Penis envy mushrooms are a variety of mushrooms that contain the psychedelic compound psilocybin. Although some people report mental health benefits, like any other drug, they carry risks.
They have a swollen, rounded cap and thick stem. These mushrooms are a particularly potent variety of Psilocybe cubensis, a species of magic mushrooms.
When someone consumes penis envy mushrooms, they may experience perceptual changes, altered thinking processes, and spiritual experiences known as a “trip.”
Historically, people have used psychedelics in religious and ceremonial rituals. More recently, experts have studied their therapeutic effects.
Despite their potential benefits, people should consider that psychedelic mushrooms are potent substances that can cause intense experiences, both positive and negative.
Where do they grow?
They grow best in hot, humid environments. They are more commonly grown by enthusiasts than foraged in the wild.
There are several penis envy varieties, including:
- Albino penis envy: a slightly smaller mushroom with a deep blue–tinged cap
- Penis envy uncut: an albino cross with caps that adhere to the stem
- Penis envy number 6: a hybrid that produces more spores
- Trans penis envy: a hybrid with finer stems and a milder effect than other varieties
These mushrooms contain high concentrationsTrusted Source of the psychedelic compound psilocybin. As a result, people report that consuming these mushrooms produces intense visual and euphoric psychedelic experiences.
These mushrooms take longer to mature and do not produce many spores, so they are difficult to find and cultivate. This means they may be more expensive and harder to source than other varieties of magic mushrooms.
While the effects of magic mushrooms vary depending on the person and dose, they typically produce feelings of euphoria, well-being, and increased creativity. Some people also report experiencing visual or auditory hallucinations.
In some cases, magic mushrooms can induce spiritual experiences and heightened states of consciousness.
For certain people, these effects are significant and provide a sense of peace and understanding. For others, they are overwhelming or scary.
When someone consumes psychedelic mushrooms, the psilocybin binds to 5-HT2A serotonin receptors on the surface of nerve cells. Serotonin is the “feel good” chemical that helps regulate mood, thinking ability, perception, and sleep.
Therefore, when psilocybin binds to serotonin receptors, it affects how information flows between different brain regions. This results in changes in consciousness and perception.
These changes can be positive or negative depending on the person’s mindset, expectations, and environment.