Psilocybe aztecorum

Psilocybe aztecorum Toluca

Psilocybe aztecorum is a species of psilocybin mushroom in the family Hymenogastraceae. This species is known for its psychoactive properties, which are primarily due to the presence of psilocybin and psilocin. It is native to the highlands of Mexico, particularly in the regions associated with the Aztec culture.

Taxonomy and Naming

The species was first described by Guzmán in 1959. The name Psilocybe aztecorum is derived from the Aztec people, who are believed to have used these mushrooms in their religious ceremonies.

Description

Psilocybe aztecorum has a distinctive appearance:

• Cap: The cap is conical to bell-shaped, often with a small umbo, and measures 1-3 cm in diameter. It is hygrophanous, changing color as it loses moisture, typically from a dark brown to a lighter tan.
• Gills: The gills are adnate to adnexed, and they are initially light brown, becoming darker as the spores mature.
• Stipe: The stipe is slender, measuring 4-8 cm in length and 0.2-0.4 cm in thickness. It is typically white to yellowish and may bruise blue when handled.
• Spores: The spores are dark purplish-brown, ellipsoid, and measure 10-13 by 6-8 micrometers.

Habitat and Distribution

Psilocybe aztecorum is found in the high-altitude regions of Mexico, particularly in pine and oak forests. It grows on decomposing wood, often in association with mosses. The fruiting bodies typically appear during the rainy season, from June to September.

Psychoactive Properties

The primary active compounds in Psilocybe aztecorum are psilocybin and psilocin, which are known to cause hallucinations, altered perception of time, and changes in mood. These effects have been utilized in traditional shamanic practices by indigenous peoples.

Cultural Significance

The Aztecs referred to these mushrooms as "teonanácatl," which translates to "flesh of the gods." They were used in religious ceremonies to induce visions and communicate with deities. The use of these mushrooms was documented by early Spanish explorers and missionaries.

Legal Status

The legal status of Psilocybe aztecorum varies by country. In many places, the possession, sale, and use of psilocybin-containing mushrooms are regulated or prohibited.

See Also

• Psilocybe
• Psilocybin mushrooms
• Psychedelic experience
• Entheogen
• Aztec religion