10 Psilocybin Facts You Probably Didn't Know

Psilocybin, more commonly known as magic mushrooms, are a psychoactive compound that has been used for centuries in religious and spiritual rituals. The active ingredient in magic mushrooms is psilocybin, which is a naturally occurring psychoactive substance. Psilocybin is classified as a Schedule I drug in the United States, which means that it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. Despite its illegal status, psilocybin is one of the most popular psychedelic drugs used today.

Here are 10 facts about this fascinating compound that you probably didn't know:

1. Magic mushrooms were first discovered by Westerners in the 16th century. Spanish Conqueror Hernan Cortes reported seeing Aztecs using them in religious ceremonies.

2. Magic mushrooms grow naturally all over the world and have been used by indigenous people for thousands of years.

3. Psilocybin is classified as a Schedule I drug in the United States, which means that it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.

4. Despite its illegal status, psilocybin is one of the most popular psychedelic drugs used today.

5. Psilocybin creates visual and auditory hallucinations, alters the perception of time, and can cause euphoria and feelings of well-being.

6. The effects of psilocybin generally last between four to six hours.

7. Psilocybin is not considered to be addictive and there are no reports of overdoses or withdrawal symptoms associated with its use.

8. Some studies suggest that psilocybin may have therapeutic benefits for treating anxiety, depression, and addiction, and magic mushrooms show promising results for PTSD.

9. In 2006, scientists at John Hopkins University conducted the first ever double-blind placebo-controlled study of psilocybin's therapeutic potential in cancer patients diagnosed with a terminal illness. The results were promising, with participants reporting reduced anxiety and an increase in quality of life.

10. There is currently a renewed interest in researching the therapeutic potential of psilocybin thanks to the work of groups like the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS). MAPS is currently conducting clinical trials investigating the efficacy of psilocybin-assisted therapy for treating PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addiction.

Psilocybin is a fascinating compound with a rich history dating back thousands of years. Although it is classified as a Schedule I drug in the United States, psilocybin is one of the most popular psychedelic drugs used today thanks to its therapeutic potential. If you are considering trying psilocybin, be sure to do your research and consult with a medical professional first.