Nootropics are becoming increasingly popular. Today we consume these substances in different product forms. We are always looking for ways to get more energy, make our brains work better, and deal with the stress of our daily lives.
Smart drugs are substances that have been proven to help us feel better, be more creative, remember things better, etc. With these promising results, we try to consume them in synthetic and natural forms.
However, a particular substance called psilocybin does have the same effect when consumed in small doses. Does that mean that psilocybe cubensis, a fungus that contains psilocin, is a naturally-occurring nootropic?
Psilocybe Cubensis and Its Active Ingredient
Psilocybe cubensis is a family of magic mushrooms that includes the active ingredients psilocybin and psilocin. These active ingredients bring on hallucinations and exhilaration.
Other Psilocybe mushrooms have a similar active ingredient. Magic mushrooms can alter a person’s perception when ingested at a psychedelic dose. For example, they can have changed visions, distortion of time and space, connectedness, etc.
But there is a version where psilocybe can enhance brain function by improving the mood, increasing creativity, and reducing amounts of anxiety. So it raises the question of, can magic mushrooms act as a nootropic substance?
People claim a low dose of psilocybin or psychedelics can improve their brain function. However, some researchers suggest we need more studies compared with placebo subjects. They want to determine whether users’ said effects are real or psychological.
But wouldn’t it be nice to know if psilocybin can be a nootropic substance? It will provide a door to new treatments and also remove the stigma around psychedelic drugs.
Microdosing with Psilocybe Cubensis
Microdosing is a technique that uses lower amounts of psychedelic substances. It won’t cause hallucinogenic effects but rather improve a person’s creativity, mood, and social awareness.
In most studies, a higher dose or spiritual experience tends to serve as a reset button on mental disorders like depression, PTSD, and drug addiction. Again, however, a professional must be present.
But for microdoses or less than 300 mg, the effect is different. Some can experience mild euphoria to none in the first two days, and the body will eventually develop tolerance to the substance.
If taking a small amount of psilocybin has effects like “smart drugs,” does that mean it works as a nootropic?
Can it be a Nootropic Drug?
When psilocybin enters the body, it converts to psilocin. Then, it attaches to the serotonin receptors in the brain (5HT2a). Hence, it indirectly increases dopamine levels.
High levels of active serotonin cause distortion and hallucination. The prefrontal cortex is also affected by high doses of magic mushrooms. These effects do not occur in modest amounts, although the locations described experience increased stimulation.
Nootropics work differently. Meanwhile, psilocybin has a similar pathway to SSRI drugs. However, the drug prevents the removal of serotonin by the neuron instead of attaching it to the receptors.
Because psilocybin and SSRI are so similar, mushrooms work better as an alternative antidepressant than as a nootropic. However, when taken over a long period, nootropics and psilocybin effects work. But, it is not advisable to consume both daily.
Microdosing for psilocybin follows some practices called the Fadiman and Stamets, wherein there are rest days. These methods allow the body to adjust to the drug and regain its usual self.
Psilocybin and Nootropic Together
You can take psilocybin and nootropic substances at once. This is because they have a synergistic effect on some drugs.
Monoamine oxidase breaks down the psilocin, serotonin, and dopamine. Coincidentally, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor is used for nootropic formulas to prevent the enzyme from breaking down.
As a result, it lengths the effect of serotonin, dopamine, and psilocin. So, even in smaller doses, the substance lingers for longer.
You can try products that offer microdoses of magic mushrooms and nootropics. For example, the Green Samurai, a Hot cinnamon Cocoa with a 1 to 3g variant, is a product that includes magic mushroom and a nootropic.
Cinnamon is a natural nootropic. It has antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antibacterial effects. In addition, it reduces inflammation, increases memory and attention, and enhances cognitive function.
So, you can enjoy the benefits of improving your brain function while sipping a tasty cup of hot cocoa with cinnamon. But there are also other shroom drinks and food rich in nootropic substances that you can find in the market.
Conclusion
Even though magic mushroom is not a nootropic drug, it shows promising results from research. It can work as a stand-alone substance to enhance the brain, or you can find products that include the smart drug and psilocybin for a more enhanced and long-lasting cognitive function support.
