John Miller
Golden mushroom can refer to a few different things. In the Mario Kart video games, a Golden Mushroom is an item that gives the player's kart an instantaneous boost of speed. In the real world, golden mushroom can refer to a few different types of fungi. Golden top or Psilocybe cubensis is a species of mushroom that is a potent source of the hallucinogenic agent psilocybin. Golden caps get their name from their light golden colour with a dark brown area in the middle of their umbrella caps. Golden oyster mushrooms, or Pleurotus citrinopileatus, are another variety of golden mushroom. These mushrooms are edible and have a sweet, nutty taste.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Golden Oyster Mushrooms, Golden Top, Golden Teacher, Gold Cap, Golden Tops, Goldies, Cubes, Cubies, Boomers, Caps, San Ysidro, Palenque Mushroom, Sacred Mushroom, Blue Mushroom, Magic Mushroom, Golden Halo, Golden Shroom |
| Scientific Name | Psilocybe Cubensis |
| Active Compounds | Psilocybin, Psilocin |
| Taste | Farinaceous, with an alkaline or metallic aftertaste |
| Texture | Good |
| Fruiting Bodies | 90% water |
| Spore Size | 11.5–17.3 x 8–11.5 μm, sub-ellipsoid, basidia 4-spored but sometimes 2- or 3- |
| Habitat | Cow and horse dung, sugar cane mulch, rich pasture soil, water buffalo dung, dead elms, black cherry trees |
| Location | Cuba, Brazil, Australia, South Africa, Thailand, the US, Mexico, Zimbabwe, India, Canada |
| Season | February to December in the northern hemisphere, November to April in the southern hemisphere |
| Potency | Moderate to very strong |
| Effects | Hallucinogenic, psychoactive, perceptual changes, feelings of peacefulness and unity with surroundings, enhanced visualizations |
| Use | Whole mushroom eaten directly, boiled to make tea, cooked, baked, mushroom chocolates, ground into powder, capsules |
| Addictive | Not considered addictive, but studies are ongoing |
| Legal Status | Illegal in most US states, therapeutic use legalised in Oregon in 2020 |
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What You'll Learn
Golden mushrooms are hallucinogenic
Golden mushrooms, scientifically known as Psilocybe cubensis, are a species of psilocybin mushroom that contains hallucinogenic properties. They are commonly referred to as "gold tops", "golden teachers", "gold caps", or simply "magic mushrooms". These mushrooms have a light golden colour with a dark brown area in the middle of their caps, which are shaped like umbrellas. The caps usually have a white ring around the edge and can range in size from less than 2 cm to over 8 cm.
Psilocybe cubensis is one of the most widely distributed hallucinogenic mushroom types globally and is known for its potency. The primary psychoactive compound in golden caps mushrooms is psilocybin, which acts on the part of the brain responsible for panic and arousal when presented with various stimuli. While the hallucinations induced by golden tops may not be as visually intense as those caused by LSD, they do induce significant perceptual changes in the user and their environment, which can last for hours.
The potency of golden caps mushrooms can vary due to several factors, including the specific variety or subspecies, growing conditions, maturity at harvest, storage methods, and whether they are consumed fresh or dried. Dried golden caps mushrooms have a much higher concentration of psilocybin, leading to a tenfold increase in potency compared to fresh mushrooms. This makes accurate dosing crucial to avoid adverse effects.
Golden tops mushrooms typically grow on the manure of ruminants such as cows and goats and are commonly found in tropical or subtropical environments, including South America, Central America, Mexico, and the southern and southwestern United States. They have a distinct fruiting pattern, resembling pathogenic fungi, and can consume dead trees whole, impacting the growth of other mushrooms like morels.
While golden mushrooms are sought after for their hallucinogenic effects, misidentification can be dangerous, as there are potentially deadly look-alikes. Additionally, the abuse of these mushrooms can lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms, requiring professional treatment and support for those seeking to stop using them.
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They are also known as 'gold caps'
Golden mushrooms, scientifically known as *Agaricus xanthodermus*, are easily identifiable by their distinctive golden-yellow hues, earning them the moniker 'gold caps'. This naming convention is a direct reference to the colour of the mature mushroom's cap, which develops a deep golden or coppery tone as the fungus ages. The common name 'gold cap' is also a convenient way to distinguish this species from other look-alike mushrooms, especially those within the *Agaricus* genus, many of which are commonly sought-after edible varieties.
