58. Psilocybin Mushroom Strains: What Women Need to Know About Varieties, Effects, and Origins

What’s in a strain? More than you might think. In this foundational episode of The High Guide, April Pride unpacks the fuzzy—and fascinating—world of psilocybin mushroom strains. From the origin of the word “strain” to the real differences between varieties like Golden Teacher and Ecuador, this conversation sets the stage for the rest of the season. You’ll learn how mushroom genetics compare to cannabis and wine, what to look for on a dispensary menu, and why the term “strain” isn’t always the most accurate—but still sticks. Perfect for beginners and returning psychonauts alike, this episode empowers curious women with the language and lens to guide their next high.

🔵 Key Takeaways

-Strain = Subtype: In both microbiology and cannabis, a “strain” refers to a genetically distinct version of a species—and psilocybin mushrooms follow suit.

-Landrace = Ancestral: Most modern mushroom and cannabis strains descend from landrace genetics originating in places like Africa, Mexico, and Central America.

-Variety vs. Strain: While “strain” is common in therapeutic and recreational use, “variety” is often used in scientific mycology. Both refer to differences in appearance, potency, and effect.

-Know Your Intentions: Some mushroom varieties are better suited for introspection, while others may support creativity or emotional release.

-Coming Soon: Each episode this season will spotlight one specific strain—its origin, use case, effects, and trip tips.

Learn more about this episode, including guests and resources on substack:https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/psilocybin-mushroom-strains-explained

Hosted by April Pride

Sign up for April’s newsletter on Substack at https://aprilpride.substack.com/ or at getsetset.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube.com/@getsetset⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ / X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@getsetset

Get full access to SetSet with April Pride at aprilpride.substack.com/subscribe