Michael Davis
Mushrooms that grow on cow dung, often referred to as magic mushrooms, are a source of curiosity and intrigue for many. While some mushrooms found in cow dung are edible and safe to eat, others are poisonous, hallucinogenic, or both. It is important to exercise caution and ensure proper identification before consuming any wild mushrooms. Psilocybe cubensis and Panaeolus cyanescens are examples of hallucinogenic mushrooms that can be found in cow patties and should be avoided unless properly identified and handled. Psilocybin mushrooms have been used for thousands of years by indigenous peoples for medicinal and spiritual purposes, and while they can induce hallucinogenic effects, they are also being studied for their potential effectiveness in treating depression and eating disorders.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Golden top, Golden top, Gold cap, Sacred mushroom, Blue mushroom, San Ysidro, Palenque mushroom, Magic mushroom, Golden teacher, Hed keequai |
| Scientific name | Psilocybe cubensis |
| Found on | Cow dung, Horse dung, Water buffalo dung, Sugar cane mulch, Rich pasture soil |
| Locations | Australia, Asia, Zimbabwe, Wedza District of Mashonaland East province, United States, Mexico, Brazil, South Africa, Thailand |
| Hallucinogenic | Yes |
| Edible | Yes |
| Safe to eat | Yes, when properly prepared |
| Related species | Panaeolus cyanescens, Panaeolus antillarum |
| Use cases | Medicinal, Spiritual, Religious, Recreational |
| Effects | Hallucinogenic visions, Altered states of consciousness, Pyrogenic effect |
| Duration of effects | 1-8 hours |
| Use in history | Mayan civilization, Indian peoples of Central and South America, Mexico |
| Legal status | Not illegal in Florida, as of 1978 |
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What You'll Learn
Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms are hallucinogenic
Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms, commonly known as "magic mushrooms", are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom. They are polyphyletic informal groups of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. The mushrooms are often consumed fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. They can also be crushed into a powder and prepared in capsule form, or covered in chocolate.
Psilocybe cubensis is found on cow (and occasionally horse) dung, sugar cane mulch, or rich pasture soil. They grow naturally in tropical and subtropical conditions, often near cattle due to the ideal conditions provided for the growth of the fungus. The cow usually consumes grass or grains covered with the spores of P. cubensis, and the fungus germinates within the dung. The mushrooms appear from February to December in the northern hemisphere and November to April in the southern hemisphere.
Psilocybin mushrooms are hallucinogenic and can cause a variety of effects, ranging from euphoria to hallucinations. They can also distort how some people perceive objects and people in their environment. The hallucinogenic effects usually last between four and eight hours, although some sources quote times as short as one hour. The effects of psilocybin ingestion include hallucinogenic visions, altered states of consciousness, and a pronounced pyrogenic effect.
The dosage of psilocybin-containing mushrooms depends on the psilocybin and psilocin content, which can vary significantly between and within the same species. Psilocybe cubensis, the most popular species, has been reported to contain 0.63% psilocybin and 0.6% psilocin, or about 1.2% of both combined. However, there is significant variation in different strains of P. cubensis. The 'Penis Envy' strain of P. cubensis is considered to be more potent than other strains.
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They are also known as magic mushrooms
While mushrooms that grow on cow dung can be hallucinogenic, not all of them have such properties. The hallucinogenic mushrooms that can be found in cow dung include Psilocybe cubensis and Panaeolus cyanescens. These mushrooms are also referred to as "magic mushrooms".
Psilocybe cubensis is commonly known as "gold top", "golden top", or "gold cap" in Australia, "sacred mushroom" or "blue mushroom" in Brazil, and "San Ysidro" or "Palenque mushroom" in the United States and Mexico. The term "magic mushroom" is often used to refer to hallucinogenic mushrooms in general. In South Africa, Psilocybe cubensis is known as the "Golden teacher".
Psilocybe cubensis is intimately associated with cattle ranching and is commonly found growing on cow dung. The cow usually consumes grass covered with the spores of Psilocybe cubensis, and the fungus begins to grow in the dung. This species is relatively easy to cultivate indoors. Psilocybe cubensis has been used by indigenous peoples in medicinal or spiritual contexts for thousands of years. It was also used by the Mayan civilisation dating back to more than 1000 BC.
Psilocybin mushrooms, including those found in cow dung, can cause hallucinogenic effects when ingested. These effects usually last six to eight hours, but some sources quote times as short as one hour. The effects of ingesting these mushrooms include hallucinogenic visions, altered states of consciousness, and a pronounced pyrogenic effect. It is important to note that the consumption of psilocybin mushrooms can lead to mushroom poisoning, and proper identification before consumption is crucial.
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They grow on cow dung
Mushrooms that grow on cow dung, also known as cow patties, can be either hallucinogenic or non-hallucinogenic. While it is true that some psychedelic mushroom species can be found growing in cow manure, not all mushrooms that grow in such an environment have hallucinogenic properties.
Among the mushrooms that grow in cow dung, there are notable species known for their hallucinogenic qualities. Several species of psilocybin mushrooms, often referred to as "magic mushrooms," are the most well-known examples. Psilocybe cubensis, commonly known as "gold top," "golden top," or "gold cap" in Australia, is a species of hallucinogenic mushroom that is commonly found growing on cow dung. In Asia, this species grows on water buffalo dung. Along with other fungi that grow on cow dung, P. cubensis is thought to have colonized Australia with the introduction of cattle.
