Evolutionary Mystery of Psilocybin Deepens With Discovery That Mushrooms Twice Evolved the Psychedelic Compound

science • 9/26/2025

New research reveals a psychedelic mystery involving how two types of mushrooms evolved to produce psilocybin on separate occasions.

The psychedelic compound psilocybin has fascinated humans for years. It alters perception, expands consciousness, and is even being tested as a treatment for depression. However, researchers are still puzzled by the purpose of psilocybin for the fung... [4315 chars]