What is Psilocybin?

By definition, psilocybin is a natural product found in over 200 forms of fungus. It is a hallucinogenic indole obtained from the fungus psilocybe cubensis, otherwise known as “magic mushrooms.”

Psilocybin mushrooms are entheogens, a chemical substance, typically of plant origin, that is ingested to produce a non-ordinary state of consciousness for religious or spiritual purposes. Psilocybin is quickly converted to psilocin by the body after ingestion. Psilocin has mind-altering effects that are similar in some aspect to those of LSD, mescaline, and DMT. All of these substances have been used by indigenous communities for millennia to expand personal understanding of themselves and their environment.

Please see this article for a comprehensive review on psychedelics by David E Nichols, who serves as Distinguished Chair of Psychopharmacology at Purdue University and has worked in the field of psychoactive drugs since 1969. (This review is referenced below as indicated.)

In general, the effects of psilocybin include euphoria, visual hallucinations, changes in perception, a distorted sense of time, and perceived spiritual experiences. Psilocybin has been shown to have "unprecedented positive relief" of anxiety and depression, as well as "positive benefit in treating both alcohol and nicotine addiction" (Nichols 2016). Psilocybin has no addictive characteristics. Adverse physical reactions, if they occur, are mostly short in duration. Various sources (such as this one) posit that psilocybin, as well as all psychedelics and even marijuana, may have longer-term detrimental psychological effects (e.g flashbacks that "may be like a living nightmare"). Psilocybin has actually been shown by credible sources (such as here and here) to have very few adverse reactions and is listed as the least harmful compared to other substances:

Additional drug facts are available through the DEA here.

Additional resources and information on the definition of Psilocybin:

What is Psilocybin? — Psilocybin for Mental Health

Psilocybin - Alcohol and Drug Foundation (adf.org.au)

Drug Interaction Warnings

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ANTI-DEPRESSANTS

If you take St. John’s wort, SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, or any other antidepressants, as well as triptans migraine medications, please consult your medical provider and/or pharmacist.

SEROTONIN SYNDROME WARNING

A risk of ingesting LSD or mushrooms along with other serotonergic drugs such as anti-depressants can result in high levels of serotonin in your body. This can potentially result in a condition called serotonin syndrome. Again, please consult your medical provider and/or pharmacist.

There are many considerations when using a substance, especially if you are taking other substances. PATA cannot offer advice and we strongly encourage you to educate yourself and consult a medical professional for safety.

What is Psilocybin?

Video

Drug Interaction Warnings

Content provided by Tripsitters

ANTI-DEPRESSANTS

SEROTONIN SYNDROME WARNING

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