Psilocin vs psilocybin: key differences and their effects explained

Many believe psilocybin and psilocin act the same way or are the same compound. But they have some key differences. Let's explore what's different between psilocybin and psilocin.

Psychedelic mushrooms, mostly known as magic mushrooms, contain the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin. These two are responsible for their hallucinogenic effects. This psychedelic trip is a unique experience and it can significantly vary depending on the individual, the dose, and the setting.

Psilocybin and psilocin are the key ingredients in psychedelic mushrooms, with psilocybin being the most stable and prevalent between the two. While both are classified as psychoactive substances, they have several differences when it comes to their chemical structure and effects.

Chemical structure and effects

Psilocybin is a prodrug that converts into psilocin in the body, which is the active metabolite responsible for the psychedelic effects. The chemical structures of psilocybin and psilocin are similar, but psilocybin has a phosphate group that is removed during conversion.

Psilocin, on the other hand, is the active substance that binds to serotonin receptors in the brain. This is what produces the hallucinogenic effects. Both psilocybin and psilocin can provoke visual and auditory hallucinations, altered perception, and a distorted sense of time and space.

How are psilocybin mushrooms used?

Psilocybin mushrooms, such as Psilocybe cubensis, are a type of fungi that contains the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin. These psychedelic mushrooms have been used for centuries now, in both traditional medicine and spiritual practices. Today, they are being studied for their potential therapeutic benefits.

Magic mushrooms can be ingested in different ways, including fresh and dried, with dried mushrooms being more stable and longer-lasting. Keep in mind that the psilocybin content in mushrooms can vary a lot. Some species contain more than others, which makes them stronger.

It's important to explore psilocybin in a safe and legal setting, where you can know the exact amount you are ingesting.

If you’re curious about psilocybin, you can book an exploration call and see if this path is safe for you.

Common psychoactive properties and effects

The psychoactive effects of psilocybin and psilocin can be intense and profound, with users reporting experiences such as visual and auditory hallucinations, altered perception, and distorted sense of time and space.

These effects are commonly influenced by the dose, the setting, and the individual’s mindset and expectations. This psychedelic could produce a wide range of emotions: from deep relaxation to euphoria and elation, to anxiety and fear.

The psychedelic effects commonly last several hours, with the peak effects occurring within 2-3 hours after ingestion. Your journey is deeply influenced by your intention and environment. Make sure you are exploring in a safe space, surrounded by licensed facilitators who can help you in case you become overwhelmed.

You might be interested: How long does a mushroom trip last?

Oral bioavailability of magic mushrooms

The oral bioavailability of psilocybin is relatively low, with only about 50% of the dose being absorbed into the bloodstream. Psilocin, on the other hand, has a higher oral bioavailability, with about 80% of the dose being absorbed into the bloodstream.

Additionally, the oral bioavailability of psilocybin and psilocin can be influenced by factors such as the dose, the method of ingestion, and the individual’s metabolism. Synthetic psilocybin, which is used in clinical trials, has a higher oral bioavailability than natural psilocybin.

Learn about our psilocybin retreats here.

Magic mushroom species

There are many different species of magic mushrooms, each with its own unique characteristics and effects. Some of the most common species include Psilocybe cubensis, Psilocybe semilanceata, and Psilocybe mexicana. Each species can have different levels of psilocybin and psilocin, which can affect the intensity and duration of the effects.

Magic mushroom species can be found in various parts of the world, and they are often used in traditional medicine and spiritual practices.

Psilocybin is also being used as an alternative mental health treatment. Clinical trials have shown significant evidence of its benefits for individuals with psychiatric conditions such as obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, PTSD, and anxiety. High doses of psilocybin, administered under supervised and legal settings, have been shown to reduce symptoms after one or two sessions, also creating long-lasting relief.

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