At first glance, magic truffles and magic mushrooms seem completely different. They differ not only in appearance, but also in popularity, because magic mushrooms are culturally, much better known.
On the other hand, both contain psilocybin because they are part of the same organism. Despite their close relationship, they managed to obtain various legal statuses in the Netherlands.
What is the difference between truffles and Psilocybe mushrooms? What are their similarities and how do they affect our mind? Welcome to another journey to discover the mysterious properties of magical truffles and mushrooms.
Psilocybin and psilocin
The main active ingredient of both truffles and mushrooms is psilocybin. It belongs to a group of psychodysleptics commonly called hallucinogens. These are psychoactive substances that strongly affect the mood and perception of a person. Although psilocybin is commonly called a hallucinogenic substance, it does not cause hallucinations, but only changes the perception of reality.
In addition to psilocybin, the active substances of Psilocybe mushrooms are also psilocin, baeocystin and norbaeocystin.
Psilocin and psilocybin are closely related, the main difference between them is that psilocin is a psychoactive substance, while psilocybin is its inactive precursor, which in our body is converted into psilocin.
Truffles vs mushrooms – similarities
Truffles and mushrooms are part of the same, complete organism. A mushroom is nothing but a fruiting body, that is, a part of the mycelium growing above the ground, producing spores. Truffle, in turn, is the underground part, the survivalist form, which is the food reservoir of the fungus. Like magic truffles, mushrooms are rich in psilocybin and psilocin, but their content can vary depending on the species and variety.
The similarities between magic truffles and mushrooms are quite significant, because due to the content of the same active substances, they produce similar psychoactive effects.
Another important similarity is the way these two substances are consumed. Both magic truffles and psilocybin mushrooms can be eaten raw or made into an infusion. In both cases, the effects will be psychedelic, but there may be differences in dosage and duration of action.
Both magic truffles and mushrooms are used for therapeutic purposes. Studies have shown that both substances can help treat depression, anxiety and addiction. They are also safe and non-toxic to the body.
Truffles vs mushrooms – differences
One of the most important differences between magic truffles and psilocybin mushrooms is the time of action. Magic truffles usually work faster than magic mushrooms, which can be beneficial for those looking for a faster effect. Effects after eating truffles can appear after 15-30 minutes, while with the use of psilocybin mushrooms it can take up to an hour.
Another important difference is the intensity of the effects. Magic truffles are characterized by milder and subtler effects compared to psilocybin mushrooms. Truffles are carefully prepared: weighed and drained to make sure that the right amount is sold. Thanks to this, the trip with truffles is more consistent, giving a feeling of euphoria and light relaxation.
Mushrooms, in turn, can cause intense hallucinations and strong changes in mood and perception. This is due to the fact that mushrooms vary in size and have more water in them, which makes it difficult to calculate the appropriate dose of psilocybin.
An important aspect is also the duration of the effects after consumption of both substances. Psilocybin mushrooms can work up to 6 hours, while magic truffles work for about 3-4 hours. The long-term effects of mushrooms can be a challenge for some, which is why many of them prefer to eat magic truffles.
Why are magic truffles legal in some countries and psilocybin mushrooms not?
Despite similar psychoactive properties, magic truffles and psilocybin mushrooms differ in legal status. Magic truffles are legal to eat and possess in some countries, such as the Netherlands, while psilocybin mushrooms are considered banned substances worldwide.
This difference in law can be explained by the classification of magic truffles as a genus of psilocybin mushrooms with weaker psychoactive properties. They contain less of the active chemical compound psyocybin than typical psilocybin mushrooms. This allows you to use more truffles without exceeding the permissible dose of the psychoactive substance.
Magic mushrooms can also interact with other substances such as medicines, alcohol and drugs. Truffles are less sensitive to this.
Some cases of dangerous behavior by users of magic mushrooms have been reported, raising concerns about the safety of these substances. This led to the Prohibition of magic mushrooms in many countries.
Who won?
The choice between magic truffles and mushrooms depends on your preferences, experience and local recipes.
Today, throughout the Netherlands, magic truffles and homemade mushroom sets are completely legal. Whether you decide to experience a relaxing, euphoric journey with truffles, or want to try your hand at growing your own mushrooms, take a look at our shop
