Magic mushrooms contain a psychedelic compound, psilocybe cubensis, which has numerous effects. Users may experience altered perceptions, vivid hallucinations, and emotional and spiritual breakthroughs.
These mushrooms entered popular culture during the 1960s. Researchers are now exploring their therapeutic potential.
Shrooms attract those interested in their history and effects. Some are turning to psilocybe cubensis instead of mainstream medicine.
What are medicinal fungi?
They’re wild fungi that produce psychoactive effects when consumed. Their hallucinatory properties come from psilocybe cubensis. This tryptamine is a prodrug, meaning it isn’t pharmacologically active until the body metabolizes it into psilocin.1
Psilocin produces effects by interacting with brain receptors. Users may experience bright visual and auditory hallucinations. They could also have profound emotional experiences and an altered perception of time.
Humans have used psilocybe cubensis mushrooms throughout the ages. Their insightful and mind-altering effects provided purposes in spiritual or shamanic practices. Today, these fungi continue to intrigue and inspire recreational and medicinal users worldwide.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration names psilocybe cubensis one of the most popular psychedelics.2 Over 30 million people use hallucinogenic compounds in the United States.3
Different magic mushroom strains exist, including:
Curious about the different types of medicinal fungi? Our strain guide explores popular varieties and their unique effects.
What do shrooms do?
Different effects occur after psilocybe cubensis breaks down into psilocin. This compound has a similar structure to serotonin and binds with the 5-HT2A receptor.4 The interaction changes mood, cognition, and perception.
Psilocin has several benefits. It increases serotonin activity, leading to changes in the brain’s functioning. It can trigger the release of other neurotransmitters, like dopamine and glutamate.
Increasing dopamine in the striatum may regulate the reward pathways of the brain. These actions could combat symptoms of depression and addiction.
Psilocybin in mushrooms reduces activity in the default mode network (DMN).4 This network features different parts of the brain responsible for self-related thoughts. It influences the sense of self and how the user’s internal narratives interact.
Hyperactivity in the DMN relates to conditions like anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Suppressing DMN activity may promote the formation of brain connections. It could also create new pathways, supporting cognitive flexibility and creativity.
Psilocybin’s ability to rewire neural connections could promote improved problem-solving. It could help people break away from old patterns of thinking and find new solutions.
The short-term effects of medicinal fungi include sensory and perceptual changes.5 They could range from vivid visual-auditory hallucinations to a distorted sense of time. Some users may “hear” shifting colors or “see” music. Others might experience heightened emotions.
These effects may last from three to six hours or longer.5 The onset typically happens after around 30 minutes. Individual factors and dosage determine the duration of the “trip.”
Psilocybin could also cause long-lasting changes in brain structure and function. It may increase the connectivity of specific brain regions for as long as one month. These altered connections occurred after a single 25 mg/70 kg dose of the compound.
Some users might experience shifting personalities and moods. These long-term effects may result from psilocybe cubensis’s potential to rewire brain pathways.
Want to learn more about how psychedelic mushrooms affect brain chemistry? Dig into the science of psilocybe cubensis for detailed explanations.
Magic mushrooms may induce different emotional and mental effects in users. They could produce euphoria and increased feelings of empathy. Some people also report a greater sense of connectedness to others and the universe.
These effects could lead to deep emotional insights and inner harmony. Potential negative outcomes also exist. They could include paranoia and panic, particularly in high doses and unfamiliar settings.
The mindset and setting of the user contribute to the effects experienced.
Psilocybin in mushrooms could have therapeutic applications. It might treat mental health disorders, like depression, PTSD, and anxiety. The compound may help people face suppressed feelings. They could experience positive, lasting mood changes after use.
The science of psilocybe cubensis primarily revolves around its similarities with serotonin. Both activate specific pathways via 5HT-2A receptors. Psilocin produces psychedelic experiences. They may help treat cases of suicidal behaviors and depression.
