Magic mushrooms, often called shrooms, have been used for thousands of years in traditional and spiritual ceremonies around the world. Today, they are being studied again by scientists who want to understand how they affect the brain and whether they may help with certain mental health conditions. The main ingredient in magic mushrooms that causes their effects is a chemical called psilocybin.
Magic mushrooms are a group of over 200 different types of fungi that contain psilocybin. When someone eats these mushrooms, the body changes psilocybin into another chemical called psilocin. Psilocin is what actually causes the mind-altering effects.
Psilocin works by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain. Serotonin is a natural chemical that helps control mood, emotions, and how we see the world. By changing how these receptors work, psilocin can temporarily alter the way a person thinks, feels, and perceives their surroundings.
Scientists have also found that psilocybin affects the default mode network (DMN), a system in the brain linked to self-reflection and the sense of “self.” When psilocybin quiets this network, people sometimes report feeling more connected to others or to the world around them, and less focused on their usual thoughts or worries. This can create powerful feelings of peace or unity, but it can also feel confusing or intense for some.
The effects of magic mushrooms usually begin about 15 to 45 minutes after taking them and can last between four and six hours. The experience can be very different from person to person.
Some people report positive effects, such as happiness, laughter, calmness, and a deeper understanding of their thoughts and feelings. Others may see visual changes, such as colors looking brighter or shapes appearing to move. Some even describe hearing music differently or feeling like time is moving slower or faster than normal.
However, psilocybin can also cause unpleasant or challenging experiences, especially if the person is anxious, uncomfortable, or in an unsafe setting. These “bad trips” may include panic, fear, confusion, or distressing thoughts. That’s why experts say environment and mindset make a big difference in how a psilocybin experience unfolds.
In most cases, the physical effects of psilocybin are mild and temporary. They can include:
These effects usually fade as the experience ends. Still, people with heart problems or certain medical conditions should avoid substances that raise blood pressure or heart rate.
While psilocybin is not considered addictive and has low toxicity, it still carries risks. The biggest danger comes from using it in unsafe or uncontrolled settings. Someone who feels frightened or confused might act unpredictably or put themselves in harm’s way.
Another serious risk is mushroom misidentification. Some poisonous mushrooms look very similar to psilocybin mushrooms, and eating the wrong kind can cause severe illness or even death.
Psilocybin can also worsen mental health conditions in people who have a history of disorders like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or psychosis. Even though psilocybin itself doesn’t cause these disorders, it can trigger symptoms in those who are vulnerable.
A rare condition called Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD) can happen after using psychedelics. It causes visual “flashbacks” or changes in perception long after the drug’s effects have worn off.
Mixing psilocybin with alcohol, cannabis, or stimulants can make the experience unpredictable and increase the risk of panic, confusion, or dangerous behavior.
In recent years, researchers have been studying psilocybin to see if it could help with certain mental health conditions under professional supervision. These studies take place in hospitals or research centers where doctors carefully monitor the participants and use exact, measured doses.
Some early research shows psilocybin might help:
Scientists emphasize that these studies use pure psilocybin in controlled clinical settings, combined with therapy. Taking psilocybin outside of these programs is not considered safe or legal.
Microdosing means taking very small, non-hallucinogenic amounts of psilocybin. Some people say it helps them feel more focused, creative, or relaxed. However, researchers are still studying microdosing, and there isn’t enough scientific evidence yet to prove whether it’s safe or effective in the long term. Until more research is done, experts recommend caution and discourage self-experimentation.
In both the United States and Canada, psilocybin is a controlled substance.
While a few places, such as Oregon and Colorado, have begun allowing limited or supervised use, psilocybin remains federally prohibited. Anyone interested in learning more should research official government resources and follow local laws.
Magic mushrooms are complex and powerful. They can change how people think and feel by affecting the brain’s chemistry and perception. Scientists see potential for psilocybin in future treatments for mental health conditions, but it’s important to remember that this research is still developing.
For now, psilocybin remains a controlled substance, and using it outside approved medical or research settings carries real legal and health risks. The best way to explore this topic is through reliable education, curiosity, and respect for the law.
