Laura Smith
Mushrooms are the fleshy, spore-bearing fruiting bodies of fungi, typically produced above ground on soil or another food source. They have been consumed since prehistoric times and are used extensively in cooking, especially in Chinese, Korean, European, and Japanese cuisines. Mushrooms are also used for dyeing wool and other natural fibers, as well as in the development of new biological remediation techniques and filtration technologies. The term mushroom may refer to any gilled fungus, with or without a stem, and the most popular edible species is Agaricus bisporus, which includes white button, cremini, and portabella mushrooms. Wild mushrooms are typically foraged in the spring and fall, while cultivated mushrooms are available year-round.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | A mushroom or toadstool is the fleshy, spore-bearing fruiting body of a fungus, typically produced above ground on soil or another food source. |
| Names | Mushrooms have been referred to by various names, including "mushrom," "mushrum," "muscheron," "mousheroms," "mussheron," and "musserouns." The term toadstool generally refers to a poisonous mushroom. |
| Morphology | Mushrooms typically have a stem (stipe), a cap (pileus), and gills (lamellae) on the underside of the cap. Some mushrooms have free gills that do not extend to the top of the stalk, while others have decurrent gills that extend down the stalk. |
| Species | There are hundreds of species of edible mushrooms, with Agaricus bisporus being the most popular. Other species include oyster, shiitake, chanterelle, enoki, and lion's mane. |
| Uses | Mushrooms are commonly used in cooking, featuring in various cuisines such as Chinese, Korean, European, and Japanese. They can also be used for dyeing wool and other natural fibers, as well as in the development of new biological remediation techniques and filtration technologies. |
| Psilocybin Mushrooms | Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom containing the prodrug psilocybin. They have been used spiritually and recreationally by various cultures throughout history. |
| Health Benefits | Mushrooms are a good source of vitamin D, especially when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, either from natural sunlight or artificial sources. |
| Pesticides | While mushrooms made the 2023 "Clean 15" list, they may not always be grown organically, and several types of pesticides can be used in commercial cultivation. |
| Storage | Fresh mushrooms have a short shelf life and are best stored in a paper bag in the crisper drawer for up to 3-4 days. Dried mushrooms can be stored in a sealed container in a dry place for a year or more. |
| Cleaning | It is generally recommended to wipe mushrooms with a damp paper towel to avoid waterlogging, but some chefs suggest a quick rinse before cooking is acceptable. |
| Preparation | Mushrooms are versatile and can be cooked in various ways, including frying, braising, roasting, grilling, steaming, sautéing, or even eaten raw. They pair well with dairy, meats, eggs, vegetables, and herbs. |
| Foraging | Wild mushrooms are typically foraged in the spring and fall, depending on the variety and geography. Foraging is an important part of the cultural heritage in some regions, such as Eastern Europe. |
| Cultivation | Mushroom cultivation can be energy-intensive, requiring climate and humidity control. Oyster mushrooms, for example, require more humidity and fresh air and are grown in tubular plastic bags. |
| Outbreaks | Between 2000 and 2020, at least 49 mushroom-associated outbreaks were reported to the CDC, resulting in illnesses, hospitalizations, and, in some cases, deaths. Proper washing and handling of mushrooms are essential to prevent foodborne illnesses. |
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What You'll Learn
The history of magic mushrooms
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. The most potent species are members of the genus Psilocybe, such as P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens. However, psilocybin has also been found in several other genera, including Panaeolus, Inocybe, and Pluteus.
Magic mushrooms have a long history of use in various cultures and regions. Rock art from Tassili, Algeria, dating back to around 9000-7000 BCE, is believed to depict psychedelic mushrooms and the transformation of individuals under their influence. Similarly, prehistoric rock art near Villar del Humo in Spain suggests that Psilocybe hispanica was used in religious rituals approximately 6,000 years ago. In Mesoamerica, the hallucinogenic species of the Psilocybe genus have been traditionally used by native peoples for religious communion, divination, and healing since pre-Columbian times. For example, a statuette from around 200 CE, discovered in the Mexican state of Colima, depicts a mushroom resembling Psilocybe mexicana. This species was also reportedly served at the coronation of the Aztec ruler Moctezuma II in 1502.
