Chemistry

Magic mushrooms, primarily from the Psilocybe genus, contain psychoactive compounds like psilocybin and psilocin. Psilocybin acts as a prodrug, converting into psilocin in the body, which is the active metabolite responsible for hallucinogenic effects. Psilocin binds to serotonin subtype 2A (5-HT2A) receptors in the brain, inducing neuropsychological effects such as altered perception and consciousness. The chemical composition varies among different life stages of the mushroom, with fruiting bodies typically containing higher levels of psilocybin and other psychoactive alkaloids compared to mycelia.