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THE EFFECTS OF MAGIC MUSHROOMS

When it comes to the consumption of magic mushrooms, people always ask themselves what are the effects, what amount do I need for it to affect me, will I hallucinate heavily, etc. Unfortunately, there is no given formula that we can give you that will predict this as it is quite subjective, and varies per individual. However, this article will inform those who still have doubts, about the potential effects of the Psilocybin Cubensis Mushroom species.

It is safe to say that a person’s reaction to magic mushrooms is generally dependent on the individuals psychological state, beliefs, the external environment, the species and the dosage. In the section underneath, we will go through the different effects one can experience.

Physical Effect

The physical effects consist of all the things related to a person’s body. The physical effects of mushrooms vary per person and can be either negative or positive. Underneath you will find some of the physical side effects that you could experience when taking magic mushrooms:

  • Nausea, drowsiness, tiredness and heavy limbs
  • Lack of concentration
  • Muscular relaxation
  • Increased heart rate
  • Cramps
  • Dry mouth

Although these physical effects seem negative, they do not tend to last for the whole duration of your trip. Furthermore, magic mushrooms do not cause physical dependency, unlike other drugs. The only thing you must always watch out for is eating the wrong type of mushroom as that can be physically dangerous.

Psychological Effect

The psychological effects are considered to be all the effects that are related to an individual’s mind. Once again, these effects can also be negative or positive, and they are dependent on the dosage. Here are some of the psychological effects you could experience when eating magic mushrooms:

  • Visual and auditory hallucinations
  • Enhanced colours, tracers, contrast of colours,
  • Altered perception of time and space
  • Synaesthesia – visualisation of colour upon hearing a particular sound
  • Heightened senses
  • Disorientation
  • Boost in creativity
  • Anxiety
  • Connection to environment
  • Euphoria
  • Mental Health Benefits

Long Term Effects 

The long-term effects of magic mushrooms are relatively unknown, but what is certain is that they are not associated with long-lasting physical symptoms, nor are they known for causing dependency or addiction. It must be mentioned that there can be negative effects such as HPPD, also known as Hallucinogen Persisting Perceptual Disorder. This condition causes a range of visual distortions, such as flashbacks, within a certain time frame after taking the drug.

There are also some studies that showcase the potential benefits of taking magic mushrooms. For example, there is a study that claims that high dosages of psilocybin can improve some symptoms of depression and anxiety among cancer patients. There are other studies that show that it can also help with PTSD treatment. However, this has not been proven by the large majority, so you should always research and consult a doctor or specialist for this. 

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HOW TO CHOOSE A MAGIC MUSHROOM GROW KIT

Whether it’s your first grow or you have some experience, here we will explain how to choose the right grow kit. With ten different options that all have their own unique qualities, it might be hard to choose. These mushrooms are widely varied by ease of growth, yield, and the effects of the final product.

All our products at Mondo Grow Kits are organic and locally produced in Amsterdam. They are of supreme quality, being sure to deliver a product full of the exact strain you are looking for. Furthermore, they are all ready to use out of the box, you only need to add tap water.

Some mushrooms are easier to grow than others. Getting the right temperature, consistent results, and the amount of time spent are all important and can differ from mushroom to mushroom.

The easiest grow kit to use is the Mokum. This strain is more popularly known as B+. This mushroom is not picky about its surroundings, can produce multiple flushes, and has even been reported to grow outdoors in the winter! While it is best to grow between 24℃ and 32℃, this means it can even grow at a temperature as low as 7℃. Another resilient strain is the Cambodian mushroom which has the benefit of being one of the fastest growing. Last of all, the famous Mexicana mushroom, which also grows fast and can bear temperatures from 18℃ all the way up to 27℃.

The diverse range offered by Mondo Grow Kits are also likely to yield different sizes and amounts of mushrooms. If you are a patient grower who wants a large quantity, Treasure Coast might be the strain for you. Golden Teacher might not produce the most mushrooms however it makes up for this in the size of its fruit. These big heavy fungi weigh a lot even when dried. We also recommend the Cambodian here as it is one of the fastest-growing strains, this leaves you with less time between flushes.

