Emily Johnson
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. They are typically consumed for their mind-altering effects, which can include visual and auditory hallucinations, emotional changes, and an altered perception of time and space. Magic mushrooms are often eaten fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea, and their effects can last from three to eight hours, depending on dosage, preparation method, and personal metabolism. Interestingly, magic mushrooms are known to turn blue when cut or bruised, and this colour change is due to a complex mixture of linked psilocybin oxidation products, primarily composed of quinoid psilocyl oligomers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Magic mushrooms, shrooms, mushies, blue meanies, golden tops, liberty caps |
| Scientific name | Psilocybe |
| Color | Turns blue when cut, bruised, or aged; indigo-like polymers |
| Effects | Hallucinations, altered perception of time and space, pupil dilation, increased heart rate, change in mood, overresponsive reflexes, synesthesia |
| Duration of effects | 3–8 hours, with the first 3–4 hours being the 'peak' |
| Legality | Illegal in Australia, the US (except in some states), and many European countries; legal in Jamaica and Brazil; decriminalized in Portugal, Oregon, and Colorado |
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What You'll Learn
Magic mushrooms turn blue when cut or bruised
Magic mushrooms, or Psilocybe, are fungi that produce the psychotropic compounds psilocybin and psilocin. They are one of several species that instantly develop a blue coloration when they are cut or bruised. This phenomenon is known as "bluing".
The mystery of why magic mushrooms turn blue has puzzled scientists for decades. While the mechanism that causes bluing in some mushrooms was known, the bluing of psychedelic mushrooms that contain psilocybin remained elusive. Chemists have now unravelled this mystery, revealing that the dark blue pigments are similar to indigo, the dye used to produce blue jeans.
The blue pigments are not just a single compound but a complex mixture of linked psilocybin oxidation products. Most of them are quinoid psilocyl oligomers – compounds similar to indigo. All of the six mushroom pigments identified are products of a cascade reaction starting with psilocybin. A phosphatase enzyme removes its phosphate group, converting it into psilocin. An oxidising laccase then creates psilocyl radicals, which combine to form C-5 coupled subunits and then further polymerise via C-7.
The phosphatase PsiP and the laccase PsiL degrade psilocybin and initiate bluing. MALDI-MS and in situ NMR spectroscopy show that the blue colour is due to a mixture of quinoid psilocyl oligomers, primarily coupled via carbon 5. The presence of reducing agents, such as sodium dithionite, has been shown to discolour the blue matter, which is reversible upon re-oxidation.
The ecological function of the blue pigments remains a mystery. However, it has been hypothesised that they may serve a protective role, acting as an on-demand repellent against predators. The compounds may produce reactive oxygen species, which are toxic to insects nibbling on the mushrooms.
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They are also known as Psilocybe
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom. They are also referred to as shrooms or mushies. They are a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain 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. Psilocybe mushrooms are distinguished by their ability to instantly turn blue when cut or bruised, a phenomenon known as "bluing." This colour change is due to the oxidation of psilocybin, resulting in a complex mixture of linked psilocybin oxidation products, primarily composed of quinoid psilocyl oligomers.
The Psilocybe genus comprises a diverse range of species, with estimates ranging from 116 to 144 species worldwide. These mushrooms are widely distributed, with the majority found in subtropical humid forests across Mexico, Canada, the United States, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and associated islands. Psilocybe semilanceata, for example, is commonly found in grassland habitats, especially wetter areas, and is widely distributed in the Northern Hemisphere's temperate regions.
The possession, use, and sale of psilocybin mushrooms are regulated and often prohibited by law in many countries. In the United States, for instance, the city of Denver, Colorado, voted to decriminalize the use and possession of psilocybin mushrooms in 2019. Oregon went a step further in 2020 by becoming the first state to decriminalize psilocybin and legalize it for therapeutic use. It's important to note that the legal status of psilocybin mushrooms varies across different jurisdictions, and it's the responsibility of individuals to stay informed about the laws in their specific locations.
Psilocybin mushrooms have been a part of human culture for a long time, possibly dating back to prehistoric times. They are believed to be depicted in Stone Age rock art in Africa and Europe, and their use is more certainly represented in pre-Columbian sculptures and glyphs throughout the Americas. Today, psilocybin mushrooms are consumed for their hallucinogenic and psychedelic effects, often recreationally. When ingested, psilocybin is converted into psilocin, which profoundly alters human perception by binding to specific receptors in the brain.
The psychological consequences of consuming psilocybin mushrooms include hallucinations, synesthesia, and an inability to discern fantasy from reality. The effects typically last from three to eight hours, with the first three to four hours considered the 'peak' of the experience. During this time, users may experience vivid visuals, distortions in reality, and enhanced or contrasting colours. It's important to note that the effects of psilocybin mushrooms can vary significantly between individuals, and a negative environment or anxious state of mind can contribute to a challenging experience.
