What the clinician needs to know about magic mushrooms
Advances in Psychiatric Treatment – September 01, 2000
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Hallucinogenic mushrooms, integral to cultural expression, traditional medicine, and historical rituals across diverse geographies, have been consumed for centuries. In Mexico, their ceremonial use is well-documented. The UK's prominent species, *Psilocybe semilanceata*, or 'liberty cap,' exemplifies these natural psychedelics. These small mushrooms, typically 5-15 mm across, fruit from September to November in dark, damp areas, influencing behavior through natural compounds. Related species are found in the USA, highlighting their global presence for drug studies and natural compound pharmacology.
Abstract
This term refers to mushrooms that grow naturally and have hallucinogenic (sometimes called psychedelic) properties. Consumption of different species has occurred in various cultures over the centuries, with use in ritual ceremonies in Mexico being particularly well known. In the UK at present the species most commonly used is Psilocybe semilanceata , also known as the ‘liberty cap’ mushroom. This grows in many areas, particularly in dark places and after heavy rainfall, with fruition occurring from September to November. It is creamy-yellow or brown in colour, very small (5–15 mm across) with a thin fragile stalk. In the USA a closely related type is used.