Like other natural hallucinogens such as ayahuasca, psilocybin has been used by humans for various purposes for millennia.
Found in certain mushrooms (hence its nickname, “magic mushrooms”), psilocybin has found use in psychotherapy and may have a role in treating mood disorders and alcohol use disorder.
That role leads some to assume psilocybin is relatively safe. Outside of a strictly managed clinical setting, however, psilocybin abuse can be risky. The drug’s psychedelic effects can be very intense and may cause some to panic, especially if they’re being experienced in a noisy, hectic environment like a dorm room, club, or festival.
Psilocybin is relatively nontoxic, and research seems to show there’s a low risk of dependence or tolerance. However, any drug abuse is a warning sign of greater problems, and detox from psilocybin abuse could be a great first step to a healthier life.