Besides ease of growth and yield, it is important to consider how strong the mushrooms are. If it is your first time we would highly recommend getting a weaker strain. The already mentioned Treasure Coast is a good option. While it takes a few days longer than most to colonize, these Floridians are easy to grow (growing ideally between 23℃ and 30℃) and provide a lighter effect than our other products. In 1991 ethnomycologist John W. Allen brought the Ban Hua Thanon to the West. Growing this original strain proved wild and unpredictable. Its grandchild, the Ban Hua Thai, has been perfected to grow in a constant and predictable way. While it likes warm temperatures between 28℃ and 30℃, it produces wonderful mushrooms that are not too strong. Being a little more potent than the Treasure Coast, it is also more likely to induce a visually oriented and creative time.

If it’s visuals and creativity you’re after, our best recommendation is the Red Boy. With its alluringly red spores growing at the same temperature as our Ban Hua Thai, it is even more likely to change your visual and mental perspective. For a more inwardly directed time, the Mazatapec is a good choice to stimulate your thinking. It can take a little longer to grow but this strain which has been used for thousands of years grows at a comfortable temperature between 23℃ and 30℃. Its effects are moderate, not too potent and not too weak. A last option is named after Terence Kemp McKenna, the McKenaii. It is by far our strongest mushroom. While not recommended for beginners, this one is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You are now ready to grow your very own magic mushrooms! At Mondo Grow Kits our aim is to offer you an unforgettable growing experience in as clear of a way as we can. Our passionate team and in-house doctor are ready to help you with any of your growing needs. Please do not hesitate to contact us at info@mondogrowkits.com

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THE LEGALITY OF MUSHROOMS IN THE NETHERLANDS

The Netherlands has long been a place with relaxed drug laws. It wasn’t long ago that you could walk straight into a smart shop and walk out with a box of psilocybe mushrooms.

Psilocybin and psilocin are the active ingredients in these mushrooms, they are what make these mushrooms psychoactive. Since December 2008 these two substances have been placed on the so-called ‘Opiumwet’ (or opium law). This means that their possession, and sale are illegal. Small amounts for personal use likely result in no more than their confiscation. It however also means they fall in the same category as heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. This is despite the health effects never having been proven as comparable.

If you walk into a smart shop these days you will still find some legal ways around this. Truffles (or sclerotia) are still allowed. Kits for growing your own mushrooms are still allowed as well. This strange loophole in the law exists because truffles and the spores inside grow kits are technically not mushrooms. Though these truffles, spores, and mushrooms are all related, it is only when they grow above ground or are dried that they are illegal.

How did we end up with such an unusual law? The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (shortened to RIVM in Dutch) is in charge of assessing and monitoring the risks of drugs and advising on how to regulate them. In 2000 as well as in 2007, a year before the ban, research was conducted in the medical and social risks of the increasingly popular ‘magic mushroom’. They concluded that there is no addictive potential and only a slight risk of toxicity. Flashbacks and panic attacks are noted as the most serious side effects. Though the users of these mushrooms are less coordinated, there is no proof that they are in any way more aggressive or inclined to disturb the public order. Most people enjoy themselves at home. The main risk was related to a lack of quality control in the legal market. In their report from the year 2000, it was already advised that some controls be introduced to inform the buyer of how much of what substance the product contains. Little was done with this advice.

Tourists were judged to be the main problem. From 2005 to 2007 the Amsterdam medical services were called out on 70 occasions due to the use of magic mushrooms. Out of those 63 were tourists. So why not just inform tourists better? Why not ban it or make it harder to get for tourists?

The final RIVM report came out in June of 2007. Just in March of that year, an incident came to national attention. A seventeen-year-old tourist from France had consumed some mushrooms and committed suicide by jumping off of a museum. A national debate ensued where the legality of psilocybin became a dominant topic. This led to their ban just a year and a half later. All of this occurred despite the revelation that the tourist was suffering from schizophrenia and had used more drugs than simply mushrooms.

One death is not directly attributed to psilocybe mushrooms, and they are banned. Eight years prior a national institution had already warned that consumers needed to be informed better. How could this occur not long after establishing that there are little to no health or social risks attached to this drug. Meanwhile, tobacco, alcohol, and fast food have been proven to be more disastrous yet are still readily available, in just about every single city, town, and roadside stop.

This overreaction of course reveals the deeply held stigma against psychedelic drugs. It is clear that many do not understand what they are, let alone how to help people use them safely. We hope to break such a dogma, advising you on how to stay safe and legal when exploring your own mind.

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THE STRONGEST/MOST POTENT MAGIC MUSHROOM SPECIES

With over 190 species of psilocybin mushrooms roaming around the world, many of you have probably wondered which one is the strongest of them all. The magic mushroom that takes the throne for the strongest species is without a doubt the Psilocybe Azuerecens. This species was originally discovered by Boy Scouts in the USA, and it wasn’t until Paul Stamets identified them in 1996 that they became listed as an official species.

