Psilocybin

Psilocybin

What is it?

Hallucinogenic chemical obtained from certain types of fresh and dried mushrooms. Has slender stems topped by caps with dark gills on the underside.

Street Names

Magic Mushrooms, Shrooms, Mushrooms

How is it used?

•    Ingested orally
•    Brewed as tea
•    Added to foods to mask bitter flavor  

How does it affect the body?

  • Hallucinations; inability to tell fantasy from reality
  • Large amounts can cause paranoia, fear, anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and psychotic-like episodes
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Muscle weakness, lack of coordination
  • Overdose may result in psychosis or death

Photo: "Psilocybe mexicana 53966" by Alan Rockefeller via Wikimedia Commons

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