Magic mushrooms.

We’ve all heard of them, but what are they exactly?

Magic mushrooms are fungi that, when ingested can offer hallucinogenic (psilocybin) properties. These spores have been around long before humans and were originally used during spiritual and religious rituals.

The 1950’s began the first documented recreational use of these psychedelics which paired magic mushmushrooms with a negative stigma that has carried on through time…even today.

Combating the negativity that has surrounded these specific fungi, here are 10 Facts about Magic Mushrooms that maybe, just maybe, you didn’t know.

1. There are 180+ Species of Hallucinogenic “Magic” Mushrooms

In the realm of mushrooms, there are thousands of species. In the magic mushroom or psilocybin mushroom world, there are over 180 varieties.

Each varietal has a different potency, growing condition, and harvest period.

2.2. Microdosing Mushrooms offers Therapeutic Benefits

Microdosing, is the act of ingesting extremely small doses of magic mushrooms (.05 - .25g) for wellbeing purposes. Microdosing does not offer any hallucinating effects to the patient.

Research and studies are continuously underway which support the benefits of microdosing psilocybin. Therapeutic and holistic benefits have been determined to combat depression and anxiety, support creativity, clearer thinking, mood enhancement and event alleviate PTSD, ADD and ADHD.

3. Magic Mushrooms Are Not Addictive

PsiloPsilocybin is not considered to be a physically addictive naturally occurring chemical. It also does not support compulsive use.

4. Magic Mushrooms are Illegal in Many Places

The possession, use and growth of psilocybin mushrooms is illegal in many places around the world with some exceptions, see legality here.

10 Facts about Magic Mushrooms

5. They Are Small but Mighty!

The average size of magic mushrooms are around a 3 inch stalk with a 1 inch cap. These guys are the epitome of the “Small but Mighty” stance

6. Researches are Experimenting with Magic Mushrooms

ScientiScientists and researchers have been conducting studies for a few years now in order to collect data in controlled environments. Some of the studies surround themselves around the knowledge of psilocybin and how specific doses affect treatment of mental disorders.

Accredited organizations have been given the “A-OK” by the government (with limitations) on conduct-ing studies. The well-known John Hopkins, New York University and MAPS are just a few of the presti-gious institutions.

7. Animals Can Also Feel the Effects

Since psilocybin mushrooms grow in the wild, it’s no doubt that other wild animals have and do ingest them. Read more about this by checking out High Kingdom by Alex K. Gearin, PhD.

8. Magic Mushrooms are Non-Toxic

Apart from poisonous mushrooms which can be deadly, magic mushrooms are not toxic and there aren’t any known major health effects associated with them.

It is always extremely important to identify any mushroom before eating it, whether it for nutrition, health benefits or recreational use.

99. The Threshold of Feeling Magic Mushroom Effects begins at 0.2 grams.

Feeling the hallucinogenic properties of magic mushrooms will of course vary a bit from person to person but typically effects can be felt in the 0.2g – 0.5g range.

10. Psilocybin, the “Magic” in Magic Mushrooms Transforms Brain Activity.

Psilocybin interacts with serotonin receptors to transform brain activity, offering connections between different regions of the brain.

SeSerotonin receptors are what are known as the “happy chemical” in the body because it contributes to happiness and wellbeing. These receptors transmit messages between nerve cells.