The golden mushroom's cap typically measures between 5 and 15 centimetres in diameter, is convex in shape, and often has a slight depression or central bump. Young specimens tend to have whitish or pale yellowish caps that gradually deepen in colour, eventually becoming a rich golden hue, sometimes with a hint of reddish-brown. The gills underneath the cap are initially pale but darken to a chocolate brown as the spores mature.
The characteristic golden colour is also evident on the stem, which is typically slender and tapers towards the base. Another distinctive feature of this mushroom is its strong, distinctive smell, often likened to phenol or ink. When the stem is cut or damaged, it will turn a yellow-gold colour, hence the reference to 'gold caps'. This colour change is a key identifying feature and a useful indicator to help distinguish it from other similar mushrooms.
The golden mushroom is a common and widespread species, often found in grassy areas, gardens, and roadsides, usually in groups or clusters. While it is considered edible, it is not particularly palatable due to its strong, unpleasant taste and smell. Some people may also experience mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed, so it is generally recommended to avoid eating this mushroom.
Despite its potential edibility, the golden mushroom's unappealing odour and potential for causing digestive issues mean it is not a popular culinary ingredient. However, its distinctive appearance, especially the golden cap and stem, make it an interesting find for mushroom enthusiasts and photographers alike. Its propensity to grow in clusters adds to its visual appeal, making the 'gold cap' a fitting nickname for this unique fungus.
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They grow on cow and horse dung
Golden mushrooms, also known as "manure mushrooms," are known for their ability to grow and fruit directly from dung, particularly that of cows and horses. This peculiar growth habit has earned them a unique place in the world of mycology and agriculture. While most mushrooms are associated with decaying plant matter, golden mushrooms have adapted to thrive in a different type of organic substrate.
The scientific name of the golden mushroom is Agaricus bitorquis, and it belongs to the same family as the common button mushroom, Agaricaceae. However, unlike their more famous relatives, golden mushrooms have a distinctive appearance with their golden-yellow caps and slender stems. This coloration is thought to be a result of the nutrients and compounds present in the manure, which may include various bacteria and undigested plant matter.
The ability of golden mushrooms to grow on cow and horse dung is a testament to their adaptability and the efficiency of their natural recycling abilities. Manure provides an ideal environment for these fungi because it is rich in organic matter, nutrients, and moisture, creating a miniature ecosystem that supports their growth. The dung also provides a source of nitrogen, which is essential for mushroom development.
To begin the growth process, the mushroom spores must first come into contact with the dung. This usually happens when the spores are dispersed through the air and land on fresh manure patties. Under the right conditions of moisture and temperature, the spores will germinate, sending out delicate hyphal threads that begin to colonize the dung. Over time, these hyphae grow and intertwine, forming a dense network known as the mycelium.
As the mycelium matures, it begins to produce the fruiting bodies we recognize as mushrooms. These golden mushrooms emerge from the dung, usually in clusters, and their caps and stems develop and lengthen. Eventually, the caps open to reveal the gills underneath, which contain the spores, thus completing the life cycle.
The growth of golden mushrooms on cow and horse dung is not just a curious phenomenon but also holds potential benefits for agriculture and sustainability. Farmers and gardeners can cultivate these mushrooms as a natural way to break down manure and recycle nutrients back into the soil. This process not only reduces waste but also provides a source of organic matter and nutrients that can enhance soil fertility.
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They are very strong drugs
Golden mushrooms, scientifically known as Psilocybe cubensis, are potent sources of hallucinogenic agents. They are commonly referred to as "gold tops", "golden teachers", "gold caps", "magic mushrooms", or simply "shrooms". These mushrooms contain high levels of psilocybin, the primary psychoactive compound that impacts the part of the brain responsible for panic and arousal. The effects of consuming golden mushrooms can be extremely strong and vary from mild to severe, depending on dosage and method of consumption.
