What is psilocybin?

What is psilocybin? Psilocybin (4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine) is a natural compound found in certain mushrooms on nearly every continent. It belongs to a group of drugs called psychedelics or hallucinogens. These substances alter a person’s sense of reality. They can cause people to see, hear, or feel things that aren’t there.

History: Indigenous people in Central America used psilocybin mushrooms for healing and spiritual rituals as far back as 3000 B.C. Scientists began studying it decades ago alongside LSD. Their goal was to explore its potential to treat mental illness and substance use disorders.

Growing research: So what is psilocybin being researched for today? Researchers now study its potential to treat depression, PTSD, addiction, pain, and neurodegenerative disorders. Interest in this area continues to grow rapidly.

Who uses it and why: A 2021 survey of over 7,000 people found around 7% had used psilocybin mushrooms in the past year. People use it to seek enjoyable or spiritual experiences. Others use it to improve their well-being or self-treat conditions like

Ready to Start Microdosing? Here’s What We Recommend

If you’re new to microdosing, the easiest and most enjoyable way to begin is with a mushroom chocolate bar. The dose is already built in, so there’s no measuring required — just break off a piece and you’re good to go. Browse our full range of mushroom chocolates to find the right fit for you.

Alternatively, if chocolate isn’t your thing, try brewing your microdose into a warm cup of tea instead. It’s a gentler, more gradual way to ease in, and just as effective.