The Canadian market is abundant with a wide range of cubensis mushrooms, produced through crossbreeding.
While a lot of people are well-acquainted with renowned strains such as Penis Envy, Golden Teacher, and Blue Meanies, less recognized ones like the Alacabenzi strain are gaining popularity. This strain is particularly appreciated by those who seek a unique blend of subtlety and euphoria.
A Notable Mushroom Strain with Mysterious Origins and Distinct Features
The Alacabenzi mushroom strain, a hybrid renowned for its significant size and visually appealing appearance, is a popular pick for its hallucinogenic effects, as it falls under the category of psilocybin mushrooms that naturally possess psychoactive properties. It is preferred by users looking for a balanced psychoactive experience — neither too potent nor too mild.
A Brief History
This strain is the outcome of crossbreeding Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms (Alabama cubensis) with Mexican cubensis.
Psilocybes are a species widely found in tropical and subtropical regions where they thrive in cow dung and other organic matter. The Mexican variety has an extensive history in indigenous spiritual rituals. The fusion of these two strains has resulted in a mushroom known for its strong growth and significant psychoactive experiences.
The Alacabenzi Psilocybe cubensis strain incorporates the best traits from its parent strains – it’s simple to cultivate and offers a deep psychedelic journey.
Significance in Culture
Mexico is home to a diverse range of magic mushrooms that indigenous groups have used for thousands of years for visionary and spiritual interactions. The earliest documented usage of these mushrooms is traced back to the records of the Tezozomoc. The Aztec Indians of South America called them teonanacatl, which translates to “flesh of the gods,” and they were integrated into religious and healing ceremonies.
Physical Characteristics
The Psilocybe mushrooms display strong and visually attractive physical properties. They are large and produce symmetrical mushrooms.
Caps:
- They feature large, golden-brown caps that closely resemble those of the Golden Teacher variety.
- They feature a smooth surface that transitions from convex to flat as they mature.
- Remains consistent in size and shape even after undergoing the drying process.
Stems:
- Thick and sturdy, the stems provide a solid base for the caps.
- The stems are white to off-white and have a slightly fibrous texture.
- Easy to manage during both the cultivation and harvesting stages.
Gills:
- Dense and undergo a color transition from light gray to deep purple-brown.
- The spore print displays a dark purplish-brown shade.
Potency and Effects
Their potency is influenced by the substrate materials and nutrient content, with the psilocybin content and strength being impacted by the diet of the cow. The Alacabenzi magic mushroom is moderately potent, making it suitable for beginners and those preferring a more laid-back mushroom experience.
A comparison of potency levels among different strains:
| Strain | Average Total Tryptamines | Average Psilocybin Content | Average Psilocin Content | Peak Tryptamine Content |
| Penis Envy | 1.15% | 0.96% | 0.15% | 2.90% |
| Amazonian | 1.36% | 1.12% | 0.20% | 1.85% |
| Golden Teachers | 0.73% | 0.66% | 0.05% | 1.35% |
| Blue Meanies | 0.75% | 0.67% | 0.05% | 0.87% |
| Alacabenzi | 0.68% | 0.67% | 0.02% | 0.68% |
Compared to the well-known Penis Envy mushroom, it exhibits a significantly lower peak tryptamine content. It also falls behind other traditional strains from the Psilocybe cubensis family.
Physical and Psychological Effects
These magic mushrooms generate both physical and psychological effects to varying extents. Psilocybin and psilocin influence our perception, mood, and thought process by interacting with serotonin receptors. This interaction leads to feelings of joy, calmness, and a sense of spiritual unity, often accompanied by auditory hallucinations and visual phenomena.
Physical Effects:
- Dilated pupils.
- Minor increase in blood pressure and heart rate, especially at higher doses.
- A feeling of nausea
- Occasional instances of vomiting or diarrhea.
- Tremors, muscle discomfort, and a sense of imbalance.
Note: These physical effects are usually mild and do not significantly interfere with the experience. Provided you have prepared properly, you can still enjoy the psychological benefits of the strain.
Mental Effects:
- Altered perception where objects may change in size or shape, and colors can appear vivid or muted.
- Synesthesia – experiencing sounds or smells as visual impressions.
- Patterns and textures may seem to change or morph, and surfaces may seem to move or appear alive.
- Complex geometric figures like fractals or mandalas may appear to animate or pulsate.
- Moving objects may leave trailing images or afterimages.
High or Low: What’s Best for You?
For beginners, it’s safer to start with a lower dose. However, some people prefer moderate to high doses due to their relatively less intense psychedelic effects compared to other strains. Determining the right dose is crucial for a pleasurable experience.
| Dose | Weight (g) | Psilocybin (mg) | Potential Effects |
| Micro | 0.05-0.25g | 2.5mg | Mood elevationImproved focusEnhanced mental stamina |
| Low | 1mg | 10mg | JoyEnhanced sensesDisorganized thoughts |
| Medium | 1.75g | 17.5mg | Intense joyVisual DistortionsMild hallucinations |
| High | 3.5g+ | 35mg+ | Powerful euphoriaMajor visual distortionsStrong hallucinations |
It’s important to remember that the effects of psilocybin mushrooms can vary greatly depending on individual physiology, mindset, and environment. Always consume with caution and in a safe, comfortable setting.
How to Consume
Powdered or whole, psilocybin mushrooms can be mixed with food or beverages, or swallowed as capsules. To ensure the best experience, it’s recommended to consume on an empty stomach to maximize absorption and minimize potential nausea.
Remember: the effects of psilocybin mushrooms can be potent. Always start with a low dose and gradually increase based on your comfort level and experience.
Potential Risks
While psilocybin mushrooms are generally considered safe, they do come with potential risks. These include psychological distress, dangerous behavior due to impaired judgment, and potential interactions with other substances. Always consume responsibly and in a safe environment.