Connect with us

Cannabis

New Magic Fungi? Lab Mishap Leads to Discovery of THC Mushroom

Published

on


Sometimes these things happen. Things don’t go as planned, and the result is actually something good, or at least interesting. Such is the case with a recent discovery that took place in light of a lab mishap. A mishap that resulted not in injury, but in the discovery of a THC producing mushroom. Read on to find out more.

Champignon mushroom basics

The most popular edible mushroom in the world today is the champignon mushroom, categorized in taxonomy as Agaricus bisporus. They go by many slang names, like ‘common mushroom’, ‘white mushroom’, ‘button mushroom’, ‘cultivated mushroom’, ‘table mushroom’, and ‘champignon mushroom.’ It’s classified as an edible mushroom, and is perfectly safe to eat.

We know them as small, white mushrooms, with nothing particularly standout about them. They usually fit in the palm of the hand, and are generally perfectly round. They’re tasty even if they don’t look special, and can be found adorning salads, in soups, on sandwiches, and with plenty of other dishes. They do come in a browner version as well, at which point they have different slang names, like: ‘Swiss brown mushroom’, ‘Roman brown mushroom’, ‘Italian brown mushroom’, ‘cremini/crimini mushroom’, ‘chestnut mushroom’, and ‘baby bella’.

NEW: Live Rosin THCA Carts. As strong as Delta-9 THC but legal…

These mushrooms are super healthy, and provide 93 kilojoules of food energy, as well as providing a great source of B vitamins, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, and phosphorus. They are also pretty common, as they are cultivated in more than 70 different countries.


Hello, thanks for joining us. You can get direct updates by signing up for the Cannadelics Weekly Newsletter. It also comes with great deals on cannabis buds, vapes & other smoking equipment, edibles, cannabinoid compounds (like HHC), amanita mushroom extracts, and a whole lot more. It’s time to get stoned, do so responsibly!


These mushrooms are specifically grown for food purposes, and contain no psychoactive properties. They are not related to either psilocybin mushrooms, or Amanita mushrooms (which contain the psychoactive compounds muscimol and ibotenic acid). At no point have these mushrooms been used to get high in any way, which makes the following incident and discovery, a rather interesting feat.

The Breakermore mushroom experiment

While the title to this experiment sounds like it could be some covert government project, it’s actually a lot more mundane than that. In fact, the whole research project is based around studying the mycelium of the fungi; which is the tangled mass of white fiber-looking material that is common to all mushrooms. Mycelium is thought to possibly be related to communication between plants, and the Breakermore experiment is simply to test this out.

Breakermore is a research center within the University of Wyoming’s Department of Botany. It received funding from the Fungi Foundation, an organization that functions globally to study and gain further knowledge on fungi in general; to test the communication ability of champignon mushrooms using their interconnected mycelium network.

What can we learn from Mycelium?

The trials were set up to assess if different stimuli could elicit a communication response. Four trials were planned. The first used a chemical spray to test if the mushrooms would warn each other about it, by spraying one and not the others. The second was similar, but used hot air to see if a communication warning signal passed. In the third trial, only some mushrooms were fed, and others not, to see if the ones which got nutrients could pass nutrients to those that didn’t. And the fourth set of trials involved picking mushrooms to see how the other unpicked mushrooms responded.

All told, the trials were set to last eight weeks, with two weeks per trial. And though for the most part the trials ran as they were supposed to, there was one little glitch, that led to one massive discovery. Mainly because of researcher Jesse Maganowitz, who inadvertently added a little something extra to the experiment.

Study glitch leads to finding THC mushroom

The thing about research trials is that they are extremely sensitive. One thing is tested, and anything that can affect it outside of the experiment, or that can possibly ruin a trial by introducing something unaccounted for, must be eliminated. In the case of the Breakermore mushroom studies, this is not exactly what happened.

Mushrooms and mycelium
Mushrooms and mycelium

In a subsequent interview after the discovery, Jesse Maganowitz explained the semi-unfortunate, and wholly-awesome discovery, and his part in it. He explained, “I know it was me, and I know I ruined the trial. Obviously I’m glad that something came out of it, or I’d probably have lost my job. Funny how things turn out.”

And it is rather funny. Maganowitz was working an early morning shift during the feeding trial, wherein one half of the mushrooms were fed, and one half left without food; with the intention of seeing if the mushrooms could communicate enough to share nutrients. “It’s like, watching mushrooms is kind of like watching paint dry,” said Maganowitz, “and in this type of research you’re sometimes looking for the most tiny little things. I admit, I was tired and a little bored.”

So, what did the junior researcher do? He took out a joint stuffed with Purple Haze weed, and lit up. “Truth is, for those trials, I was always scheduled alone in the morning, and I admit, I probably shouldn’t have been smoking weed. And certainly not by the mushrooms. It’s like, I just never thought it mattered.”

What can mushrooms teach us about growing cannabis?

