Psilocybin
(Magic Mushrooms)

Psilocybin mushrooms, often called "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms," are a type of naturally occurring fungi that contain the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin. These compounds are responsible for the hallucinogenic effects that have made these mushrooms central to spiritual practices, recreational exploration, and modern research into mental health.

While there are over 180 species of psilocybin mushrooms, they are commonly found within the genus Psilocybe, with Psilocybe cubensis being one of the most well-known and widely cultivated varieties. When ingested, psilocybin is metabolized by the body into psilocin, which is the primary active compound that interacts with the brain. Psilocin binds to serotonin receptors, especially the 5-HT2A receptor, resulting in altered perception, enhanced introspection, and shifts in mood and thought. This binding also triggers "hyperconnectivity" in the brain, in which regions that don't typically communicate begin to interact, leading to profound experiences of sensory enhancement, visual distortions, and occasionally synesthetic phenomena (e.g., "seeing" sounds or "hearing" colors).

Psilocybe cubensis, also known simply as "cubes," is one of the most popular and widely available psilocybin mushroom species, especially among growers and recreational users. Known for its relatively large size and ease of cultivation, Psilocybe cubensis has become the staple for many seeking a manageable yet potent psychedelic experience. It typically grows in tropical and subtropical climates and can be found in parts of the United States, Central America, Southeast Asia, and beyond. P. cubensis is often chosen by first-time users due to its moderate potency, predictable effects, and the ease with which it can be cultivated indoors.

Archaeological evidence suggests that psilocybin mushrooms have been used in rituals for thousands of years, particularly in Mesoamerica. They became popular in the Western world in the 1950s and 60s