Habitat & Distribution

These powerful mushrooms are native to the West Coast of the USA, from California to Washington state, however they can also grow naturally in other countries under the right conditions. They grow gregariously, meaning that they grow individually and sporadically, or they can grow in tight and small clusters.

The optimal environment for this species is in grassy coastal dune areas, where there is a large presence of sandy soils, as well as deciduous (decaying) wood-chip containing high lignin content. The ideal temperature for the cultivation of these mushrooms is 16-24°C, however they can withstand much lower temperatures. The cultivation period for this species in its native habitat can take up to 6 months, with the fruiting/blooming happening between September and early January (Paul Stamets). However, if you wish to grow these in other areas of the world, you must take into account that this cultivation period will differ.

Disclaimer: This cultivation period is based on its native habitat, so if you wish to grow these in Europe, you must take into account that this cultivation period can differ.

Characteristics

This beautiful species is characterized by the following:

  • UFO-shaped mushroom cap, which has a range in diameter of 3 – 10cm.
  • The mushrooms’ color ranges from light brown to dark brown, with blue marks forming as they age. 
  • A stem, also known as the stipe, ranges from 9-20 cm in length
  • Ability to withstand cold temperature ranges from -4 – 20°C
  • Outdoor cultivation
  • Bitter taste
  • High levels of psychoactive components

Potency, Effects, and Dosage

As this is the strongest species in the world, one can expect it to pack a serious punch. According to Stamets and Gartz, the species can contain up to 1.78% psilocybin, 0.38% psilocin and 0.35% baeocystin. To put this into relative terms, it is about four times the strength of the Psilocybin Cubensis species that consumers are used to consuming.

The effects of the mushroom can vary per person, but as little as one gram of dried shrooms can certainly cause heavy hallucinogenic visuals and dimensional traveling. The only potential, but very rare, side effect of consuming any dose of this mushroom species is that it can cause what is known as Wood Lovers Paralysis. This can result in a temporary loss of muscle strength for a short period of time, subsequently leading to some anxious effects.

The dosage of this species differs per person, but as a rule of thumb these are the estimated dosing levels for this species (shroomery.org):

  • Level 1 (Mild) 
  • Level 2 (Light Colours and Visuals)
  • Level 3 (Obvious Visuals) 
  • Level 4 (Strong Hallucinations)
  • Level 5 (Loss of reality) 

Legal status

The legality of this species varies per country, therefore if you wish to cultivate them it is important to know the legal status of your location.

Did you enjoy this article? Visit our other blogs. We regularly post interesting articles related to everything surrounding Mushrooms

The information provided by Mondo Grow Kits on this page is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not advocate the use of any illicit products, nor does it constitute providing medical advice or professional services. Always consult your doctor before making any decisions about healthcare.

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MONDO GROW KITS IN 4 EASY STEPS

To grow mushrooms at home all you need is a grow kit. At Mondo, we have made this process so simple, quick, and easy, that anybody can do it. In the following guide, we will show you how to get started on your first harvest.

Step One – Soak the Grow Kit

When growing your own mushrooms it is important that you keep it sterile. Be sure to disinfect the surface you work on and wash your hands with antibacterial soap. Cleaning properly will ensure that your growth does not get contaminated.

Once you have a clean space to work on, you can take out the grow kit. This contains the spores that will mature into fully grown mushrooms within a few weeks. It also contains all the nutrients they need to survive. We will only be adding water. 

Open one corner of the lid to the grow box and gently pour in cold tap water. Do this until the entire container is filled to the top. Carefully place the lid back on.

Let this soak in a cold place, such as a refrigerator, for 9 to 12 hours. A pantry or a garage typically works fine, just be sure to keep it clean. Over the next few hours, the spores in the substrate will come to life again.

Step Two – Prepare the Bag

Once you have waited for the water to soak in long enough, it is time to prepare the bag in which the mushrooms will grow these next few weeks.

Open up a corner of the lid again and drain out the water. The water can be disposed of down the sink or in a bag in the normal trash. Just be sure not to throw out any of the spores or their food! The same kit can grow many batches of mushrooms, so be sure to clean and keep the lid somewhere you remember.