But it did. And after a week and a half of blowing out smoke in the confined test room, he noticed something interesting, the mushrooms seemed to be building mycelium at a much faster rate. “I wasn’t even sure what to think,” said Maganowitz, “it was this crazy cool thing that was happening on my watch. If only I had understood why.”

It truly is a strange thing,” said research lead Dr. Dorothy Jacks, “something that hasn’t been seen before. Something that we didn’t know existed. And certainly something we weren’t looking for at the time. Even now, I’m not sure if I should be angry with Jesse for changing the focus, or excited about the discovery.”

What’s a THC mushroom?

The compound THC is found in cannabis plants to varying degrees depending on the strain of cannabis in question. It wasn’t until this experiment, that the compound was found elsewhere. “We still don’t understand it,” explained project head Antonio Barre, “we were doing one thing, and then we just changed course, looking for something else.” When asked what exactly happened, he threw his hands up in the air and exclaimed, “We somehow created a THC mushroom, which hasn’t been seen before.”

THC found in a mushroom
THC found in a mushroom

“I know I smoked several joints each day with them,” lamented Maganowitz, “I knew the mushrooms themselves wouldn’t be affected, but I never considered that the smoke, or plant material, might get into the mycelium.” And while it hasn’t been 100% confirmed that this is how it happened, it is the going theory. “It would make much more sense for it to have happened when playing with the genes, you know?” said Maganowitz. “I still don’t totally get how smoking near them embedded the THC in their genome, but it looks like it might have.”

When the extra-mycelium-producing mushrooms were dissected and investigated, the team found that all the newer fungi growing, produced small amounts of THC. “Actually pretty minimal,” explained Barre, “not enough to feel it if you ate them, but it was there. And if it can be there a little, then chances are with the right tweaking, it can be there a lot.”

When asked specifically what a ‘THC mushroom’ is, Barre explained that “it’s a regular champignon mushroom, except that it somehow produces some amount of THC. Like the cannabis plant does. We’re still checking to see if we can find other cannabinoids as well, but so far we’ve only isolated the THC.”

Psychedelics, Mushrooms, and Drugs…

THC mushrooms and the future

“The funny thing is that we’ve entered a realm with no real laws, or at least not specific to this fungi” said Jacks. I had to explain to the board of directors that we were working with THC and a mushroom, but that we didn’t actually have marijuana as part of the test. Aside from Jesse smoking, anyway.”

THC is a Schedule I substance in the DEA’s Controlled Substance list. It’s also in Schedule I of the UN’s drug treaty the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs. While it might be argued that these placements are unnecessary, they’re still there, and affect the ability to freely research the cannabis plant. “Except, of course, that’s not what we’re researching,” laughed Jacks. “We’re researching champignon mushroom communication. Making a THC mushroom was just a weird and terrific coincidence, that now means we have to explain the presence of THC.”

“Oh god, I hope they don’t add champignon mushrooms to the list of controlled substances because of me,” stated Maganowitz. “I know a lot of people won’t be happy with that one.” And while classifying the whole fungi grouping as illegal would be a pretty big, and probably unnecessary step, this new ability for a THC mushroom begs the questions, 1) How did this really happen, and 2) Where else can we grow THC?

Have you tried this new legal psychedelic tincture?

Conclusion

The Breakermore mushroom trials are still not fully completed, as all attention turned to the newly found THC mushroom conundrum. Researchers are still trying to figure out the full story, and attempting to re-create the scenario. As of yet they have not been able to get the same thing to happen again, but the already grown THC mushrooms give plenty of material for engineering more of the same. Perhaps keep your eyes out for THC mushroom products in the future.

Hello all! We appreciate you making it over to Cannadelics.com; an independent news site bringing you the best in reporting for the burgeoning cannabis and psychedelics fields. Hang out with us whenever possible to stay updated on important happenings, and sign up to the Cannadelics Weekly Newsletter, so you’re always on top of what’s going on.

Want a very strong cannabinoid? Have you tried 11-Hydroxy-THC?



Source link

Continue Reading

Cannabis

Looks Like Virginia Is The Newest Marijuana Nanny State

Published

on

By


Some politicians believe the majority of the public are confused or just smart.  They feel it is important to step in and change things.

It seems the nanny state is on the rise!  Following Florida and Texas, Virginia seems to think their citizens are “confused” about what they want and their highest elected officials need to take care of a populace unable to care for themselves. Singapore, Korea and China are big examples of nanny states, but the trend is become popular in the United States.

RELATED: Americans Are Choosing Marijuana Over Alcohol

A perfect example is around legalized marijuana. According to Pew Research Center, an overwhelming 88% of U.S. adults say either that marijuana should be legal for medical and recreational use by adults (59%) or that it should be legal for medical use only (30%). Only one-in-ten (10%) say marijuana use should not be legal.  It has become an almost $30 billion industry and a proven revenue driver for states. Consumer numbers show the stigma is gone. But some states aren’t having it.

