Psilocybe cubensis 101
Psilocybe cubensis is the most well-known and recognizable species in the world of psychoactive fungi (and soon to be the first legal magic mushroom in the United States – thank you, Oregon!).
If you’ve ever embarked on a cosmic journey with a sack of mushrooms, there’s a good chance they were cubensis. These mushrooms are widely popular and often found “on the streets” because they are beginner-friendly, making them suitable for mycologists of all levels—whether you’re a novice, intermediate, or advanced enthusiast. Moreover, the spores are relatively easy to find, except in California, Georgia, and Idaho, where Psilocybin spores remain illegal).
The widespread success of Psilocybe cubensis can be partly attributed to the popular literature of the 1970s, particularly “Psilocybin: The Magic Mushroom Grower’s Guide” by Terence & Dennis McKenna. Over many generations of selective breeding, a diverse range of strains has emerged, offering countless options for researchers and enthusiasts alike, such as:
- A+
- Albino A+
- Acadian
- Argentinian
- Alacabenzi
- Amazon
- Albino Penis Envy
- Allen
- Albino Treasure Coast
- Australian
- B+
- Ban Thurian
- Ban Hua Thanon
- Blue Meanie
- Bix Mex
- Burma
- Burmese
- Brazilian
- Cambodian
- Chilean
- Columbian
- Costa Rican
- Cuban
- Ecuador
- Elephant
- Escondito
- F+
- Golden Teacher
- Guadalajara
- Gulf Coast
- Hanoi
- Honduran
- Huautla
- Keeper’s Creeper
- Koh Samui
- Lipa Yai
- Malabar
- Martinique
- Mazatepec
- Mckennaii
- Menace
- Mathias Romero
- Mexicube
- Mestizo
- Na Muang
- Oak Ridge
- Orissa India
- PES Azurscen
- PES Hawaiian
- PF Albino
- PF Classic
- PF Redspore
- Palenque
- Panama
- Penis Envy
- PE #6
- PE Uncut
- Pensacola
- Peru
- Pink Buffalo
- Peurto Rico
- R44 cubensis
- Stargazer
- Tasmanian
- Texans
- Treasure Coast
- Thai
- Transkei
- Wollongong
- Z Strain
The Majestic Psilocybe cubensis
Contents
Dubbed ‘the most majestic Psilocybe strain’ by the renowned mycologist Paul Stamets, Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms are recognized for their pleasant golden color and striking appearance. This golden hue contrasts with the vivid blue bruising that occurs due to the oxidation of psilocin—one of the two primary active alkaloids in magic mushrooms. Alongside psilocin, Psilocybe cubensis contains several other compounds, including:
- Norbaeocystin
- Norpsilocin
- Baeocystin
- Aeuruginascin
- Cordysinin C & D
- Harmane
- Harmol
- Norharmane
- Perlyolyrine
Some of these carbolines are traditional ingredients in Ayahuasca brews as they inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO), allowing orally-ingested DMT to have a long-lasting psychoactive effect by preventing its breakdown in the stomach.
Where Psilocybe cubensis Grows
Wild Psilocybe cubensis can be found across the globe, making it a forager’s delight (except in extreme climates like Antarctica or the Arctic). As always, exercise caution when foraging, as the saying goes, “All mushrooms are edible, but some only once.”
Psilocybe cubensis as Medicine
After decades of setbacks due to the war on drugs and the Schedule I status of psychedelics, researchers are finally being granted licenses to investigate psilocybin’s potential to treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other neurological and emotional issues.
Ironically, despite its classification as a Schedule I substance (which implies no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse), psychedelic mushrooms have demonstrated virtually zero addiction potential and offer a unique therapeutic tool for numerous health challenges. One mechanism that prevents addiction is the rapid development of tolerance—after just one dose, the required amount to achieve effects increases significantly, making frequent use less appealing.
In contrast to many prescription medications, psilocybin has fewer side effects and offers an after-period of integration, allowing users to reflect on their experiences and integrate positive benefits into daily life. As we see more studies proving its benefits, there’s hope that psilocybin mushrooms will be accepted and legalized to aid humankind more effectively.
The History of Psilocybe cubensis and Psychoactive Fungi
Psychoactive fungi like Psilocybe cubensis may have been used long before civilization began, potentially playing a role in humanity’s evolution. The earliest evidence lies in Northern Australia, with psychedelic murals estimated to date back to 10,000 BCE.
In his book, “Mushrooms and Mankind,” James Arthur suggests that the use of fungi, particularly Amanita muscaria, could be at the root of consciousness, Christmas traditions, and even the design of the Great Pyramids. The late ethnobotanist and mystic Terence McKenna proposed the “Stoned Ape Hypothesis,” which posits that ingesting psychedelic mushrooms played a role in the rapid development of the human brain, catalyzing our abilities for tools, language, spirituality, and culture.
Central American artwork reveals that ancient cultures, such as the Aztecs, saw these mushrooms as a direct line of communication with the gods. The Aztec word for magic mushrooms, “Teonanácatl,” translates to ‘Flesh of the Gods,’ underscoring their spiritual significance.
Other ancient cultures known to have used psychoactive mushrooms include the:
- Mayans
- Toltecs
- Chinatecs
- Totonacs
- Olmecs
- Mazatecs
- Zapotecs
- Chatinos
- Purepechas
- Colimas
In Siberia, the Tungusic tribe famously ingests Amanita muscaria mushrooms by collecting and drinking the urine of reindeer that have eaten the mushrooms. This method allows them to avoid toxic compounds while still experiencing the desired psychoactive effects.
Even Ancient civilizations like the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians displayed their fondness for mushrooms, often incorporating them into religious and cultural rituals. The Eleusinian Mysteries of Greece, for example, were secret ceremonies believed to involve psychedelic mushrooms.
The earliest documented use of magic mushrooms in modern Western civilization dates back to 1799, when an English family accidentally consumed Psilocybe semilanceata and experienced euphoria, hysteria, and pupil dilation.
It wasn’t until 1957, when R. Gordon Wasson wrote about his experiences with psilocybin in Life Magazine, that the term “magic mushroom” gained popularity. This article inspired many, including Timothy Leary, who would go on to found the Harvard Psilocybin Project, bringing psilocybin to mainstream awareness.
Embracing the Magic of Mushrooms
The rich history of Psilocybe cubensis reflects humanity’s enduring fascination with these incredible fungi. From ancient rituals to modern scientific studies, Psilocybe cubensis continues to captivate, heal, and inspire. As we journey toward greater acceptance and understanding of this majestic mushroom, let’s honor the knowledge passed down through generations and fully embrace the potential it holds for our health and happiness.
To your health and happiness, always!