Next, take the provided filter bag and pour in 150 ml of tap water. Carefully place the grow kit inside the bag, without a lid covering it. Spray some water on the inner sides of the bag to guarantee a completely moist environment. Fold the top of the bag to close it and use the clip to make sure it is securely closed. 

You should keep the mushrooms out of direct sunlight. Just a bit of indirect daylight is enough for them. The ideal growing temperature is between 23 and 27 degrees Celsius. 

Now, just wait for the mushrooms to start appearing. This might take two to four weeks.

Step Three – Let it Breathe

Once the first small mushrooms appear, it is important to let enough air in. This will help your mushrooms grow even bigger. One to three times a day open up the filter bag to let some fresh air in. This will also take the carbon dioxide out.

In just one or two more weeks you will be ready to harvest.

Step Four – Time to Harvest

By now your mushrooms should be fully grown, but how do we know that they are ready?

Once the cap, or head, of the mushroom, starts coming loose from the stem, it’s time. When the caps are almost fully open, they are ready for harvest. With a slight twist, the mushrooms can be easily plucked from the grow kit. Do not cut the mushrooms or use a tool to harvest them. 

Now that you have harvested your mushrooms, you can start the process all over again. Clean up, go back to step one, and feed your next generation of mushrooms.

* Please note, work as clean and sterile as possible every time before touching the grow kit! Clean the table and wash your hands thoroughly (ideally elbow-high and with antibacterial soap). Make sure to do so, every time you are working on your mushrooms. They’re quite sensitive and need a clean andsterilized environment to thrive in the best way possible. Make sure to use latex gloves when handling the kit at all times and, if possible, a face mask.

You need to try and avoid altering the atmosphere around them as much as possible which means don’t smoke, use deodorant or any other kind of spray product in the room that they’re in or they may become contaminated and not grow properly.

** Depending on the growing conditions and the strain, you can have several flushes.

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MICRODOSING PSILOCYBIN

WHAT IS MICRODOSING?

Microdosing is defined as the practice of administering very small quantities of a specific drug in order to test or benefit from its physiological action while minimizing undesirable side effects. When microdosing psilocybin, it is typical for the consumer to ingest one-20th to one-tenth of a recreational dose.
This is heavily dependent on the individual’s experience, as well as the strain selection. Individuals who practice microdosing don’t experience hallucinogenic highs, however they can stimulate or improve cognitive functions.

HISTORY & ORIGINS OF MICRODOSING

The history of microdosing psychoactive substances is somewhat blurry so it is difficult to state where exactly it originated. What we do know is that certain tribes, such as the Bwiti of Central Africa, have been practicing microdosing of psychoactive ingredients like the Ibogba root for centuries. Nonetheless, the modern understanding of psychoactive substances and microdosing can be attributed to Swiss chemist, Dr. Albert Hoffman. In 1938, he became the first known person to synthesize, ingest and learn of the psychedelic effects of LSD. Twenty years later he was also considered to be the first known person to isolate and synthesize the psychedelic compounds of mushrooms and truffles in 1959: Psilocybin and Psilocin.

Nevertheless, it wasn’t until the mid-1960’s when psychedelic recreational use went through the roof. The psychedelic era, which was a time of social, musical, political and artistic change, was heavily influenced by the recreational use of psychedelic substances. This choice of psychedelic substance was mainly psilocybin or LSD. However, from the 70’s to early 21st century, microdosing had decreased in popularity and seemed to have stayed relatively underground. It wasn’t until 2010 – 2015 that microdosing emerged as an increasing trend again, especially amongst Silicon Valley developers. In Silicon Valley, microdosing was often referred to as the “productivity hack” because of its ability to improve cognitive functions, such as creativity and focus. Its practicality and functionality have made microdosing the most practical and popular method of ingesting psychoactives.

Protocols for Microdosing Psilocybin
Microdosing Psilocybin can be carried out according to a variety of protocols, and it is all dependent on what your actual goal is. These 6 different regiments are based on protocols suggested by two important individuals in the field of mycology, Dr. James Fadiman and Paul Stamets. Underneath, you will find an in-depth explanation of each protocol.

  1. Fadiman Protocol

The Fadiman Protocol is considered to be the most popular and followed protocol. This was introduced by Dr James Fadiman in 2011 and it is considered to be a good starting point for beginners. This protocol uses 3-day cycles, which you have to repeat for a total of 4-8 weeks in order to see whether it is suitable for you. The exact schedule can be seen underneath

  • Day 1: Microdosing Day
  • Day 2: Transition Day
  • Day 3: Reflection Day
  • Day 4: Microdosing Day
  • Day 5: Continue Cycle

 
Once you have done this for 4-8 weeks it is important to have 2 – 4 weeks of rest before microdosing again. The only downfall of this is that the microdosing days’ change per week, so it can interfere with your day-to-day schedule.
 

