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    Ingredient guide · Ingredient reference

    What is Psilocybe cubensis?

    Psilocybe cubensis is a mushroom species associated with the psychedelic compounds psilocybin and psilocin. It is different from ordinary culinary mushrooms. A species or strain name does not establish a particular specimen’s identity, chemical strength or safety.

    Read the evidence ↓

    Supplement Science Insights Editorial Team

    Published September 23, 2026

    A species name is more precise than magic mushroom

    Magic mushroom is an informal term covering multiple psychoactive fungi. P. cubensis identifies one species within the genus Psilocybe. The scientific name is useful for discussing research, but it does not authenticate a purchased or foraged sample. [1]

    Strain names are not clinical treatment categories

    Many named variants circulate in cultivation communities. A scientific review emphasizes incomplete formal documentation and variable evidence behind strain descriptions. Names such as Golden Teacher or Penis Envy do not establish predictable effects or medical indications. [1]

    The relevant compounds can change perception and physiology

    Psilocybin is converted to psilocin in the body. Effects can include altered perception and emotion, nausea, anxiety and cardiovascular changes. These are drug effects, not nutritional benefits shared by all mushrooms. [2]

    Do not identify a specimen from the name on a bag

    Imagine dried pieces are labeled P. cubensis. That label does not rule out misidentification or contamination. Unknown exposure with concerning symptoms warrants poison-control or emergency advice rather than a photo-based safety decision. [3]

    Hypothetical example — interpret a hypothetical label
    Label elementWhat it means
    Psilocybe cubensisSpecies claim
    Named strainNot a standardized clinical formulation
    Mushroom weightNot verified active content
    Natural originNot a safety guarantee
    What is Psilocybe cubensis? — original article outline diagram
    Original editorial diagram of this article’s sections; no product photograph or clinical finding is depicted.

    Sources for this article

    1. Exploring Psilocybe cubensis Strains: Cultivation Techniques, Psychoactive Compounds, Genetics and Research Gaps - PMC
      Source consulted: 2026-09-21. This is a reference resource, not a claim that we conducted the studies or tested a product.
    2. Psilocybin for Mental Health and Addiction: What You Need To Know | NCCIH
      Source consulted: 2026-09-21. This is a reference resource, not a claim that we conducted the studies or tested a product.
    3. Magic Mushrooms (Psilocybin) Safety | California Poison Control System
      Source consulted: 2026-09-21. This is a reference resource, not a claim that we conducted the studies or tested a product.