Psilocybin

Mushrooms containing psilocybin (Psilocybe cubensis, semilanceata, etc.) have been used for millennia in certain Mesoamerican traditions (notably the Mazatec of Mexico, 'niños santos'). Scientifically identified by Albert Hofmann (synthesizer of LSD) in 1958. Major clinical research since the 2010s (Johns Hopkins, Imperial College London). Legal status: prohibited in almost all jurisdictions, with exceptions: Oregon (USA), authorized medical psychotherapy in Australia 2023, supervised research in Canada/Switzerland.

Psilocybin, metabolized into psilocin in the body, acts mainly on the brain's serotonergic 5-HT2A receptors. It induces for 4-6 hours an altered state of consciousness characterized by: altered perceptions, ego dissolution (ego-death), deep emotional connections, heightened sense of meaning. In a supervised therapeutic setting, these experiences can produce lasting psychological changes (resilience, new perspective).

CLINICAL SETTING ONLY (research or legalized countries): psychological preparation across 1-3 sessions with a trained therapist, controlled medical dose (15-25 mg), 6-8 hour session in controlled environment (music, eye mask, two facilitators present), then therapeutic integration across multiple sessions. Outside clinical setting: non-medical use is risky, often illegal, lacks preparation and integration.

Active clinical research for: treatment-resistant depression, end-of-life anxiety (oncology), PTSD, addictions (alcohol, tobacco), OCD. Promising preliminary results in Phase 2-3 trials. DO NOT confuse with unsupervised 'recreational' or 'spiritual' use. ⚠️ Outside clinical setting: illegal and risky.

Scientific research is rapidly expanding. Phase 2/3 studies published in NEJM, JAMA, Nature Medicine (2016-2024) show significant efficacy for treatment-resistant depression (75% responders in some studies), end-of-life anxiety, PTSD. The US FDA granted 'breakthrough therapy' status (2018) for resistant depression. Phase 3 underway for medical approval. Scientific consensus: promising, but reserved for strict medical settings.

In a legal context (Oregon, medical Australia, Canadian clinical trials): require an officially authorized program, certified facilitators, a complete preparation-session-integration protocol. Outside legal frameworks: not recommended — absence of medical supervision multiplies serious psychological risks. This fact sheet is documentary, not an incitement to illegal practice.