Emily Johnson
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, including P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens. However, psilocybin has also been identified in several other genera, such as Panaeolus, Inocybe, and Gymnopilus. Psilocybin mushrooms have been used for centuries in various cultural and spiritual contexts, with recent research exploring their potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental health disorders. While these mushrooms are currently controlled or illegal in many places, their historical significance and potential therapeutic value continue to be subjects of interest.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Magic mushrooms, shrooms |
| Scientific name | Psilocybin mushrooms, Psilocybe cubensis |
| Number of species | Over 100 |
| Notable species | Psilocybe mexicana, P. cubensis, P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, P. cyanescens |
| Notable strains | B+, Penis Envy, Mazatapec, Amazonian, Blue Meanie, Albino Penis Envy, Golden Teachers |
| Appearance | Dark-spored, gilled mushrooms with caps |
| Effects | Hallucinogenic, psychoactive, mind-altering, consciousness-expanding |
| Use cases | Recreational, spiritual, healing, divination, treatment for chronic mental disorders |
| Active compounds | Psilocybin, psilocin, norpsilocin, baeocystin, norbaeocystin, bufotenin, aeruginascin, β-carbolines |
| Dosage | Depends on psilocybin and psilocin content, typically around 0.5%–1% of dried weight |
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Psilocybin Mushrooms Species
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom that contains the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic compound psilocin upon ingestion. Psilocybin mushrooms have been used for hundreds or thousands of years by Indigenous groups around the world and are often considered sacred. They have been important for healing, divination, and spiritual rites in various cultures.
The most potent species of psilocybin mushrooms belong to the genus Psilocybe, including P. azurescens, P. semilanceata, and P. cyanescens. Psilocybe mexicana and P. cubensis are also commonly mentioned species. However, psilocybin has been isolated from several other genera, including:
- Panaeolus (including Copelandia)
- Inocybe
- Pluteus
- Gymnopilus
- Pholiotina
- Agrocybe
- Galerina
- Gerronema
- Hypholoma
- Cyclocybe
- Hygrophorus
Psilocybin mushrooms typically grow in subtropical and tropical forests and are especially common in Mexico, Canada, the United States, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. They are usually found in meadows and woods, in soils rich in humus and plant debris. Psilocybe cubensis, for example, often grows near cattle due to the ideal conditions provided by their grazing habits.
The effects of psilocybin mushrooms are highly subjective and depend on various factors, including the type of mushroom, dosage, preparation method, and the psychological state and environment of the user. Common effects include distorted and heightened sensory impressions, such as seeing vivid colours or auras, witnessing objects morphing, and experiencing synesthesia.
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History of Use
Psilocybin mushrooms, often known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are hallucinogenic fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin when ingested. They are often used as recreational drugs and may even be depicted in Stone Age rock art in Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Psilocybin mushrooms have been used for healing, divination, and spiritual rites in a variety of cultures. In Mesoamerica, they were consumed in spiritual and divinatory ceremonies before being documented by Spanish chroniclers in the 16th century. Spanish missionaries attempted to destroy all records and evidence of their use, but a 16th-century Spanish Franciscan friar and historian mentioned teonanacatl, the "god's flesh" in his writings. This intrigued 20th-century ethnopharmacologists and led to a search for the identity of teonanacatl. Specimens were obtained, and their active principle was identified and chemically synthesized.
In the 1950s and 1960s, prominent academics like Timothy Leary and Richard Alpert of Harvard University publicized the consciousness-expanding properties of psilocybin mushrooms, which are similar to synthetic drugs like LSD. This led to widespread recreational use and strict government controls on the mushrooms in many places. However, their popularity as an entheogen grew in the following decade due to increased access to information on cultivation methods.
In the 21st century, psilocybin mushrooms have been studied for their potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in treating chronic mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, addiction, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The Department of Veterans Affairs in the United States has been testing psilocybin and psilocin to address mental health issues and reduce suicide rates among veterans. Research suggests that these compounds may alter brain functions by breaking old neural connections and creating new ones, which could lead to more positive behaviors and a reduction in negative or obsessive thinking.
Psilocybin mushrooms are typically ingested by consuming fresh or dried mushrooms, preparing herbal tea, or incorporating them into food products. They can also be taken orally in the form of mushroom edibles, such as chocolate bars and gummies, or intravenously injected as mushroom extracts, although this method is rare and can lead to serious medical complications.
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Effects
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are hallucinogenic and can cause mind-altering effects. The mushrooms produce psychoactive compounds, psilocybin and psilocin, which lead to these effects. Psilocybin is converted into psilocin in the body, which is the chemical with psychoactive properties. The effects of psilocybin are generally similar to those of LSD.
The effects of psilocybin mushrooms are highly subjective and vary based on the type of mushroom, its preparation, the dosage, and the psychological state and environment of the user. The effects can include sensory, emotional, and neural changes. Users may experience distorted and heightened sensory impressions, such as vivid colours or auras, objects morphing, and complex sounds. They may also experience synesthesia, a "scrambling" of the senses. Psilocybin mushrooms can cause people to lose their sense of time and space, and feel intense emotions ranging from bliss to terror.
In addition to the immediate effects, psilocybin mushrooms may have short-term and long-term antidepressant effects. Research suggests that psilocybin can break old neural connections and create new ones, potentially reducing negative or obsessive thinking. However, some people may experience persistent, distressing alterations in their perception, such as flashbacks, known as hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder, which is rare. Regular use of psilocybin mushrooms can lead to tolerance, and cross-tolerance with other drugs like LSD and mescaline.