2. ‘Two days a week’ Protocol

This protocol is also known as the fixed microdosing protocol because you choose 2 days on which you microdose and stick to this for 4-8 weeks

  • Day 1: Microdosing Day
  • Day 2: Transition Day
  • Day 3: Reflection Day
  • Day 4: Microdosing Day
  • Day 5: Continue Cycle

 
Once you have done this for 4-8 weeks it is important to have 2 – 4 weeks of rest before microdosing again.

3. ‘Every other day’ Protocol

This protocol was devised by the Microdosing Institute. This protocol consists of microdosing every other day. According to reports, this protocol has resulted in medical benefits for those suffering from depressive symptoms, social anxiety, ADD, migraines, cluster headaches, and a few other issues.

  • Day 1: Microdosing Day
  • Day 2: Transition Day
  • Day 3: Microdosing Day
  • Day 4: Transition Day

4. Intuitive Protocol

The purpose of this protocol is that the individual is able to decide which days they wish to microdose. However, it is important that you pause for at least one day between microdosing in order to avoid building up resistance to the psilocybin.

5. ‘Stacking Lion’s Mane’ Protocol

This protocol was developed and tested by legendary mycologist, Paul Stamets. This protocol, also known as stacking, consists of ingesting a low dose of psilocybin, a niacin flush and mushroom lion’s mane. According to Paul Stamets, this combination of substances has a positive lasting effect on the behavior and growth of brain cells. Underneath you can find the varying schedules for this protocol

Week 1:

  • Day 1-4: Microdosing Day
  • Day 5-7: Resting or Lion’s Mane only

Week 2:

  • Day 1-4: Microdosing Day
  • Day 5-7: Resting or Lion’s Mane only

 
Follow these steps for 1 month and then take a 2-4 week break in order to reset the body and brain.

6. ‘Nightcap’ Protocol


Generally speaking, individuals who are microdosing tend to ingest the dosage every 2-3 days depending on the regiment. The idea behind this is that you have a day or two in order to transition and reflect on the effects of microdosing. Furthermore, the break in between microdosing days is meant to prevent individuals from building resistance to it. The most important thing is to choose the protocol that you think is most interesting or suitable for you, and stick to it.
 
Potential Benefits

  • No physiological addiction
  • Feelings of euphoria and heightened awareness
  • Increase productivity

Potential Risks

  • Can be psychologically addictive.
  • Relatively unknown side effects
  • Can be an emotionally painful or frightening experience.

Should I microdose truffles or mushrooms?
You may all be asking yourselves which of the two is best to microdose. Well, there is no definite answer to it, but truffles are preferred by many consumers due to their Psilocybin quantity being lower. The other advantage of truffles, over other substances, is its legal/decriminalized status in the Netherlands. This makes it easier to cross paths with.

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GUIDE TO MONDO MICRODOSING PRODUCTS

1 – Pajaritos 

The Pajaritos truffles are known to be very small in size, hence why it is coined after the Spanish word for little birds. They are known to make the user social when ingesting a regular dosage. This truffle species has become a very popular choice for microdosing amongst consumers. When microdosing truffles, you should usually ingest one-tenth of what a recreational dose would be. A recreational dose for Pajaritos is 10g, therefore the recommended dose for this strain is 1 gram.

2 – Atlantis 

The Atlantis truffle is closely related to the Mexicana strain and it is known for its strong visual effect when ingesting a recreational dose. Like the Pajaritos, this strain is also very popular amongst microdosers. These are considered to be stronger than Pajaritos so the amount ingested is typically smaller. A regular dose of Atlantis is considered to be 5 grams, so when microdosing you must use 0.5g.

3 – Mexicana 

The Mexicana strain is one of the most famous strains in the world. Historically this is one of the oldest strains to date and it was used regularly in the Aztec period by Mazatec Shamans for ceremonial, ritualistic and medicinal purposes. This strain is similar to Atlantis in the sense that you only need 0.5g to microdose.

4 – Hollandia

This truffle is the Netherlands’ own product. It is bred by the largest Dutch growers of truffles, hence the name Hollandia. To microdose this strain you only need 0.5g per sitting as it is considered to be one of the strongest.

