Magic mushrooms, scientifically known as psilocybin mushrooms, have piqued the interest of psychonauts for centuries, offering a unique psychedelic experience. Whether it’s the profound visuals, the altered state of consciousness, or the potential benefits for mental health, many are drawn to explore what shrooms have to offer.
The problem is that while psychedelic mushrooms are good for the mind, some of us have a harder time digesting and processing mushrooms. While many trippers have their own methods for avoiding that rough period of digestion, most use things like chocolate to avoid tripping on an empty stomach.
For those wanting a faster onset and a more intense mushroom experience, the lemon tek method has become increasingly popular, especially in the last five years.
What is the lemon tek method?
Lemon tek is a preparation method that utilizes citrus juice, predominantly lemon juice, to increase the conversion of psilocybin to feel the effects of magic mushrooms with greater intensity.
The theory suggests that the citric acid in citrus fruits, like lemons and limes, can convert the psilocybin in mushrooms into its psychoactive form, psilocin, mimicking the role of our stomach acid. This pre-conversion might lead to a quicker come up and more pronounced visuals during a mushroom trip.p.
How does lemon tekking work?
When raw mushrooms are ingested, our stomach acid works on the chitin in their cell walls to release the psychedelic compound psilocybin, which can’t be absorbed by the body, and convert it into psilocin, which the body can absorb.
By lemon tekking, the citric acid might be kickstarting this conversion before ingestion, leading to a more intense trip. This is ideal for those with sensitive stomachs who might struggle with digesting raw mushrooms and those wanting to adjust their trip duration.
Adjusting your lemon tek dosage
Because this method intensifies the experience, it’s key to adjust your dosage to stay within your comfort zone. It’s often better to buld anticipation for next time if you want to trip more versus making the decision to increase your trip once you’re already in it.
That said, experts suggest reducing your dosage to 20-25% to account for the intensity. This looks like 1.5 grams if you usually use 2. If you usually use 4 grams, adjusting the dose to 3 grams is recommended.
How to make your lemon tek
1. Ingredients and tools
- Dried mushrooms or magic truffles
- Fresh lemon juice (lime juice or juice from other citrus fruits like pineapples can be used too)
- Coffee grinder
- Shot glass or small bowl
- Cheesecloth or coffee filter
- Spoon or stirrer
2. Grinding to a fine powder
Using a coffee grinder, grind your dose of mushrooms to a very fine powder. The finer the mushroom powder, the better the citric acid can act on it.
3. Citrus juice extraction
Squeeze out fresh lemon juice sufficient to cover the mushroom powder. A general rule of thumb: one lemon for every 1-2 grams of dried mushrooms.
4. Mixing and waiting
Combine the mushroom powder and lemon juice in the shot glass or bowl. Stir well, ensuring the powder is completely soaked. Let this sit for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Filtering (Optional)
If you prefer not consuming the mushroom bits, use a cheesecloth or coffee filter to strain the liquid. This is your final step to make lemon tek.
6. Drink and prepare
Drink the mixture in one go. Given the faster come up, ensure you’re in a comfortable, safe environment, especially if it’s your first time.
Keep in mind
- Effects: The lemon tek method is believed to produce a faster onset, often within 15-30 minutes. The experience might be more intense but may have a shorter trip duration.
- Microdosing: Some psychonauts also apply the principles of lemon tek when microdosing for a quicker onset, using a low dose to not induce a full-blown psychedelic effects.
- Combining with other substances: While some combine shrooms with cannabis for enhanced effects, it’s essential to approach this with caution, especially for beginners.
- Safety and side effects: As with any psychedelic, there might be side effects. Ensure you’re in a safe space, preferably with a sober individual, to help guide the experience if needed.
- Mushroom tea: For those not keen on the sour taste of the lemon tek, mushroom tea is another popular alternative that can also offer a smoother come up and come-down.
Lemon tek offers a unique twist on the traditional method of consuming psilocybin mushrooms. With its potential for a more intense and quicker psychedelic onset, it’s found favor among many psychonauts.
However, always prioritize safety, be aware of your dosage, and ensure you’re in the right mindset and environment to maximize the benefits of your psychedelic journey.
