Psychedelics are receiving a lot of buzz in the news. Anytime you turn on the tv and the Sportscenter anchor is discussing the use of psychedelics to treat head injuries? Then, it might be time to pay attention. There are many types of psychedelics, but for now, we are going to focus on the wonderful world of psychedelic mushrooms.
Psychedelic mushrooms are fungi that contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. When consumed, psilocybin is converted into psilocin, which is a hallucinogen that can produce a variety of effects, including altered perceptions, hallucinations, and changes in mood and thought.
There are many species of psychedelic mushrooms, each with its own unique set of effects. Some of the most common types of psychedelic mushrooms include:
Psilocybe cubensis: This is one of the most widely known and cultivated species of psychedelic mushrooms. It is native to Central and South America, but it can also be found in other parts of the world, including North America and Europe. Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms are typically small and brown, with a distinctive bell-shaped cap.
Psilocybe semilanceata: Also known as the "liberty cap," this species of psychedelic mushroom is found in Europe, North America, and other parts of the world. Psilocybe semilanceata mushrooms are typically small and brown, with a conical or bell-shaped cap and a long, slender stem.
Psilocybe azurescens: This species of psychedelic mushroom is native to the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Psilocybe azurescens mushrooms are typically large and blue, with a flat or wavy cap and a thick stem. They are known for their potency, and can produce stronger effects than other types of psychedelic mushrooms.
Psilocybe cyanescens: This species of psychedelic mushroom is also native to the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Psilocybe cyanescens mushrooms are typically small and brown, with a bell-shaped cap and a thick, woody stem. They are known for their strong psychedelic effects, and can produce stronger effects than other types of psychedelic mushrooms.
Psilocybe mexicana: This species of psychedelic mushroom is native to Mexico and Central America. Psilocybe mexicana mushrooms are typically small and brown, with a small, bell-shaped cap. They were traditionally used in shamanic rituals, and are sometimes referred to as "teonanácatl," which means "flesh of the gods."
Psilocybe baeocystis: Also known as the "blue bell," this species of psychedelic mushroom is found in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Psilocybe baeocystis mushrooms are typically small and blue, with a round or bell-shaped cap.
Gymnopilus spectabilis: This species of psychedelic mushroom is found in North America. Gymnopilus spectabilis mushrooms are typically large and orange or yellow, with a convex or bell-shaped cap. They are sometimes referred to as the "big laughing gym" because of their effects.
It is important to note that consuming any type of wild mushroom can be dangerous, as many species are poisonous or even deadly. Only consume mushrooms that have been properly identified and obtained from a trusted source. Psychedelic mushrooms should only be consumed in a safe and responsible manner, such as with trusted friends who can assist you with proper preparation and precautions.
References
1. Stamets, P. (1996). Psilocybin Mushrooms of the World: An Identification Guide. Ten Speed Press.
2. Guzmán, G. (1983). The Genus Psilocybe: A Systematic Revision of the Known Species Including the History, Distribution and Chemistry of the Hallucinogenic Species. Beihefte zur Nova Hedwigia, Heft 74.
3. Johnson, M. W., Richards, W. A., & Griffiths, R. R. (2008). Human hallucinogen research: Guidelines for safety. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 22(6), 603-620.
4. Erowid. (n.d.). Magic Mushrooms. Retrieved from https://www.erowid.org/plants/mushrooms/mushrooms.shtml
5. Shroomery. (n.d.). Psilocybin Mushrooms. Retrieved from https://www.shroomery.org/12514/Psilocybin-Mushrooms
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