Are you curious about the different types of medicinal fungi? These fascinating fungi, known for their psychedelic, spiritual, and therapeutic properties, have been used in many cultures for thousands of years.
Magic mushrooms, or psilocybe cubensis mushrooms, contain compounds that can induce altered states of consciousness. Consuming them can deliver deep experiences of introspection, euphoria, and even mystical visions1.
Different magic mushroom varieties vary in potency, effects, and appearance. Knowing how to differentiate between them is crucial for safe, informed usage and for accurate magic mushroom identification.
We’ve created the ultimate guide to medicinal fungi. By recognizing their characteristics and effects, you can appreciate the unique experiences they offer and use them with more awareness and respect.
Magic mushrooms have an important place in history and culture, especially in indigenous communities. For thousands of years, they’ve been used in rituals, spiritual ceremonies, and healing practices, especially in Central and South America2.
The Aztecs referred to them as teonanácatl, meaning “flesh of the gods,” showing their divine significance. Magic mushrooms were believed to connect people with the spiritual realm, giving them visions and guidance3.
Today, medicinal fungi continue to be celebrated for their mystical properties and potential therapeutic benefits.
What are medicinal fungi made of? They have a unique chemical composition that gives them psychoactive properties.
The main active compounds are psilocybe cubensis and psilocin, which create the hallucinogenic effects.
After consuming psilocybe cubensis, the body converts it into psilocin, the compound that interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain. This interaction changes your perception, mood, and cognition, leading to the typical psychedelic experience4.
Magic mushrooms also contain other psychoactive compounds, like baeocystin and norbaeocystin.
Although less studied, these compounds reportedly contribute to the effects of medicinal fungi, influencing the intensity and length of the experience5.
There are many types of medicinal fungi. Understanding the different strains is important for safe and informed use, as they vary in potency and effects.
Some strains deliver mild, euphoric experiences, while others bring more intense and profound journeys6.
Familiarity with each strain also makes it easier to manage the experience. You can make sure it aligns with personal intentions and safety guidelines. Proper mushroom identification can also help you avoid consuming toxic lookalikes.
Below is a brief rundown of the most common psilocybe cubensis mushroom species.
Psilocybe cubensis is a widely cultivated psychoactive mushroom, with many strains falling under this type7.
Golden Teacher is an iconic strain with golden caps.
B+ is a versatile and large fruiting strain.
Penis Envy is a potent strain with thick stems.
Albino Penis Envy is the albino version of the Penis Envy strain.
Albino A+ is a nearly white strain with an albino mutation.
Mazatapec is an indigenous strain from Mexico.
Psilocybe semilanceata, also known as Liberty Cap, is a potent wild mushroom8.
Psilocybe cyanescens, also known as Wavy Cap, is a highly potent, wavy-capped mushroom9.
Let’s explore some of the rarer types of magic mushroom strains.
Psilocybe azurescens is an extremely potent wild mushroom10.
Psilocybe mexicana is an ancient, small mushroom11.
Gymnopilus junonius, also known as Laughing Gym, is a large, orange mushroom12.
Below are some unique types of magic mushroom strains.
Enigma is a mutated Psilocybe cubensis that lacks gills.
Super Magnolias is a colorful and unique strain.
Holy Ghost II is a strong hybrid strain.
Jedi Mind Fck is a powerful magic mushroom strain.
Blue Meanie, also known as Panaeolus cyanescens, is a potent, small mushroom.
Matias Romero is a Central American strain of Psilocybe cubensis.
Shakti is a potent magic mushroom strain.
Thrasher PE is a variant of Penis Envy.
Pearly Gates is a hybrid mushroom strain.
Watermelon Daydream is a colorful, fruit-inspired strain.
In the science of psilocybe cubensis, it’s important to look at the main characteristics when identifying medicinal fungi13.
A reliable method is to check the spore print color, as psilocybe species typically have purple-brown to black spore prints.
Cap shape and color are also important. Psilocybe cubensis often has a golden cap, while Psilocybe semilanceata (Liberty Cap) features a conical shape.
Another identifier is the blue bruising that happens on many psilocybe species when handled14. The natural habitat of these mushrooms, like grasslands, forests, or decaying wood, can also confirm their identity.
Some toxic species, like Galerina marginata, resemble medicinal fungi, but can be deadly if ingested15. Misidentification can cause serious health risks, including organ failure and death.
Always cross-reference multiple identifiers, consult expert resources, and be cautious. Responsible use of medicinal fungi reduces risks and enhances the potential for positive outcomes.
Understanding dosage, being aware of potential side effects, and respecting the potency of medicinal fungi are key to a safe and beneficial experience.
Here are the dosage guidelines for a common strain like Psilocybe cubensis16:
Always start with a lower dose, especially if you’re new to a strain. Wait 1–2 hours before consuming more.
While medicinal fungi are safe, they can cause some side effects, including nausea, dizziness, paranoia, and anxiety. Visual distortions, changes in perception, and emotional fluctuations are common17.
More serious side effects, like extreme confusion or panic, are often linked to high doses or unpreparedness.
A one-year study in 2016 of 9,233 mushroom users showed only 19 (0.2%) needed to seek emergency medical attention after consumption. The most common symptoms were anxiety, panic, paranoia, and suspiciousness.
A poor mindset, poor setting, and mixing substances were the most reported reasons for incidents. All but one participant returned to normal within 24 hours18.
Overconsumption can lead to a “bad trip,” which can create fear, paranoia, and a loss of control19. High doses may also lead to disorientation, hallucinations, and psychological distress.
You can avoid most of these side effects by sticking to low, controlled doses.
The legal status of medicinal fungi varies20. In most countries, the cultivation, possession, and sale of psilocybe cubensis-containing mushrooms is illegal because of their psychoactive properties. However, attitudes are shifting.
