The first time I encountered the Great White Monster mushroom (GWM) was akin to meeting a pop star backstage. I vividly remember sitting in a dimly lit room, my heart racing as I prepared to ingest one of the most potent psilocybin strains on the market.
As I took the first bite, curiosity washed over me, followed by a sensation that felt like my neurons were hosting a rave party. Little did I know that this would spark an obsession that has since taken over my conversations, social media feeds, and personality.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- The GWM mushroom is striking and holds therapeutic potential for treating depression and anxiety.
- Increases creativity and empathy due to its neuroplastic effects on the brain.
- Prestigious institutions have shown that the active compound can improve depression and anxiety.
What is the Great White Monster Strain?
Great White Monster Mushroom (GWM) is a special strain with a somewhat murky origin story, typical for many varieties. Many believed it to have been discovered in the late 1990s, bred from the classic Psilocybe cubensis lineage. It is renowned for its broad availability and average potency (but expect higher on some strains).
Comes from more common strains like the B+ and the Puerto Rican.
Size, Colour, Shape
Caps can reach up to 10 centimetres in diameter—large, bold, and impossible to ignore. Accidental exposure to quaternary reactive ammonium siloxane developed the GWM. It is the only P. cubensis strain with albino and leucistic spores.
- Caps start with a conical shape, flattening out as they mature. Showcases a rich, creamy white colour, sometimes accented with slight bluish or grayish hues. This change is a telltale sign of psilocybin oxidation.
- Large fruits are slow to grow but prolific growers.
- Stems are around 15-20 centimetres tall.
This cross is not a true albino; instead, it is, in fact, leucistic, which means it has a partial loss in colour pigmentation.
Understanding Psilocybin
It contains the psychedelic compound psilocybin found in some species of mushrooms. When ingested, it turns into psilocin, the active form that interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, primarily the 5-HT2A.
- This leads to a series of neurochemical effects, including altered perception, enhanced emotional experiences, and shifts in consciousness.
- Users report heightened creativity, a sense of interconnectedness, and, in some cases, therapeutic breakthroughs linked to promoting neuroplasticity.
Levels Against Other Strains
Many strains average around 0.6% to 1% dry weight, but some reach 2% or more.
For context, strains like B+ and Golden Teacher have lower concentrations, which can make them more suitable for beginners. In contrast, the GWM is better for those who are ready to take a deeper dive into the psychedelic experience.
My Personal Journey with the Great White Monster
My initial experience was akin to stepping into an art gallery filled with vibrant colours and warped perspectives. On an autumn evening, I found myself in a cozy living room surrounded by friends, all excitedly whispering about the forthcoming adventure.
Armed with a gram of magic mushrooms, I prepared to ingest them, filled with anticipation and curiosity.
The earthy flavour of the meaty cap struck me as I chewed. Within about 30 minutes, it began to take hold: my senses sharpened, and the room’s colours blossomed into vibrant hues.
I felt like a painter immersed in a palette, and each stroke of experience added more depth to my perception. The laughter flowed freely, simultaneously punctuated by insights that felt monumental and hilariously trivial.
After Effects
As the effects began to wane and the visuals faded, I found myself in a reflective state. This phase, called the “afterglow,” is where psilocybin promotes neuroplasticity, which can help your brain rewire itself.
This was not just an ephemeral high but an invitation to introspection. Research backs this up: a study from Johns Hopkins University highlighted that psilocybin could lead to lasting changes in attitude, mood, and behaviour.
In the following weeks, I couldn’t stop talking about it and its effects. I shared my experience with friends, family, and even that one acquaintance who just can’t get enough of my tales.
The environment and company I had during my first encounter helped the positive outcomes I experienced. I found myself chuckling at how I had gone from the nervous newcomer to the unofficial ambassador of the strain.
I Can’t Stop Talking About It
This strain has profoundly transformed my perspective on life. I now see things differently and am committed to maintaining this positive change. I do this by reflecting on my experiences and sharing them with others.
Standout Benefits
| Clarity of Thought | Due to the compound’s action on serotonin receptors, it helps modulate mood and perception. |
| Enhanced Creativity | Lead to novel ideas I can use in my work and when working on personal creative projects. |
| Emotional Healing | Facilitate deep emotional introspection that helps me manage my anxiety. |
Meaningful Conversations and Community Connection
I’ve found that mentioning my experiences with this strain prompts others to share their stories. In a recent gathering, I casually brought it up, and suddenly, we were knee-deep in a discussion about psychedelics, personal growth, and the challenges of modern life.
One friend shared, “Talking about mushrooms feels like a secret club where everyone’s trying to figure things out together. It’s refreshing!”
It also has helped me connect with a cohort of like-minded individuals who share a passion for exploration and self-discovery. I find them through online forums, local meet-ups, or casual coffee chats.
The Science Behind
Published in February 2022 by Cureus, this narrative review highlights its resurgence in clinical trials. The study points out that it can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in recipients with terminal illnesses.
For example, in one trial, participants experienced improvements in their mood and mental well-being, which I can relate to. After my first trip, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace—a refreshing emotional reset.
Effects of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy on Major Depressive Disorder
In a randomized clinical trial published by the JAMA Psychiatry in November 2020, researchers at Johns Hopkins University investigated its effects on patients with Major Depressive Disorder. Participants who underwent therapy reported reductions in depression severity, with many achieving remission after just two sessions.
The sizes were off the charts, and I can’t help but recall how, after my own experiences, I felt lighter and more optimistic about life. It’s no wonder that 71% of participants in the study had a clinically significant response to the intervention.
Embrace the Magic of This Prolific Grower
It’s clear why I can’t stop talking about the GWM. The combination of scientific research validating its therapeutic benefits and my experiences makes this cubensis strain a marvel of nature. The shroom isn’t just a conversation starter; it’s a bridge to deeper understanding, creativity, and connection with others.
Access shroom online or join the conversation at Zoomies Canada, and let’s continue to explore the world of psychedelics together.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the cultivation of the GWM differ from other albino strains?
It thrives in a nutrient-rich substrate and prefers a temperature between 70-75°F (21-24°C) for optimal growth. The mycelium of the GWM can also be more sensitive to contamination, so it necessitates stricter sterile techniques during the inoculation process. Growers find that its fruiting bodies develop into large caps and stems compared to other albino shrooms.
What role does dosage play in the experience?
A microdose (around 0.1-0.5 grams) may enhance creativity and cognitive function without inducing hallucinations, while a moderate dose (1-3 grams) can lead to a full psychedelic experience characterized by visual distortions and profound emotional insights. Higher doses (3-5 grams or more) may induce more intense experiences, including ego dissolution and deep introspection.
Can magic mushrooms help foster better relationships?
Personally, this experience has helped me connect with like-minded individuals who are interested in hearing about my journey. It also has allowed me to develop greater empathy for others. I continue to cultivate this empathy by journaling regularly.
Disclaimer: This blog post is an account based on personal experiences. Any similarities to real individuals or events are purely coincidental.