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They are consumed fresh, cooked or brewed into tea
Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, are consumed for their psychedelic and hallucinogenic effects. They are naturally occurring fungi that contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. When ingested, psilocybin is converted into psilocin, which is responsible for the altered state of perception, emotion, and sense of time associated with the "magic mushroom" experience.
Magic mushrooms can be consumed in various ways, including fresh, cooked, or brewed into a tea. While some consumers prefer to eat them fresh, others may find the strong flavor off-putting and opt for alternative methods of consumption. Brewing magic mushrooms into a tea is a popular choice, as it can help to mask the intense flavor and make the experience more palatable. The effects of magic mushrooms typically begin within 30 minutes when eaten fresh and can last for approximately four to six hours. When consumed as a tea or soup, the effects may be felt sooner, sometimes within 5 to 10 minutes.
Dried magic mushrooms are also commonly consumed, as this form allows for easier measurement and longer shelf life. They can be purchased or grown and dried at home. Dried mushrooms can be ground into a powder and encapsulated, making them easier to swallow and providing a more precise dosage. This method is particularly useful for those who find the taste unpleasant or wish to avoid the psychological associations of consuming mushrooms.
It is important to note that the consumption of magic mushrooms can have varying effects on different individuals. While some people may experience positive outcomes, such as heightened emotions, a sense of wonder, and mystical experiences, others may find the trip challenging. It is crucial to practice harm reduction and employ common sense when consuming psychoactive substances like psilocybin mushrooms.
Additionally, it is worth mentioning that magic mushrooms are not legally or culturally accepted in all places. In some regions, there are penalties for possessing, using, or selling them, so it is essential to be aware of the local laws and regulations before considering their consumption.
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They are illegal in many countries
Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as "magic mushrooms", are illegal in many countries due to their classification as a Schedule I drug under the United Nations 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances. Schedule I drugs are defined as substances with a high potential for abuse and no recognized medical uses. While psilocybin mushrooms have a significantly lower potential for abuse than other Schedule I drugs, they can induce hallucinations and distort a person's thinking, sense of time, and emotions. As a result, their possession and use are prohibited under most circumstances, and violations often carry severe legal penalties.
In Australia, for example, psilocybin is listed as a Schedule 9 substance in the Commonwealth Poisons Standard, making it illegal to possess or supply. Similar regulations are in place in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Japan, with laws such as the UK Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, the Canadian Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and the Japanese Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law of 2002. These laws reflect the international consensus on controlling psilocybin.
However, it is important to note that the legal status of psilocybin mushrooms is evolving. Some jurisdictions, like Oregon, have passed initiatives to legalize the use of magic mushrooms for mental health treatment in supervised settings. Additionally, in certain US states, such as California and the District of Columbia, there are ongoing efforts to legalize the possession and distribution of specified quantities of psilocybin. These changing legal landscapes acknowledge the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin, which has been studied for its potential in treating conditions like therapy-resistant depression, chronic anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Despite these advancements, the cultivation and sale of psilocybin mushrooms are still considered drug manufacture in most jurisdictions, leading to severe penalties. This complexity in the legal status of psilocybin mushrooms underscores the need for individuals to stay informed about the specific regulations in their respective countries and states to ensure compliance with the law.
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They are found in grasslands, especially wetter areas
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom and a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin. They are naturally occurring and are consumed for their hallucinogenic effects. They are psychedelic drugs, which means they can affect all the senses, altering a person's thinking, sense of time, and emotions.
Psilocybin mushrooms are often found in grasslands, especially wetter areas. One of the most widespread psilocybin mushroom species is Psilocybe semilanceata, which has been reported in 18 countries, including Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine. Psilocybe semilanceata is also found in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, and India. This species is typically found in grassland habitats, particularly wetter areas, and is associated with sedges in moist areas of fields. It is often found growing on the decaying root remains of grasses such as Agrosiis tenuis, Poa annua, and Lolium perenne.
Another species of psilocybin mushroom found in grasslands is P. strictipes, a slender grassland species that is differentiated from P. semilanceata by its lack of a prominent papilla. P. mexicana, commonly known as the "Mexican liberty cap", is also found in subtropical grasslands in Mexico, typically in manure-rich soil. P. samuiensis is a similar-looking species found in Thailand, growing in well-manured clay-like soils or among paddy fields.
In general, psilocybin mushrooms favour cool to warm and damp climates, with high humidity. They typically grow in moist, shaded areas such as mossy forests, overgrown grasslands, and prairie fields. They can also be found in decaying trees, soil or compost, animal dung, and decaying plants.
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Frequently asked questions
Psilocybin mushrooms, or magic mushrooms, are typically dark-spored and gilled. They are one of several species that instantly turn blue when cut or bruised. They can also turn blue as they age.
The blue color is due to a mixture of linked psilocybin oxidation products, primarily quinoid psilocyl oligomers.
Psilocybin mushrooms include P. semilanceata, P. azurescens, P. cyanescens, P. cubensis, and P. mexicana.
