Toadstools and toxins

In 2023, the author, a public-health scientist, discovered a product called ‘magic mushroom’ gummies in a smoke shop.

These gummies did not contain psilocybin, the compound found in most psychedelic mushrooms, but instead were made from Amanita muscaria, a red-capped, white-spotted toadstool often associated with fairy tales and pop culture.

The term ‘magic mushrooms’ usually refers to psilocybin-containing species, but Amanita muscaria works differently in the body.

The author’s interest was driven by practical concerns: understanding the contents, safety, and legality of these products.

The article highlights the confusion between psilocybin and Amanita muscaria, as well as the lack of clear regulations around the latter.