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The Science of Psilocybin

Ancient medicine. Modern research.

For centuries, psychedelic mushrooms have been used in ceremonial and spiritual contexts. Today, researchers are studying psilocybin with modern neuroscience and clinical methods to better understand how these experiences may influence mood, perception, behavior, and our sense of self.

The research is still evolving—but the findings have created significant interest in psilocybin’s potential role in mental and emotional wellbeing.

AREAS OF RESEARCH

Depression

Anxiety

PTSD

Existential Distress & Meaning

Addiction

End of Life Care

How Psilocybin Works in the Brain

Psilocybin is converted in the body into psilocin, which interacts strongly with serotonin receptors in the brain—particularly the 5-HT2A receptor.

These receptors are widely distributed throughout areas involved in perception, cognition, emotion, and our sense of self.

During the psychedelic state, communication patterns across the brain can temporarily change. Networks that usually operate in relatively predictable patterns may become less rigid, while regions that don’t normally communicate as strongly can become more connected.

Researchers describe this as a temporary increase in the brain's flexibility or complexity.

The Default Mode Network (DMN)

The Default Mode Network is a group of interconnected brain regions that are active when we’re not focused on the outside world.

  • It's involved in:
  • Self-reflection
  • Autobiographical memory
  • Thinking about the past and future
  • Mind-wandering
  • Our sense of identity and "self"

Why It Matters

Our brains are incredibly good at creating patterns. Those patterns allow us to move through life efficiently—but some patterns of thinking, feeling, and responding can become deeply ingrained.

For someone caught in repetitive self-criticism, rumination, fear, or rigid ways of seeing themselves, those familiar mental pathways can begin to feel difficult to step outside of.

What Happens During a Psilocybin Experience?

Research consistently shows temporary changes in the organization and connectivity of the Default Mode Network.

Activity within the DMN is synchronized, supporting our internal narrative, rumination, and sense of self.

Ordinary State

DMN is active and well-connected.

Psilocybin State

DMN activity decreases and becomes less synchronized.

DMN connectivity decreases, while communication across ordinarily separate brain networks increases.

By temporarily disrupting some of the brain’s usual network organization, psilocybin may create a period in which those familiar patterns become less dominant.

That doesn’t automatically create change.

But it may create space for a different perspective.

A More Connected Brain

Brain-imaging research has found that during the psychedelic state, boundaries between established brain networks can become less distinct. Regions that normally operate independently begin communicating in unusual ways.

This may help explain commonly reported features of psychedelic experiences:

A changed sense of self

Changes in the perception of time and space

New perspectives on memories or emotions

Increased emotional openness

Feelings of interconnectedness

Experiences of awe or unity

Explore the Research

Want to go deeper? Explore current research and clinical studies examining psilocybin, psychedelic experiences, and their potential effects on the brain and wellbeing.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.

Psilocybin is not approved by the FDA for medical use. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with questions about your health.