In more recent times, the popularization of entheogens by figures such as R. Gordon Wasson, Timothy Leary, and Terence McKenna, led to an explosion in the use of psilocybin mushrooms worldwide. The Wassons, in particular, brought public attention to the ritual use of psychoactive mushrooms after witnessing their use in religious ceremonies in Mexico. By the early 1970s, various psilocybin mushroom species were being widely collected and cultivated, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia. This increased availability made them one of the most widely used psychedelic drugs.
Today, psilocybin mushrooms continue to be used for recreational and therapeutic purposes. Recent studies have highlighted the potential of psilocybin-containing mushrooms in treating health conditions such as depression, anxiety, compulsive disorders, and addiction. However, the evolution and ecological pressures that led to the development of these 'magic' compounds in fungi are still not fully understood and remain an active area of research.
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How psilocybin works
Psilocybin is a prodrug found in certain mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms. It is a hallucinogenic drug that has been used for recreational and spiritual purposes for thousands of years. When ingested, psilocybin converts into the psychedelic compound psilocin, inducing hallucinations and other psychological effects.
Psilocybin primarily affects the brain by interacting with serotonin receptors, specifically the serotonin 2a receptors. This interaction reduces the energy required for the brain to transition between different activity states, allowing for a more fluid and flexible brain dynamics. This effect is known as "flattening" the brain's dynamic landscape.
Research has shown that psilocybin disrupts functional connectivity in the cortex and subcortex regions of the brain, causing a desynchronization effect. This disruption leads to a decrease in communication between different areas of the brain, particularly those involved in introspection and the sense of self, known as the default mode network (DMN). Conversely, areas involved in making inferences and understanding social situations, known as the "theory of mind network" (ToMN), show increased activity in response to psilocybin.
Psilocybin has been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and drug dependence. Clinical trials have shown promising results in reducing depressive symptoms and decreasing recidivism rates. However, it is important to note that psilocybin and other hallucinogenic drugs have faced legal restrictions and negative media coverage due to concerns about their unauthorized use by the general public. Despite this, there has been a recent movement towards decriminalization and exploring their potential therapeutic benefits.
The effects of psilocybin vary depending on the species of mushroom, the dosage, and individual brain chemistry. While it has shown potential therapeutic benefits, it is essential to approach these substances with caution and under the guidance of medical professionals, as they can significantly impact the brain and psychological state.
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The evolution of magic mushrooms
Psilocybin mushrooms are believed to have first emerged around 65 million years ago, coinciding with the asteroid impact that caused a mass extinction event and marked the end of the dinosaur era. The earliest psilocybin-producing mushrooms were likely wood-decomposing fungi that later transitioned to soil-dwelling species, with some, such as Psilocybe cubensis, adapting to grow on herbivore dung. This ecological shift towards dung habitats occurred at least twice independently in their evolutionary history.
The Psilocybe genus underwent an ancient split into two distinct gene cluster patterns approximately 57 million years ago, indicating two independent acquisitions of psilocybin in its evolutionary lineage. This evolutionary divergence also corresponded to a shift in ecology. The two distinct gene orders within the gene cluster responsible for psilocybin production suggest that the synthesis of this psychoactive compound occurred through four to five horizontal gene transfers between 40 and 9 million years ago.
Psilocybin mushrooms exhibit remarkable diversity, with the largest study of the Psilocybe genus identifying 116 species. These mushrooms are distributed across all continents, with the highest species concentration in subtropical humid forests. They are particularly prevalent in Mexico, followed by Canada, the US, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. Some notable species within the Psilocybe genus include P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens, which are among the most potent magic mushroom species.
