Lion’s Mane Mushroom aka (Hericium erinaceus) was traditionally used as a tea to help Buddhist monks enter deep states of meditation. Modern science has shown that Lion’s Mane increases a neurological compound called “nerve growth factor”. NGF plays an important role in the development, maintenance, proliferation, and survival of nerve cells (neurons). It is a key component of “neuroplasticity” the fascinating ability of the human brain to grow, adapt and change as a result of learning and new experience.
Magic mushrooms aka (Psilocybe azurescens and others) have been used in various spiritual and religious ceremonies throughout history. The ancient Greeks referred to the consumption of magic mushrooms as “being in the presence of the gods”. Psilocybin, the active component in magic mushrooms, breaks down to a compound very similar to serotonin. Studies conducted on the effects of psilocybin have revealed that psilocybin increases communication between the left and right hemispheres, which may partly explain the distinctive insights that people experience when taking psilocybin.
Deep meditative states are best achieved by the simple but not always straightforward process of dedicated daily practice. However, life today has more distractions than ever before. Any edge that can help one reach deeper meditative states more quickly is worth exploring. For many, the most obvious benefit to Lion’s Mane vs. Magic Mushrooms is the legality. Lion’s Mane can be purchased from just about any website that sells supplements. Magic mushrooms are not legal in many parts of the world.
Legality aside, magic mushrooms are sometimes used to increase meditative states. There may be some merit to this, but I don’t recommend it. For many users, their first experience on magic mushrooms is one of love and oneness with themselves and others, hence why they are often referred to as a “sacred medicine.” However, for some people, this initial sense of bliss and love doesn’t last, and they end up feeling anxious or paranoid instead of having a pleasant experience. This could also be a great teacher in its way, but it may be a hindrance to meditation rather than a help. It is difficult to distinguish between the effects that come from an altered state of consciousness versus those coming from your meditative practice.
- Lion’s Mane enhances, augments, and deepens the meditative state by increasing neuroplasticity. In this way, the “skill” of meditation may be learned faster. Lion’s Mane also seems to reduce amyloid plaques. These clumps of beta-amyloid proteins impede signals from neurons. Not only are they are connected with Alzheimer’s disease and other degenerative ailments, but impeded signals could also cause a lack of ability to reach deep meditative states.
- Magic mushrooms augment serotonin and enhance the communication between the two hemispheres. In high doses, they add an additional layer that may make meditation difficult or impossible. Lower doses (also known as “microdosing” may be beneficial but this can be difficult to gauge and control.
- Lion’s mane mushrooms are legal everywhere, to my knowledge.
- Magic mushrooms are not legal in many locales.
In conclusion, lion’s mane mushrooms may have a higher chance of producing meditation benefits. This time around, it looks like the lions might have the upper paw in the quest for self-growth and enlightenment.
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