Explore the science, history, species, research and legal landscape surrounding psilocybin mushrooms.
A straightforward introduction to psilocybin, psilocin, mushrooms and the research surrounding them.
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in a number of mushroom species. Learn how it is converted to psilocin and how researchers study its effects.
Read the introduction →Understand the difference between the two closely related compounds and their roles in the body.
Learn more →Explore the biology and chemistry behind psilocybin production in fungi.
Explore biology →Review what scientific research has investigated about psychedelic experiences and potential therapeutic uses.
View research →Psilocybin-producing mushrooms belong to multiple species and genera. Identification requires care and expertise.
One of the best-known genera associated with psilocybin-producing mushrooms.
View species →A diverse genus containing species that have been documented as producing psilocybin.
View species →Learn why appearance alone should not be relied upon to determine whether a wild mushroom is safe.
Read guide →Psilocybin research spans neuroscience, psychiatry, pharmacology, psychology and other fields. Explore studies and learn what researchers are actually investigating.
Browse researchHow researchers study psychedelic brain activity.
Clinical studies investigating potential applications.
How psilocybin and psilocin interact with receptors.
Traditional and modern history of psychedelic fungi.
Psilocybin and psilocin are controlled substances under UK law. The legal position can change, and different activities can carry different legal consequences.
PsilocybinSource.uk provides legal information for educational purposes and is not legal advice.
Explore UK legislation →Wild mushroom identification can be difficult and poisonous species can resemble non-poisonous species. Never consume a wild mushroom based solely on an online identification.
Explore the science, history, species and research.