Chemical Composition
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| One of the most common interactions
of this mushroom is with humans. This mushroom is one of the
species that human’s use as a recreational drug, although most humans do
not realize some of the consequences of its use. Many humans do
not know that they are taking pleasure in a defense mechanism that is
suppose to stop them from eating it in the first place.
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| Gymnopilus Spectabilis is commonly known as the "Big Laughing Gym"
because it produces hallucinations. The chemicals psilocybin and
psilocin are responsible for the hallucinations that occur from
ingestion of fruiting body. These two chemical are alkaloids, which
are common in plants as a chemical defense. Therefore, they should
not be ingested because they are made to ward off predation for
successful reproduction. The effects of these chemicals is similar
to the effects of LSD, although much less potent. Another common
misconception is that everyone has roughly the same tolerance.
Everyone has different a different tolerance. One person may take .25
grams and not notice any effects, while others may take the same amount
and hallucinate. The effects of the drug vary with each user, but
there are some commonalities with use. These chemicals mainly inhibit the
neurotransmitter Serotonin. The effects of this drug are as
follows; extreme
relaxation, dilated pupils, vision/mental hallucinations, and
distortions in the sensory receptors. However, If the person's family has a past
record of depression, stress, or Schizophrenia then this
could invoke that mental illness.
In the past (1960's) research of the drug was conducted in prisons to see if it could create past feelings of guilt on the prisoner. The researchers hypothesized that the chemicals would make them realize there crimes and become have extreme regret. In short the researchers thought they would have a "bad trip" because there past experiences would surface. This research came to a halt with no conclusive evidence and showed that the drug could not cure prisoners with mental problems. Today, however, they scientist have been using small doses to try and treat Obsessive Compulsive Disorder along with some Schizophrenia. |