We have shared how Psilocybin and other Plant Medicines has been used for thousands of years by indigenous cultures for spiritual and medicinal purposes yet suppressed until recently, and now we will take a step back and revisit the history of Psilocybin and the rediscovery of Magic Mushrooms.
The first Western account of Psilocybin use was in 1955 by R. Gordon Wasson; he as an American Ethnomycologist who, along with his wife Valentina Pavlovna Wasson, rediscovered the Magic Mushroom during a trip to Mexico.
Ethnomycology is the study of the historical uses and sociological impact of fungi and for his research, Wasson encountered and participated in a Mazatec mushroom ceremony where he ingested mushrooms containing Psilocybin, known locally as Hongos or Teonanácatl meaning: Flesh of the Gods.
This experience had a profound impact on Wasson and led him to write an article titled, Seeking the Magic Mushroom, which was published in Life magazine in 1957.
This article played a significant role in informing the general public of the ceremonial use of hallucinogenic mushrooms and sparked further interest into their psychoactive properties by scientists and creative artists.
By Wasson introducing the concept of Magic Mushrooms, it laid the foundation for further research into the therapeutic and spiritual potential of Psilocybin which influenced the counterculture movement of the 1960s and contributed to the eventual resurgence of interest in Psychedelics in the modern era; which we will discuss more in our next article.
Another interesting fact is that R. Gordon Wasson's 1956 Ethnomycology expedition was funded by the CIA as revealed by documents that state Wasson was an unwitting participant in the project.
HOW MAGIC MUSHROOMS WORK
Psilocybin from Magic Mushrooms is converted into Psilocin in the body, which binds to the Serotonin receptors in our brain and causes altered states of consciousness, hallucinations and other Psychedelic effects; which we will cover in more detail this series.
Common effects from Magic Mushrooms often include insightful thinking, heightened emotions and altered perception of time and space.
Users may also experience a stronger sense of connection to nature and people; a sensation of Oneness with the World.
The intensity and duration of the effects of Psilocybin can vary greatly depending on the individual, the dose and the environment.
PROPER USE OF MAGIC MUSHROOMS
Psilocybin has also been found to increase the connectivity between brain regions, leading to improved mood, cognition, and creativity.
Recent studies have shown promising results for the use of Psilocybin in treating depression, anxiety, addictions and other mental health conditions.
Psilocybin Therapy has also been shown to increase the sense of compassion and empathy with personal and spiritual experiences.
While Psilocybin has a low potential for addiction and overdose, we recommend consulting with an Expert Practitioner when using it for the first time.
If Psilocybin is not used properly or in the right setting, it may cause anxiety and paranoia; especially when taken with other substances, alcohol or medications.
As we continue this series. our growing body of research strongly suggests that Psilocybin Therapy can improve our mental health and wellbeing.
Contact Moyenda Institute for a free Consultation.
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