Cow dung provides a nutrient-rich substrate that supports the growth of various mushroom species, including both edible and non-edible varieties. Edible mushrooms like the Agaricus campestris (Field Mushroom) and Coprinus comatus (Shaggy Mane) can be found growing in cow dung and are generally safe for consumption when properly prepared. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and ensure proper identification before consuming any wild mushrooms, as some species are either poisonous, hallucinogenic, or both.
Most psychoactive mushrooms exhibit blue bruising. Mushrooms that grow on cow dung may pose potential risks if consumed without proper knowledge and identification. It is important to recognize that the anticholinergic effects of mushroom poisoning may be delayed for up to 6 hours and can be life-threatening.
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They are not illegal to possess in Florida
A quick online search reveals that mushrooms that grow on cow dung, often referred to as "cow shit mushrooms," are not explicitly mentioned in Florida's controlled substances laws. While some mushrooms containing psilocybin are illegal to possess, the specific type matters. The legality of these mushrooms varies from state to state, and it's important to understand the specific regulations in your location. In the context of Florida, there doesn't appear to be any specific prohibition against possessing cow shit mushrooms. Here are a few key points to consider regarding the legality of possessing cow shit mushrooms in Florida:
- Florida's Controlled Substances Act: This piece of legislation outlines the drugs that are illegal to possess, manufacture, or distribute within the state. While it includes certain types of hallucinogenic mushrooms containing psilocybin, it does not specifically mention mushrooms that grow on cow dung or "cow shit mushrooms." The absence of specific mention suggests that these mushrooms may not be prohibited.
- Lack of Precedent and Specific Language: In legal terms, the absence of specific language prohibiting cow shit mushrooms as a controlled substance is significant. This indicates that there is no legal precedent or specific regulation in Florida that directly addresses the possession of these mushrooms.
- Personal Use and Intent: It's important to note that the context of possession matters. If you are found to be in possession of cow shit mushrooms for personal use, it is unlikely that you would face legal repercussions. However, if there is evidence of intent to distribute or sell these mushrooms, the legal interpretation may change.
- Misidentification and Similarity: Cow shit mushrooms can sometimes resemble other illegal mushrooms that contain psilocybin. Proper identification is crucial, as possessing illegal mushrooms could result in legal consequences. If you are unsure about the type of mushroom you have found or its legal status, it is best to err on the side of caution and consult a mycology expert or legal professional.
- Local Ordinances and Updates: While cow shit mushrooms may not be illegal to possess in Florida at the state level, it's always a good idea to check local ordinances and stay updated on any changes in legislation. Sometimes, specific counties or municipalities may have their own regulations regarding substances, including mushrooms.
In summary, based on the information retrieved from the online search, cow shit mushrooms do not appear to be illegal to possess in Florida. However, it is essential to stay informed about the latest legal developments and consult reliable sources or experts if you have any doubts or concerns regarding the legality of any substance.
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They have been used for thousands of years in religious rituals
While mushrooms that grow on cow dung can be hallucinogenic, not all of them have psychoactive properties. The hallucinogenic species are often referred to as "magic mushrooms". They are considered sacred and have been used for thousands of years in religious rituals and practices, as well as for predicting the future and divination.
The Mayan civilisation, dating back to more than 1000 BC, used psilocybin mushrooms, which were also considered sacred mushrooms by the indigenous peoples of Central and South America. In Mexico, the use of these mushrooms and morning glory seeds (ergine and isoergine) still persists in some parts for rituals and healing.
The Indian peoples of Central and South America also used naturally occurring psychoactive plants as part of their religious rituals and practices. These hallucinogenic mushrooms, when ingested, can cause altered states of consciousness and hallucinogenic visions. They have also been used as a food additive, a tea, or a drink additive.
Psilocybe cubensis is one of the most well-known hallucinogenic mushrooms found on cow dung. It is commonly known as the "gold top", "golden top", or "gold cap" in Australia, the "sacred mushroom" or "blue mushroom" in Brazil, and the "San Ysidro" or "Palenque mushroom" in the United States and Mexico. The term "magic mushroom" is often used to refer to any hallucinogenic mushroom.
It is important to note that not all mushrooms that grow on cow dung are safe for consumption. While some are edible and generally safe, such as the Agaricus campestris (Field Mushroom) and Coprinus comatus (Shaggy Mane), others are poisonous or hallucinogenic, such as Psilocybe cubensis and Panaeolus cyanescens. Proper identification and expertise are crucial before consuming any wild mushrooms.
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Frequently asked questions
No, while some mushrooms found in cow dung are hallucinogenic, others are either non-hallucinogenic, poisonous, or edible.
Psilocybe cubensis and Panaeolus cyanescens are hallucinogenic mushrooms that can be found growing on cow dung.
Agaricus campestris (Field Mushroom) and Coprinus comatus (Shaggy Mane) are non-hallucinogenic mushrooms that can be found growing in cow dung.
The effects of consuming hallucinogenic mushrooms include hallucinogenic visions, altered states of consciousness, and a pronounced pyrogenic effect.