Golden tops are one of the most widely distributed hallucinogenic mushrooms globally, often growing in tropical or subtropical environments, such as South America, Central America, Mexico, and the southern and southwestern United States. They are typically found on the manure of various ruminants, such as cows and goats, and occasionally on horse dung. The mushrooms have a light golden colour with a dark brown area in the middle of their umbrella-shaped caps, surrounded by a white ring.
The potency of golden caps mushrooms can vary significantly due to various factors, including the specific variety or subspecies, growing conditions, maturity at harvest, storage methods, and whether they are consumed fresh or dried. Dried golden caps mushrooms have a much higher concentration of psilocybin, leading to potential dosing problems as the concentration is around ten times higher than in fresh mushrooms.
Consuming golden mushrooms can result in a range of effects on the body and mind. While they may not induce the same level of visual hallucinations as LSD, they cause significant perceptual changes that can last for hours. These changes can include enhanced visualizations, such as vivid colours or halos of light, as well as feelings of peacefulness and unity with surroundings. However, the inability of most people to differentiate golden tops mushrooms from other similar-looking fungi can lead to serious illness or even death if misidentified.
The abuse of golden mushrooms is a growing problem, particularly among teenagers who may succumb to peer pressure without fully understanding the potency, effects, and withdrawal symptoms associated with these magic mushrooms. Treatment and recovery from golden mushroom addiction typically involve detox methods, intensive inpatient treatments, or flexible outpatient counselling. By addressing the root causes and providing techniques to avoid triggering situations, individuals can achieve long-term recovery with the support of experienced professionals.
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They are also a power-up in Mario Kart
The Golden Mushroom is a power-up in several Mario Kart games, including Mario Kart 64, Mario Kart: Double Dash!!, Mario Kart 7, Mario Kart 8, and Mario Kart Wii. It is a rare item that gives players an endless amount of speed boosts for a limited time, helping them to catch up to those in front. The Golden Mushroom is particularly useful for dodging Blue Shells, as the start of a Mushroom boost is slightly faster than the rest. By mashing the button to activate the Golden Mushroom, players can maintain the faster speed level throughout the boost.
In Mario Kart: Double Dash!!, the Golden Mushroom is depicted with a gold crown and red jewels on its cap, and it is Toad and Toadette's special item. In this game, the Golden Mushroom also appears in Coin Rush mode, where it grants the player 50 coins or 100 coins if they are Gold Mario. The Golden Mushroom was originally going to be included in Mario Kart: Super Circuit but was removed for unknown reasons.
In Mario Kart Arcade GP, the Golden Mushroom is called the Miracle Mushroom and is one of Toad's special items. It grants the user invincibility and the ability to knock over rival karts for five seconds, functioning identically to the Star. The chance of obtaining a Golden Mushroom is higher in Mario Kart 64 compared to later installments, and it typically appears when the first-place player is far ahead of the second-place player.
In Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, the Golden Mushroom appears as an Ace-class support spirit, making the user temporarily giant at the start of the battle. Players can obtain this spirit by defeating a gold Mii Brawler on the Figure-8 Circuit stage.
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Frequently asked questions
A golden mushroom can refer to the following:
- Psilocybe cubensis: Commonly known as gold top, golden top, golden teacher, or gold cap. It is a species of psilocybin mushroom that is a potent source of the hallucinogenic agent psilocybin.
- Golden Oyster Mushroom: These mushrooms grow on dead elm trees and are edible with a sweet, nutty taste.
- Golden Mushroom in Mario Kart: A recovery item that gives the kart an instantaneous boost of speed. It can be used repeatedly until the time runs out.
Psilocybe cubensis is commonly known as golden teacher, gold top, golden top, gold cap, magic mushroom, cube, cubie, boomer, cap, and golden halo.
Psilocybin is the primary psychoactive compound in golden mushrooms. It affects the part of the brain responsible for panic and arousal when presented with various stimuli.
The effects of consuming golden mushrooms can range from mild to severe, depending on the dosage and how it is taken. It can cause perceptual changes, enhanced visualizations, and feelings of peacefulness and unity with surroundings.
Golden mushrooms have been described as tasting farinaceous, with an alkaline or metallic aftertaste.
Using magic mushrooms is not considered addictive. However, there are ongoing studies on the effects of abusing Psilocybe cubensis. If addiction is suspected, it is important to seek professional help and support.
