The rich, decadent and evocative flavors of chocolate have left an indelible mark on human culture. Likewise, the mind-bending, medicinal properties of mushrooms have prompted creative chocolate connoisseurs to combine the two for a new wave of mushroom-infused candy: Mushroom Chocolate Bars.
Psychedelic mushrooms, or shrooms, are cultivated mushrooms that contain a hallucinogenic compound called psilocybin. When ingested, psilocybin is converted in the body to psilocin, which creates a hallucinogenic experience that can last up to six hours. It may cause a variety of physical and psychological side effects including nausea, vomiting, distorted perception, and a loss of control.
In many cases, the effects of psilocybin are difficult to predict and often depend on how much is ingested. This makes it easy for users to try and experiment with different recipes to see how they feel.
Mushroom chocolate is a popular psychedelic-infused treat that allows consumers to control the amount of psilocybin they take in. These chocolate bars can be purchased in the form of bite-sized pieces, so they’re easy to consume while still maintaining a consistent dose.
These chocolates are made with a combination of cacao and powdered mushrooms such as lion’s mane, cordyceps, chaga, turkey tail, and reishi. These functional mushroom edibles have been known to elevate immune and brain function, reduce anxiety, lower inflammation, and promote calmness.
Some of these mushrooms are also a good source of B vitamins, fiber and antioxidants. They’re a healthier alternative to sugar, says Mycotechnology’s CEO, Alan Hahn.
The company has a dark chocolate bar that has had 66% of its sugar replaced with mushrooms, according to Business Insider. The product, which is also available in milk chocolate and white chocolate, is a great option for those who want to cut back on their sugar intake.
Moksha Chocolate, an artisan chocolate shop and bean-to-bar factory in Boulder, Colorado, is making it easy to enjoy the healing benefits of mushrooms while still eating chocolate. Their chocolate is dairy-free, nut-free, gluten-free, and made with minimal, transparently sourced ingredients.
Woodland Mushroom Hot Chocolate Super Adaptogenic Blend, $24 for a 4oz bar; $16 for a 5oz bar
These deluxe chocolate bars contain 500mg of mushroom powders in each square and are designed to boost immunity, enhance cognition and reduce inflammation. The organic whole fruiting mushroom bodies are blended with cocoa or carob to provide a creamy texture, and lightly sweetened with coconut sugar for those following a paleo diet. mushroom chocolate bars