Emma Wilson
Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, are hallucinogenic fungi that contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin, which induces mind-altering effects when ingested. 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 a dozen other genera, including Panaeolus, Inocybe, Pluteus, Gymnopilus, and Pholiotina. Psilocybin mushrooms have been used for centuries in various cultural and spiritual contexts and are currently being studied for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental health disorders.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Magic Mushrooms, Shrooms |
| Scientific Name | Psilocybin Mushrooms |
| Active Ingredients | Psilocybin, Psilocin, Norpsilocin, Baeocystin, Norbaeocystin, Aeruginascin |
| Genera | Psilocybe, Gymnopilus, Panaeolus, Copelandia, Pluteus, Inocybe, Pholiotina, Galerina, Hygrophorus, Cyclocybe |
| Species | P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, P. cyanescens, P. cubensis, P. mexicana |
| Effects | Hallucinations, Enhanced Sensory Experiences, Euphoria, Introspection, Nausea, Pupil Dilation, Increased Heart Rate, Muscle Twitches, Increased Blood Pressure |
| Uses | Recreational, Spiritual, Therapeutic (Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, PTSD), Divination, Rituals |
| Legality | Illegal in Canada and Controlled Under the United Nations Drug Control Conventions |
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What You'll Learn
Psilocybin Mushrooms Species
Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, are hallucinogenic fungi that contain the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin. These compounds can induce mind-altering effects, such as hallucinations, altered perception, and changes in mood. While the use of psilocybin mushrooms has been associated with some risks and negative effects, there is also ongoing research into their potential therapeutic benefits for treating various mental health disorders.
Psilocybin mushrooms can be found in various species and genera. The most potent species are members of the genus Psilocybe, including P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens. Psilocybe cubensis, commonly known as "Penis Envy," is another popular species within this genus. However, psilocybin has also been identified in several other genera, such as Panaeolus (including Copelandia), Inocybe, Pluteus, Gymnopilus, Pholiotina, and Galerina.
The distribution of psilocybin-containing mushrooms varies geographically. According to a review by Gastón Guzmán and colleagues, Mexico has the highest number of species (53), followed by the combined total of Canada and the US (22), Europe (16), Asia (15), Africa (4), and Australia and associated islands (19). These mushrooms typically thrive in subtropical humid forests and grow in soils rich in humus and plant debris.
The effects of consuming psilocybin mushrooms can vary depending on the type of mushroom, dosage, preparation method, and individual factors such as psychological state and environment. Common effects include visual and auditory hallucinations, enhanced sensory experiences, altered perception of time and space, euphoria, and introspection. However, negative effects such as nausea, increased heart rate, anxiety, and "bad trips" or "flashbacks" may also occur.
While psilocybin is not considered physically addictive, habitual use of psilocybin mushrooms can lead to psychological and social problems. Treatment for misuse or addiction focuses on providing psychological support and therapy to address the underlying thought patterns and behaviours related to substance use.
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Effects of Psilocybin
Psilocybin, a prodrug found in certain mushrooms, turns into the psychedelic psilocin when ingested. The effects of psilocybin are highly subjective and depend on various factors, including the type of mushroom, its preparation, and dosage, as well as the psychological state and environment of the user.
The psychological and perceptual effects of psilocybin can be profound, with users reporting sensory, emotional, and neural changes. Hallucinations are common, with distorted and heightened sensory impressions such as vivid colours or auras, objects morphing, and complex sounds. Users may also experience synesthesia, a mixing of the senses, resulting in sensations like seeing sounds or tasting forms.
Psilocybin can induce a range of emotional states, from bliss and euphoria to intense fear and paranoia. The experience can be mystical and dreamlike, with visions and relived memories. Some users report a loss of personal boundaries, feeling at one with the universe, an effect termed "oceanic self-boundlessness". However, negative experiences are more common with higher doses, and some users may feel disoriented, lethargic, anxious, or paranoid.
Psilocybin also has physical side effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate, which can be dangerous for individuals with heart conditions. Other side effects include agitation, confusion, nausea, and vomiting, which can be severe and require medical attention.
Despite the potential risks, psilocybin is being studied for its therapeutic benefits in treating mental health disorders. Research suggests that psilocybin may help break old neural connections and form new ones, reducing negative thought patterns associated with conditions like anxiety, depression, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
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Therapeutic Uses
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are hallucinogenic mushrooms that produce psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin, which can have mind-altering effects. They are typically consumed dried, powdered, or fresh and can be turned into tea or food products.
Psilocybin mushrooms have been used for healing, divination, and spiritual rites in several cultures. The Aztecs referred to these mushrooms as "the flesh of the gods", and some Central and South American shamans consider them teachers who can inspire, instruct, and discipline their users.
In the 21st century, psilocybin mushrooms have been explored as a treatment for chronic mental disorders, including anxiety, depression, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Research suggests that psilocybin can reduce anxiety and depression in people with cancer, promoting well-being, quality of life, and acceptance of their illness. The National Cancer Institute is funding a multi-site clinical trial to investigate the use of psilocybin in treating cancer-related mental health issues.
