People often hear the word “shrooms” and wonder what it really means. In simple terms, shrooms are mushrooms that contain psilocybin, a natural compound that changes how we think, feel, and perceive the world. They are not the same as culinary mushrooms you buy at the store. Shrooms are unique because of their chemistry, history, and effects on the brain.
The Basics
Shrooms usually refer to species in the genus Psilocybe, although a few other genera also contain psilocybin. More than 180 species worldwide are known to have this compound. The most common and widely grown is Psilocybe cubensis. Others include Psilocybe semilanceata (liberty caps) and Psilocybe azurescens.
When someone consumes shrooms, the psilocybin inside the magic mushroom changes into psilocin in the body. Psilocin acts on serotonin receptors in the brain, especially the 5-HT2A receptor. This interaction is what causes the shift in perception, mood, and thought that people associate with a psychedelic experience.
What They Look Like
Shrooms vary in size, color, and shape depending on the species. Psilocybe cubensis mushrooms usually have golden brown caps that flatten as they grow, and thick stems that bruise blue when handled. Liberty caps are small, with pointed caps. Psilocybe azurescens mushrooms are larger and can be more potent by weight.
The blue bruising is a common sign of psilocybin presence, caused by the oxidation of psilocin when the mushroom is damaged. However, identification can be tricky. Many poisonous mushrooms look similar, which is why accurate knowledge is important.
Traditional and Modern Use
Shrooms have a long history of human use. Indigenous cultures in Central and South America used them in ceremonies for spiritual and healing purposes. They were seen as sacred tools for connecting with the divine and exploring the mind.
In the mid-20th century, scientists began studying psilocybin more closely. Early research suggested benefits for mental health, but strict drug laws paused most studies for decades. In recent years, research has restarted and expanded, showing promising results for depression, anxiety, and addiction.
What Shrooms Do
The effects of shrooms usually begin within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion and last four to six hours. People describe a range of experiences, including:
- Changes in how colors and sounds appear
- Enhanced appreciation of music and art
- A sense of connection with nature and people
- Emotional release and personal insight
- Visual patterns or imagery with eyes closed (hallucinations)
The intensity depends on the dose, the species, and the user’s mindset and environment. Some experiences are light and reflective, while others can be deep and transformative.
Why They Matter
Shrooms are gaining attention today not just for their cultural role but also for their therapeutic potential. Clinical studies suggest psilocybin can reduce depression and anxiety, even in people who have not responded to standard treatments. Other studies point to possible benefits for addiction and obsessive thinking.
Beyond medical research, many people value shrooms for personal growth. They describe new perspectives, improved mood, and more openness after their experiences (read about the effects here). These long-lasting shifts may come from psilocybin’s ability to promote neuroplasticity, the brain’s capacity to form new connections.
The Clear Answer
So, what are shrooms? They are mushrooms that naturally produce psilocybin, a compound that changes perception and mood. They have been used for centuries in rituals and are now studied for mental health benefits. While they can look like ordinary mushrooms, their chemistry and effects make them unique.
Final Thoughts
Shrooms are more than just fungi. They are part of human history, science, and culture. From ancient ceremonies to modern clinics, they continue to shape how people think about healing and consciousness. Understanding what shrooms are helps explain why they hold such fascination and promise today.
Sources
- Reynolds HT, et al. Diversity, Ecology, and Conservation of Psilocybin-Containing Fungi. Fungal Ecology. 2022. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1878614622000095
- Sherwood AM, et al. Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Psilocybe Mushrooms. Pharmaceuticals. 2023.
- Vollenweider FX, et al. Neurobiology of Psilocybin. Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience. 2025.