Psilocybin mushrooms have been used in various cultures and locations worldwide, with a long history in spiritual and healing practices. In modern times, they are used recreationally and are also being studied for their potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental health disorders, such as substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
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Treatment for Misuse
Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are hallucinogenic fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin, which turns into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion. Psilocybin is a Schedule I substance, meaning that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) considers it to have a high potential for abuse and no legitimate medical purpose. While psilocybin mushrooms are mostly abused for recreational purposes, they have also been tested for the treatment of various mental health disorders.
Despite the potential therapeutic benefits of psilocybin mushrooms, their misuse can lead to negative consequences and psychological dependence. Treatment for psilocybin mushroom abuse should address the individual's needs and the severity of the problem. Here are some approaches to consider:
- Education and Prevention: It is crucial to address the growing concern of psilocybin mushroom abuse, especially among younger populations, through education and prevention efforts. This includes providing accurate information about the risks and consequences of misuse, promoting healthy coping skills, and early intervention.
- Individual Counseling and Group Therapy: Talking to a professional can help individuals understand their drug use triggers and develop strategies to manage cravings and triggers. Counseling can also help address any underlying mental health issues that may contribute to substance misuse.
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a widely used therapy approach for drug addiction. It helps individuals identify negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to drug use and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
- Support Groups: Support groups or group therapy sessions can provide a sense of community and shared understanding. Individuals can learn from others' experiences, share their own struggles, and develop a support system to aid in their recovery.
- Controlled Environment and Professional Supervision: Psilocybin mushrooms may have therapeutic benefits when used in a controlled environment and administered by trained professionals. However, due to the potential risks, individuals should never attempt to use these mushrooms for medicinal purposes without proper supervision.
- Addressing "Flashbacks": Some individuals may experience "flashbacks" or hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder, where they feel the effects of psilocybin mushrooms long after the drug was last used. Psychologists or other mental health professionals can help manage these persistent, distressing alterations in perception.
- Medical Treatment: In some cases, adverse side effects of psilocybin mushroom misuse may require medical intervention. It is important to seek professional help if individuals experience disturbing hallucinations, anxiety, panic, or any other severe physical or mental health symptoms.
It is important to note that the treatment for psilocybin mushroom misuse should be tailored to the individual, and a combination of these approaches may be beneficial. Seeking professional help from a healthcare provider or addiction specialist is crucial to developing an effective treatment plan.
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Legality
The legality of psilocybin mushrooms varies across the world. Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as 'magic mushrooms' or 'shrooms', are a type of hallucinogenic mushroom and a polyphyletic informal group of fungi that contain the prodrug psilocybin. This substance is converted into the psychedelic psilocin upon ingestion.
International Law
Psilocybin mushrooms are not 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. The mushrooms were not included in the convention due to pressure from the Mexican government. Psilocybin and psilocin are also controlled internationally under the United Nations Drug Control Conventions.
National Law
The legal status of psilocybin mushrooms varies across different countries and even within countries, with some jurisdictions allowing their use for medicinal or therapeutic purposes while others prohibit them entirely.
United States
Under federal law, psilocybin is illegal and classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, indicating a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. However, the legal status of psilocybin mushrooms differs across states. Some states, like Colorado and Oregon, have decriminalized psilocybin and allowed its use for therapeutic purposes under certain conditions. Other jurisdictions, like Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Oakland, California, have also decriminalized psilocybin mushrooms.
Canada
In Canada, psilocybin and psilocybin mushrooms are regulated under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). Activities related to psilocybin, such as sale, possession, and production, are generally illegal unless authorized by Health Canada. In October 2022, the province of Alberta announced it would regulate and allow the use of psilocybin for medicinal purposes.
Other Countries
Psilocybin is legal in some countries like Peru and Bolivia. It has been legalized for medicinal use in countries including Australia, Canada, and Denmark. In the United Kingdom, psilocybin is regulated under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, and in Germany, possession of psilocybin mushroom spores has been criminalized since 1998.
Spores and Cultivation
In many places, the spores of psilocybin mushrooms are not illegal to possess or sell, as they do not contain psilocybin. However, possessing spores may be considered evidence of intent to cultivate psilocybin mushrooms, which is illegal in most jurisdictions and can carry severe penalties. Some places, like California, Georgia, and Idaho in the United States, have specifically prohibited the sale and possession of psilocybin mushroom spores.
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Frequently asked questions
Psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms, are hallucinogenic fungi that contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin, which induces mind-altering and hallucinogenic effects.
Psilocybin-containing mushrooms include Psilocybe cubensis, Psilocybe semilanceata, Psilocybe azurescens, and Psilocybe cyanescens. Psilocybe cubensis, also known as "Liberty Caps", is the most popular species.
The effects of consuming psilocybin mushrooms include visual and auditory hallucinations, altered perception of time and space, enhanced sensory experiences, euphoria, introspection, pupil dilation, and increased heart rate. The effects are highly subjective and can depend on the type of mushroom, dosage, individual sensitivity, and the environment in which they are consumed.
Psilocybin is not considered physically addictive, and there is little evidence of psychological addiction. However, it is possible to become tolerant to the effects of psilocybin with regular use, and compulsive use of psilocybin mushrooms can lead to physical, psychological, and social problems.
