agaricus blazei, are a species of mushroom known for their medicinal properties. Originating from Brazil, they are now cultivated in various parts of the world for both culinary and therapeutic uses.

These mushrooms are recognized for their high content of polysaccharides, specifically beta-glucans, which are believed to boost the immune system. Research has suggested potential benefits in cancer therapy, as these compounds might help in stimulating the body's defense against cancerous cells. Additionally, Royal Sun Mushrooms are thought to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties.

In terms of culinary use, they are appreciated for their nutty flavor, often described as almond-like, and their meaty texture. They can be used in a variety of dishes, similar to other edible mushrooms.

Cordyceps Mushrooms

Cordyceps mushrooms are a genus of parasitic fungi that grow on the larvae of insects. When these fungi attack their host, they replace its tissue and sprout long, slender stems that grow outside the host's body. The most famous species of this genus is Cordyceps sinensis, now known as Ophiocordyceps sinensis.

This species is highly valued in traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine for its supposed health benefits. It’s often used as a tonic and restorative, believed to help with energy, endurance, stamina, and immune system function. Some studies have also looked into its potential anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects and efficacy.

Cordyceps mushrooms are unique in their growth process and life cycle, relying on a host (usually an insect or arachnid) to complete their life cycle. This unusual parasitic relationship, coupled with their rare occurrence in nature (particularly the wild Ophiocordyceps sinensis, which is found primarily in the high mountain regions of China), makes them a fascinating subject of study in both mycology and traditional medicine. Cultivated forms of Cordyceps, like C. militaris, are more commonly available and are used in various supplements and health products.

Reishi Mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms, also known as Ganoderma lucidum or lingzhi, are a type of fungus that has been revered in Asian cultures for thousands of years due to their medicinal properties. For instance, in traditional Chinese medicine, Reishi mushrooms have been used to promote longevity and improve health. They are often referred to as the "mushroom of immortality”.

Reishi mushrooms are known for their distinctive appearance, which includes a shiny, varnish-coated cap that can range in color from reddish-brown to black, and a kidney-shaped cap. They are believed to boost the immune system, reduce stress, improve sleep, and lessen fatigue. Reishi mushrooms contain several molecules, including triterpenoids, polysaccharides, and peptidoglycans, which may be responsible for their effects.

Reishi mushrooms aren’t typically used in cooking due to their tough texture and bitter taste. Instead, they are often used in the form of extracts, powders, or teas as a dietary supplement. Generally, Reishi mushrooms are considered safe for most people when used appropriately. However, some individuals might experience side effects such as digestive upset or allergic reactions.

Maitake Mushrooms

Maitake mushrooms, also known as "Hen of the Woods”, "Sheep's Head”, or by their scientific name Grifola frondosa, are a type of edible fungus known for their unique appearance and benefits. They are native to China, Japan, and North America and are particularly popular in traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine.

Maitake mushrooms have a distinctive frilly and clustered appearance, resembling the feathers of a fluffed-up hen, which is where one of its common names comes from. They grow at the base of trees, particularly oaks. The color varies from greyish-brown to tan. The texture is somewhat chewy, and they have a rich, earthy flavor.

Maitake mushrooms are renowned for their potential benefits such as being rich in antioxidants, Vitamins B and C, minerals, and amino acids. They are also believed to have immune-boosting properties and may help in regulating blood sugar levels and cholesterol.

Maitake can be foraged in the wild during late summer to early autumn. However, due to their popularity and medicinal value, they are also commercially cultivated, making them more widely available in markets and health food stores.

Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

Lion's Mane mushrooms, also known by their scientific name Hericium erinaceus, are large, white, shaggy mushrooms that resemble a lion's mane as they grow. Lion's Mane mushrooms are distinctive for their long, white spines that hang down like a mane. They don't have the traditional shape of a cap and stem like many other mushroom varieties. They can be cultivated on hardwood logs or sawdust-based substrates, making them accessible for mushroom growers at various scales.

Historically, in traditional Chinese medicine, Lion's Mane mushrooms have been used for their medicinal properties, particularly in supporting mental health and neurological function. Today, these mushrooms are often used in supplement form for their purported brain-boosting benefits - sharpening your focus and mental acuity, empowering you to stay sharp and attentive. They are available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and tinctures.

Chaga Mushrooms

Chaga mushrooms, scientifically known as Inonotus obliquus, are a type of fungus that grows mainly on the bark of birch trees in cold climates, such as Northern Europe, Siberia, Russia, Korea, Northern Canada, and Alaska. They are known for their distinctive appearance, resembling a clump of burnt charcoal due to the high melanin content in their outer layer, but the inside is a rusty brown color. Chaga mushrooms have even been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Russia and Northern European countries.

Regarding potential benefits, Chaga mushrooms are known primarily for immune system support, anti-inflammatory properties, and antioxidant properties.

Chaga is typically consumed in tea form, but it can also be found as a powder or in capsules. They are a bit more expensive because it takes a long time to grow back once harvested from birch trees.

Mesima Mushrooms

Mesima mushrooms, known scientifically as Phellinus linteus, are a type of medicinal mushroom used traditionally in East Asian countries like Korea, China, and Japan. They are known for their therapeutic properties and are often used in traditional medicine. The mushroom is recognized for its woody and tough texture, usually growing on mulberry trees.

Mesima mushrooms are available in various forms, including supplements and extracts. They are often used in combination with other medicinal mushrooms for enhanced effects.

Specifically, they’re recognized for their immune-modulating properties, directly having a vital role in supporting a balanced and responsive immune system.

Antrodia Mushrooms

Antrodia mushrooms, scientifically known as Antrodia camphorata, are a species of medicinal mushroom native to Taiwan. They are particularly unique because they grow only on the native tree species Cinnamomum kanehirae, commonly known as the “Taiwanese Bull Camphor” tree. Due to overharvesting and the limited availability of their host tree, Antrodia mushrooms are considered a rare and precious resource, hence making them highly sought after. Conservation efforts are ongoing to ensure their sustainability though.

Antrodia mushrooms are rich in bioactive compounds, including triterpenoids, polysaccharides, and adenosine, which are believed to contribute to their therapeutic properties. In fact, these mushrooms have been used in traditional Taiwanese medicine for centuries and are highly valued for their potential benefits such as anti-inflammatory properties and immune-boosting effects.

Explore All Types Mushrooms Here at The Calm Leaf!

At The Calm Leaf, you will find all sorts of Amanita mushroom products, since these mushrooms are legal in the United States. But even better, they supply an intoxicating high that feels euphoric, calming, creativity-enhancing, etc. Plus, all of the mushroom products we carry have undergone extensive lab-testing and are made with shrooms that’re known to be safe for human consumption.