5 – Utopia

The utopia truffle, alongside the Hollandia strain, is considered to be the strongest of all the ones offered here at Mondo. What makes this strain stand out is its unique taste in comparison with other truffles. This strain is less bitter, with a milder nutty flavor to it, making it more favorable to ingest. To microdose this strain you only need 0.5g dosages.

6 – Tampanensis

The Tampanesis truffle, otherwise known as ‘Philosopher’s Stone was the first one to be discovered and cultivated commercially. It is named Philosopher Stone because of its rather insightful and reflective nature with regard to its effects. This strain is not as strong as most others so a 1g dosage is recommended for microdosing.

7 – Galindoi

The Galindoi truffle strain shares something in common with the Mexicana – they can be found and cultivated as a Psilocybin Mushroom. These have been used for centuries by South American Shamans to perform ritualistic ceremonies. A regular hallucinogenic dose is considered to be 10g, so for microdosing, 1g is sufficient.

8 – Micromex

The Micromex is a brand-new truffle strain and is a hybrid of Mexicana and Pajaritos. This strain is mainly used for microdosing and not for regular dosage. A total of 0.5g of the mushroom is recommended as a microdosing quantity.

Each pack includes:

–        A total of 10 x 1g (or 0.5 depending on strain) dosages. (These can last 2-4 weeks depending on which microdosing protocol you choose to follow)

–        4 selected microdosing protocols for you to follow – this is dependent on what you want to achieve

Disclaimer:

Every person is different and may react differently to various substances and practices.

We always advise you to practice microdosing responsibly and to pay attention to your reaction.

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MICRODOSING: BENEFITS VS CHALLENGES

Microdosing is the practice of consuming small, sub-hallucinogenic doses of a particular psychedelic substance – in this case, magic mushrooms. Over the last decade, the popularity of microdosing has increased substantially, with many individuals reporting positive experiences in online forums and pages. Although there is a lot of positivity on the topic, there is not enough scientific evidence to provide its exact benefits and challenges.

A microdosing dosage is generally considered to be a tenth of what a recreational dose would be. The dosage size is dependent on the level of experience of an individual, so for magic mushrooms this ranges from 0.1 – 0.3 grams of dried psilocybin mushrooms. The benefits and challenges range per individual and will be discussed in the section below.

Benefits

According to a study by the Harm Reduction Journal, there are a handful of benefits that are associated with microdosing. There isn’t much to know about the long-term effects it can have on individuals, but the short-term ones have been recorded by many users.

One of the most common benefits seemed to be an improved mood among individuals. This ranged from increased happiness and outlook to reduced depressive symptoms. Another advantage reported was “improved focus, with microdosers reporting improved concentration, mindfulness, and engagement”, which seems to make sense given psychedelics’ energizing nature. The last common symptom experienced by users was an outburst of creativity, such as perspective-shifting ideas, curiosity and creative thinking.

Challenges

The challenges of microdosing are somewhat broader than the benefits, in the sense that there are numerous challenges relating to the social sphere. The illegal status in many countries means that there can be consequences, such as fines, prison sentences, or social stigma. Furthermore, the uncertainty and misinformation about the dosing amount is another issue that individuals come across, especially when dealing with the substance in countries where it is illegal.

Microdosing also comes with challenges relating to your body or mental state. One of these challenges is timing. If your dosage is poorly timed in relation to your daily routine, then it can lead to cases of insomnia. Other challenges faced include stomach aches, nausea and reduced appetite. Many users have also experienced headaches or unexplained tingling sensations in parts of the body, which causes some discomfort.

It is extremely difficult to define the exact benefits and challenges of microdosing as there is a lack of scientific research, and it differs per individual. What we can agree on is that there are many individuals who have benefited from microdosing in the short term, with a large proportion of them experiencing improved mood behavior and creative outbursts. However, it must also be mentioned that there are some challenges related to the social sphere as well as the health sphere, such as its long-term risk for chronic users. As a result of these uncertainties and lack of information, the scientific community has developed a heavy interest in researching psychedelics, with more and more reports appearing as time goes by.

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A GUIDE TO DIFFERENT MUSHROOM STRAINS

This article will serve as a guide to inform readers about the variety of Psilocybe Cubensis trains available at Mondo. The article will include a bit of background information such as potency, ease of growth, appearance, etc. The article focuses on the Psilocybe Cubensis strains as they are the most popular, readily accessible and easiest to grow.

