Panaeolus cambodginiensis

🏷️ Description

Panaeolus cambodginiensis, often called the "Cambodian Panaeolus," is a potent psychoactive mushroom renowned for its hallucinogenic effects, thanks to the presence of psilocybin and psilocin. First described in 1979, this mushroom has since been found across Southeast Asia and even in Hawaii 🌏🌴.

🔎 Identification

• Cap: The cap is 0.47–0.98 inches (1.2–2.5 cm), initially conic to convex, expanding to broadly convex as it matures. The surface is smooth but cracks with age, often revealing irregular fissures. It starts chocolate brown and fades to yellowish-brown as it ages, with a light yellow flesh that bruises blue when cut or damaged 💔💙.

• Gills: Gray to black, with mottled sections as the spores mature. The gills are intermediate, with several tiers of ascending, uncinate gills that become darker as they age 🖤.

• Stem: The stem is 1.97 to 3.94 inches (5 to 10 cm) tall, 4 mm thick, and slightly swollen at the base. It is cream to whitish in color, turning blue when handled, and has fine striations, especially near the apex 🐾.

• Spores: The spores are black, lemon-shaped, smooth, and about 11x8 μm. They’re released from a 4-spored basidium and are easy to identify under a microscope 🔬.

• Season: Look for this mushroom during the rainy seasons or in spring when conditions are ideal for growth 🌦️.

• Habitat and Distribution: Found growing primarily on the dung of water buffalo and cattle 🐄, this species thrives in enriched soils, particularly in the subtropical regions of Asia and Hawaii. It prefers warm, rainy conditions, often appearing during the spring or wet seasons 🌧️.

• Bluing Reaction: This mushroom bruises blue quickly when touched, a hallmark of psilocybin-containing mushrooms 💙.

👀 Look-Alikes

While P. cambodginiensis closely resembles Panaeolus cyanescens, they can be differentiated under the microscope. Both species bruise blue, but microscopic differences, particularly in the spore shape and cystidia, set them apart. However, be cautious, as many "little brown mushrooms" (LBMs) resemble each other, and some can be toxic if misidentified ⚠️.

🌈 Psychoactive Effects

Containing psilocybin and psilocin, P. cambodginiensis can offer intense, mind-altering experiences. Users often report spiritual, recreational, and therapeutic effects, including relief from anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and more. However, due to its potency, it’s crucial to measure carefully to avoid accidental overdose 💡💭.

⚖️ Side Effects

Though not considered toxic, P. cambodginiensis can cause nausea, anxiety, and coordination issues, especially at higher doses. Proper preparation and setting are essential for a safe and positive experience. Always ensure you are in a safe environment and never consume psychoactive mushrooms alone 🚨.