Mushrooms or psilocybin mushrooms are a group of mushrooms that have been used for centuries by different cultures for their mystical and spiritual effects, but what is the effect of magic mushrooms on the brain? Do they change our perception, mood and cognition?

These mushrooms have been studied for their therapeutic potential in the treatment of mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety.

In recent years, research on the effects of magic mushrooms on the brain has gained momentum, shedding light on how they affect our cognition, perception, and emotions; But this mushroom has another dark side that can lead to hallucinations, anxiety and even psychosis.

In this article from the Toloi Other Addiction Clinic, we will explain everything you need to know about the effect of Magic Mushroom on the brain, so stay with us until the end of the article.

The effect of magic mushroom on the brain

The effect of the magic mushroom on the brain is a subject of much research, when psilocybin (the active ingredient in some magic mushrooms) is consumed, it is converted to psilocin (a metabolic compound) and then binds to serotonin receptors in the brain. will be This interaction initially affects the serotonin 2A receptor and leads to changes in neuronal communication and activity.

One of the main areas of the brain affected by psilocybin is the default mode network (DMN). The DMN is responsible for activities such as brainstorming and internal thoughts. Research has shown that psilocybin reduces activity and connections in the DMN and causes temporary DMN dissolution. This dissolution can lead to unified experiences, a deep sense of empowerment, and a deeper connection with the world.

In addition, psilocybin and ocd has been observed to help increase communication between brain regions that are normally independent of each other. These increased connections can help form new connections and may lead to increased creativity, insight, and problem-solving abilities. The effects of psilocybin on brain function are not limited to the acute experience, but may have long-term effects on mental health and personality traits.

Although the exact mechanism of how magic mushrooms affect the brain is still being studied, current research shows that these mushrooms have great potential to increase our knowledge of consciousness, perception, and the nature of ourselves.

Interestingly, recent studies have shown that psilocybin can have therapeutic effects. For example, a study published in Nature Medicine found that psilocybin can increase functional connectivity in the brain, potentially helping to reduce symptoms of depression.

However, it is important to note that current evidence is still limited to small clinical trials, and more research is needed to fully understand how psilocybin works and its potential benefits and risks.

Magic mushrooms have been used in religious ceremonies and fortune-telling ceremonies since ancient times. Today, they have become the favorite subject of many people who are looking for new experiences. However, it is important to remember the potential risks and consequences associated with their use. High doses of psilocybin can lead to severe mental distress and loss of control.

obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

Also, in a study of people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), 24 people had access to a dose of psilocybin in a therapeutic setting, and the results showed that after six weeks, 63% of the participants were significantly improved.

Other studies have also shown that psilocybin can help reduce OCD symptoms such as obsessive effects and compulsive behaviors.

Magic mushroom has also been studied in the treatment of mental health disorders, including:

generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

drug use

chronic pain

Alzheimer's disease

Advanced stage cancer

While research into the therapeutic uses of the magic mushroom is still in its early stages, the results are promising. Magic mushroom may be a treatment for mental health disorders that do not respond to other treatments.

It is important to note that magic mushrooms are still considered an illegal drug in many countries.

  Therefore, further research and thorough safety and effectiveness studies are necessary before using it. Also, magic mushroom may have side effects.

including increased heart rate, sweating, dilated pupils, changes in appetite and sleep, may also cause other diseases; Therefore, before using Magic Mushroom, it is better to consult a doctor and check all aspects and issues related to it.

A recent study by Israeli scientists found that the mushroom extract may demonstrate superior effectiveness compared to chemically synthesized psilocybin, especially in stimulating neuroplasticity and promoting the development of new connections between nerve cells - a very important property. This breakthrough opens up potential applications for treating depression, PTSD and schizophrenia. The study results were published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry.

In work led by researchers Dr. Tsuri Lifshitz and psychiatrist Prof. Bernard Lehrer from Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, with the participation of graduate student Orrom Shahar and Dr. Alexander Botvinnik, the scientists found that a mushroom extract containing psilocybin may have more potent and long-lasting effects on synaptic plasticity in the brain. compared to chemically synthesized psilocybin.

Millions of people around the world suffer from mental disorders, and many patients remain refractory to existing pharmaceutical treatments. Alarming statistics show that 40% of people suffering from depression find no relief from currently available medications, a similar trend among people with OCD.

Moreover, with approximately 0.5% of the population suffering from schizophrenia, there is an urgent need for innovative solutions tailored to those who do not benefit from existing medications.

Preliminary study results shed light on the discrepancy in effectiveness between psilocybin-containing mushroom extract and chemically synthesized psilocybin. Notably, the extract increased levels of synaptic proteins associated with neuroplasticity in key brain regions including the frontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, and striatum.

Metabolomic analysis also revealed notable differences between the mushroom extract containing psilocybin and ocd chemically synthesized psilocybin. The extract demonstrated a distinct metabolic profile related to oxidative stress and energy production pathways.

These findings open up new possibilities for the therapeutic use of natural psychedelic compounds, offering hope to those who have found little relief in traditional psychiatric treatments. As demand for innovative solutions continues to grow, psychedelic drug research represents a critical avenue for the development of novel and personalized medicines.

Additionally, Western medicine has historically favored the isolation of active compounds rather than the use of extracts, primarily to achieve better control over dosages and the onset of known effects during treatment. The challenge with extracts has been that in the past it has not been possible to consistently produce an accurate product with a consistent composition. In contrast, ancient medical practices, especially those that attributed therapeutic benefits to psychedelic medicine, included the use of extracts or whole foods, such as consuming the entire mushroom.

The main problem with natural extracts is achieving a stable composition, especially in plants, but mushrooms are unique in this regard. The composition of fungi is influenced by their growth environment, including factors such as substrate composition, CO2/O2 ratio, light exposure, temperature and microbiological environment. Despite these factors, controlled cultivation makes it possible to “tame” the mushrooms and obtain a reproducible extract.