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What is Psilocybin

Psilocybin is a natural psychedelic found in over 180 types of mushrooms.

In the brain, it turns into psilocin, which causes hallucinations and other effects.

It’s also known as “magic mushrooms.”

Physical Properties

The chemical formula is C₁₂H₁₇N₂O₄P, with a molecular weight of 284.25 grams per mole.

It melts at about 220 degrees Celsius and appears as a white crystalline powder when purified.

In nature, it’s found in brown or tan mushrooms and dissolves in water, so it’s absorbed quickly.

How it’s Made and Used

Psilocybin grows naturally in humid, forested areas all over the world.

It’s not currently made by pharmaceutical companies, but research is being done for mental health treatment.

Short-Term Effects

In the short term, psilocybin can cause hallucinations, feelings of euphoria, deep emotions, and even spiritual experiences.

Physically, it can cause dilated pupils, nausea, and muscle weakness.

Long-Term Effects

Long-term effects are still being studied, but some people report flashbacks or anxiety.

It also shows promise in helping with depression, PTSD, and anxiety when combined with therapy.

Side Effects

Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, confusion, and sweating.

Mentally, it can sometimes lead to panic, fear, and paranoia during a “bad trip.”

There’s also a risk of seeing things even after the drug wears off, which is called HPPD.

Pharmaceutical Value

Psilocybin isn’t approved as medicine yet, but studies show it helps people who don’t respond to antidepressants.

If legalized, it could be worth over 2 billion dollars.

Right now, it’s only used in clinical trials with therapists.

Illicit Use

People often take psilocybin at parties, festivals, or alone in nature to seek spiritual insight or for fun.

It’s illegal under federal law but decriminalized in places like Oregon, Denver, and Oakland.

Who Uses It?

Young adults, especially those aged 18–25, are the largest group.

Indigenous communities have used it in religious ceremonies for centuries.

Today, it’s also used by middle-class, spiritual, or mental health-seeking individuals.

Who, How, and Why?

Most users are white, college-educated, and middle to upper class.

Men use it slightly more than women.

A study showed 71% of users felt it was a meaningful spiritual experience.

Forms & Overdose Info

Psilocybin is usually eaten as dried mushrooms or brewed into tea.

In trials, it can also come as a powder or pill.

Overdose is rare, but very high doses can cause severe anxiety or psychosis.

Drug Category

Psilocybin is classified as a Schedule I hallucinogen in the U.S., meaning it’s considered to have high abuse potential and no medical use yet.

It’s also called a classic psychedelic.

Controversial Issues

The big question is whether it can be used safely for therapy or if it’s too risky.

Some believe it’s safe with therapy, but dangerous if abused.

Laws are changing fast, but the debate continues.

Our Opinion

We believe the pharmaceutical industry helps humanity but mostly serves investors.

It makes life-saving medicine, and we need medicine — but the focus on profit hurts patients.

For example, insulin is cheap to make but sold for hundreds.

Psilocybin is blocked despite its benefits.

We need affordable, fair medicine for everyone.

Historical Background

Indigenous peoples, like the Mazatec in Mexico, have used psilocybin for religious rituals for centuries.

In 1957, a Life Magazine article introduced it to the U.S.

In 1970, it was banned under Nixon’s War on Drugs.

Now, in the 2020s, research and therapy are making a comeback.