Psilocybin mushroom
A mushroom containing psilocybin, a psychoactive compound that the body converts into psilocin. Species vary in potency, distribution, and appearance.
Psilocybin: A psychedelic compound converted in the body into psilocin. This is the principal psychoactive compound found in these mushrooms.
Psilocybe: A genus of mushrooms that includes many species containing psilocybin and related compounds. Many familiar psilocybin mushrooms belong to this genus.
Psilocybin therapy: A clinical approach that administers psilocybin with psychological support for mental health conditions. Clinical studies investigate psilocybin originally obtained from or modeled on mushroom compounds.
Psychedelic experience: A temporary altered state involving changes in perception, emotion, thought, and sense of self. This describes the subjective effects associated with psilocybin exposure.
Amanita muscaria: A conspicuous mushroom whose principal intoxicating compounds are muscimol and ibotenic acid. It is often confused with psychedelic mushrooms but has different active compounds and effects.
Psilocin: A psychedelic compound that activates serotonin receptors, especially the 5-HT2A receptor. It is the active compound produced when the body metabolizes psilocybin.
Psilocybin mushroom species: Fungal species known to contain psilocybin, including species in several genera. The common name covers multiple species, not one uniform mushroom.
Psilocybin research: Scientific study of psilocybin’s effects, mechanisms, risks, and possible therapeutic uses. Research examines both the compound’s effects and its potential medical applications.
Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder: A condition involving recurring or persistent perceptual disturbances after hallucinogen use. It is a rare potential lasting consequence associated with psychedelic exposure.
LSD: A potent synthetic psychedelic that acts primarily through serotonin receptors. It can produce overlapping psychedelic effects, but is not a mushroom-derived compound.