Throughout history, psilocybin mushrooms have held cultural significance. They are believed to be depicted in Stone Age rock art in Africa and Europe, and their presence is more certain in pre-Columbian sculptures and glyphs throughout the Americas. In modern times, psilocybin mushrooms have been used as recreational drugs and have been the subject of research for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating drug dependence, anxiety, and mood disorders.
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How to cultivate mushrooms
Mushrooms are the fleshy, spore-bearing fruiting bodies of fungi, typically produced above ground on soil or another food source. They require adequate moisture, proper temperature, and limited light. By replicating their natural habitat, you can cultivate various species successfully.
Inoculation:
Introducing mushroom spores or mycelium to a suitable substrate. The substrate should be materials like hardwood sawdust, straw, or wood chips, which support mycelial growth.
Colonization:
Allowing the mycelium to permeate the substrate fully.
Fruiting:
Triggering mushroom development through environmental adjustments.
Harvesting:
Collecting mature mushrooms at the optimal time.
Cultivation Containers:
Monotubs, bags, or outdoor beds, depending on your chosen method.
Safety:
When growing indoors, it is important to note that mushrooms release spores into the air as a means of reproduction. Therefore, it is advisable to grow them in a large, clear plastic tub to catch the spores and maintain humidity.
Types of Mushrooms:
There are several types of mushrooms that can be grown at home, including Lion's Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps, Chaga, Turkey Tail, Shiitake, Maitake, Oyster, Agaricus, and Tremella.
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The health benefits of mushrooms
Mushrooms are a fungus and a good source of nutrition. They are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are low in calories, sodium, and fat, and have a rich umami flavour, making them a tasty meat substitute.
Health Benefits of Mushrooms
Cancer Prevention
Studies have shown that eating just 18 grams of mushrooms (or two medium-sized mushrooms) a day may lower your risk of cancer by up to 45%. Mushrooms are a rich source of ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that prevents or slows cellular damage. In Japan, a reishi mushroom-based drug is used as part of cancer treatment.
Brain Health
Mushrooms are a natural source of fibre, which promotes gut health by feeding the "good" bacteria in the intestines. These bacteria produce neurotransmitters that promote mood stability, concentration, brain health, and mental well-being. Lion's mane mushrooms, in particular, have been shown to protect against neurological damage and promote the growth of nerve tissue, which is important for those with Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease.
Heart Health
Mushrooms are rich in potassium and low in sodium and fat, which can affect heart health by raising blood pressure. They also contain compounds that help prevent plaque buildup in blood vessels.
Weight Loss
Long- and short-term studies have found that mushrooms, in combination with exercise and other lifestyle changes, can have a positive impact on weight loss. The antioxidants in mushrooms may increase cells' defence systems, thus improving anti-inflammatory actions and protecting against obesity-related hypertension.
Bone Health
Mushrooms are one of the few non-animal sources of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium to maintain and build strong bones and teeth.
Immune Function
Mushrooms contain selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B6, which help maintain a healthy immune system. They also contain polysaccharides, their most abundant carbohydrate, which stimulates the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut.
It is important to note that while mushrooms offer a range of health benefits, not all mushrooms are edible. Some varieties are toxic and can cause mushroom poisoning, so it is important to only consume mushrooms purchased from a trusted source or supermarket.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushrooms are fungi that originate from tiny spores. They are neither plants nor animals and are unique organisms.
In the wild, mushrooms release their spores, which fall to the ground or are carried by the wind.
Commercially, spores are collected, and the resulting mycelium is propagated on sterile cereal grain to produce 'spawn'. Farmers then mix this spawn through compost ('substrate') as a way to 'seed' the mushroom crop. The substrate is placed in stacked wooden trays or beds, and the spawn is mixed in. From this point, it takes about three weeks to produce the first mushrooms for harvest.
Two types of starting material are generally used for mushroom substrate: synthetic compost consisting of wheat or rye straw, hay, crushed corn cobs, cottonseed meal, cocoa shells and gypsum, or manure-based compost made from stable bedding or poultry litter.
