by Daisy Covino (Author)

Magic mushrooms have been used for thousands of years. There are over 75 subtropical species of mushrooms.

Since many species look alike, it can be hard to tell them apart. It is possible for people to consume poisonous mushrooms, mistaking them for magic mushrooms. The natural, active ingredients in magic mushrooms are chemicals called psilocybin and psilocin.

Psilocybin and psilocin are hallucinogens that produce effects similar to LSD. Therefore, individuals using magic mushrooms experience hallucinations and an altered state of consciousness.