The difference between mushrooms and truffles

Both truffles and magic mushrooms contain the active compound psilocybin, which is converted in the body into psilocin. This substance causes the characteristic psychedelic trip effects with mushrooms and truffles. While both magic mushrooms and truffles induce similar experiences, such as altered perception and enhanced colors, there are subtle differences.

These variations arise because the compounds present in each can slightly differ. Truffles are usually derived from the Psilocybe tampanensis fungus, whereas magic mushrooms come from Psilocybe cubensis. Magic mushrooms are often described as more intense and visually stimulating than truffles. However, since both contain the same psychedelic alkaloids, they should theoretically be equally potent. The difference in effect might be explained by the way they are sold and consumed.

What is the difference between truffles and magic mushrooms in terms of taste? Neither truffles nor magic mushrooms are particularly praised for their flavor. Both have a somewhat nutty taste, but truffles also have a sour undertone, while magic mushrooms tend to be quite bitter. Because of this, many people find truffles slightly easier to consume. Truffles are also tougher due to their low moisture content, whereas magic mushrooms are juicier and more tender, making them easier to chew.

The biggest difference between truffles and magic mushrooms is how they grow and the role they play in the fungus’s lifecycle. Magic mushrooms grow above ground, while truffles grow underground. The function of a magic mushroom is to spread fungal spores, enabling reproduction. Truffles, on the other hand, act as a storage unit for the fungus, preserving nutrients. Both truffles and magic mushrooms contribute to the survival of the fungus, which is why their active compounds are nearly identical.

Magic mushrooms are easier to harvest by hand, while truffles need to be dug up. Another difference is that magic mushrooms contain more water than truffles, making them harder to dry. Because truffles have less water, they are smaller and shrink even more as they dry.

Another key difference between truffles and magic mushrooms is legality. Truffles can be legally sold, while magic mushrooms become illegal the moment they emerge above ground. Magic mushrooms are classified as a soft drug under the Dutch Opium Act and have been banned since 2008. However, grow kits for magic mushrooms are still legal to purchase because the fungal mycelium and spores are not illegal to cultivate.

Despite the differences, truffles and magic mushrooms also share many similarities. Their effects are largely the same due to the presence of psilocybin, leading to potent psychedelic experiences. The duration and nature of their effects are also similar. Both can be dried for long-term storage, lasting years once properly dehydrated. Fresh truffles, however, have a longer shelf life than fresh magic mushrooms when vacuum-sealed, thanks to their lower moisture content.

Should you choose magic mushrooms or truffles? Magic mushrooms are not available for sale due to their illegal status—you can only grow them yourself using a cultivation kit. Truffles, on the other hand, can be easily purchased from online smart shops, available both fresh and dried for immediate consumption. However, if you have a green thumb and some patience, you can opt for a magic mushroom grow kit instead.