Glossary of Important Terms

Psilocybin: A naturally occurring psychoactive and hallucinogenic compound found in certain mushrooms. Responsible for the “trip” or psychedelic experience.

Psilocin: The compound that psilocybin is converted into after ingestion. It is responsible for the psychoactive effects of magic mushrooms.

Magic Mushrooms: Fungi containing the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin. Scientifically known as the psilocybe species.

Microdosing: The practice of consuming very small, sub-perceptual doses of a psychedelic substance, often psilocybin, to enhance cognitive function, creativity, and emotional balance without inducing a full psychedelic experience.

Macrodosing: Taking a recreational dose of a psychedelic substance, like psilocybin, to induce a full psychedelic experience.

Trip: The experience induced by consuming a psychedelic substance, which can range from euphoric and enlightening to challenging.

Set and Setting: Refers to one’s mindset (“set”) and environment (“setting”) when consuming magic mushrooms. Both play a crucial role in shaping the psychedelic experience.

Trip Sitter: A sober individual who supervises someone else’s psychedelic experience to ensure their safety and comfort.

Golden Teachers, Blue Meanies, Penis Envy: Popular strains of magic mushrooms known for their unique effects and potency.

Edibles: Food products infused with magic mushrooms, such as chocolates or gummies, offering an alternative way to consume psilocybin.

DMT (Dimethyltryptamine): A powerful psychedelic compound not related to psilocybin but sometimes offered alongside it.

Mycologists: Scientists who study fungi, including magic mushrooms.

Psychedelic: Substances that alter perception, mood, and various cognitive processes.

Hallucinogen: A substance that induces hallucinations – perceptions or experiences that differ from reality.

Bad Trip: A challenging or negative experience while on magic mushrooms, which can manifest as intense anxiety, paranoia, or unsettling hallucinations.

Controlled Drugs and Substances Act: Canadian legislation under which magic mushrooms fall, generally prohibiting their sale, production, and possession.