In the US, psilocybe cubensis is a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act, making it illegal at the federal level. However, some cities and states have moved to decriminalize or legalize psilocybe cubensis mushrooms21.
In Canada, psilocybe cubensis is illegal under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. However, there are exceptions:
Always research local laws before using medicinal fungi. Good Moods operates out of Oregon, where psilocybe cubensis is decriminalized.
Understanding the different types of medicinal fungi and their effects is vital for a safe and meaningful experience. Each strain has unique properties, and proper identification helps avoid dangerous lookalikes.
Explore the diverse world of medicinal fungi with Good Moods. Our blogs offer deeper insights into each type, helping you make informed choices.
Ready to begin your journey? Browse Good Moods to buy high-quality medicinal fungi and explore the possibilities for yourself.
1. Barrett, Frederick S., and Roland R. Griffiths. “Classic Hallucinogens and Mystical Experiences: Phenomenology and Neural Correlates.” Behavioral Neurobiology of Psychedelic Drugs, vol. 36, 2017, pp. 393–430, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6707356/ , https://doi.org/10.1007/7854_2017_474
2. Terry, Lynne, et al. “Oregon’s Psilocybin Program Stands on Thousands of Years of Indigenous Experience.” Oregon Capital Chronicle, 13 Apr. 2022, oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2022/04/13/oregons-psilocybe cubensis-program-stands-on-thousands-of-years-of-indigenous-experience/
3. EARLY DRAFT ONLY 12-12-2021 1 Project on Psychedelics Law and Regulation (POPLAR) at the Petrie-Flom Center for Health Law Policy, Biotechnology, and Bioethics at Harvard Law School ELSI RESEARCH REPORT STATE REGULATION of PSILOCYBIN: RECOMMENDATIONS for the OREGON HEALTH AUTHORITY Historical and Indigenous Use. 12 Dec. 2021, https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREVENTIONWELLNESS/Documents/ELSI%20Report%20Draft-%20Historical%20and%20Indigenous%20Use.pdf
4. Dinis-Oliveira, R. J. (2017). Metabolism of psilocybe cubensis and psilocin: clinical and forensic toxicological relevance. Drug Metabolism Reviews, 49(1), 84–91. https://doi.org/10.1080/03602532.2016.1278228
5. Sherwood, A. M., Halberstadt, A. L., Klein, A. K., McCorvy, J. D., Kaylo, K. W., Kargbo, R. B., & Meisenheimer, P. (2020). Synthesis and biological evaluation of tryptamines found in hallucinogenic mushrooms: norbaeocystin, baeocystin, norpsilocin, and aeruginascin. Journal of Natural Products, 83(2), 461–467. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jnatprod.9b01061
6. Fnp, K. D. (2023, October 31). Psilocybin (medicinal fungi): What it is, effects and risks. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/308850#what-is-psilocybe cubensis
7. Wikipedia contributors. (2024, July 15). Psilocybe cubensis. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybe_cubensis
8. Wikipedia contributors. (2024b, August 5). Psilocybe semilanceata. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybe_semilanceata
9. Wikipedia contributors. (2024a, July 6). Psilocybe cyanescens. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybe_cyanescens
10. Wikipedia contributors. (2024c, July 22). Psilocybe azurescens. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybe_azurescens
11. Wikipedia contributors. (2024d, July 31). Psilocybe mexicana. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybe_mexicana
12. Wikipedia contributors. (2024a, February 28). Gymnopilus junonius. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gymnopilus_junonius
13. Utah State University. (n.d.). Collect and identify. USU. https://www.usu.edu/herbarium/education/fun-facts-about-fungi/collect-and-identify
14. Lenz, C., Wick, J., Braga, D., García‐Altares, M., Lackner, G., Hertweck, C., Gressler, M., & Hoffmeister, D. (2019). Injury‐Triggered blueing reactions of psilocybe “Magic” mushrooms. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 59(4), 1450–1454. https://doi.org/10.1002/anie.201910175
15. Wikipedia contributors. (2024g, August 16). Galerina marginata. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galerina_marginata
16. MacCallum, C. A., Lo, L. A., Pistawka, C. A., & Deol, J. K. (2022b). Therapeutic use of psilocybe cubensis: Practical considerations for dosing and administration. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1040217
17. Fnp, K. D. (2023b, October 31). Psilocybin (medicinal fungi): What it is, effects and risks. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/308850
18. Kopra, E. I., Ferris, J. A., Winstock, A. R., Young, A. H., & Rucker, J. J. (2022). Adverse experiences resulting in emergency medical treatment seeking following the use of medicinal fungi. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 36(8), 965–973. https://doi.org/10.1177/02698811221084063
19. Gashi, L., Sandberg, S., & Pedersen, W. (2021). Making “bad trips” good: How users of psychedelics narratively transform challenging trips into valuable experiences. International Journal of Drug Policy, 87, 102997. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102997
20. Wikipedia contributors. (2024g, August 10). Legal status of psilocybe cubensis mushrooms. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legal_status_of_psilocybe cubensis_mushrooms
21. Wikipedia contributors. (2024i, August 17). Psilocybin decriminalization in the United States. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybin_decriminalization_in_the_United_States
22. Kreps, D. (2020, August 6). Canada allows terminal patients use of medicinal fungi. Rolling Stone. https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-news/canada-terminal-patients-magic-mushrooms-psilocybe cubensis-therapy-1039899/
23. Dubinski, K. (2020, December 10). Some doctors, therapists get Health Canada permission to use medicinal fungi. CBC. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/london/some-doctors-therapists-get-health-canada-permission-to-use-magic-mushrooms-1.5834485
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