Amazonian

These mushrooms are known as the Psilocybe Cubensis PES Amazonian (Pacific Exotica Spora Amazonian), and they were originally discovered and sold by a company called Pacific Spora. The exact location where they were discovered is unknown, but it is certain that they were most probably found somewhere in the Amazon Jungle (hence the name). These mushrooms are known to produce large and fleshy fruiting bodies, ranging from 15 – 30 cm. They are quite potent mushrooms and are known to generally give quite intense visuals.

Mokum

The Mokum strain, also known as Psilocybe Cubensis B+, is one of the most versatile cubensis strains. It can adapt and grow in a very wide range of temperatures and substrate conditions, making it a consumer favorite. There have been reports of the fruiting happening in temperatures as low as 7 Celsius and in temperatures as high as 37 Celsius. Its versatility, ease of growth, and mid-potency range have made it one of the best-selling strains since the 90s.

Golden Teacher

This strain is one of the most well-known and robust mushroom strains in the world. It was first discovered in a pile of dung on a farm in the state of Georgia, USA. They are known for having a very thick caramel-colored stem, and for their incredibly large fruiting bodies. This strain does not form as many fruits as other strains, but their sheer size and potency compensate for this. These are considered one of the more potent strains so it is recommended for advanced consumers. 

Mc Kennaii

This strain is named after the infamous American ethnobotanist and author, Terence McKenna. However, there is no evidence that it was developed by McKenna himself, and it is likely that it was called this in honor of the legend himself. This strain is known for its incredibly strong highs, with a rollercoaster of visual effects and possible hallucinations. This strain is not recommended for beginners – strains such as Golden Teacher and Mokum are more suitable.

Mazatapec

The Mazatapec mushroom was first collected by the Mazatec Shamans in the area of Huautla Jiménez in Mexico. This strain is endemic to that region of Mexico and has been cultivated and used for thousands of years by the indigenous population for shamanic rituals. The strain grows in beautiful and fruitful flushes; however, it requires more patience than other strains. Its ideal temperature range for cultivation is between 23-30 degrees Celsius. This incredibly old strain is quite mild in terms of visuals and potency so it is very suitable for novices.

Mexican

This Mexican strain is one of the easiest to grow and most popular mushrooms in the world. It is a 3rd generation strain derived from the same strain as the Mazatapec mushroom. This strain was also used by the indigenous Mazatec population to perform a variety of healing ceremonies. These mushrooms grow faster and produce a higher yield, than the Mazatapec. The growing conditions are also somewhat more flexible, with ideal cultivation temperatures ranging from 18-27 degrees Celsius. This strain is very suitable for beginners due to its ease of growth and potency levels.   

Ban Hua Thai

This mushroom is endemic to Thailand and is a common part of Thai culture, especially in smoothies and milkshakes. It was discovered in the 1990s & brought back to western civilization by John Allen, who is quite the renowned explorer & ethno-mycologist. They are known for producing tall and thin stems, with beautiful small brown mushroom caps. According to reports, the original strain was known to have very wild growth, producing unpredictable flush results. However, the current Ban Hua Thai is a third-generation strain, which has been developed to deliver very stable flushes. This particular Thai strain has medium to strong potency and is suitable for novice cultivators/growers.

Cambodian

This species is known to grow around the Angor Wat Temple in Cambodia, which is the largest religious structure by land mass. This species, like the Ban Hua Thai, was discovered by John W. Allen. This strain is super easy to grow, due to its robust characteristics and its fast colonization and fruiting rate. This strain has a medium potency and is therefore very suitable for novices.

Red Boy

The Red Boy Mushroom strain was first believed to be a completely new strain, but after some thorough inspection, it was established that it originated from the PF strain. The PF strain is a popular 90s strain known as the Psilocybe Fanaticus, which was thought to be extinct. The unique trait of these mushrooms is their red spores, large stems, and fleshy round caps. The ideal temperature for colonisation and cultivation is 28-30 degrees Celsius making it a bit harder to grow, so patience is needed. They are very strong visually and harder to grow, so it is more suitable for non-beginners.

Treasure Coast

This strain is named after Florida’s Treasure Coast, a beautiful region on the East Coast of the USA. This mushroom strain was allegedly discovered in that region, growing in bovine and equine dung. However, like most stories, it should be taken with a pinch of salt. These shrooms are very easy to cultivate but require some patience. It can take up to 3 weeks to colonize, but you are guaranteed a high-yielding result. Being from Florida, this strain needs warmer temperatures to fruit, 23-30 degrees Celsius. They are very suitable for beginners due to their low ranking for visual effects, as well as overall potency.