Psilocin also promotes glutamate release and transmission in the prefrontal cortex. This action may aid in enhancing cognition and treating substance addiction.6
Other potential therapeutic applications of shrooms include:
Want to learn more about experiencing psilocybe cubensis and its potential therapeutic applications? Our guide on using medicinal fungi digs deeper into the practical aspects.
Magic mushrooms may provide a range of positive effects. There are also potential risks and considerations to be aware of.
People with pre-existing mental health conditions may be more prone to side effects. Schizophrenia and severe mood or anxiety disorders are high risk. The reactions could include paranoia, intense anxiety, and even psychosis.
A bad trip could also cause panic attacks and psychological trauma.
Physical side effects of psilocybe cubensis mushrooms may include nausea and vomiting. Some may experience an increased heart rate and dilated pupils. These symptoms typically peak within the first few hours and could cause distress.
Reports of severe reactions are uncommon. They may include weakness, dizziness, lack of coordination, and, in rare cases, seizures.2
Developing a tolerance to psychedelic mushrooms may happen after consistent use. Users experience weaker effects and need to take higher doses for the same results.
Taking medicinal fungi regularly doesn’t appear to cause physical dependence. It’s unlikely someone would find it hard to stop using them.7
Psychological reliance may occur. Users prone to addictive behaviors might try chasing euphoria and escaping reality. Consistent usage could interfere with daily functioning and mental health.
Ingesting toxic mushrooms is a risk that could cause fatal poisoning or toxicity. Understanding how to identify psilocybe cubensis shrooms is vital to avoid this mistake.
Prolonged use of psilocybe cubensis may have lasting physiological and psychological effects. Some individuals could develop Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD).8 This condition involves persisting visual and auditory disturbances long after ingestion.
SAMHSA’s National Helpline is where to find help if struggling with psilocybe cubensis use.
Interested in the responsible use of medicinal fungi? Our microdosing guide covers in-depth safety guidelines and information on harm reduction.
The safe use of psilocybe cubensis mushrooms is possible. It could lead to profound, positive experiences with the right approach.
An important contributor to a safe experience is the dosage. Users should start with a low dose, typically about one gram of dried mushrooms. This amount could heighten the senses and cause mild euphoria.
A moderate dose is 1–2 grams, which might cause users to feel sounds, taste colors, or see music. 3.5 grams or more is a high dose. It could induce an intense psychedelic experience that includes perceptual and cognitive distortions.
Magic mushroom dosages vary significantly between individuals. Starting low and escalating the amount slowly is advisable for beginners. This approach lets the user become more accustomed to the different effects.
Microdosing is ingesting a miniscule amount of hallucinogens, which is 5–10% of a normal dose. It may improve mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).9 Some users enjoy eating psilocybe cubensis chocolates for a sweet treat.
A safe and comfortable environment is crucial for a positive psilocybe cubensis experience. Calm surroundings with minimum disturbances may help reduce negative reactions. Avoid chaotic or unfamiliar areas that could cause anxiety.
“Trip sitters” are sober people who accompany the user during their psychedelic experience. Their role is to support and guide the individual through challenging moments. They help keep the environment safe while providing reassurance.
Planning for a psychedelic mushroom trip is advisable. Users should ideally free up 6–8 hours, during which there shouldn’t be interruptions.
The responsible use of medicinal fungi includes taking time to reflect. Journaling the thoughts and feelings during and after a trip provides valuable insights.
Are psilocybe mushrooms legal?
No, psilocybe cubensis in mushrooms is illegal in the United States under federal law. The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) categorizes the compound as a Schedule I drug. It has no accepted medical use in treatment and carries a high potential for misuse.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave psilocybe cubensis “breakthrough therapy” status in 2018. This designation lets clinical trials proceed in places like NYU and Johns Hopkins. Researchers may test the compound for cases of treatment-resistant depression.
The FDA issued guidance for clinical research using psilocybe cubensis in June 2023.10 This progress opened up doors for legal use within healthcare and treatment environments. Two trained psychotherapists must observe the therapeutic process.