Psilocybin is also being studied as a possible treatment for psychiatric disorders such as substance use disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and cluster headaches. The Department of Veterans Affairs in the United States is testing psilocybin to address veterans' mental health problems and reduce suicide rates. Some results indicate that psilocybin may help break old neural connections and create new ones, potentially reducing negative or obsessive thinking and fostering more positive behaviours.
Psilocybin has a high therapeutic index, indicating a better safety profile compared to other substances. However, it is important to note that possession of psilocybin-containing mushrooms is outlawed in most countries, and it is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in the United States. Despite this, less conservative governments, such as in Amsterdam, promote the safe use of psilocybin to reduce potential harm.
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Addiction and Treatment
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom and a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin. The most potent species are members of the genus Psilocybe, such as P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens. However, psilocybin has also been isolated from approximately a dozen other genera, including Panaeolus (Copelandia), Inocybe, Pluteus, Gymnopilus, and Pholiotina.
While psilocybin mushrooms have been used for centuries by indigenous populations for religious and social rites, their widespread recreational use has prompted strict control and legal restrictions in many places. Possession, sale, and use of psilocybin mushrooms are illegal in most countries, including most states in the United States.
Despite their illegal status, psilocybin mushrooms have gained attention for their potential therapeutic benefits. Some individuals microdose psilocybin, hoping to improve mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Additionally, psilocybin mushrooms have been tested as a treatment for chronic mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The active components in psilocybin mushrooms may have the ability to break old neural connections and form new ones, potentially reducing negative or obsessive thinking and fostering more positive behaviors.
However, it is important to address the potential risks and consequences of psilocybin mushroom use. Psilocybin can cause changes in perception, thought, and mood, leading to altered states of consciousness, hallucinations, and intense emotional experiences. These effects can be unpredictable, and some individuals may experience anxiety, paranoia, or a "bad trip." Psilocybin mushrooms can also impair judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries, including car accidents or assault.
Regarding addiction and treatment, psilocybin mushrooms do not exhibit the same addictive properties as commonly abused substances like opioids or stimulants. However, regular and long-term use of psilocybin mushrooms can lead to problematic and compulsive patterns of use. Treatment for psilocybin mushroom abuse may include individual counseling or group therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help individuals understand their drug use triggers and develop coping strategies. In some cases, medical detoxification may be necessary to manage withdrawal symptoms safely, especially if there is polysubstance abuse involving mushrooms and other substances.
Overall, while psilocybin mushrooms may offer potential therapeutic benefits, it is crucial to approach their use with caution and seek professional help if addiction or substance abuse becomes a concern.
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Legality
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are hallucinogenic and produce psychoactive compounds such as psilocybin and psilocin. The most potent species are members of the genus Psilocybe, such as P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens. However, their legal status varies across different countries and jurisdictions.
At the international level, psilocybin mushrooms are not specifically regulated by UN treaties. However, the United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances, adopted in 1971, requires its members to prohibit psilocybin and restrict its use to medical and scientific research under controlled conditions. While the convention does not explicitly mention psilocybin-containing mushrooms, most national drug laws have been amended to reflect its terms. For example, the UK Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, the US Psychotropic Substances Act of 1978, and the Canadian Controlled Drugs and Substances Act of 1996 all regulate or prohibit psilocybin mushrooms.
In the United States, the federal government has strict controls in place, and the possession and use of psilocybin are prohibited under most circumstances. However, there is ambiguity in the legal status of psilocybin mushrooms at the state level. Some states, like California, Georgia, and Idaho, have specifically prohibited the sale and possession of psilocybin mushroom spores. In contrast, other states, like New Mexico, have ruled that growing psilocybin mushrooms does not qualify as "manufacturing" a controlled substance.
Similarly, in Canada, the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act regulates psilocybin mushrooms. However, as of January 2023, the province of Alberta has allowed the use of psilocybin for medicinal purposes in drug-assisted psychotherapy. This move towards decriminalization is also seen in other places like Oregon, which has made "magic mushrooms" legal for mental health treatment in supervised settings, and Colorado, which has become the second US state to decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms.
The legal landscape surrounding psilocybin mushrooms is complex and evolving. While they remain illegal in many places, there is a growing interest in their potential therapeutic benefits, leading to changing legislation in some jurisdictions. It is essential to stay informed about the specific laws and regulations in your area regarding the legality of psilocybin mushrooms and their derivatives.
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Frequently asked questions
Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, are fungi that contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin, which induces hallucinogenic effects.
Psilocybin-containing mushrooms include Psilocybe cubensis, Psilocybe semilanceata, Psilocybe azurescens, and Psilocybe mexicana. Psilocybe cubensis is the most popular species.
Psilocybin interacts with the brain's serotonin receptors, leading to altered perception, changes in mood, and hallucinations.
Psilocybin mushrooms are not considered physically addictive, but they can cause negative effects such as anxiety, fear, nausea, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. There is ongoing research into their potential therapeutic benefits.
