What are Psilocybin and Psilocin?

Psilocybin and psilocin are psychoactive compounds found in various species of mushrooms commonly known as magic mushrooms. Both compounds are responsible for the psychedelic effects produced by hallucinogenic mushrooms. We will tell you everything about both substances in this article.

What is Psilocin?

Psilocin (4-hydroxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine) is an alkaloid derived from psilocybin present in most psilocybin mushrooms. This substance is largely responsible for the effects of mushrooms such as Mazapatec, Thai, B+ or Golden Teacher among others and magic truffles, available at the Smartshop as the main method of use is oral. When ingested, psilocybin is converted into psilocin in the digestive system.

Psilocin is a fairly unstable compound that quickly loses its activity after harvesting, causing the mushrooms to quickly acquire a bluish or purplish appearance.

Differences between Psilocybin and Psilocin

While both substances are very similar, psilocybin and psilocin have some significant differences. Thus, the difference in molecular structure causes psilocybin to convert into psilocin in the body when ingested. Other differences include:

• Duration of effects: psilocybin has a longer duration due to its conversion process to psilocin.
• Stability: psilocybin is more chemically stable compared to psilocin, which facilitates its storage.

Moreover, both substances offer a fascinating window into altered states of consciousness, but it is crucial to understand their differences in order to safely harness their potential benefits.

Cultural and medicinal importance

Since ancient times, different cultures have used these substances in rituals and ceremonies. The indigenous tribes of Central and South America considered them sacred and used them for spiritual and healing purposes. Nowadays, there is a renewed interest in their potential therapeutic applications, especially in the treatment of mental disorders such as depression and anxiety.

How does psilocybin transform into psilocin?

The journey of psilocybin within the human body begins when it is ingested. At this point, a fascinating process of chemical conversion begins.

Psilocybin is rapidly converted into psilocin by the alkaline phosphatase enzyme, which is found in various tissues of the body, mainly in the liver. This conversion is primarily responsible for the psychoactive effects.

Unlike psilocybin, psilocin can easily cross the blood-brain barrier and access the brain.

Once in the brain, the monoamine oxidase enzymes (MAO) break down psilocin, thus regulating its concentration and duration of psychedelic effects.

This biochemical process highlights how different enzymes collaborate to transform and regulate compounds within the body, resulting in unique and varied experiences for each person who consumes magic mushrooms.

Effects on the brain and nervous system

Psilocybin and psilocin have a significant psychoactive effect on the brain and nervous system. Once psilocybin is converted into psilocin, the latter interacts primarily with serotonin receptors, especially the 5-HT2A receptor. This interaction is key to the hallucinogenic effects and mystical experiences reported during its use.

These substances can:

• Alter the perception of time.
• Produce visual and auditory changes.
• Induce profound changes in thinking and emotion.

Chemical stability also plays a crucial role in how these effects are experienced. Psi locybin is more stable than psilocin, allowing for a gradual release of the latter as it is metabolized. This contributes to a prolonged and controlled experience, avoiding sudden peaks in its concentration.

Impact on the central nervous system of psilocybin and psilocin

Both psilocybin and psilocin have a significant impact on the central nervous system. Among other effects on it are:

• Neuronal plasticity: studies indicate that they can promote neurogenesis and synaptogenesis, processes related to the formation of new neurons and synaptic connections.
• Emotional modulation: they help reduce activity in areas of the brain associated with the processing of fear and stress, such as the amygdala.
• These effects are not only responsible for subjective experiences during their consumption, but also open doors for possible therapeutic applications.

Exploring medicinal uses

Current research is placing great emphasis on the therapeutic potential of psilocybin and psilocin. These compounds have not only captured the attention of the scientific community, but also those interested in alternative treatments.

Among some of the areas where it may be relevant is its use in cancer patients. Research indicates that psilocybin can significantly reduce anxiety and fear related to terminal diagnoses, thus improving quality of life.

Personality disorders

One of the most promising fields is the treatment of personality disorders, being able to help alleviate symptoms of:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

The medicinal use of these compounds can offer new avenues for patients who do not respond well to conventional treatments.

Risks, precautions, and side effects

Health risks: Psilocybin and psilocin can present certain risks. Among the most common adverse side effects are:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Anxiety
• Paranoia

In extreme cases, the consumption of these substances can lead to temporary psychotic episodes.

Tips and precautions to keep in mind

Some tips and precautions to keep in mind are as follows:

• Toxicity: although mushrooms containing psilocybin and psilocin are not toxic in small doses, excessive use can cause severe adverse reactions. It is important to consider purity and dosage to avoid serious problems.
• Safe and responsible use: to minimize the risks associated with the use of psilocybin and psilocin.
• Controlled dosage: it is always better to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed.
• It is advisable to use it in a controlled and safe environment to reduce the risk of negative experiences, always accompanied by someone trustworthy.

Psilocybin and psilocin are found in hallucinogenic mushrooms and truffles. Despite their potential benefits, it is necessary to be aware of their risks in order to avoid possible problems.