Ceremony with magic mushrooms, truffles or psilocybin

What is really the difference between the truffle ceremony, psilocybin ceremony or a ceremony with magic mushrooms? The answer; quite little in the Netherlands. In the Netherlands, the terms truffle ceremony, psilocybin ceremony and ceremony with magic mushrooms are often used interchangeably, and this has to do with the legal status and available resources. Truffle ceremony specifically refers to the use of magic truffles that contain psilocybin, a psychoactive substance responsible for the psychedelic effects. These truffles are legal in the Netherlands, while mushrooms containing the same substance are considered illegal. This makes the truffle ceremony an accessible option for people interested in psychedelic experiences.

The psilocybin ceremony is essentially synonymous with the truffle ceremony, as psilocybin is the active compound used in both. The purpose of these ceremonies is often therapeutic in nature, guiding participants to gain deeper insights into their psyche, break emotional blocks and experience spiritual growth.

Essentially, the differences between these ceremonies are minimal, and the choice of term often depends on personal preference or the specific context in which the ceremony is offered. What is central, however, is the intention to reap the therapeutic and spiritual benefits of psilocybin, whether through truffles or mushrooms.

What does psilocybin do?

Psilocybin is the well-known substance found in magic truffles and magic mushrooms. After ingestion, psilocybin is converted in the body to psilocin, the active form responsible for its effects on the brain. The biochemical action of psilocin is mainly related to its interaction with serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptors. These receptors are involved in the regulation of mood, perception and cognition.

 

When psilocin binds to the 5-HT2A receptors, it leads to increased stimulation of serotonergic transmission. This results in an increase in serotonin release in the synaptic cleft, affecting neuronal activity and communication in different brain regions. The changes in neurochemistry can lead to increased neuroplasticity, which promotes the ability of neurons to form new connections. This is facilitated in part by the production of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), which stimulates the growth of neural branches and dendrites.

 

The perceived effects of psilocybin are diverse and can vary depending on dosage, individual sensitivity and environmental factors. Common effects include:

 

  • Hallucinations: Users may experience visual and auditory hallucinations, where perception of reality changes.
  • Altered perception of time: The sense of time may be disturbed, so minutes may feel like hours.
  • Increased connectedness: Many users report a sense of connectedness to others and the environment, which can lead to spiritual experiences.
  • Emotional changes: Psilocybin can cause intense emotions ranging from joy and wonder to fear and confusion.
  • Introspection: users can gain deeper insights into their psyche and life experiences, which can contribute to personal growth.

 

The effects of psilocybin typically last four to six hours, and during this time users' brain activity can be similar to that of people in meditative or spiritual states.
Psilocybin ceremonies
Effect of psilocybin