Paul Stamets

Synthetic Psilocybin vs Psilocybin Mushrooms: Neurogenerative Properties

Although psilocybin mushrooms have been consumed for thousands of years, most clinical studies use psilocybin, the synthetic molecule. Psilocybin mushrooms produce many psilocybin analogs, which bind with multiple receptors. The contrast of the clinical research versus real world experience of millions of users speaks to a fundamental scientific bias toward psilocybin as a synthetic molecule versus the natural forms of psilocybin.

Moreover, psilocybin mushrooms are widely available whereas the psilocybin molecule is not, limited by regulations, availability, and cost. Synthetic psilocybin is especially difficult to obtain for those most in need. Notable psilocybin analogs include norpsilocin, baeocystin and norbaeocystin, with more soon to be discovered. Recent analytical studies have discovered hundreds of molecules present in psilocybin mushrooms and currently not listed in scientific databases. 

This presentation will elucidate some of the novel cellular modes of action of these analogs, individually and when combined with each other, by looking at MAPk receptor affinities that code for neurogeneration and neurite outgrowth. Unexpected synergy is seen when psilocybin is combined with other mushrooms and vitamins. For instance, the mycelium of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), a neurogenerative mushroom species, combined with vitamin B3, has become the most popular formula for microdosers. Given this combination’s popularity by biohacking psychonauts, what is the scientific support that this combination works? Is the whole mushroom greater than the sum of its parts? The data presented shows that the benefits of psilocybin and psilocybin mushroom analogs are synergistically augmented when combined with each other and other natural compounds for neurogeneration.