Psilocybe samuiensis
Psilocybe samuiensis 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 was first described in 1991 by E. Borovicka, A. Gartz, and J. Allen.
Description[edit | edit source]
Psilocybe samuiensis has a distinctive appearance that makes it recognizable among other species of psilocybin mushrooms. The cap is typically 1-2 cm in diameter, conical to convex in shape, and often has a slight umbo. The color of the cap ranges from light brown to yellowish-brown, often with a darker center. The surface of the cap is smooth and can become sticky when moist.
The gills are adnate to adnexed, close, and initially pale brown, becoming darker as the spores mature. The stipe is slender, 3-6 cm long, and 1-2 mm thick, with a whitish to yellowish coloration. The stipe often has a slight blue bruising when handled, which is a characteristic feature of many psilocybin mushrooms.
The spore print is dark purplish-brown. Microscopically, the spores are ellipsoid, smooth, and measure approximately 10-13 x 6-8 µm.
Habitat and Distribution[edit | edit source]
Psilocybe samuiensis is primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions. It was first discovered on the island of Koh Samui in Thailand, which is reflected in its name. The species typically grows in rice paddies, manure-enriched soil, and other nutrient-rich substrates. It is often found during the rainy season when the conditions are humid and warm.
Psychoactive Properties[edit | edit source]
Psilocybe samuiensis contains the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin, which are responsible for its hallucinogenic effects. These compounds interact with the serotonin receptors in the brain, leading to altered perceptions, mood changes, and visual and auditory hallucinations. The intensity and duration of the effects can vary depending on the dosage, individual sensitivity, and environmental factors.
Legal Status[edit | edit source]
The legal status of Psilocybe samuiensis varies by country. In many places, the possession, sale, and use of psilocybin mushrooms are illegal due to their psychoactive properties. However, some countries and regions have decriminalized or legalized the use of these mushrooms for medical or recreational purposes. It is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding psilocybin mushrooms.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
Lua error in Module:Taxonbar at line 212: variable 'currentEntityId' is not declared.
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD