Psychedelic mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are a type of fungi that contain psychoactive compounds such as psilocybin and psilocin. These natural substances can induce profound alterations in perception, cognition, and mood, leading to a hallucinogenic experience.

The history of psychedelic mushroom use dates back thousands of years, with evidence of their ceremonial and spiritual use by indigenous cultures in various parts of the world. In recent decades, they have gained popularity as recreational substances and have also attracted scientific interest for their potential therapeutic effects.

When consumed, psychedelic mushrooms can produce a range of effects. Users often report visual hallucinations, changes in sensory perception, and an altered sense of time and space. The experience can be intensely introspective, leading to profound insights and a heightened sense of connectedness with oneself, others, and the universe.

The psychoactive compounds in psychedelic mushrooms interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, particularly the 5-HT2A receptors, leading to alterations in brain activity and neurotransmitter release. These effects are thought to underlie the profound and often transformative experiences associated with their use.

Beyond their recreational use, psychedelic mushrooms have shown promise in the field of mental health. Research suggests that they may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of various conditions, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Studies have explored their ability to promote neuroplasticity, enhance emotional processing, and induce mystical or spiritual experiences that can have lasting positive effects on well-being.

It's important to note that the use of psychedelic mushrooms carries risks and should be approached with caution. The intensity of the experience and the potential for psychological and emotional challenges during a trip make set and setting crucial factors to consider. Additionally, the legal status of psychedelic mushrooms varies across jurisdictions, and their use can have legal consequences.

As with any psychoactive substance, responsible use, informed decision-making, and harm reduction practices are essential. It is advisable to seek guidance from experienced individuals or professionals knowledgeable about psychedelic substances before exploring their use for recreational or therapeutic purposes.

Overall, psychedelic mushrooms are intriguing organisms that have captivated human interest for centuries. Whether used recreationally or explored for their therapeutic potential, they continue to be a subject of scientific research and cultural fascination, offering a unique and often transformative experience for those who choose to explore their effects.

The small village of San José del Pacifico doesn't actually have much to offer. Nevertheless, thousands of backpackers are drawn to the highlands of Oaxaca every year. The reason is psychedelic mushrooms. The "magic mushrooms" are an integral part of the indigenous culture, which is why their consumption is tolerated here. In the rest of the world, “magic mushrooms” are currently making a comeback. On the one hand, as a lifestyle drug that allows stressed managers to experience their limits without much effort. But also as a research object: The active ingredient psilocybin contained in the mushrooms is said to help with depression or anxiety disorders.

Tourists come for the psychedelic mushrooms

In San José del Pacifico they are everywhere. And many come – especially for her. "Why am I here? Because of the mushrooms. And the mountains," says a German tourist. "Actually all backpackers who come here take them. But I don't know yet. We were still skeptical. And we actually decided no," say two other tourists. Psychedelic mushrooms. Or magic mushrooms. "We came here to take the mushrooms. We did that yesterday," says a young woman. Another said: "We thought it all made some sense. That our hostel was designed specifically for this. Everything was so... forest-like. You can see why people do it here of all places."

Here in the highlands of Oaxaca, psychedelic mushrooms are part of the indigenous culture. Therefore their consumption is tolerated. And almost the entire village lives from the tourists' borderline experiences. Navarro too. He offers mushroom trips in his garden. And in the way that corresponds to the indigenous ritual. Only after a sweat treatment in the Temazcal, the traditional Mexican sauna. "If you want to do it right, you first have to cleanse your body and your mind," explains Navarro Temzcaliero. "My Temazcal is medicine. It makes you breathe better, hear better, it relaxes you, you're no longer tired, you're no longer in pain. It brings you into the moment." Be in the here and now. In harmony with nature. That is the goal. But tourists keep coming to him who just want to experience the crazy mushroom trip. Without ritual. Without Temazcal. In the village the mushrooms are sold like chewing gum. But here the Temazcal is part of it. If someone only wants the mushrooms and no Temazcal, then I say: the drug dealer is waiting on the street. I am a medicine man.