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Species in News: Psilocybe Mushrooms
Context: In a recent publication in Mycologia, researchers from Stellenbosch University and citizen mycologists introduce two new species of psychoactive mushrooms in the genus Psilocybe from southern Africa.
Key Findings
- The two new species, Psilocybe ingeli and Psilocybe maluti.
- Psilocybe ingeli was first found in KwaZulu-Natal (2023), while Psilocybe maluti was discovered in the Free State and Lesotho (2021).
- This discovery increases the number of known indigenous Psilocybe species in Africa to six.
- Species are globally recognised as some of the most studied and well-known psychoactive mushrooms, with approximately 140 documented species.
About Psilocybin (Magic Mushrooms)
- Psilocybin (4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine) comes from certain types of mushrooms (shrooms, magic mushrooms) found on nearly every continent.
- Type: Hallucinogenic fungi found worldwide (except Antarctica).
- Active Compounds: Psilocybin and psilocin (cause mind-altering effects).
- Form: Typically consumed dried or powdered.
- When ingested, psilocybin undergoes conversion into psilocin.
- Effect: Psychedelic/hallucinogenic, alters perception of reality.
- It has a low level of toxicity but there are health risks associated with its use.
- These include dangerous behaviour, psychosis, and accidental poisoning from consuming toxic mushrooms.
- Individuals with mental health conditions or a family history of psychosis face an increased risk of adverse psychiatric reactions.
- History: Used in Central American rituals for millennia (3000 BC).
- Scientific Interest: Studied for decades for potential treatment of mental illness (depression, addiction, PTSD).
- Modern Use: Increased research and individual curiosity about therapeutic and personal growth applications.
- The production, sale, and possession of magic mushrooms are illegal in Canada unless authorised by Health Canada.
- Psilocybin and psilocin are controlled substances under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.