Chemistry and Toxicology of Major Bioactive Substances in Inocybe Mushrooms

The Dangers and Potential of Inocybe Mushrooms Mushroom foragers beware! Inocybe mushrooms contain powerful compounds that can cause serious poisoning when mistaken for edible varieties. These wild mushrooms produce substances like muscarine, which triggers intense parasympathetic effects (excessive sweating, salivation, and digestive distress), and psilocybin/psilocin, which cause hallucinations by affecting brain chemistry. A recent scientific review explains how these compounds work in our bodies and the symptoms they cause. Muscarine essentially mimics a natural neurotransmitter, while psilocybin affects serotonin pathways in the brain. Interestingly, while these substances can be dangerous when consumed accidentally, researchers are discovering potential medical applications, particularly for mental health conditions. Some compounds show promise as therapeutic agents when used in controlled settings. For mushroom enthusiasts, the takeaway is clear: proper identification is crucial, as these look-alikes can cause severe poisoning requiring medical treatment.