A few states feel they are better run by parental figures who know better.  These include Florida where over 71% of the public voted for marijuana but the current Governor does everything to block it.  Not to be outdone, Texas jumped on the bandwagon.  Meanwhile, in a fact based world, the Department of Veterans Affairs changed policy for veterans so they can use medical marijuana without losing their eligibility for care and services. The change was based on science, data and need.  Despite the step forward for veterans, it seems now it looks like Virginia is the new newest marijuana nanny state.

Photo by Joe Raedle/Staff/Getty Images

In a messy fight, the Old Dominion Governor Glenn Youngkin has made it clear he has no intention of allowing legal marijuana. The tourism slogan is Virginia is for Lovers, but the top elected official is showing any for cannabis, even as some of his allies soften their stance.  No doubt there are looking at states like Missouri who are pulling in significant amount of tax revenue.

RELATED: Maine Is Getting It Right About Legal Weed While California And Others Struggle

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott doesn’t care polls reveal a majority of Texans support legalizing marijuana for medical and recreational use. Abbott stated his position has not changed beyond what he’s proposed in the past — reducing the criminal penalty for marijuana possession to a Class C misdemeanor, but not legalizing the drug.

Texas embraces his policies which include going days without power and voters in Houston votes no longer count.



Source link

Continue Reading

anxiety

What To Know About Easy Marijuana Sublinguals

Published

on

By


Sometimes you want something quick to either chill or reduce some anxiety.  If you can’t or don’t like smoking or drinking alcohol, there is an answer.  Here is what to know about marijuana sublingual strips.  They are a bit of a niche with vaping, gummies and traditional flower (joints, bowls, bongs) being more popular.  But using a sublingual strip or oil is easy, mess free and discreet.

Sublinguals refer to a type of product that is absorbed under the tongue, or sublingually. Pfizer made it mainstream in 2002 when they brought out the Listerine mouthwash strips. The cannabis industry paid attention and now you can sublingual cannabis in oil, tablets, tinctures, and rapidly dissolving strips.  The positive is they are great for a quick hit to relax, chill, manage pain, or anxiety.

RELATED: Here’s What You Should Know About CBD Canned Drinks

 

Using a sublingual is easy.  First, swallow before using to avoid the saliva from capturing the product. Swallow quickly after use can wash away the cannabinoids providing a different and likely less effective experience. Instead, after swallowing, you’ll need to hold your sublingual THC product until it dissolves. This can be done in a variety of ways, from letting it sit under the tongue to pressing it into the cheek. Once the product has been absorbed, wait up to ten more minutes before eating or drinking. This will ensure the most optimal experience.

You should start feeling the effects in about 15 – 30 minutes. Because of the way they are absorbed, sublinguals are as fast-acting as vaping or smoking, so it’s important to dose carefully.  The other good thing is there is no smell, so it can be perfect for discreet usage.

RELATED: Here’s What You Should Know About CBD Canned Drinks

Treating pain with sublingually administered cannabis extracts is preferred by many physicians, as it may be regarded as easier to obtain from the pharmacy, and to consume. Sublingual administration might also have the benefit of a more consistent dosing regimen while avoiding the adverse effects of smoking.



Source link

Continue Reading

addiction

Best Tips For A Spring Marijuana Tolerance Break

Published

on

By


 

If you use cannabis for a prolonged period of time, body becomes desensitized to its psychoactive effects. When you constantly put THC in your body, the receptors that bind to it become compromised. Think of it as giving your receptors a chance to recuperate.

Photo by Grav via Unsplash

Reducing Consumption

Does reducing consumption over a full stop make a difference? This method certainly will help, but receptors are still being activated on a semi-regular basis. Many marijuana enthusiasts prefer this halfway approach and it works for some. If you consume multiple times a day, limit it to just at the end of the evening. If used as a sleep aid, consider opting for melatonin or other remedies for a few weeks as a replacement.

RELATED: It Possible To Be Physically Addicted To Marijuana?

How long should it last

Everybody is different, but most programs last 4-6 weeks.  Taking a break for one or two days isn’t going to allow your body to adjust. THC can remain in your system for 30 days. Allowing the cannabinoid to flush through your system will do your body good. Just be careful on the first time you restart.

a simple guide to packing and smoking a bowl of marijuana
Photo by contrastaddict/Getty Images

Negative side effects

Life a caffeine holiday, you may show symptoms of irritability, moodiness of other signs of withdrawal. This can be

What if it is for medical reasons

This is a bit tricky. If you are use cannabis as medicine, it is smart to consult with the health professional who recommended it for the ailment. If you are currently consuming it as an aid in chemotherapy, PTSD, pain relief or any other serious ailment, it is key to balance the desire to medicate with the desire to lower your tolerance.

The best advice is to stay active. Go for long walks or to the gym. Releasing endorphins may assist in preventing or lessening the negative effects.

If you find this to be a difficult task, it may be a warning sign that you are becoming dependent on the drug. But try to focus on this silver lining: If you take a protracted break from cannabis, you’ll be saving yourself a chunk of change. And who couldn’t use a few extra bucks in the bank account?



Source link

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright © 2021 The Art of MaryJane Media