Denver was the first US city to decriminalize psilocybe cubensis mushrooms in 2019. Oakland followed suit in under a month. Other areas like Ann Arbor and Santa Cruz have since done the same.
Oregon was the first state to create a legal framework for therapeutic psilocybe cubensis. Voters passed Measure 109 to develop a psychedelic therapy program in 2020. Adults over 21 can use psilocybe cubensis with a trained professional at a licensed facility.
Other states have also decriminalized psilocybe cubensis after Oregon. They include Washington, Michigan, California, Massachusetts, and Colorado.
Magic mushroom decriminalization and legalization movements are taking off because of modern research. Studies are ongoing and public opinion of psilocybe cubensis is changing.
Federal law still prohibits the compound. Legal reforms may happen as more evidence comes to light.
Want to learn more about the psilocybe cubensis laws? The legal status of medicinal fungi provides a more comprehensive overview.
The market for psychedelics has seen more acceptance in recent years. It’s crucial to find reputable sources that prioritize safety and ethics. Psilocybin may offer euphoric, mood-boosting experiences. It could allow the user to transcend their sense of self to find healing.
Good Moods is a one-stop shop for buying quality medicinal fungi. We have various psilocybe cubensis-based products, like microdoses, chocolate bars, and gummies. Liquid tinctures and different strains are available for expanding psychedelic exploration.
Some popular products include our Good Moods Milk Chocolate Mini’s. Each square has 0.5g of our Penis Envy Blend. We also have Watermelon Daydream Microdoses. It contains 0.32g of our in-house proprietary strain in a convenient capsule.
Our products deliver purity in every measured dose. We’re PsiloSafe Certified, following industry standards to provide safety and efficacy.
Visit our store to discover more delectable and enriching magic mushroom products.
1. PABCounseling. “How to Dose Psychedelic Mushrooms.” Pediatric and Adult Behavioral Counseling, 17 May 2021, pabcounseling.com/how-to-dose-psychedelic-mushrooms/
2. Hartney, Elizabeth. “What Are Shrooms (Magic Mushrooms)?” Verywell Mind, 26 Feb. 2012, www.verywellmind.com/what-are-magic-mushrooms-22085
3. Krebs, Teri S., and Pål-Ørjan Johansen. “Over 30 Million Psychedelic Users in the United States.” F1000Research, 28 Mar. 2013, f1000research.com/articles/2-98/v1
4. Morris, Amanda, and Kelyn Soong. “What Do Magic Mushrooms Do to Your Brain? A Midflight Crisis Raises Questions.” Washington Post, 26 Oct. 2023, www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2023/10/26/psilocybe cubensis-magic-mushrooms-mental-health/
5. Poison & Drug Information Service, Alberta Health Services. “What Are Magic Mushrooms?” MyHealth Alberta, 20 Aug. 2019, myhealth.alberta.ca/Alberta/Pages/What-are-magic-mushrooms.aspx
6. Ziff, Shawn, et al. “Analysis of Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy in Medicine: A Narrative Review.” Cureus, vol. 14, no. 2, 5 Feb. 2022, www.cureus.com/articles/85829-analysis-of-psilocybe cubensis-assisted-therapy-in-medicine-a-narrative-review, https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.21944
7. Alcohol and Drug Foundation. “ADF – Drug Facts – Magic Mushrooms, Psilocybin.” ADF – Alcohol & Drug Foundation, 22 Nov. 2023, adf.org.au/drug-facts/psilocybe cubensis/
8. Turning Point of Tampa. “Magic Mushrooms.” Turning Point of Tampa, 17 Nov. 2023, www.tpoftampa.com/magic-mushrooms-effects-risks-and-psychological-consequences/
9. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). “Psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms).” National Institute on Drug Abuse, 24 Jan. 2024, nida.nih.gov/research-topics/psilocybe cubensis-magic-mushrooms
10. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. “FDA Issues First Draft Guidance on Clinical Trials with Psychedelic Drugs.” FDA, 23 June 2023, www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-issues-first-draft-guidance-clinical-trials-psychedelic-drugs
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Bend, Oregon 97702
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