Hawaii

This strain is one that was also originally distributed by the spore retailer Pacifica Spora, just like the Amazonian species. Although it is called Hawaii, the species is not native to the Hawaiian Islands. These mushrooms share very similar appearances to the Golden Teacher strain but are less potent. The Hawaii strain has caramel-colored mushroom caps with distinct red discolorations in the center. Its colonization time is very fast, often giving off fruits within 13 days. This strain is of medium potency and easy to cultivate, making it quite popular amongst advanced beginners and competent consumers.

Learn more about how your brain reacts to Mushrooms in our post titled ”Your Brain On Psilocybin”.

Did you enjoy this article? Visit our other blogs. We regularly post interesting articles related to everything surrounding Mushrooms

The information provided by Mondo Grow Kits on this page is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not advocate the use of any illicit products, nor does it constitute providing medical advice or professional services. Always consult your doctor before making any decisions about healthcare.

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EASIEST MUSHROOMS TO GROW

If you have recently developed an interest in magic mushrooms and want to grow your own, then you have come to the right place!

There are 180+ varieties of magic mushrooms, of which, the most popular and easiest to grow at home is the Psilocybe cubensis. The easiest growing technique for mushrooms is using one of our Mycelium grow kits because the spores have already colonized the substrate.

We have narrowed this list down to 4 strains that we think are the easiest to grow based on our own trials and feedback from our growing community.

B+ Cubensis

The B+ is considered to be one of the most versatile Cubensis strains due to the fact that it can adapt and grow in a very wide range of temperatures and substrate conditions. This has made the strain a fan-favorite and one of the best-sellers since the early 90s. It’s ability to fruit in a wide range of temperatures, as low as 7°C and high as 37°C, makes it easier to grow than other species.

When cultivating at home, it is easy to store them in adequate conditions. Ideally out of direct sunlight and somewhere at room temperature. This species produces multiple flushes, with the first one being quite fruitful. There have been reports of fruits as large as 35cm in length, with the average being 15-20cm. Its versatility, ease of growth and mid-potency range make this a mushroom that is accessible to all levels of growers, enthusiasts, and consumers.

Cambodian

This species is endemic to Cambodia and was first discovered around the Angor Wat Temple, the largest religious temple in the world. This mushroom is very easy to grow at home and you will see results very quickly. The colonization time is very rapid and the total grow time, from inoculating the substrate to harvesting, can take as little as 3 weeks. Another perk of this strain is that it can also be grown using other growing methods, such as PK Tek.

The Cambodian mushroom is very robust and quickly grows thick white stems and brown frayed mushroom caps. Although this is an easy strain to grow, optimal growing conditions are between 27°C – 30°C, so it may not be the most suitable for colder climates.

Golden Teacher

Not much is known about the origin of the Golden Teacher, but what is certain is that it is one of the most alluring and mystical mushrooms of them all. The mushroom stems are caramel/ochre in color and grow to be quite thin and long. The caps of the mushrooms are large and golden, with distinct yellow speckles on them.

The Golden Teacher’s are easy to grow, but don’t really produce as many mushrooms as other strains. However, the lack in harvest volume is compensated by the size of the mushrooms itself. When dried, the fruits of the strain are much larger than those of other strains, making it a deceivingly strong mushroom.  

Mexican

The Mexicana strain is one of the oldest and most famous mushroom strains to be documented. This mushroom species has been documented for well over 2000 years and has been used by Mazatec Shamans for ritualistic purposes. Their rate of growth is much faster than other strains, and they tend to yield beautiful and healthy harvests.

This strain can adapt to a large temperature range, 18 – 27 degrees Celsius, making it easy to grow all year round. The mushrooms have caps of 0.5 – 3 cm in diameter, with long white fleshy stalks that can grow up to 20cm. Its ease of harvest, low potency, and large fruitful yields make it perfect for beginners. 

Conclusion

The aforementioned mushrooms are just some of the easy grow kits on offer here. However, there are many more strains that are easy to grow at home, so if you are interested in finding out more about these, check out the rest of our grow kits.

Did you enjoy this article? Visit our other blogs. We regularly post interesting articles related to everything surrounding Mushrooms

The information provided by Mondo Grow Kits on this page is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not advocate the use of any illicit products, nor does it constitute providing medical advice or professional services. Always consult your doctor before making any decisions about healthcare.