Mushie Mommas Usher in a New Era of Psychoactive Care

Mushrooms have been a lot of things to a lot of people: a psychedelic portal, a healing medium, a vice, an accidentally ingested substance, a Schedule I drug. Now, in 2022, people are claiming the healing narrative of mushrooms, coming together in community and collaboration to celebrate their power. We chatted with Cristina Alfonso, a sun coach in the world of mushrooms, about how these fungi can give us more than a good time.

How did you get into psychedelics, and how do they help you?

My first time ever trying psychedelics was in middle school with a classmate.  We did acid, but let’s just say that experience was unpleasant. Perhaps I was just too young and mentally unprepared. I got really into psychedelics when I heard about the clinical trials at Johns Hopkins and New York University about psilocybin helping with depression, anxiety, and alcoholism. Not that I have any of those symptoms, but I wanted to give it a try, because as you know, living in Los Angeles can be so stressful. 

I wanted to enhance my productivity, creativity, and be more in tune with my surroundings, and I read of a woman that microdosed with psilocybin for those reasons. Since I started microdosing more than two years ago, it has helped me stay focused, and I feel like my life has gotten better, mind, body, and spirit. I am more in tuned with my surroundings and, most importantly, with my family. I do want to mention that microdosing isn’t a magic fix; you MUST do the inner work, along with the medicine, for it to work. It takes time and patience. It does not take away our emotions, but it helps guide on our healing journey. The inner work can often be the most difficult, but I guarantee you, it is the most rewarding.  

Why is advocating for them important for you?

Advocating for the use of psilocybin is very important to me. Since I started guiding a community on how to microdose magic mushrooms, I learned that most of the people I was helping were on some type of prescription medicine; most were on antidepressants, and that made me even more passionate to help the community.  

Don’t get me wrong; I would never tell someone to get off their meds completely, and I always advise them to consult with their doctor/psychiatrist first. Psychedelics have shown great promise in treating mental-health conditions, and I want to be part of the voice to bring that awareness. I’m also witnessing my fellow Filipino community advocating for magic mushrooms, and I couldn’t be happier.  Mabuhay! 

What are your qualifications in the medical and psychedelic sector?

I don’t have any qualifications in the medical/psychedelic sector. I guide a community on how to microdose psilocybin only, based on my experience and massive research on how to properly use the medicine. I still believe that many need proper guidance and mental training, and that’s where psychedelic therapy from a professional comes in. I used to get very intimidated when people came to me for help or guidance, but they felt comfortable with me. I don’t charge money or anything.

I’m just happy to help my people! 

 How do you feel about legal mushrooms and their benefits?

Legal mushrooms are amazing. There are psychological benefits to taking legal mushrooms, especially the use of lion’s mane (brain food), reishi (enhancement of immune system), chaga (potent antioxidant), turkey tail, cordyceps (supports natural energy), and so many other fungi. However, they are to be used in moderation, and I strongly advise to do research based on your symptoms prior to consumption. I love stacking my microdosing regimen with cordyceps for that extra boost of energy. Total game changer!

What is the biggest barrier you see folks facing to getting help with mushrooms?

The biggest barrier I see folks facing to getting help with mushrooms is the stigma behind this amazing medicine. Truth is, there is still a stigma. There are social and legal obstacles, and because of that, some folks are afraid to resort to this natural pathway … sadly! 

How can mushrooms help marginalized folks, queer folks, women, people of color, and others who need extra help?

We need to decolonize psychedelic pharma. While I’m happy that psychedelic medicine is becoming mainstream, it may still bring inequalities to our community. We must bring awareness to where these sacred plant medicines originated from.  

What would you like to see the world of magic mushrooms look like in 10 years?

I’d like to see the world of magic mushrooms legal in 10 years (sooner I hope), so that it is easier to access. I’d like to see this replace prescription medications because I truly believe that magic mushrooms are the natural antidepressants. I do believe that 10 years from now, the world will be aware of the psychological benefits of mushrooms and their role in curing specific health issues and diseases like mental health, depression, etc. 

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

The microdosing community is not just a community: WE ARE A GROWING MOVEMENT. I am so happy to have met so many beautiful people along the way. Together we are stronger. Mush Love!