Psilocin & Serotonin Receptors in the Brain

There are seven classifications of serotonin receptors, each having its subtypes. These receptors are abundant in the central and peripheral nervous systems and the cerebral cortex of the brain. One major group is 5-HT2A receptors. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that activates these receptors to modulate glutamate, dopamine, epinephrine, and acetylcholine. These receptors affect several biological and neurological processes. They modulate anxiety, cognition, memory, mood, nausea, appetite, and sleep. 

what is Psilocin?

When psilocybin enters the brain, it breaks down into psilocin. Psilocin is the active substance found in magic mushrooms. It reacts to brain receptors, serotonin to induce psychedelic effects. Once the serotonin amount increases, hallucinations take effect. Psilocin expands the consciousness of a person who ingests psilocybin. Researches have shown that psilocybin binds to the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor because it can have the same effects as 5-HT. 

 

What happens in the brain when you take Magic Mushrooms?

While research shows that magic mushrooms are now gaining the attention of therapists and medical experts, it is necessary to understand how psilocin works.

Here’s the basic process:

Step 1. Psilocybin is metabolized.

After psilocybin breaks into psilocin, this substance makes its way to the brain. 

Step 2. The synapse is blocked from receiving serotonin.

From the moment it reaches the brain, it prevents the reabsorption of serotonin. Because of their similar structure, it stimulates the receptors in the brain and therefore causes hallucination even with a pseudo stimulus.

Step 3. The brain responds with hallucinations.

The sensory perceptions coming from these receptors make the brain see images outside of sensory perception. Thus, it causes the user to feel elated from a three to eight hours span. 

Step 4. Neurons are rearranged.

The brain of the mushroom users rearranges itself, resulting in a new stable condition after the trip. Also, emotional regions of the brain are triggered and result in spiritually connected individuals that have more intense positive emotions. Of course, bad trips from taking shrooms are still possible and leads to a shocking experience for the user.

 

Further Research is Needed for Magic Mushroom Effects

In general, psilocin acts on serotonin receptors. When this occurs, the serotonin levels in the brain increase, creating changes in perception. Thus, this action by the psilocin plays a vital role in the various psychoactive effects of psilocybin mushrooms.

Plenty of magic mushroom variations like cyanescens copelandia, copelandia cyanescens and panaeolus cyanescens species are being studied further to understand other ways it affects our body. Further research is needed before these mushrooms become more than just a recreational drug.