Pholiotina cyanopus

Pholiotina cyanopus is a species of fungus belonging to the family Bolbitiaceae. It is a small mushroom that is known for its psychoactive properties due to the presence of psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound. This species is found in grassy areas across North America and Europe, often growing in environments rich in decaying wood and other organic matter. The identification and study of Pholiotina cyanopus contribute to the broader understanding of psychoactive fungi and their ecological roles, as well as their potential uses in medicine and therapy.

Description

Pholiotina cyanopus mushrooms are characterized by their small size, with caps typically ranging from 1 to 2.5 cm in diameter. The cap is conical to bell-shaped, often with a pronounced nipple-like protrusion at the top. Its color can vary from light brown to a more yellowish hue, darkening when wet. The gills are closely spaced, starting out light and becoming darker with age due to the maturation of spores. The stem is thin and fragile, ranging from 2 to 6 cm in height, and it may exhibit a bluish coloration at the base, a trait indicative of the presence of psilocybin.

Habitat and Distribution

Pholiotina cyanopus is primarily found in temperate regions of North America and Europe. It thrives in grassy areas, particularly those enriched with decaying wood, such as forest edges, gardens, and parks. This species prefers moist conditions and is often found in clusters or groups.

Psychoactive Properties

The psychoactive effects of Pholiotina cyanopus are attributed to its content of psilocybin, a compound that, upon ingestion, is converted to psilocin in the human body, producing hallucinogenic effects. These effects can include visual and auditory hallucinations, altered perception of time and space, and changes in thought processes and emotional states. Due to its psychoactive properties, Pholiotina cyanopus, like other psilocybin-containing mushrooms, has been the subject of both traditional use in spiritual and ritual contexts and scientific research into its potential therapeutic benefits.

Legal Status

The legal status of Pholiotina cyanopus varies by country and region, largely due to its psilocybin content. In many jurisdictions, the possession, sale, and cultivation of psilocybin-containing mushrooms are regulated or prohibited under drug control laws. However, there is a growing movement towards the decriminalization and medical research of psilocybin for its potential benefits in treating various psychological conditions, such as depression and anxiety.

Research and Medical Use

Research into the medical use of psilocybin, the active compound in Pholiotina cyanopus, has shown promising results in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Clinical trials and studies are ongoing to better understand the therapeutic potential of psilocybin and to develop protocols for its safe and effective use in medical settings.

See Also

• Psilocybin mushrooms
• Psychoactive substances
• Mycology

References

Species of fungus

Pholiotina cyanopus Mycological characteristics
	Gills on hymenium
	Cap is conical
	Stipe is bare
	Spore print is brown
	Ecology is saprotrophic
	Edibility is psychoactive

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