10/10/2025
Psilocybe species and Amanita muscaria are sometimes misrepresented or mistaken as similar “magic mushrooms.” In reality, they are unrelated, act on different receptor systems, and produce very different experiences. Confusion between them has led to adverse reactions and toxic outcomes.
🍄🟫Psilocybe species (for example cubensis, subaeruginosa)
• Contain psilocybin, which converts in the body to psilocin
• Psilocin acts on serotonin (5-HT2A) receptors
• Classified as serotonergic psychedelics
• Experiences may involve altered perception, visual effects, emotional release, or introspection
• Physiological toxicity is low, but experiences can be psychologically intense or distressing, particularly in unsupported settings
•Understanding of wood lovers paralysis risk when consuming wood loving psilocybe mushrooms is recommended
• Psilocybin is a controlled substance in Australia and is only legally accessible through approved clinical or research use
🍄 Amanita muscaria (Fly agaric)
• Contains ibotenic acid and muscimol, which act on GABA-A receptors, not serotonin
• Classified as a GABAergic deliriant or sedative, not a serotonergic psychedelic
• Associated with sedative, dreamlike, or dissociative states, which can include confusion, loss of coordination, and nausea
• Ibotenic acid is neurotoxic and may cause vomiting, delirium, and physical discomfort
• Drying or heating causes partial decarboxylation, converting some ibotenic acid into muscimol. This reduces but does not necessarily remove toxicity. If working with Amanita Muscaria it is important to refer to reputable sources for information on preparation to avoid toxicity
• Even dried Amanita muscaria remains unpredictable, and potency varies greatly between specimens
🛡️Harm Reduction Summary:
• These mushrooms act on different receptor systems and should never be considered interchangeable
• Decarboxylation does not always make Amanita safe
• Psilocybe species have low physiological toxicity but may cause emotional intensity or confusion
• Amanita muscaria has higher physiological risk and a greater likelihood of nausea, toxicity, or delirium
• Misidentification between species can lead to serious poisoning
• Combining either with alcohol, sedatives, or other psychoactive substances increases risk
•If you are planning to use Amanita Muscaria it is important that you access reliable sources on preparation to avoid toxicity
🏷️Legal Context in Australia:
• Psilocybin is legally accessible only through regulated medical or research pathways
• Muscimol (an active compound found in Amanita Muscaria) is schedule 9 in Australia meaning it is illegal to forage, consume or cultivate.
Takeaway:
Psilocybe and Amanita mushrooms differ in chemistry, receptor activity, classification, and safety profile. Understanding these differences supports informed discussion and reduces risk through accurate education.
